Stacked RF Module Power Amplifier Temperature Feedback Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

The degradation of the output characteristic of a power amplifier in RF modules due to temperature variations between the power amplifier and the PA control unit, caused by heat generated during high-power transmission, leads to performance issues in mobile communication devices.

Innovation Solution

A radio-frequency module design where the power amplifier and the PA control circuit, including a temperature sensor, are stacked on the same principal surface of a module substrate, allowing for precise temperature measurement and adjustment of bias current and voltage to maintain optimal performance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If the power amplifier outputs high-power transmission signals, then transmission power is improved, but temperature increase causes degradation of output characteristic

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransmission powerVSAvoidoutput characteristic
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where a temperature sensor continuously monitors the temperature of the power amplifier, and the control circuit adjusts the output signal based on temperature information. This closed-loop feedback system allows the power amplifier to maintain optimal output characteristics even under high-power conditions by dynamically compensating for temperature-induced variations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a control circuit as an intermediary between the power amplifier and the temperature sensor. This control circuit processes temperature information and generates appropriate control signals to adjust the power amplifier's operation, acting as a mediator that translates thermal conditions into corrective actions to maintain output characteristic stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Volume of moving object

If the power amplifier and control unit are placed close together, then device size is reduced, but temperature variation between components increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice sizeVSAvoidtemperature variation
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

By placing the temperature sensor in direct thermal contact with the power amplifier and implementing real-time temperature monitoring with feedback control, the system can detect and compensate for temperature variations immediately. This allows close placement of components for miniaturization while maintaining temperature control through active feedback mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the control signals based on temperature measurements. The control circuit modifies operational parameters such as bias conditions or output power levels in response to temperature variations, enabling the system to maintain performance despite thermal changes caused by close component placement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 configuration effectively suppresses the degradation of the power amplifier's output characteristic by ensuring accurate temperature monitoring and compensation, enhancing the stability and efficiency of RF signal transmission.

Implementation Method 1

The PA control circuit includes a temperature sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTemperature sensing: Thermistor

Data Source

PatentUS11489551B2Radio-frequency module and communication device
Publication Date: 2022.11.01 MURATA MFG CO LTD
  • US11489551B2 patent drawing
  • US11489551B2 patent drawing
  • US11489551B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A radio-frequency module includes a module substrate, a power amplifier, and a control circuit configured to control the power amplifier. The control circuit includes a temperature sensor. The power amplifier and the control circuit are stacked one on top of another on a principal surface of the module substrate.