Programmable Inductor with Dual-Turn Asymmetry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional programmable inductors require a large area to achieve a limited range of programmable values, leading to increased radiation and magnetic coupling issues, which restrict their frequency of use and design flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A dual-turn inductor design with programmable impedance allows for a wide range of inductance values without increasing the inductor's dimensions, using a dual-turn configuration where currents generate magnetic fields that can be modulated by varying impedance values based on digital or analog signals, enabling compact and efficient programmability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional multi-inductor technique with switches is used to achieve programmability, then programmable values range is obtained, but area space consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple inductor functions into a single planar inductor structure with multiple turns. Instead of using separate inductors (102, 104) with switches as in traditional approaches, the invention creates one integrated inductor where different turn combinations can be activated to provide multiple inductance values, thereby reducing area consumption while maintaining programmability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic control of inductor turns through switching mechanisms that can selectively connect or disconnect different turns of the planar inductor. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the same physical structure to provide multiple inductance values (e.g., by activating different combinations of turns), enabling programmability without requiring multiple fixed inductors.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more inductors are added to increase programmable values range, then programmability is improved, but magnetic coupling and radiation issues increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple inductor functions into a single planar structure, the patent eliminates the magnetic coupling and radiation problems associated with multiple separate inductors. The unified structure ensures that all turns are spatially integrated and properly oriented, preventing unwanted magnetic interactions while still providing multiple programmable inductance values through selective turn activation.
Solution Approach 2:
The planar inductor uses asymmetric turn orientations (e.g., adjacent turns oriented in opposite directions) to cancel magnetic fields and reduce radiation. This asymmetric design allows multiple turns to coexist in a compact area without generating harmful magnetic coupling or radiation, while still enabling programmable inductance adjustment.
3Area of stationary object
If secondary inductor pairs are superposed to reduce area, then area consumption is reduced, but parasitic capacitors limit frequency of use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality optimization by carefully designing the spacing and orientation of adjacent turns in the planar inductor. By controlling the local geometric parameters (gap distances, turn orientations), the design minimizes parasitic capacitance between turns while maintaining compact area. This allows superposed turns to be used effectively without the frequency limitations that plague conventional superposed inductor designs.
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 a compact design with a wide range of programmable values, reducing magnetic radiation and coupling, enabling higher frequency utilization and improved sensitivity in RF circuits while maintaining a constant area, facilitating adaptable RF band compatibility and filter characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
a dual-turn inductor with at least one inner turn and at least one outer turn, where a current generated by the inner and the outer turn have the same direction
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a programmable integrated inductor (300) having a compact design, having a dual turn (302,304) and a parallel programmable impedance (310). In particular, the impedance value of the programmable changes, like a variable, programmable, as its range may be set to an unlimited number of values. The invention, thus, provides a wider range of programmable values without compromising space, at a constant equivalent given inductor area.