Inductor Closed Ring Magnetic Coupling Q Factor
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Solution Overview
Problem
In RF device components, particularly inductors, there is a challenge in achieving the desired bandwidth while preventing electromigration, which often results in a high Q factor that limits the ability to pass wide bandwidth signals, and existing solutions like adding resistors generate heat and reliability issues.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating conductive closed or configurable rings within the periphery of the inductor to magnetically couple and increase resistance, thereby lowering the Q factor, which can be achieved with single or multi-turn rings, and using switches to configure the rings for flexibility in Q adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If large (thick/wide) conductive traces are used to form the inductor to prevent electromigration, then electromigration is prevented, but the resistance of the inductor decreases leading to a higher quality (Q) factor
Solution Approach 1:
A conductive ring is introduced as an intermediary element that couples to the inductor and provides an alternative current path. This ring acts as a mediator that increases the effective resistance without requiring the main inductor traces to be thinner, thus preventing electromigration while achieving the desired lower Q factor for wider bandwidth operation
2Reliability
If the conductor used to form the inductor is made large (thick/wide) to minimize electromigration, then electromigration is minimized, but the resistance decreases leading to higher Q factor which limits bandwidth
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive ring serves as an intermediary that couples to the inductor and provides an additional current path. This mediator element increases the effective resistance seen by the signal, thereby lowering the Q factor and enabling wider bandwidth operation while the main inductor traces remain thick to prevent electromigration
Solution Approach 2:
The current path is segmented into two parts: the main thick inductor traces that handle high current to prevent electromigration, and the conductive ring that provides an alternative path to increase resistance and lower Q factor. This segmentation allows each part to optimize for its specific function
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach effectively reduces the Q factor of inductors, allowing for wider bandwidth signal transmission while minimizing electromigration risks and improving heat dissipation by uniformly distributing heat, thus enhancing the reliability and performance of RF amplifiers and filters.
Implementation Method 1
the conductive ring magnetically coupled to the inductor
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects generally relate to adjusting, or lowering, the Q of an inductor. In one embodiment, an integrated circuit includes an inductor and a conductive closed ring inside a periphery of the inductor. In another embodiment, there can be a plurality of closed rings inside the periphery of the inductor. The conductive closed rings are magnetically coupled to the inductor to adjust the Q.