Multi-Layer Coupling Element for Differential Hybrid Coupler
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a coupler with a small footprint that is less sensitive to noise, particularly external noise and noise induced from the power supply or neighboring circuits, as existing solutions often require larger areas and compromise noise immunity with lower supply voltages.
Innovation Solution
A coupling element with four coils arranged in two separate layers, where each coil extends across both layers with turns overlapping to create parasitic capacitance and prevent magnetic field counteraction, allowing for compact design and improved noise immunity through transformer coupling and differential signalling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If couplers are miniaturized and integrated on-chip to reduce footprint, then area is reduced, but noise immunity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from planar single-layer coil arrangements to three-dimensional multi-layer stacked configurations. Coils are arranged in vertical stacks across multiple layers with magnetic coupling between adjacent layers, enabling compact footprint while maintaining noise immunity through spatial separation and transformer coupling mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nested coil structures where coils in different layers are positioned to overlap or align vertically, creating transformer coupling relationships. Inner coils are surrounded by outer coils in a concentric arrangement, maximizing magnetic coupling while minimizing spatial footprint and reducing susceptibility to external noise interference.
2Use of energy by moving object
If supply voltage is reduced to lower power consumption, then energy use is reduced, but noise immunity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple coils into stacked transformer couples where primary and secondary coils are magnetically coupled across layers. This merging of multiple windings creates transformer action that provides galvanic isolation and noise rejection, enabling low-voltage operation while maintaining signal integrity through differential signaling and magnetic coupling rather than direct electrical connections.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If differential signaling is implemented to improve noise immunity, then noise immunity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between electrical circuits. Transformer couples use magnetic coupling to transfer signals between primary and secondary coils, providing galvanic isolation that blocks noise and ground loops while maintaining signal transmission. This magnetic intermediary enables differential signaling benefits without requiring complex additional circuitry for noise filtering and isolation.
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
The solution achieves a compact footprint and enhanced noise immunity by utilizing parasitic capacitance and transformer coupling between coils, reducing the risk of magnetic field counteraction and allowing for efficient power transmission with reduced noise sensitivity.
Implementation Method 1
each coil extends across both layers with turns overlapping to create parasitic capacitance
Implementation Method 2
transformer coupling between coils, reducing the risk of magnetic field counteraction
Implementation Method 3
prevent magnetic field counteraction
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A coupling element is disclosed, comprising four coils that are arranged such that each one of the coils extends both in a first layer and a second layer. The first layer and the second layer are stacked with respect to each other and separated by an intermediate dielectric layer. The layout of each layer is configured to provide a transformer coupling between a first one and a third one of the coils, and between a second one and a fourth one of the coils. Further, the first coil and the second coil, and the third coil and the fourth coil, respectively, are routed so as to allow a differential signalling. A semiconductor device and a differential hybrid coupler comprising the coupling element are also disclosed.