Switchable Multi-Band Frequency Multiplier for Wider Output Range

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing frequency multipliers are limited to a single multiplication frequency band, which does not provide a sufficient range of frequencies for communications systems and test instruments that require signals at either the critical frequency or multiplied frequencies.

Innovation Solution

A multi-band frequency multiplier with a switchable load impedance and a multi-band multiplier core that allows selection of multiple frequency bands, enabling the generation of multiplied frequencies across various critical frequencies by triggering section switches, thereby expanding the range of output frequencies.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single multiplication frequency band is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the frequency range is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrequency rangeVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The frequency multiplier is designed to perform multiple functions by incorporating a multi-band multiplier core that can operate across different multiplication frequency bands. The switchable load impedance with n multiplier sections allows the same device to generate multiplied frequencies in various bands, making it universally applicable for different frequency requirements without needing separate multipliers for each band.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The frequency multiplier employs dynamic switching capability through section switches that can be triggered to select different multiplier sections. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the device to adapt its multiplication frequency band based on the required output frequency, enabling a single device to serve multiple frequency ranges by changing its operational state rather than requiring fixed single-band operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Speed

If diodes are used for frequency multiplication, then higher frequencies are achieved, but power consumption increases and conversion loss increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefrequencyVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention changes the operating parameters of the frequency multiplier by providing multiple multiplication frequency bands with different characteristics. By selecting appropriate multiplier sections for different frequency bands, the system can optimize the balance between frequency capability and power consumption. The switchable load impedance allows dynamic adjustment of operating parameters to match the required frequency range, enabling efficient operation across a broad spectrum without being locked into high-power diode operation for all bands.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Use of energy by moving object

If transistors are used for frequency multiplication, then lower power consumption is achieved, but frequency capability is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidfrequency
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The multi-band multiplier core is designed to accommodate different device types for different frequency bands. Transistor-based multiplier sections can be used for lower frequency bands where power efficiency is critical, while diode-based sections can be activated for higher frequency bands where frequency capability is the priority. This universal design allows the system to select the appropriate device type for each operating band, achieving both low power consumption and high frequency capability as needed.

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

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 multi-band frequency multiplier effectively expands the range of generated frequencies, allowing for the production of a wide range of multiplied frequencies, enhancing the operational flexibility in communications systems and test instruments.

Implementation Method 1

Frequency multipliers include non-linear elements for generating frequency harmonics of the input signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectNon-linear device operation:

Data Source

PatentUS8901973B2Multi-band frequency multiplier
Publication Date: 2014.12.02 KEYSIGHT TECHNOLOGIES INC
  • US8901973B2 patent drawing
  • US8901973B2 patent drawing
  • US8901973B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A multi-band frequency multiplier configured to generate frequencies and multiplied frequencies in an integrated system. The multi-band frequency multiplier includes a multi-band multiplier core with a multiplier core differential amplifier configured to receive a multiplier input signal. A switchable load impedance connects to the multiplier core differential amplifier, and includes n multiplier sections. Each multiplier section includes a section impedance and a section switch. The multiplier core differential amplifier generates an output signal having a frequency substantially equal to k times the input frequency in a range of a selected one of n critical frequencies when a selected one of the section switches corresponding to the selected one of the n critical frequencies is triggered.