RF Front-End Filter Reuse to Reduce Multi-Band Module Complexity
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radio frequency (RF) communication systems face challenges in efficiently supporting multiple frequency bands and functionalities such as carrier aggregation, MIMO, and SRS antenna port switching due to the need for separate modules for each frequency band, leading to increased complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of broadband RF modules with bandwidth controllable components and filter reuse architectures, allowing shared circuitry for multiple frequency bands, reduces the number of modules required and enhances flexibility by supporting features like carrier aggregation, MIMO, and SRS antenna port switching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate RF modules are used for each frequency band, then each band can be supported independently, but the device complexity and number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal RF module architecture where a single broadband RF module can operate across multiple frequency bands (e.g., FR1 and FR2) by dynamically reconfiguring its internal components. The module includes a broadband power amplifier, broadband filters, and switching networks that can be tuned to support different frequency ranges, eliminating the need for separate dedicated modules for each band while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The RF module employs dynamic reconfiguration capabilities through electronically controllable switches and tunable filters that can adjust the operational frequency range in real-time. The module can switch between different frequency bands and operational modes (carrier aggregation, MIMO, SRS) dynamically based on network requirements, providing adaptability without requiring physical hardware changes or multiple static modules.
2Device complexity
If broadband RF modules with filter reuse are implemented, then the number of components is reduced, but the ability to support multiple frequency bands simultaneously may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The broadband RF module is segmented into functionally independent but reconfigurable sub-units: broadband power amplifier, broadband filters, switching networks, and signal processing paths. Each segment can be independently tuned or activated for specific frequency bands, allowing the module to support multiple bands simultaneously through selective activation of appropriate segments while reusing common infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces broadband filters and switching networks as intermediary components that enable a single RF module to interface with multiple frequency bands. These intermediaries can be dynamically configured to pass specific frequency ranges while blocking others, allowing the module to selectively support different bands and features (carrier aggregation, MIMO, SRS) without requiring separate dedicated paths for each function.
3Reliability
If separate modules are used for each functionality (carrier aggregation, MIMO, SRS), then each feature can be optimized, but the overall system size and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functionality-specific modules (carrier aggregation handling, MIMO processing, SRS support) into a single integrated broadband RF module. The module contains unified power amplifiers, filters, and switching networks that can simultaneously or sequentially support all these features through dynamic reconfiguration, reducing the total component count while maintaining the performance characteristics of each individual feature through dedicated signal paths within the integrated architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
Radio frequency front-end systems with filter reuse. In certain embodiments, a front-end system includes a filter, a low noise amplifier (LNA), and a switch interposed between the filter and an input to the LNA. In a first state of the switch, the filter serves to filter a radio frequency signal that is amplified by the LNA. The front-end system further includes a power amplifier that is coupled to the switch. Additionally, in a second state of the switch, the filter serves to filter an amplified radio frequency transmit signal provided by the power amplifier. Accordingly, a filter along a receive path of the front-end system is reused for transmit.