RF Module Envelope Tracking With Switched-Capacitor Supply Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The application of digital envelope tracking (ET) mode in power amplifier systems results in increased size due to the inclusion of a power amplifier (PA) circuit, a tracker circuit, and a signal processing circuit, which can lead to a larger power amplifier system.
Innovation Solution
A radio frequency module with a module laminate containing integrated circuits, including a switched-capacitor circuit and a supply modulator, which generates and selectively outputs discrete voltages to a power amplifier, reducing the system size while maintaining efficient power amplification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If digital envelope tracking mode is applied to power amplifier system, then power amplification efficiency is improved, but system size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the tracker circuit and supply modulator into a single integrated circuit substrate, merging multiple previously separate components into one unified structure. This integration maintains the digital ET mode functionality while significantly reducing the overall system size by eliminating the need for separate discrete component assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a three-dimensional stacked arrangement of separate circuits to a planar two-dimensional integration on a single substrate. By laying out the tracker circuit and supply modulator side-by-side on the same substrate rather than stacking them vertically, the system achieves compactness in the vertical dimension while maintaining all necessary ET mode functions.
2Volume of stationary object
If tracker circuit and supply modulator are integrated on same substrate, then system size is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated circuit substrate is divided into distinct functional regions: a first region for the tracker circuit and a second region for the supply modulator. This segmentation allows each circuit to be designed and manufactured independently using standard IC fabrication processes, then combined on the same substrate, thereby maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving size reduction.
Solution Approach 2:
The single integrated circuit substrate serves multiple functions by hosting both the tracker circuit and supply modulator. This multi-functional platform approach allows standard substrate manufacturing processes to produce a component that performs multiple roles, reducing the need for separate manufacturing lines and assembly steps for individual components.
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
The solution provides a compact radio frequency module and communication device with an ET mode power amplifier system, achieving efficient power amplification without the bulkiness associated with traditional digital ET systems.
Implementation Method 1
The first switched-capacitor circuit is configured to generate a plurality of discrete voltages based on an input voltage
Implementation Method 2
the first supply modulator is configured to selectively output at least one of the generated plurality of discrete voltages to a first power amplifier (PA)
Data Source
AI summary
A radio frequency module is provided that includes a module laminate having main surfaces that oppose each other; at least one power amplifier circuit on a first main surface; and at least one integrated circuit on the second main surface. The integrated circuit includes at least one switch included in a switched-capacitor circuit and at least one switch included in a supply modulator. The switched-capacitor circuit generates a plurality of discrete voltages based on an input voltage and outputs the generated plurality of discrete voltages to the supply modulator. The supply modulator selectively outputs at least one voltage of the generated plurality of discrete voltages to a power amplifier. The power amplifier circuit includes a first amplifying transistor of the power amplifier.