Integrated Phase Shifter T/R Switch for Low-Loss Phased Arrays

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Solution Overview

Problem

In wireless communication devices, sharing antennas between transmitters and receivers can lead to lower signal quality and negatively impact the linearity of phased array systems due to increased insertion loss and noise figure, particularly when using multiple T/R switches and phase shifter stages.

Innovation Solution

The integration of phase shifters with T/R switches in a phased array transceiver circuit, utilizing differential amplifiers and a switching network to reduce the number of T/R switches and phase shifter stages, thereby minimizing insertion loss and space consumption, while maintaining phase shifting functionality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple T/R switches and phase shifter stages are used to share antennas between transmitter and receiver, then antenna sharing capability is improved, but insertion loss increases and signal quality deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveantenna sharing capabilityVSAvoidinsertion loss

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple T/R switches and phase shifter stages into a single integrated circuit. The phase shifters are integrated with the T/R switches, reducing the number of discrete components from multiple separate devices to one unified circuit, thereby minimizing insertion loss while maintaining antenna sharing capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated circuit performs multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both T/R switches and phase shifters. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for each function, reducing the overall component count and associated insertion losses while maintaining full operational capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple T/R switches and phase shifter stages are used to share antennas, then phase shifting functionality is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvephase shifting functionalityVSAvoidnumber of components

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges phase shifters with T/R switches into a single integrated circuit, reducing the component count from multiple separate devices to one unified structure. This integration maintains full phase shifting functionality while dramatically simplifying the overall device architecture

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated circuit is designed to perform both T/R switching and phase shifting functions within a single device. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate dedicated phase shifter stages and T/R switches, reducing device complexity while preserving all required functionalities

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple T/R switches and phase shifter stages are used, then antenna sharing is achieved, but noise figure increases and signal quality decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveantenna sharingVSAvoidnoise figure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

By integrating phase shifters with T/R switches into one circuit, the patent reduces the total number of discrete components. Fewer components mean fewer sources of noise and insertion loss, thereby improving signal quality and reducing noise figure while maintaining antenna sharing capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent converts the potential harm of multiple discrete components (which introduce noise and loss) into a benefit by integrating them. The integration process itself eliminates the harmful effects of multiple component interfaces and connections, transforming a complex multi-component system into a streamlined single-circuit solution

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Data Source

PatentUS20250023598A1Phased array systems and methods with phase shifter

Publication Date: 2025.01.16 APPLE INC

AI summary

This disclosure provides various techniques for improving the quality of a signal. By integrating phase-shifting circuitry with a transmit/receive (T/R) switch, insertion loss may be reduced while decreasing space consumed on an integrated circuit or printed circuit board. In particular, embodiments disclosed herein include a transmitter including one or more differential power amplifiers coupled to a first inductor, and a switching network coupled to a second inductor and one or more phase-shifting circuitries. A differential interface of the differential amplifiers may enable integration of a stage of the phase shifter (e.g., a 180 degree stage) with the T/R switch, such that a single circuit may operate as the phase shifter and the T/R switch. This implementation may reduce the number of T/R switches and phase shifter stages in the phased array system, reducing the overall insertion loss experienced by the phased array system.