RF Module Transformers on Opposite Substrate Surfaces

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing radio frequency modules face challenges in reducing size while minimizing signal loss, as they often compromise on either size reduction or signal efficiency.

Innovation Solution

The proposed radio frequency module employs a Doherty-type power amplifier circuit and a differential-amplifier-type power amplifier circuit, with transformers strategically placed on opposite surfaces of the module substrate, along with filter circuits and matching networks, to achieve concurrent transmission of multiple channels and power classes, thereby reducing size and signal loss.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If all transformers are disposed on the first main surface to simplify layout, then device complexity is reduced, but signal loss increases due to longer connection paths and interference

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelayout complexityVSAvoidsignal loss
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes the third dimension by disposing transformers on both the first main surface and the second main surface of the module substrate. This spatial distribution reduces the planar footprint and connection path lengths, thereby reducing signal loss while maintaining manageable device complexity through vertical arrangement.

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

2Loss of energy

If transformers are disposed on both main surfaces to reduce signal loss, then signal loss is reduced, but device complexity increases due to asymmetric configuration

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal lossVSAvoidconfiguration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by making the configuration asymmetric according to specific needs: the first transformer connected to the Doherty power amplifier is on the first main surface, while the second transformer connected to the differential power amplifier is on the second main surface. This localized optimization reduces signal loss for each amplifier type without requiring complete symmetry throughout the entire device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Volume of moving object

If the module size is reduced by compacting components, then volume is reduced, but signal loss increases due to crowded layout and interference

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule sizeVSAvoidsignal loss
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

By distributing transformers across both main surfaces of the module substrate, the patent effectively utilizes the vertical dimension to reduce the planar footprint. This compacting in the horizontal plane while maintaining adequate spacing through vertical separation reduces overall module volume while preventing signal interference that would occur in a crowded single-surface layout.

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

Data Source

PatentUS20240214025A1Radio frequency module
Publication Date: 2024.06.27 MURATA MFG CO LTD
  • US20240214025A1 patent drawing
  • US20240214025A1 patent drawing
  • US20240214025A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A radio frequency module includes a module substrate having main surfaces that are opposite to each other, a plurality of external connection terminals that are disposed on the main surface, power amplifier circuits that are disposed on the main surface, a transformer that is connected to the power amplifier circuit and disposed on the main surface, and a transformer that is connected to the power amplifier circuit and disposed on the main surface. The power amplifier circuit is a Doherty-type power amplifier circuit, and the power amplifier circuit is a differential-amplifier-type power amplifier circuit.