Tunable Multi-Band Receiver Using a Single Receive Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity, size, cost, and power consumption of wireless communication devices are increased due to the need for multiple receive paths and circuit blocks to support multiple frequency bands and systems, which complicates their design and operation.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of tunable multi-band receivers, which use a single receive path to support multiple frequency bands by incorporating an antenna tuning network, a tunable notch filter, and a low noise amplifier (LNA) to filter out leaked transmit signals, reducing the need for individual filters and amplifiers for each frequency band.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple receive paths and circuit blocks are used to support multiple frequency bands and systems, then the wireless device can receive communication services from more systems and enjoy greater coverage, but the complexity, size, cost and power consumption of the wireless device increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single receive path that can be dynamically tuned to support multiple frequency bands and wireless systems through programmable filters and adjustable amplifiers, allowing one circuit block to perform multiple functions that previously required separate dedicated paths for each band
Solution Approach 2:
The receive path incorporates dynamically adjustable components including programmable filters with可调 frequency responses and variable gain amplifiers that can be reconfigured in real-time to adapt to different frequency bands and system requirements, replacing static multi-path architecture
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple receive paths and circuit blocks are used to support multiple frequency bands and systems, then the wireless device can receive communication services from more systems and enjoy greater coverage, but the size of the wireless device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate receive paths into a single integrated receive path that handles multiple frequency bands through software-controlled tuning, consolidating what were previously distinct physical circuits into one shared infrastructure with reduced component count and smaller footprint
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple receive paths and circuit blocks are used to support multiple frequency bands and systems, then the wireless device can receive communication services from more systems and enjoy greater coverage, but the cost of the wireless device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal, reconfigurable circuit blocks that can be programmed to support different frequency bands and systems, replacing the need for multiple dedicated circuits and reducing bill of materials costs, assembly complexity, and manufacturing variability
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple receive paths and circuit blocks are used to support multiple frequency bands and systems, then the wireless device can receive communication services from more systems and enjoy greater coverage, but the power consumption of the wireless device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dynamically configurable receive paths with programmable filters and variable gain amplifiers that activate only the necessary components for the current frequency band and system being used, powering down unused circuitry to minimize energy consumption compared to having all paths continuously active
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 results in a smaller, more cost-effective, and reliable wireless device design with reduced complexity and power consumption, while maintaining performance across various frequency bands and systems.
Implementation Method 1
an antenna tuning network, coupled to the antenna, to tune the antenna to a receive band
Implementation Method 2
a tunable notch filter, coupled to the antenna tuning network, to attenuate signal components in a transmit band associated with the receive band
Implementation Method 3
at least one low noise amplifier, coupled to the tunable notch filter, to amplify an output signal from the tunable notch filter
Data Source
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AI summary
A tunable multi-band receiver supporting operation on a plurality of frequency bands is disclosed. In an exemplary design, the tunable multi-band receiver includes an antenna tuning network, a tunable notch filter, and at least one low noise amplifier (LNA). The antenna tuning network tunes an antenna (e.g., a diversity antenna) to a receive band in a plurality of receive bands. The tunable notch filter is tunable to a transmit band in a plurality of transmit bands and attenuates signal components in the transmit band. One LNA among the at least one LNA amplifies an output signal from the tunable notch filter. The tunable multi-band receiver may further include one or more additional tunable notch filters to further attenuate the signal components in the transmit band.