Routing Element Antenna Integration in Integrated Circuits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional integrated circuits require external antennas for wireless data transmission, which increases device size, limits flexibility in antenna configuration, and restricts orientation and alignment, making them unsuitable for dynamic applications and embedded devices.
Innovation Solution
An integrated circuit with a radio transceiver and programmable routing elements that can selectively function as an antenna, allowing for dynamic configuration and operation as a routing matrix to transmit and receive data, enabling flexible antenna configurations and orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If external antennas are used for wireless data transmission, then wireless communication capability is achieved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the antenna function with the integrated circuit substrate by using routing elements that can serve dual purposes: signal routing within the IC and wireless transmission externally. This eliminates the need for separate external antennas, reducing device volume while maintaining wireless communication capability
Solution Approach 2:
The routing elements are designed to perform multiple functions: they route signals between circuit elements and simultaneously function as antennas for wireless transmission. This multi-functionality allows the same structure to serve both internal signal distribution and external wireless communication, eliminating the need for dedicated antenna space
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional fixed antennas are used, then manufacturing is simplified, but adaptability to different applications is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The routing elements are designed to serve dual purposes: standard signal routing within the integrated circuit and antenna function for wireless transmission. This universal design allows the same manufactured structure to adapt to different applications through programming rather than physical reconfiguration, maintaining manufacturing simplicity while enabling application-specific adaptability
3Volume of moving object
If routing elements are used as antennas, then device size is reduced, but routing functionality may be impacted
Solution Approach 1:
The routing elements are designed to be dynamically reconfigurable, allowing them to switch between routing mode and antenna mode as needed. When not serving as antennas, they function as standard routing elements; when activated for wireless communication, they are reconfigured to form antenna patterns, maintaining both routing and antenna functionalities without permanent compromise
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 solution allows for compact, flexible, and adaptable wireless communication, overcoming the limitations of external antennas and enabling efficient intra-board and off-board data transfer without the need for fixed antenna configurations, enhancing the usability of integrated circuits in various applications.
Implementation Method 1
a routing element selectively operable to function as an antenna... operable to transmit and receive data utilizing a radio transceiver
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated circuit operable to wirelessly communicate with other devices by utilizing a radio transceiver and a routing element is disclosed. The routing element is operable to route a signal between various circuit elements and is selectively operable to function as an antenna when coupled with the radio transceiver.