Integrated RF Switch Inductor Layout for Smaller Multiband Modules

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Solution Overview

Problem

High-frequency modules face challenges in reducing size while maintaining multiband and multimode functions, as existing technologies find it difficult to integrate components effectively to achieve both size reduction and functional performance.

Innovation Solution

Integration of an inductor with the switching circuit within the high-frequency module, either built into the semiconductor substrate or integrated with resin, allows for reduced space usage and enhanced signal processing capabilities, enabling smaller module sizes and improved performance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If the inductor is mounted separately from the switching circuit in the high-frequency module, then the inductor can be easily installed and maintained, but the module size increases due to additional mounting space requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of installationVSAvoidmodule size
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates the inductor directly into the switching circuit by forming it on the same semiconductor substrate. The inductor is created using conductive patterns deposited and etched on the substrate, merging two previously separate components (inductor and switching circuit) into a single integrated structure, thereby eliminating additional mounting space while maintaining functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The inductor is formed using multi-layer conductive patterns on the semiconductor substrate, utilizing the vertical dimension (multiple layers) to create the inductive structure. This approach transforms the traditional planar mounting into a three-dimensional integrated structure, maximizing space utilization and reducing the overall module footprint

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple components are mounted in the high-frequency module, then the multiband and multimode functions are achieved, but the module size increases due to the additional space required for each component

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemultiband and multimode functionVSAvoidmodule size
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The switching circuit is designed to selectively connect the common terminal to multiple selection terminals (first, second, and third selection terminals), enabling the same circuit structure to support multiple frequency bands and modes. This multi-functional switching capability eliminates the need for separate dedicated circuits for each function, reducing overall module size while maintaining versatility

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines multiple functional components (switching circuit, inductor, and filtering elements) into a single integrated structure on the semiconductor substrate. By merging these components that would traditionally require separate mounting, the module achieves multiband and multimode functionality without proportionally increasing in size

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS10855245B2Switch component, high-frequency module, and communication apparatus
Publication Date: 2020.12.01 MURATA MFG CO LTD
  • US10855245B2 patent drawing
  • US10855245B2 patent drawing
  • US10855245B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A switch component includes a common terminal, at least two selection terminals, a switching circuit that selectively connects the common terminal to each of the at least two selection terminals, and an inductor. One end of the inductor is connected to one of the at least two selection terminals. The switching circuit is integrated with the inductor.