Reconfigurable Transformers for 5G Wireless Transceivers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless transceivers designed for 4G cellular standards are inadequate for handling the higher frequencies and more stringent requirements of 5G-capable devices, necessitating the development of new transceivers that occupy less space and consume less power while maintaining performance.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of reconfigurable transformers in wireless transceivers, which allows for separate input inductors to be omitted, reducing space and cost by using switch circuitry to selectively configure transformers as either impedance-matching components or output loads depending on the frequency band.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate input inductors are included in the wireless transceiver, then input-matching performance is improved, but device area and component count increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the transformer serve multiple functions by reconfiguring it to operate as an input-matching inductor for certain frequency bands and as an output load for other frequency bands. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated input inductors, reducing device area while maintaining input-matching performance across wide frequency ranges
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration of the transformer using switch circuitry that can change the transformer's function based on the operating frequency band. The switch circuitry dynamically connects or disconnects the transformer from the amplifier input or output, allowing the same component to adapt its role and provide optimal performance across different frequency ranges
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple transformers are used to cover wider frequency ranges, then frequency coverage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs each transformer with the capability to perform multiple functions (input-matching and output-loading) through reconfiguration. This allows a smaller number of transformers to cover wider frequency ranges compared to traditional designs where each transformer is dedicated to a specific function, thereby reducing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The switch circuitry enables dynamic reconfiguration of transformers based on the desired frequency band and operational requirements. This dynamic control allows the system to optimize frequency coverage by selectively activating appropriate transformer configurations, maintaining adaptability while managing complexity through intelligent resource allocation
3Quantity of substance
If reconfigurable transformers are implemented, then component count is reduced, but circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of separate input inductors and output loads into the transformer structure itself. By merging these previously distinct components into a single reconfigurable transformer system, the overall component count is reduced while the added switching control logic is minimal compared to the savings from eliminating dedicated inductors and loads
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 enables wireless transceivers to efficiently handle wider frequency ranges with reduced component count and size, enhancing their ability to support 5G technologies while minimizing power consumption and cost.
Implementation Method 1
a first transformer having a first side and a second side and a second transformer having a first side and a second side
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus is disclosed that includes a wireless transceiver with reconfigurable transformers. In an example aspect, the wireless transceiver includes an amplifier, a set of transformers, and switch circuitry. The amplifier includes an amplifier input and an amplifier output. The set of transformers includes a first transformer and a second transformer. The first transformer includes a first inductor and a second inductor, and the second transformer also includes a first inductor and a second inductor. The switch circuitry is configured to switchably couple the set of transformers to the amplifier input and the amplifier output of the amplifier.