RF Power Detector Using ESD Circuitry Intermediary

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for measuring RF signal power in electronic devices often result in power loss due to the sensing device directly tapping the RF output, leading to inaccurate signal measurements.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a power detector coupled to electrostatic discharge (ESD) circuitry between two diodes of the ESD circuitry, allowing the power detector to measure RF signal power without directly tapping the RF output, thereby minimizing power loss.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a sensing element is employed to generate a current or voltage proportional to the RF signal power, then the RF signal power can be measured, but power loss occurs due to the sensing device thereby lowering the accuracy of the signals generated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of RF signal power measurementVSAvoidpower loss caused by sensing device
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary sensing element that couples to the RF signal path without directly tapping the main signal flow. This intermediary element allows power measurement while minimizing disruption to the RF signal, thereby reducing power loss and improving measurement accuracy simultaneously

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If the power detector is coupled directly to the RF output to measure power, then accurate measurement is achieved, but power loss occurs due to the direct tap

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of power detectionVSAvoidpower loss due to direct tapping
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The power detector is coupled through an intermediary sensing element that acts as a mediator between the RF output and the detection circuitry. This intermediary coupling enables accurate power detection while minimizing the direct load on the RF signal path, thereby reducing power loss

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Measurement precision

If the sensing device directly taps the RF output for measurement, then power measurement is enabled, but the accuracy of signal generation is lowered due to power loss

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of signal generationVSAvoidpower loss in sensing device
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

An intermediary sensing element is introduced between the RF output and the power measurement circuitry. This intermediary element enables power measurement while minimizing the impact on the RF signal path, thereby maintaining signal generation accuracy while enabling power detection

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 approach enables accurate measurement of RF signal power, reducing power loss and improving the accuracy of signal detection, which is essential for proper calibration and adjustment of transmitters and power amplifiers.

Implementation Method 1

The power detector includes a capacitor configured to receive electrical current from the ESD circuitry

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitance: Capacitance

Implementation Method 2

The rectifying circuitry is configured to receive the biased current from the clamp circuitry and to generate a DC electrical current from the biased current

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRectification:

Implementation Method 3

The ESD circuitry includes a plurality of diodes communicably coupled to a voltage supply and ground

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrostatic Discharge protection: Electrostatic Discharge

Data Source

PatentUS12306232B2Power detector for detecting radio frequency power output
Publication Date: 2025.05.20 APPLE INC
  • US12306232B2 patent drawing
  • US12306232B2 patent drawing
  • US12306232B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A power detector for measuring the radio frequency (RF) power of RF signals generated by a transmitter or a power amplifier of a transmitter is connected between two diodes of electrostatic discharge (ESD) circuitry that is connected to a signal pathway utilized to transmit the RF signals.