Integrated Delay Modules for RF Transceivers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional delay elements in analog circuits, such as RF transceivers, face issues like excessive size, cost, complexity, poor manufacturability, high loss, and high amplitude or phase ripple, limiting their performance.
Innovation Solution
The integration of LC-resonator-based time delay filters in a modular configuration, which includes LC resonator delays and signal couplers, allows for high accuracy time delays without increasing circuit complexity or cost, enabling frequency-invariant group delays and adjustable signal processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional delay elements (ceramic filters, SAW filters, coaxial cables) are used, then time delay function is achieved, but size becomes excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/physical delay elements (ceramic filters, SAW filters, coaxial cables) with an integrated circuit implementation using transmission lines and delay cells. This substitution transitions from discrete mechanical components to an integrated electronic system, dramatically reducing size while maintaining the time delay function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple delay cells into a single integrated delay module that can provide variable time delays. By merging multiple functional elements (transmission lines, delay cells, switches) into one integrated unit, the system achieves compact size while providing adjustable delay characteristics.
2Loss of time
If traditional delay elements are used, then time delay function is achieved, but cost becomes excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive traditional delay elements with an integrated circuit implementation using standard transmission lines and delay cells. This substitution leverages conventional IC manufacturing processes, significantly reducing cost while maintaining the time delay function.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated delay module provides multiple functions (variable time delay, different delay modes, signal routing) within a single unit, replacing multiple separate components. This multi-functionality reduces overall system cost and complexity.
3Loss of time
If traditional delay elements are used, then time delay function is achieved, but device complexity becomes excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple delay cells and control functions into a single integrated delay module. By merging these elements, the system reduces the number of discrete components and interconnections, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining variable time delay capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated delay module provides multiple delay modes and functions within a single unit, simplifying the overall system architecture. Instead of requiring separate components for different delay functions, one universal module handles all delay requirements.
4Loss of time
If traditional delay elements are used, then time delay function is achieved, but signal loss becomes high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional passive delay elements with an active integrated circuit implementation using transmission lines and delay cells. This active implementation provides better signal integrity and lower loss compared to passive traditional elements.
5Loss of time
If traditional delay elements are used, then time delay function is achieved, but amplitude ripple becomes high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional delay elements with an integrated circuit implementation that offers better control over signal characteristics. The transmission line and delay cell structure provides more consistent amplitude response with reduced ripple.
6Loss of time
If traditional delay elements are used, then time delay function is achieved, but phase ripple becomes high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional delay elements with an integrated circuit implementation that provides better phase linearity. The transmission line and delay cell structure enables more precise control over phase characteristics, reducing phase ripple.
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 solution enhances the performance of full-duplex transceivers and other systems by providing accurate, adjustable, and reconfigurable time delays with reduced size and cost, while maintaining low insertion loss and minimal frequency variation.
Implementation Method 1
LC-resonator-based time delay filters
Implementation Method 2
LC resonator delays
Implementation Method 3
LC resonator delays
Implementation Method 4
signal couplers
Data Source
AI summary
An analog time delay filter circuit including a first delay circuit block arranged in a modular layout, having a first time delay filter, a first input, a first output, and first and second pass-throughs; a second delay circuit block arranged in the same modular layout, having a second time delay filter, a second input, a second output, and third and fourth pass-throughs; and an interposer circuit block that electrically couples the second input to the first pass-through and the second output to the second pass-through.