PCB Via Coupler Layout for Compact Wireless Communication Hardware
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current couplers in wireless communication devices occupy a large PCB layout area due to their strip-shaped wiring design, hindering miniaturization efforts in communication devices like base stations.
Innovation Solution
A coupler design utilizing vias on a printed circuit board (PCB) instead of strip-shaped wiring, where the main signal path and coupling signal path are implemented as holes through the PCB, allowing for a more compact layout by distributing vias along the thickness direction, thereby reducing the PCB area occupied.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If strip-shaped wiring is used to implement coupler function, then electromagnetic coupling can be achieved, but the PCB layout area occupied is large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the traditional planar strip-shaped wiring into three-dimensional via holes that extend through the PCB thickness direction. This dimensional change allows the coupler to achieve electromagnetic coupling through vertical hole structures rather than horizontal strip patterns, significantly reducing the PCB layout area while maintaining coupling functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the coupler implementation from two-dimensional strip dimensions to three-dimensional via hole dimensions (diameter, depth, spacing). By adjusting via hole diameter, depth, and spacing parameters, the coupler achieves the required coupling coefficient while occupying minimal PCB area
2Area of stationary object
If via holes are used instead of strip wiring, then PCB layout area is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the coupler function into multiple discrete via holes distributed through the PCB thickness, rather than using continuous strip wiring. Each via hole acts as an independent coupling element, making the structure easier to manufacture through standard via drilling and plating processes while achieving the required coupling effect through collective interaction of multiple segments
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 design achieves a smaller PCB layout area, facilitating device miniaturization while maintaining effective signal coupling and directivity, making it more conducive to the miniaturization requirements of communication devices.
Implementation Method 1
the first coupling hole generates a coupling current opposite to the first coupling hole according to the left-hand rule (induced current)
Data Source
AI summary
A coupler for use in a wireless communication device includes a signal input end, a signal output end, a coupling end, an isolation end, a main signal hole, and a first coupling hole disposed on a PCB. A first end of the main signal hole is coupled to the signal input end. A second end of the main signal hole is coupled to the signal output end. A first end of the first coupling hole is coupled to the coupling end. A second end of the first coupling hole is coupled to the isolation end. In a thickness direction of the PCB, the first end of the first coupling hole and the first end of the main signal hole are close to a first side of the PCB, and the second end of the first coupling hole and the second end of the main signal hole are close to a second side of the PCB.