High-Frequency Module Layout for Stop-Band RF Attenuation

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Solution Overview

Problem

High-frequency modules with filters face challenges in attenuating RF signals outside the pass band effectively without increasing module size, as existing solutions require additional correction circuits that complicate the design and increase size.

Innovation Solution

A high-frequency module design that includes a filter component with a matching network and an inductor connected to ground, where electromagnetic field coupling between the inductor and matching network defines a propagation path to cancel out signals outside the frequency band, and a shield electrode reduces unintended coupling, maintaining a compact size.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a correction circuit is added to improve attenuation characteristics outside the pass band, then the attenuation characteristics are improved, but the module size increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattenuation characteristicsVSAvoidmodule size
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the correction circuit functionality into the existing filter structure by adding a parallel path with correction circuits that share the same physical space and mounting substrate. The correction circuits (inductors and capacitors) are integrated onto the same module substrate as the filter section, combining multiple functions into a unified structure rather than adding separate components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The filter section serves multiple functions: it provides the primary filtering function for signals within the pass band while simultaneously working with the correction circuits to provide attenuation for signals outside the pass band. The parallel path structure allows the same physical components to serve dual purposes in different frequency ranges.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If a correction circuit is added to improve isolation characteristics between filters, then the isolation characteristics are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveisolation characteristicsVSAvoidcircuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the signal path into two distinct paths: the filter section path and the parallel correction circuit path. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each path for different frequency ranges, with the filter section handling pass-band signals and the correction circuits handling stop-band signals, thereby improving isolation without requiring a completely redesigned complex circuit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The correction circuits act as an intermediary mechanism that mediates between the filter section and the output terminal. By introducing this intermediate correction path with specifically designed inductors and capacitors, the patent achieves improved isolation characteristics without directly modifying the filter section itself, thus maintaining simplicity while enhancing performance.

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 configuration improves attenuation characteristics outside the frequency band without increasing the module size, reduces unintended signal propagation, and enhances isolation between filters, achieving better filter performance with a simpler design.

Implementation Method 1

the inductor and the matching network define a propagation path by electromagnetic field coupling with each other

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic field coupling: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a shield electrode that is provided between the inductor and the filter component; wherein the inductor and the matching network define a propagation path by electromagnetic field coupling with each other, the matching network and the filter component do not electromagnetic field couple with each other, and the shield electrode is located to suppress electromagnetic field coupling between the inductor and the filter component

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic shielding: Faraday Cage

Data Source

PatentUS10454446B2High-frequency module
Publication Date: 2019.10.22 MURATA MFG CO LTD
  • US10454446B2 patent drawing
  • US10454446B2 patent drawing
  • US10454446B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A high-frequency module includes a propagation path that has a simple structure and improves filter characteristics by causing an inductor and a matching network to electromagnetic field couple with each other such that attenuation characteristics outside of a frequency band of a transmission signal are improved without increasing the size of the high-frequency module. In addition, unintended electromagnetic field coupling between a first filter and the inductor is significantly reduced or prevented by a shield electrode. Therefore, unintended propagation of a high-frequency signal is significantly reduced or prevented. Therefore, the attenuation characteristics outside of the frequency band of transmission signal input to the transmission terminal are improved more effectively.