RF Module Inductor Isolation via Intermediary Third Inductor

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Solution Overview

Problem

In radio frequency modules, the simultaneous use of multiple paths for communication leads to challenges in securing sufficient physical distance between inductors, resulting in reduced flexibility and increased signal jumping due to inductive coupling, which affects data transfer speed and module size.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a radio frequency module design that includes a first inductor, a second inductor, and a third inductor, along with switches, where the third inductor is arranged between the first and second inductors to enhance isolation between communication paths, and a switch capable of connecting the antenna terminal to both paths simultaneously, allowing for improved inductive coupling management.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If multiple paths are used simultaneously for communication to increase data transfer speed, then productivity is improved, but the physical distance between inductors is reduced and inductive coupling increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transfer speedVSAvoidinductive coupling between inductors
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A third inductor is introduced as an intermediary element positioned between the first and second inductors. This third inductor acts as a mediator that manages the inductive coupling interactions, enabling simultaneous use of multiple paths while controlling signal interference through its strategic placement and coupling characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Volume of stationary object

If module size is reduced for downsizing, then volume is decreased, but sufficient physical distance between inductors cannot be secured

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule sizeVSAvoidsignal jumping due to inductive coupling
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of stationary objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The third inductor serves as a coupling manager that enables compact layout by mediating the electromagnetic interactions between inductors. This allows the inductors to be positioned closer together for module downsizing while the third inductor controls and manages the inductive coupling to prevent signal jumping.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the coupling parameters by introducing the third inductor with specific coupling characteristics. This modifies the electromagnetic field distribution and coupling coefficients between inductors, enabling tighter spacing while maintaining signal integrity through controlled coupling parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Area of stationary object

If inductors are arranged closer together for downsizing, then area is reduced, but flexibility in arrangement is reduced and signal jumping occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule areaVSAvoidflexibility in inductor arrangement
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The third inductor provides a flexible coupling management mechanism that allows various arrangement configurations. By positioning the third inductor between the first and second inductors, the design achieves compact area while maintaining arrangement flexibility through the intermediary's coupling control capability.

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 design effectively increases the isolation between communication paths, reducing signal interference and enabling efficient data transfer while allowing for module downsizing without compromising performance.

Implementation Method 1

jumping of a signal occurs due to inductive coupling between the inductors

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInductive coupling: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11962340B2Radio frequency module and communication device
Publication Date: 2024.04.16 MURATA MFG CO LTD
  • US11962340B2 patent drawing
  • US11962340B2 patent drawing
  • US11962340B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Isolation between the first path and second path is increased. A radio frequency module includes a first inductor, a second inductor, a third inductor, and a switch. The first inductor is provided in a first path through which a first communication signal travels. The second inductor is provided in a second path through which a second communication signal travels, the second path being used simultaneously with the first path. The third inductor is provided in a third path through which a third communication signal travels, the third path not being used simultaneously with the first path. The switch is provided between ground and a node in the third path and is connected to the third inductor. The third inductor is arranged between the first inductor and the second inductor.