Multi-Mode RF Power Amplifier Bypass for Low Output Current Savings

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power amplification modules consume excessive current as they amplify RF signals regardless of the output level, leading to inefficient power transmission in mobile communication devices supporting multiple communication standards and frequency bands.

Innovation Solution

A power amplification module with a bypass line and switch circuits that selectively route RF signals to power amplifiers only when the desired output level is greater than or equal to a reference level, bypassing amplifiers when the level is below the threshold to reduce current consumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If power amplifiers are used to amplify RF signals regardless of output level, then signal transmission capability is ensured, but current consumption increases excessively

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal transmission capabilityVSAvoidcurrent consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic switching between amplifier paths based on real-time output level requirements. The system transitions from static amplifier operation to dynamic path selection, enabling the power amplification module to adapt its operation mode (amplification or bypass) according to the desired output level, thereby reducing unnecessary current consumption while maintaining signal transmission capability when needed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent divides the signal path into multiple segments: a first path through the power amplifier for high output level requirements, and a second bypass path for low output level requirements. This segmentation allows independent control of each path, enabling the system to select the appropriate path based on communication mode and output level, thus resolving the contradiction between ensuring transmission capability and reducing energy consumption

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple power amplifiers are configured to support multiple communication modes, then communication versatility is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication mode supportVSAvoidamplifier configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal power amplification module that can handle multiple communication modes (first and second modes) through a unified structure. The module uses mode identification circuitry to recognize the communication mode and automatically selects the appropriate signal path (amplifier or bypass), eliminating the need for separate dedicated amplifiers for each mode and thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining versatility

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary control mechanism that mediates between the multiple communication modes and the power amplification paths. The control circuit identifies the communication mode and desired output level, then directs the signal through the appropriate path (first path with power amplifier or second bypass path), simplifying the configuration by providing a single point of control for multiple modes rather than requiring independent control for each amplifier

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10469033B2Power amplification module
Publication Date: 2019.11.05 MURATA MFG CO LTD
  • US10469033B2 patent drawing
  • US10469033B2 patent drawing
  • US10469033B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A power amplification module includes first and second amplifiers for first and second communication modes, a bypass line that bypasses the first or second amplifier, an input switch circuit that supplies a radio frequency signal to the first or second amplifier in accordance with a communication mode when a desired output level is equal to or greater than a reference level, and that supplies a radio frequency signal to the bypass line when the desired output level is less than the reference level, and an output switch circuit that outputs a first amplified signal from the first amplifier or a second amplified signal from the second amplifier in accordance with the communication mode when the desired output level is equal to or greater than the reference level, and that outputs a radio frequency signal output from the bypass line when the desired output level is less than the reference level.