RF Module Layout Using Opposite-Side Controller Isolation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The stability of control operations for power amplifiers in radio-frequency modules is compromised due to signal interference from the position of the controller on the mounting substrate, leading to unstable control operations.

Innovation Solution

A radio-frequency module design where the power amplifier and controller are positioned on opposite main surfaces of the mounting substrate, with the controller on the second main surface to minimize signal interference and enhance isolation, allowing for stable control of the power amplifier.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If the controller is disposed on the same mounting substrate as the power amplifier, then the device complexity is reduced and integration is improved, but signal interference occurs and control stability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintegration of controller and power amplifierVSAvoidcontrol operation stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dimensionality change by moving the controller from the same plane (mounting substrate surface) to an opposite plane (other main surface of the mounting substrate). This spatial separation in the third dimension (thickness direction) eliminates signal interference while maintaining integration, as the controller and power amplifier remain connected through the substrate without requiring additional external connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Area of stationary object

If the controller and power amplifier are positioned close together on the mounting substrate, then the layout is compact and device size is reduced, but signal interference increases and control stability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelayout area of radio-frequency moduleVSAvoidsignal interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent resolves the contradiction between compact layout and signal interference by utilizing the thickness direction of the mounting substrate. The controller is positioned on the opposite main surface, creating vertical separation that blocks signal interference paths while maintaining horizontal compactness. This allows the module to remain small in plan view while achieving electromagnetic isolation through the substrate thickness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Ease of manufacture

If the controller is positioned on the first main surface with the power amplifier, then manufacturing is simplified, but heat dissipation becomes difficult and temperature control worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing simplicityVSAvoidheat dissipation capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The patent addresses heat dissipation by positioning the controller on the opposite main surface of the mounting substrate. This spatial arrangement allows heat generated by the power amplifier to be dissipated through its mounting surface without being blocked by the controller, improving thermal management while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standard substrate assembly processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS12052001B2Radio-frequency module and communication device
Publication Date: 2024.07.30 MURATA MFG CO LTD
  • US12052001B2 patent drawing
  • US12052001B2 patent drawing
  • US12052001B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A radio-frequency module includes a mounting substrate, a power amplifier, and a controller. The mounting substrate has first and second main surfaces opposing each other. The power amplifier is disposed on one of the first and second main surfaces (the first main surface, for example) of the mounting substrate. The controller is disposed on the other one of the first and second main surfaces (the second main surface, for example) of the mounting substrate. The controller controls the power amplifier.