Output Transformer De-multiplexing RF Signals

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Solution Overview

Problem

Multi-mode and multi-band wireless communication systems require specific circuitry for each mode and frequency band, leading to increased size, cost, and insertion losses due to the need for separate signals, which complicates the design of RF front-end circuitry.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of output transformer circuitry to de-multiplex RF input signals for RF power amplifier circuitry, generating multiple de-multiplexed RF output signals that can support multiple modes and frequency bands, thereby simplifying RF front-end switching circuitry and reducing insertion losses, costs, and size.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If separate circuitry is provided for each mode and frequency band, then the system can support multiple modes and bands, but the size, cost, and insertion losses increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-mode and multi-band supportVSAvoidRF front-end circuitry complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal RF front-end architecture where a single power amplifier circuitry and transformer circuitry can serve multiple modes (half-duplex and full-duplex) and multiple frequency bands. The transformer circuitry dynamically configures its operation based on the selected mode, eliminating the need for separate dedicated circuitry for each mode and band, thus reducing device complexity while maintaining multi-mode and multi-band support.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The transformer circuitry employs dynamic configuration capabilities to adapt its behavior based on operational requirements. Control circuitry adjusts the transformer's operation mode (e.g., switching between different winding connections or tap configurations) to optimize performance for different transmission modes and frequency bands, allowing a single physical structure to fulfill multiple functions dynamically.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If separate signals are provided for each mode and frequency band, then the system can operate in multiple modes and bands, but insertion losses increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-mode and multi-band operationVSAvoidinsertion losses
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the signal paths for different modes and frequency bands into a single integrated power amplifier and transformer circuitry. By combining multiple signal paths that would otherwise require separate amplifiers and transformers into one shared infrastructure, the system reduces the total number of components and interconnections, thereby minimizing cumulative insertion losses while maintaining the ability to operate in multiple modes and bands.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If RF switching elements are used to support multiple modes and bands, then the system can be configured for different operations, but the size and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-mode and multi-band configurationVSAvoidRF front-end circuitry size
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the mode-selection functionality from multiple separate RF switching elements and consolidates it into a single transformer circuitry with dynamic configuration capabilities. By removing the need for multiple discrete switches and associated control logic, the system achieves multi-mode and multi-band support with significantly reduced circuit board area and lower component count, while maintaining full operational flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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 approach allows for reduced size and cost while maintaining performance by eliminating the need for separate signals for each mode and frequency band, enhancing the efficiency of RF communications systems.

Implementation Method 1

output transformer circuitry coupled to outputs from radio frequency (RF) power amplifier circuitry

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS9331836B2De-multiplexing a radio frequency input signal using output transformer circuitry
Publication Date: 2016.05.03 QORVO US INC
  • US9331836B2 patent drawing
  • US9331836B2 patent drawing
  • US9331836B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to de-multiplexing at least one RF input signal feeding RF power amplifier circuitry to create multiple de-multiplexed RF output signals, which may be used to provide RF transmit signals in an RF communications system. Output transformer circuitry is coupled to outputs from the RF power amplifier circuitry to provide the de-multiplexed RF output signals, which may support multiple modes, multiple frequency bands, or both. The de-multiplexed RF output signals may be used in place of RF switching elements in certain embodiments. As a result, RF front-end switching circuitry in the RF communications system may be simplified, thereby reducing insertion losses, reducing costs, reducing size, or any combination thereof. Additionally, the output transformer circuitry may provide load line transformation, output transistor biasing, or both to the RF power amplifier circuitry.