Multi-Frequency Impedance Matching Circuit Design

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing impedance matching solutions for capacitively coupled plasma reactors are cumbersome and expensive when operating at multiple frequencies, requiring multiple generators and filters, and struggle with controlling impedance adaptation across different frequencies.

Innovation Solution

An impedance matching circuit design that uses a combination of series and parallel connections of inductive and capacitive components, allowing for simultaneous impedance matching across multiple frequencies with a single generator and a reduced number of components, while maintaining independent frequency control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If multiple generators and filters are used to achieve impedance matching at multiple frequencies, then the power transmission efficiency is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower transmission efficiencyVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single impedance matching circuit that can operate at multiple frequencies simultaneously. The circuit uses a combination of inductive and capacitive components configured in specific topologies (L-shaped, π-shaped, or T-shaped networks) that provide broadband impedance matching capability, eliminating the need for separate single-frequency matching circuits for each operating frequency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges multiple single-frequency impedance matching circuits into one unified multi-frequency circuit. By combining inductive and capacitive elements in series and parallel configurations, the circuit achieves impedance matching across multiple frequencies using a single integrated structure rather than multiple separate circuits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Loss of energy

If multiple generators and filters are used for multi-frequency operation, then the power transmission efficiency is improved, but the cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower transmission efficiencyVSAvoidcost
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single impedance matching circuit that can operate at multiple frequencies simultaneously. The circuit uses a combination of inductive and capacitive components configured in specific topologies (L-shaped, π-shaped, or T-shaped networks) that provide broadband impedance matching capability, eliminating the need for separate single-frequency matching circuits for each operating frequency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges multiple single-frequency impedance matching circuits into one unified multi-frequency circuit. By combining inductive and capacitive elements in series and parallel configurations, the circuit achieves impedance matching across multiple frequencies using a single integrated structure rather than multiple separate circuits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Device complexity

If a single generator with reduced components is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the control of impedance adaptation across different frequencies becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice complexityVSAvoidcontrol of impedance adaptation
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by incorporating adjustable tuning elements (variable capacitors or inductors) within the impedance matching circuit. These dynamic components allow the circuit to be tuned for optimal impedance matching at different frequencies while maintaining a single fixed physical structure, thus providing both simplicity and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies parameter changes by allowing the impedance matching circuit to adjust its electrical parameters (capacitance or inductance values) through the use of variable reactive components. This enables the circuit to adapt its impedance characteristics across different operating frequencies without changing the physical circuit topology, maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 design achieves efficient power transmission and high-quality impedance matching across multiple frequencies, reducing component count and cost, and allows for independent tuning of each frequency, improving performance compared to prior art.

Implementation Method 1

at least one inductor and one capacitor connected in series

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInductance: Inductor

Implementation Method 2

at least one inductor and one capacitor connected in parallel

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitance: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentEP3539145B1Circuit for impedance matching between a generator and a load at multiple frequencies, assembly comprising such a circuit and related use
Publication Date: 2021.04.28 CENT NAT DE LA RECH SCI (C N R S)
  • EP3539145B1 patent drawingFigure 1(a)~1(c)
  • EP3539145B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3539145B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention concerns a circuit (100) able to perform a simultaneous impedance matching between a generator (G) and a load (CH) for a power supply signal having at least two distinct frequencies, comprising: - an impedance matching stage (S1) for the first frequency, which includes a circuit (C1) comprising at least one tuning impedance (ZTUNE) intended to be mounted in series between the generator (G) and the load (CH), and a load impedance (ZLOAD) intended to be mounted between the generator (G) and an earth, and - at least one pair of additional stages (S2, S'2) able to perform the impedance matching, simultaneously, between the generator and the load for the second frequency, said pair comprising: - a first additional stage (S2) comprising a load circuit (C2), mounted in parallel with the load impedance (ZLOAD) and comprising at least one inductance (Lload2) and one capacitor (Cload2) mounted in series, and - a second additional stage (S'2) comprising a tuning circuit (C'2), mounted in series with the tuning impedance (ZTUNE) and comprising at least one inductance (L'tune2) and one capacitor (C'tune2) mounted in parallel, the impedance matching stage (S1) being mounted between the two additional stages.