Planar IC Antenna Structures for 55-64 GHz Wireless Communication

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current integrated circuits face challenges in implementing effective antenna structures for wireless communication due to size constraints, as traditional three-dimensional antennas cannot be accommodated in the two-dimensional space of ICs or PCBs, limiting efficient signal transmission and reception.

Innovation Solution

The development of integrated circuit antenna structures that utilize on-die or on-package substrate RF transceivers with antenna structures, including ultra-narrow and narrow bandwidth configurations, to support local and remote wireless communications within the 55 GHz to 64 GHz frequency band, enabling efficient RF signal transmission and reception without the need for conductive traces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional three-dimensional antennas are used for wireless communication, then signal transmission and reception efficiency is improved, but the antenna cannot be accommodated in the two-dimensional space of integrated circuits or PCBs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal transmission efficiencyVSAvoidantenna space requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from traditional three-dimensional antennas to two-dimensional planar antenna structures that can be integrated onto IC substrates or PCBs. The antenna elements are configured as flat, planar geometries (such as microstrip patches or printed circuit board traces) that maintain electromagnetic radiation capabilities while conforming to the two-dimensional constraints of integrated circuit packaging and PCB mounting surfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Area of stationary object

If on-die or on-package substrate antenna structures are used, then integration density is improved, but bandwidth is reduced to ultra-narrow or narrow configurations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveantenna integration areaVSAvoidoperational bandwidth
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs parameter optimization techniques to maximize the performance of narrowband antenna structures. This includes adjusting the resonant frequency, quality factor (Q), and impedance matching parameters of the planar antenna elements to achieve optimal operation within the constrained bandwidth. The antenna designs are tuned to specific frequency ranges (such as 2.4 GHz ISM band or 5 GHz WLAN bands) where the narrowband characteristics are acceptable for the application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Device complexity

If conductive traces are eliminated from the circuit design, then manufacturing complexity is reduced, but RF signal transmission paths must be reconfigured

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecircuit design complexityVSAvoidRF signal path implementation
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the antenna structure directly with the RF transceiver circuitry on the same substrate or package. The planar antenna elements are fabricated using the same semiconductor or PCB fabrication processes as the surrounding circuitry, eliminating the need for separate conductive trace routing. This integration approach combines the signal transmission function with the antenna radiation function in a unified structure that can be manufactured as a single component.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 solution allows for efficient wireless communication between ICs and other components within a device, supporting both local and remote communications with improved data rates and reduced complexity in circuit design, while accommodating the miniaturization of electronic devices.

Implementation Method 1

antenna structures, including ultra-narrow and narrow bandwidth configurations, to support local and remote wireless communications within the 55 GHz to 64 GHz frequency band

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS8709872B2Integrated circuit with electromagnetic intrachip communication and methods for use therewith
Publication Date: 2014.04.29 NXP USA INC
  • US8709872B2 patent drawing
  • US8709872B2 patent drawing
  • US8709872B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An integrated circuit includes a substrate and a first integrated circuit die having a first circuit coupled to the substrate via a first bonding wire, the first circuit having a first intra-chip interface. A second integrated circuit die has a second circuit coupled to the substrate via a second bonding wire, the second circuit having a second intra-chip interface, the second bonding wire electrically isolated from the first bonding wire. The first circuit communicates with the second circuit via the first intra-chip interface and the second intra-chip interface, and wherein the first intra-chip interface and the second intra-chip interface communicate via a first electromagnetic coupling between the first bonding wire and the second bonding wire.