Reconfigurable Multiplexer Filters for Multi-Band Module Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In multi-mode and multi-band wireless communication systems, the need for multiple filters and matching networks to support various frequency bands results in a complex and large multiplexer module, necessitating a more efficient filter solution that can support multiple bands with fewer components.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable filter device comprising multiple circuits with FBAR resonators and a switch, allowing reconfiguration of pass-bands and rejection-bands to support multiple frequency bands with a single filter, reducing the number of filters and matching networks required.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple filters and matching networks are used to support various frequency bands, then the system can operate across multiple bands, but the multiplexer module becomes complex and large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a reconfigurable filter that can dynamically switch between different frequency bands by changing its resonant characteristics. The filter uses switchable capacitor banks connected to FBAR resonators, allowing the same physical filter to serve multiple frequency bands (e.g., LTE bands 12, 17, 66) that would traditionally require separate dedicated filters. This multi-functional approach directly reduces the number of filters and matching networks needed in the multiplexer module.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter employs dynamic reconfiguration through electronically controllable capacitors that can change their capacitance values based on the desired operating band. The switch controller receives band selection signals and activates specific capacitor combinations to tune the filter's resonant frequency and impedance characteristics, enabling the filter to adapt its electrical properties in real-time without physical reconfiguration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple filters are used to support various frequency bands, then band isolation is achieved, but the number of filters and matching networks increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single reconfigurable filter unit replaces multiple dedicated filters by dynamically adjusting its resonant frequency and impedance characteristics through switchable capacitor banks. The filter can be tuned to support LTE bands 12, 17, 66 and potentially other bands, eliminating the need for separate physical filters for each band and reducing the overall quantity of filter components and matching networks in the multiplexer.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter achieves multi-band support by changing its electrical parameters (capacitance values, resonant frequency, impedance) through electronic control. By switching between different capacitor combinations connected to the FBAR resonators, the filter's transfer function and impedance profile are modified to match requirements for different frequency bands, allowing one filter to perform the work of multiple filters with fixed parameters.
3Reliability
If dedicated filters are designed for each frequency band, then optimal performance for each band is achieved, but the module size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reconfigurable filter maintains optimal performance for each supported band by dynamically tuning its resonant characteristics to match the specific requirements of the active frequency band. The FBAR resonators provide high Q-factor and stable resonant properties, while the switchable capacitors enable precise impedance matching and frequency tuning, allowing the single filter to achieve band-optimized performance without requiring separate dedicated filters for each frequency band.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple filter functions into a single integrated reconfigurable filter unit. By merging the functionality of what would traditionally be separate filters for different LTE bands into one reconfigurable component, the multiplexer module area is significantly reduced while maintaining the performance benefits of band-specific filtering through electronic reconfiguration.
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
The reconfigurable filter simplifies the multiplexer module by reducing the number of filters and matching networks, enabling compact and efficient operation across multiple frequency bands with improved channel separation and reduced signal loss.
Implementation Method 1
A reconfigurable filter device comprising multiple circuits with FBAR resonators
Data Source
AI summary
A filter device for multi-band wireless communication includes a first circuit characterized by a first pass-band from a first frequency to a second frequency; a second circuit characterized by a second pass-band from a frequency no smaller than the first frequency to a third frequency, the third frequency being no higher than the second frequency but higher than the first frequency; a third circuit characterized by a third pass-band from a fourth frequency to a frequency no greater than the second frequency, the fourth frequency being no smaller than the first frequency but smaller than the second frequency; and a switch configured to connect the first circuit either to the second circuit to reconfigure a first filter with the second pass-band or to the third circuit to reconfigure a second filter with the third pass-band.