SAW Multiplexer Reinforcing Layer Layout for Filter Isolation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing acoustic wave devices face challenges in effectively isolating signal filters due to stray capacitance generated by reinforcing layers, which affects the performance of surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices used in communication apparatuses.

Innovation Solution

The acoustic wave device incorporates a metal reinforcing layer connected to a reference potential, divided into distinct areas facing separate signal filters, reducing coupling between them and improving isolation by stabilizing potentials and reinforcing the cover structure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If a metal reinforcing layer is formed on the cover to suppress flexural deformation, then the mechanical strength and stability of the cover is improved, but stray capacitance is generated between the reinforcing layer and the electrodes, which deteriorates the filter isolation and signal performance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemechanical strength of coverVSAvoidstray capacitance
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The reinforcing layer is divided into multiple separate reinforcing portions (first reinforcing portion, second reinforcing portion, etc.) that are spatially separated from each other. Each reinforcing portion is positioned over different electrode regions, which reduces the overall stray capacitance while maintaining local mechanical support where needed. This segmentation allows the cover to achieve sufficient strength without creating a continuous conductive plane that would generate excessive capacitance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The reinforcing layer is designed with non-uniform distribution - reinforcing portions are strategically placed only where mechanical support is most needed, rather than forming a continuous layer. The reinforcing portions are positioned to align with specific electrode patterns, providing localized strength enhancement while minimizing the total area of metal coverage and thus reducing overall stray capacitance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Object-generated harmful factors

If the reinforcing layer is made smaller than the space in transparent projection view, then stray capacitance is reduced, but the mechanical reinforcement effect may be insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestray capacitanceVSAvoidmechanical reinforcement
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-generated harmful factorsVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of using a single large reinforcing layer, the invention employs multiple smaller reinforcing portions distributed across the cover. Each portion is sized to provide localized reinforcement exactly where mechanical support is needed, while the gaps between portions reduce overall capacitance. This segmented approach optimizes the balance between strength and capacitance reduction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The reinforcing portions extend in specific dimensional patterns (e.g., elongated shapes in certain directions) to maximize mechanical support efficiency in critical areas while minimizing the footprint in other dimensions. This dimensional optimization allows each reinforcing portion to provide maximum structural benefit with minimum capacitance contribution.

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

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 configuration enhances signal filter isolation, improves filter characteristics, and reduces the probability of unintended characteristics, leading to better performance in communication apparatuses.

Implementation Method 1

a piezoelectric substrate, electrodes which are provided on one surface of the piezoelectric substrate and excite the acoustic wave

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPiezoelectric effect: Piezoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 2

The reinforcing layer is located on the cover, is made of metal, and is connected to a reference potential

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical potential stabilization: Electrical Impedance Tomography

Data Source

PatentUS11539342B2Acoustic wave device and communication apparatus
Publication Date: 2022.12.27 KYOCERA CORP
  • US11539342B2 patent drawing
  • US11539342B2 patent drawing
  • US11539342B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The multiplexer includes a plurality of IDT electrodes on a substrate, an insulating cover located on the substrate so as to configure one or more spaces above the plurality of IDT electrodes, an antenna terminal, transmission terminal, and reception terminal which are all located on the substrate and pass through the cover, and a reinforcing layer which is located on the cover and is made of metal. By the plurality of IDT electrodes, a transmission filter located in a signal path connecting the antenna terminal and the transmission terminal and a receiving filter located in a signal path connecting the antenna terminal and the reception terminal. The reinforcing layer includes a first area part facing the transmission filter and a second area part which faces the receiving filter and is separated from the first area part.