Transformer-Coupled RF Amplifier for Parasitic Capacitance Offset

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Solution Overview

Problem

RF amplifiers in wireless communication systems face challenges in achieving high stability, sufficient gain, and low power consumption due to parasitic components, which affect power efficiency and noise factors.

Innovation Solution

The proposed amplifier structure includes first and second matching networks, transistors, and a transformer with inductors, where the inductors are electromagnetically coupled to offset parasitic capacitance and enhance magnetic flux, improving gain and stability while reducing noise and power consumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If the RF amplifier uses a larger amount of power to increase the gain, then the gain is improved, but the power efficiency is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovegainVSAvoidpower efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the output signal from the first RF amplifier is fed back to the input through a transformer and matching networks. This feedback loop allows the amplifier to maintain high gain while operating at lower power consumption by utilizing the returned signal energy, thereby improving power efficiency without sacrificing gain performance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The transformer and matching networks serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide impedance matching, signal feedback, and parasitic capacitance compensation. This multi-functionality enables the amplifier to achieve high gain with improved power efficiency without requiring additional separate components or increasing power consumption

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Speed

If the RF amplifier operates at high frequency band, then the wireless communication capability is improved, but parasitic components increase affecting stability and power efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrequency bandVSAvoidparasitic components
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent converts the harmful effect of parasitic capacitance into a beneficial effect by using the transformer's inductance to resonate with and cancel the parasitic capacitance at the operating frequency. This resonance technique transforms the parasitic components from harmful factors into useful elements that improve amplifier stability and power efficiency at high frequency bands

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent adjusts the electrical parameters of the transformer and matching networks to optimize performance at high frequency bands. By changing the inductance values, capacitance values, and impedance ratios, the amplifier maintains stability and reduces the impact of parasitic components while operating in high frequency bands

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Device complexity

If the RF amplifier uses traditional structure, then the design is simple, but the stability and power efficiency are reduced due to parasitic capacitance

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovestructureVSAvoidstability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a transformer as an intermediary component between the input and output of the RF amplifier. This transformer mediates the signal transmission while providing parasitic capacitance compensation through its inductance, thereby improving stability without significantly increasing structural complexity. The matching networks also act as intermediaries to optimize impedance and reduce parasitic effects

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 configuration increases the stability and gain of the amplifier, improves power efficiency, and reduces noise factors, effectively addressing the limitations of existing RF amplifiers.

Implementation Method 1

The first inductor may form a first magnetic flux in accordance with an electrical signal, the second inductor may form a second magnetic flux by the first magnetic flux

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The first to third inductors may be electromagnetically coupled

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic coupling: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11205998B2Amplifier for reusing current by using transformer and method thereof
Publication Date: 2021.12.21 ELECTRONICS & TELECOMM RES INST
  • US11205998B2 patent drawing
  • US11205998B2 patent drawing
  • US11205998B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An amplifier may comprise first and second matching networks; first and second transistors; and a transformer including first to third inductors. Also, a gate and a source of the first transistor are connected to the first matching network, one end of the first inductor is connected to a drain of the first transistor, the other end of the first inductor is connected to a source of the second transistor, one end of the second inductor is connected to a gate of the second transistor, the other end of the second inductor is grounded, one end of the third inductor is connected to a drain of the second transistor, and the other end of the third inductor is connected to the second matching network.