Opto-Switch PCB Control via Photoconductive Semiconductor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies for controlling high-frequency electromagnetic waves are complex, costly, and difficult to integrate into compact devices due to high RF loss, parasitic capacitance, and complex bias and supply circuits, making it challenging to achieve low loss rates, low control power, and easy integration on printed circuit boards (PCBs) for millimeter-wave applications.
Innovation Solution
An opto-switch device with a photoconductive semiconductor element (PSE) on a PCB, which switches between dielectric and conducting states based on an optical signal, using a shunt via and matching elements to minimize parasitic capacitance and RF loss, allowing for simple and cost-effective control of electromagnetic waves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional methods for controlling high-frequency electromagnetic waves are used, then switching functionality is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase due to complex bias and supply circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional electrical bias circuits with an optical control system. A photoconductive semiconductor element (PSE) is used to convert optical control signals into electrical signals that control the switching of electromagnetic waves. This substitution eliminates complex bias and supply circuits while maintaining reliable switching functionality through optical-electrical conversion.
2Loss of energy
If conventional electromagnetic wave control devices are used, then switching is achieved, but RF loss increases due to parasitic capacitance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates parasitic capacitance elements from the switching structure. By using a specifically designed photoconductive semiconductor element configuration and optimized circuit topology, the harmful parasitic capacitance that causes RF loss is removed or minimized, thereby reducing energy loss while preserving effective switching performance.
3Ease of manufacture
If integration of electromagnetic wave control is attempted on PCB, then compactness is achieved, but manufacturing difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal photoconductive semiconductor element structure that can be integrated into standard PCB manufacturing processes. The device uses conventional PCB materials and fabrication techniques, making it universally compatible with existing manufacturing infrastructure while achieving compact integration. The design accommodates standard tolerances and manufacturing capabilities.
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 opto-switch provides low loss rates, low power consumption, and easy integration into compact devices, with improved performance and reduced complexity, enabling efficient control of electromagnetic waves across a wide frequency range.
Implementation Method 1
a photoconductive semiconductor element (PSE) on a PCB, which switches between dielectric and conducting states based on an optical signal
Data Source
Figure 1~2A
Figure 2B~2C
Figure 3
AI summary
A device for controlling transmission of electromagnetic waves according to the present disclosure includes: a conductor line which is positioned on a signal layer and through which electromagnetic waves received via an input terminal travel; a ground layer electrically separated from the signal layer through a dielectric layer and electrically grounded; a shunt via including a first end and a second end and connected to the conductor line through the first end; and a photoconductive semiconductor connected between the second end of the shunt via and the ground layer and having a dielectric state or a conducting state, based on an input of an optical signal, wherein the conductor line is electrically connected to the ground layer via the shunt via and the photoconductive semiconductor in the conducting state, thereby causing reflection of electromagnetic waves from the shunt via.