Shielded Variable Inductor Layout for Interference and Q Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional inductor devices fail to resist external interference while maintaining adjustable inductance value and quality factor, limiting their application in circuit design.
Innovation Solution
An inductor device comprising a primary inductor enclosed by a secondary inductor with topmost layer metal and a switch circuit, where the switch circuit's conduction degree is controlled by a control voltage to adjust the inductance value and quality factor, and resist external interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a topmost layer metal is used to enclose the inductor to resist external interference, then the ability to resist external interference is improved, but the quality factor of the inductor is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the shielding function into two parts: the topmost layer metal provides external interference resistance, while the pattern ground shield provides quality factor maintenance. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its specific function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The pattern ground shield acts as an intermediary between the topmost layer metal and the inductor. It mediates the conflicting requirements by providing a shielding path that maintains the quality factor while allowing the topmost layer metal to provide external interference resistance.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a topmost layer metal is used to enclose the inductor to resist external interference, then the ability to resist external interference is improved, but the inductance value becomes fixed and non-adjustable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a switch circuit that can dynamically adjust the connection state of the secondary inductor based on control signals. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the inductance value to be changed while maintaining the shielding structure, resolving the conflict between fixed shielding and adjustable inductance.
Solution Approach 2:
The topmost layer metal structure serves multiple functions: it provides external interference resistance through the shielding effect, and simultaneously allows for inductance adjustment through the switch circuit control. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between fixed shielding and adjustable inductance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional adjustable inductor device with secondary inductor and switch circuit is used, then the inductance value and quality factor are adjustable, but the ability to resist external interference is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the shielding function with the adjustable inductor structure by integrating the topmost layer metal enclosure with the switch circuit control mechanism. This combination allows both external interference resistance and inductance adjustability to coexist in a single device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested structure where the secondary inductor is enclosed within the topmost layer metal shielding structure. The switch circuit is integrated within this nested arrangement, allowing the smaller adjustable components to be contained within the larger shielding structure, achieving both protection and adjustability.
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 solution effectively protects the primary inductor from external interference and allows for adjustable inductance and quality factor, enhancing the freedom of circuit design and interference resistance.
Implementation Method 1
the second inductor is arranged to enclose the first inductor, and use a topmost layer metal to resist external interference for the first inductor
Implementation Method 2
an inductance value and a quality factor of the primary inductor may be adjusted by the mutual induction
Data Source
AI summary
An inductor device includes a first inductor, a second inductor, and at least one switch circuit. The second inductor is arranged to enclose the first inductor, and use a topmost layer metal to resist external interference for the first inductor. The at least one switch circuit is coupled to the second inductor, and is arranged to receive at least one control voltage, wherein the at least one control voltage is arranged to adjust conduction degree of the at least one switch circuit.