Single Power Module for Multi-PA Uplink Carrier Aggregation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional inter-band uplink carrier aggregation (ULCA) circuit designs require two power amplifiers and corresponding power modules, leading to a large layout space on the radio frequency printed circuit board and unnecessary design expenses.
Innovation Solution
A single power-amplifier power module is used to supply power to at least two power amplifiers, reducing the layout space on the radio frequency printed circuit board and minimizing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate power modules are used for each power amplifier in conventional inter-band uplink carrier aggregation designs, then each power amplifier can be independently powered, but the layout space on the radio frequency printed circuit board becomes large and design expenses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate power modules into a single shared power module that can supply power to multiple power amplifiers. This consolidation reduces the overall layout space on the radio frequency printed circuit board while maintaining the ability to independently control power distribution to each amplifier through power switching circuits and control logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The shared power module is designed with multi-functionality to serve multiple power amplifiers simultaneously. It includes power switching circuits and control logic that enable the single power module to dynamically allocate power to different amplifiers based on operational requirements, thus achieving space reduction without compromising power supply reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate power modules are used for each power amplifier, then power supply independence is achieved, but design expenses and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple separate power modules are merged into a single shared power module, reducing the total number of components and simplifying the overall device structure. The merged module incorporates power switching circuits and control logic that enable it to perform the functions of multiple independent modules, thereby reducing device complexity while preserving power supply adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The shared power module is designed as a universal power supply unit capable of serving multiple power amplifiers with different power requirements. Through integrated power switching circuits and control logic, it can dynamically allocate power to specific amplifiers as needed, maintaining power supply independence and versatility without requiring separate dedicated modules for each amplifier.
3Area of stationary object
If a single power module is used to supply power to multiple power amplifiers, then layout space and costs are reduced, but power distribution control becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Power switching circuits are introduced as intermediary components between the shared power module and multiple power amplifiers. These switching circuits act as mediators that receive control signals from the control logic and accordingly connect or disconnect power supply to specific amplifiers, thereby managing the complexity of power distribution control while maintaining space efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The control logic incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor the operational status of power amplifiers and dynamically adjust power distribution. By receiving feedback information about amplifier requirements and system state, the control logic can make intelligent decisions about power allocation, simplifying the overall control complexity while enabling efficient power management in the shared module configuration.
Data Source
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AI summary
A ULCA device and a mobile terminal are provided. The ULCA device includes an RF transceiver, at least two PAs, one power-amplifier power module, a control chip, a multiplexer, and an antenna switch. The RF transceiver is connected to the at least two PAs. The at least two PAs are connected to the multiplexer, which is connected to the antenna switch. The control chip is connected to the RF transceiver and the power-amplifier power module, and configured to determine supply voltage needed by each PA, determine target voltage to be output by the power-amplifier power module based on maximum supply voltage, and send a power supply instruction to the power-amplifier power module. The power-amplifier power module is connected to the at least two PAs, and configured to regulate the target voltage according to the power supply instruction and output the target voltage to the at least two PAs.