Reconfigurable Capacitor Switches for Dynamic Filter Tuning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication systems lack the ability to dynamically reconfigure capacitive elements in integrated circuits, limiting the flexibility of filters and phase adjustment circuits, which is crucial for adapting to varying operating scenarios and frequency requirements.
Innovation Solution
The integration of reconfigurable capacitors (ERCs) within integrated circuit devices, allowing for dynamic deactivation or bridging of capacitive elements, enabling the design of dynamically reconfigurable filters and phase adjustment circuits using switches controlled by a controller.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed capacitive elements are used in integrated circuits, then device simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different frequency requirements and operating scenarios deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Dynamics principle by transforming fixed capacitive elements into dynamically reconfigurable ones. Switches are integrated into the capacitor structure, allowing the capacitive element to be dynamically connected or disconnected based on control signals. This enables the same physical capacitor to provide different capacitance values or be completely deactivated, achieving adaptability to different frequency requirements without requiring multiple separate capacitors for each scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements the Universality principle by designing a reconfigurable capacitor that can serve multiple functions within a single device. The same capacitive element can be configured to provide different capacitance values or be completely disabled, allowing one component to replace what would traditionally require multiple dedicated capacitors for different operating modes. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity while improving adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If reconfigurable capacitors with switches are integrated, then adaptability to different operating scenarios is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Merging principle by combining the switch and capacitive element into a single integrated reconfigurable capacitor structure. Rather than treating the switch and capacitor as separate components that会增加 device complexity, they are merged into one unified component. This integration allows the switch to control the capacitor's configuration while sharing the same physical space and control infrastructure, thereby achieving flexibility in filter design without a proportional increase in overall device complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple capacitive elements are used for different frequency bands, then frequency coverage is improved, but device area and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements the Universality principle by designing a single reconfigurable capacitor that can provide different capacitance values suitable for different frequency bands. Instead of requiring separate capacitors for each frequency band, one reconfigurable capacitor can be dynamically adjusted to provide the appropriate capacitance for the currently active frequency band. This significantly reduces the device area required while maintaining comprehensive frequency band coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the Dynamics principle by enabling a single capacitive element to dynamically change its effective capacitance value based on the operating frequency band. Through control signals that activate or deactivate specific portions of the capacitor or reconfigure its connection topology, the same physical capacitor can adapt its electrical characteristics to match requirements for different frequency bands, eliminating the need for multiple static capacitors.
Data Source
AI summary
Certain aspects of the present disclosure are generally directed to an integrated circuit device. The integrated circuit device generally includes a capacitive element, a first switch having a first terminal coupled to a first terminal of a capacitive element, and a second switch coupled between the first terminal and a second terminal of the capacitive element in the integrated circuit device.


