Stacked Acoustic Resonators With Switchable Dual-Frequency Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Acoustic resonators are non-programmable, limiting their operating frequencies once fabricated, which necessitates multiple devices for different frequency applications, leading to larger module sizes and reduced versatility in applications like RF front-end modules and transducers.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable resonator device is developed, comprising a stacked first and second resonator coupled to a reconfiguration switch, allowing selective operation at different frequencies by activating one resonator while keeping the other inactive, enabling dual-frequency operation without increasing device size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple resonator devices are used to perform multiple functions requiring different operating frequencies, then the functionality and versatility are improved, but the area of acoustic filter chips and module footprint increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple resonator devices into a single integrated filter chip. The filter includes multiple resonator circuits that can be selectively activated, allowing one chip to perform multiple frequency functions that previously required separate chips. This merging reduces the overall chip area while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter device is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating multiple resonator circuits with different operating frequencies within a single chip. Switching mechanisms allow the same physical device to operate at different frequencies for different applications, making one chip universal for multiple frequency bands rather than requiring dedicated chips for each frequency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple filter chips are packaged in RF front end modules to accommodate different frequency bands, then the frequency coverage is improved, but the module footprint increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple filter functions into a single integrated chip that can be packaged in one RF front end module. By combining multiple resonator circuits and switching mechanisms into one device, the system reduces the number of separate filter chips needed, thereby reducing the overall module footprint while maintaining comprehensive frequency band coverage.
3Adaptability or versatility
If resonance frequencies are modified by hybridization with passive elements to tune coupling coefficients, then the frequency tuning capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic frequency tuning through switching mechanisms that can selectively activate different resonator circuits or modify their coupling. Instead of static hybridization with passive elements, the system uses active switching to dynamically reconfigure the resonator connections and coupling coefficients, providing frequency adaptability while maintaining a relatively simple device structure.
4Adaptability or versatility
If arrays of transducers with varieties of sizes are employed for multi-frequency applications, then the frequency range is improved, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal resonator circuit design that can operate at multiple frequencies without requiring arrays of differently-sized transducers. The resonator circuits are designed with adjustable coupling and switching mechanisms that allow the same physical structure to resonate at different frequencies, eliminating the need for multiple transducer sizes and reducing overall device volume.
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 reconfigurable resonator device reduces the footprint required for multi-frequency applications, allowing arbitrary coupling of operating frequencies and enhancing the versatility of acoustic devices by enabling frequency switching without the need for multiple devices.
Implementation Method 1
The resonator circuit includes a piezoelectric layer arranged between the first and second electrodes
Implementation Method 2
The first resonator is configured to resonate at a first operating frequency, and the second resonator is configured to resonate at a second operating frequency different from the first operating frequency
Data Source
AI summary
A resonator device may include a stacked first resonator and second resonator. The first resonator may be configured to resonate at a first operating frequency, and the second resonator may be configured to resonate at a second operating frequency different from the first operating frequency. The first resonator may include a first electrode and a first active layer arranged over the first electrode. The second resonator may include a second active layer arranged over the first active layer, and a second electrode arranged over the second active layer. The stacked first resonator and second resonator may be coupled to a reconfiguration switch for selectively operating at the first operating frequency or the second operating frequency. One of the first resonator and the second resonator is active upon selection by the reconfiguration switch, while the other resonator is inactive.