Switchable Inductor Network for Multi-Mode Wireless Tuning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-mode wireless communications devices require separate inductors for different frequency ranges, leading to increased die area and design complexity due to the need for distinct circuit elements for each frequency range.
Innovation Solution
A switchable inductor network with a first coil and a second coil, each comprising segments that can be selectively coupled or decoupled by a switch in response to a control signal, allowing for adjustable inductance across a pair of nodes to support multi-mode operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate inductors are provided for each frequency range, then optimal tuning for each frequency range is achieved, but die area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second coil is divided into multiple segments (first segment and second segment) that can be selectively connected or disconnected. This segmentation allows the inductor network to provide different inductance values by switching between different segment combinations, enabling optimal tuning for multiple frequency ranges while using a single physical inductor structure, thereby reducing die area compared to providing separate inductors for each frequency range.
Solution Approach 2:
The inductor network incorporates switches that dynamically reconfigure the connection of coil segments based on the desired frequency range. This dynamic switching capability allows the same inductor structure to adapt its inductance value in real-time, providing optimal tuning for different frequency ranges without requiring multiple fixed inductors, thus reducing die area while maintaining adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate inductors are provided for each frequency range, then optimal tuning for each frequency range is achieved, but design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the second coil into multiple sections with associated switches, the design achieves multiple inductance values from a single inductor structure. This reduces design complexity compared to managing multiple separate inductors, as the segmented approach allows systematic control of inductance values through switch configurations rather than requiring separate design and integration of multiple discrete inductor components.
Solution Approach 2:
The single inductor network with switchable segments serves multiple functions by providing different inductance values for different frequency ranges. This multi-functionality reduces design complexity by consolidating what would otherwise require multiple separate inductor designs into one universal inductor structure that can be configured for various tuning requirements across different frequency ranges.
3Area of stationary object
If a single inductor is used for all frequency ranges, then die area is reduced, but optimal tuning for each frequency range cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The second coil is divided into segments that can be selectively connected, allowing a single inductor footprint to provide multiple inductance values. This segmentation enables the inductor to be tuned optimally for different frequency ranges while maintaining a compact single-structure design, thus achieving both die area reduction and optimal tuning capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The switchable segment configuration enables dynamic adjustment of inductance values within a single inductor structure. This dynamic reconfigurability allows the inductor to adapt to different frequency ranges and tuning requirements, providing the versatility of multiple inductors while maintaining the die area benefits of a single compact structure.
Data Source
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AI summary
Techniques for providing a switchable inductor network having configurable inductance in response to a control signal. The switchable inductor network may adopt a fully symmetric architecture to reduce the effects of parasitic elements in differential mode operation. The switchable inductor network is particularly suitable for multi-mode communications circuitry applications, e.g., in the design of a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) or an amplifier or buffer in such circuitry.