Layered Transmission Line Transformer for High Impedance Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transmission line transformers have difficulty achieving large impedance transformation ratios, leading to challenges in reducing the size of impedance matching circuits.
Innovation Solution
A transmission line transformer configuration with a first and second transmission line connected in series on a substrate, and a third transmission line electromagnetically coupled between them, allowing for increased impedance transformation ratios without increasing circuit size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a plurality of transmission line transformers are cascade-connected to achieve a desired impedance transformation ratio, then the impedance transformation ratio is improved, but the device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple transmission line transformers into a single integrated structure where they share common conductors and magnetic paths. The first and second transmission line transformers are merged such that the second transmission line of the first transformer serves as part of the magnetic coupling path for the second transformer, reducing the total number of discrete components while achieving the desired impedance transformation ratio through combined magnetic coupling effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested configuration where the second transmission line transformer is positioned within or adjacent to the first transmission line transformer structure. The third transmission line is nested between the first and second transmission lines, creating a compact layered arrangement that achieves high impedance transformation ratios without proportionally increasing the overall device footprint.
2Device complexity
If a single transmission line transformer is used, then the device size is reduced, but the impedance transformation ratio is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from planar two-dimensional transmission line arrangements to a three-dimensional configuration by stacking transmission lines at different heights above the substrate. The first, second, and third transmission lines are positioned at different vertical levels, creating electromagnetic coupling through the vertical dimension. This enables higher impedance transformation ratios within a compact footprint by utilizing spatial layering rather than lateral expansion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite transmission line structure where multiple transmission lines with different characteristic impedances are electromagnetically coupled in a specific configuration. The combination of the first transmission line (with first characteristic impedance), second transmission line (with second characteristic impedance), and third transmission line (with third characteristic impedance) forms a composite system that achieves impedance transformation ratios unattainable by any single transmission line alone.
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 configuration achieves higher impedance transformation ratios than traditional methods, enabling the reduction of impedance matching circuit size while maintaining effective performance.
Implementation Method 1
The first transmission line and the second transmission line are electromagnetically coupled to the third transmission line
Data Source
AI summary
A first transmission line and a second transmission line that are connected in series to each other are disposed at different positions in a thickness direction of a substrate. A third transmission line is disposed between the first transmission line and the second transmission line in the thickness direction of the substrate. The third transmission line includes a first end portion connected to one end portion of the first transmission line, and a second end portion that is AC-grounded. The first transmission line and the second transmission line are electromagnetically coupled to the third transmission line.