Integrated RF Front End Module for Multi-Band Function Sharing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Front end modules (FEMs) in RF systems face challenges in reducing size and component count, which affects space and manufacturing costs, especially when integrating multiple frequency bands and network functions like MIMO, diversity, and dual connectivity.
Innovation Solution
Integrating multiple filter and amplifier circuits onto a single die, allowing repurposing of unused filter circuits to implement additional network functions, and sharing infrastructure to increase area efficiency without increasing module size, thus reducing the number of components and materials needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate FEMs are used for different frequency bands and network functions, then functionality and reliability are improved, but device size and component count increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple FEMs serving different frequency bands (e.g., low band, mid/high band, ultrahigh band) and network functions (MIMO, diversity, dual connectivity) into a single integrated FEM. This merging eliminates the need for separate discrete FEM components while maintaining support for all required functions through shared filter circuits and amplifier circuits that are dynamically allocated based on operational mode requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated FEM employs universal filter circuits and amplifier circuits that can serve multiple network functions. For example, filter circuits can be dynamically repurposed between front end function and additional network function based on operational mode, allowing the same hardware resources to support diverse network requirements without dedicated components for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the number of components in FEM is increased to support multiple functions, then functionality is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universal filter circuits and amplifier circuits that can be dynamically configured to support multiple frequency bands and network functions. This universality reduces the total component count compared to having dedicated components for each function, thereby lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining comprehensive frequency band support and network functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically repurposes filter circuits that are unused in particular operational modes to implement additional network functions. This resource recovery approach ensures that existing hardware components are fully utilized across different operating conditions, eliminating the need for additional redundant components and reducing manufacturing expenses.
3Productivity
If filter circuits are repurposed for additional network functions, then component utilization is improved, but filter performance may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic repurposing of filter circuits based on operational mode requirements. Filter circuits are allocated to different functions (front end function or additional network function) depending on which mode is currently active. This dynamic allocation ensures optimal component utilization while maintaining filter performance within each specific operational context, as the system is designed to maintain required performance levels for the active function.
Data Source
AI summary
A front end radio frequency (RF) module including one or more first filter circuits configured to implement a front end function by filtering first signals communicated between one or more first antenna and a transceiver and one or more second filter circuits configured to implement at least a portion of an additional network function within the front end RF module by filtering second signals communicated between one or more second antennas and the transceiver.