Single-Pin Antenna Switch With Dynamic Impedance for T/R Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing apparatuses face challenges in efficiently transmitting and receiving signals using the same pin without causing interference and damage to sensitive components, particularly in radar and ultra-wide band signaling applications.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus employs a transmit/receive switch with a configuration of antenna inductors and differential input-output pins, coupled with PMOS and NMOS transistors, to manage impedance and signal transmission/reception modes, using switches to control impedance and minimize cross-coupling effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single pin is used for both transmission and reception, then pin quantity is reduced and device complexity is lowered, but signal interference and damage to receiver components occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic impedance switching through a transmit/receive switch that changes the impedance state of the antenna pin between high impedance (transmit mode) and low impedance (receive mode). This dynamic adaptation allows the same pin to serve dual functions without interference, resolving the contradiction between pin reduction and signal protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a transmit/receive switch as an intermediary component between the antenna pin and the receiver amplifier. This switch acts as a mediator that controls signal flow and impedance states, preventing direct interference between transmit and receive paths while enabling single-pin operation.
2Productivity
If transmit and receive modes operate simultaneously on the same pin, then signal transmission efficiency is improved, but cross-coupling effects and interference increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic switching between transmit and receive modes through the transmit/receive switch. The switch alternates between high impedance state (during transmission) and low impedance state (during reception), creating periodic action that prevents cross-coupling while maintaining efficient signal transmission and reception cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the impedance parameter of the antenna pin dynamically based on operational mode. During transmission, the pin is switched to high impedance to prevent signal leakage to the receiver; during reception, it is switched to low impedance for optimal signal coupling. This parameter change eliminates cross-coupling effects while maintaining transmission efficiency.
3Use of energy by moving object
If impedance is not controlled during mode switching, then device complexity is reduced, but signal integrity and power efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic impedance control through the transmit/receive switch that adapts the antenna pin's impedance state based on operational requirements. This dynamic control mechanism, while adding some complexity, ensures optimal signal integrity and power efficiency by preventing signal leakage and maximizing power transfer in both transmit and receive modes.
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 allows for efficient signal transmission with reduced interference and damage to receiver components, enhancing power efficiency and signal integrity in both transmit and receive modes.
Implementation Method 1
the first inductor is configured to magnetically couple with the first antenna inductor and the second inductor is configured to magnetically couple with the second antenna inductor for transmission of signalling received at the first set of differential input-output pins from the antenna
Implementation Method 2
the third inductor is configured to magnetically couple with the first antenna inductor and the fourth inductor is configured to magnetically couple with the second antenna inductor for provision of signalling received from the antenna pin to the second set of differential input-output pins
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes an antenna pin coupled to a pair of antenna inductors; a first set of differential input-output pins coupled to a first pair of inductors. The first pair of inductors are configured to magnetically couple with the pair of antenna inductors for transmitting signals. The apparatus further includes a function switch with a second set of differential input-output pins coupled to a second pair of inductors. The function switch includes a first switch between the second pair of inductors, which are configured to magnetically couple with the pair of antenna inductors for receiving signalling. The function switch includes a third set of differential input-output pins coupled to a third pair of inductors. The function switch includes a second switch between the third pair of inductors, which are configured to magnetically couple with the pair of antenna inductors for receiving signals.