RF Power Amplifier Circuit for Simultaneous Route and Impedance Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional high frequency power amplifiers lack the ability to simultaneously switch impedance matching and route switching, limiting circuit design freedom and efficiency, especially at low and middle power outputs.

Innovation Solution

A high frequency power amplifier design that includes multiple transistors and switching elements connected in specific configurations, allowing for simultaneous impedance matching and route switching through the use of series and parallel connections of switching elements and capacitors, enhancing circuit design flexibility and efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a switching element and capacitor are connected in parallel for impedance matching, then impedance matching switching can be performed, but route switching cannot be performed simultaneously and circuit design freedom is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecircuit design freedomVSAvoidcircuit structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the impedance matching network into separate segments: switching elements (SW1, SW2) for route switching and capacitors (C1, C2) for impedance matching. This segmentation allows independent control of route switching and impedance matching functions, enabling simultaneous operation of both functions without mutual interference.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the route switching function and impedance matching function into a single integrated circuit structure where switching elements and capacitors work together. The switching elements can simultaneously switch routes and switch capacitors into different configurations for impedance matching, achieving both functions in one unified design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Productivity

If conventional parallel connection of switching element and capacitor is used, then impedance matching is achievable, but operational efficiency at different power outputs is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoidpower output adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic switching of capacitor configurations based on the desired power output level. At high power output, capacitors are switched to different positions compared to low power output, allowing the circuit to dynamically adapt its impedance matching characteristics to maximize operational efficiency at each power level.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the electrical parameters (impedance values) by switching capacitors between different circuit positions. This allows the impedance matching network to be reconfigured for different power output conditions, optimizing the amplifier's efficiency across multiple operating points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS8519795B2High frequency power amplifier
Publication Date: 2013.08.27 MURATA MFG CO LTD
  • US8519795B2 patent drawing
  • US8519795B2 patent drawing
  • US8519795B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A high frequency power amplifier includes: a first transistor for amplifying an input high-frequency signal; a second transistor for amplifying an output signal of the first transistor; a third transistor connected in parallel with the first transistor and for amplifying the input high-frequency signal; a first switching element connected between an output of the first transistor and an input of the second transistor; a second switching element connected between an output of the third transistor and the first switching element; third and fourth switching elements connected in series between the output of the first transistor and an output of the second transistor, and between the second switching element and the output of the second transistor; and a first capacitor connected between the third switching element and the fourth switching element.