RF Switch Circuit Layout for Low-Loss High-Voltage Isolation

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Solution Overview

Problem

The presence of a metal plate above a transistor in radio-frequency switches generates parasitic capacitance, leading to increased capacitance in the switch-off state and higher signal loss.

Innovation Solution

A switch circuit comprising a series connection of semiconductor elements, capacitive elements connected to some semiconductor elements, and a resistance element between the capacitive elements, which adjusts the electric field coupling to minimize signal loss while maintaining high withstand voltage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If a metal plate is provided above the transistor to suppress voltage variation and improve withstand voltage, then the withstand voltage is improved, but a parasitic capacitance is generated between the transistor and the metal plate, causing the capacitance in the switch-off state to increase and the loss of the radio-frequency signal to increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewithstand voltageVSAvoidsignal loss
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

An insulating film is introduced as an intermediary layer between the transistor and the metal plate. This insulating film prevents direct electrical contact while allowing the metal plate to maintain its voltage-stabilizing function, thereby eliminating the harmful parasitic capacitance that causes signal loss in the switch-off state

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The structure is segmented by introducing the insulating film layer, which separates the transistor from the metal plate. This segmentation allows the system to simultaneously achieve the voltage-stabilizing benefit of the metal plate while avoiding the detrimental capacitive coupling effect

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 proposed solution effectively suppresses radio-frequency signal loss in the switch-off state while improving the withstand voltage of the radio-frequency switch, achieving a balance between signal integrity and voltage tolerance.

Implementation Method 1

capacitive elements connected to at least some of the plurality of semiconductor elements

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitance: Capacitance

Implementation Method 2

a parasitic capacitance is generated between the transistor and the metal plate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectParasitic capacitance: Parasitic Capacitance

Implementation Method 3

a resistance element connected between the capacitive elements

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical resistance: Electrical Resistance

Data Source

PatentUS12212311B2Switch circuit and communication apparatus
Publication Date: 2025.01.28 SONY SEMICON SOLUTIONS CORP
  • US12212311B2 patent drawing
  • US12212311B2 patent drawing
  • US12212311B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A switch circuit includes: a plurality of semiconductor elements (10) connected in series to each other; capacitive elements connected to at least some semiconductor elements (10) among the plurality of semiconductor elements (10); and a resistance element (30) connected between the capacitive elements.