Tracker Module Layout for Compact 3Tx Envelope Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of reducing the size of a 3Tx-support D-ET module in mobile communication systems, which becomes larger due to the simultaneous transmission of three radio-frequency signals.
Innovation Solution
A tracker system and module that includes a module laminate with integrated circuits for generating and distributing multiple discrete voltages to power amplifiers, utilizing a switched-capacitor circuit and supply modulators to selectively output these voltages to primary and secondary antennas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If three supply modulators are integrated on the same module laminate to support 3Tx simultaneous transmission, then the transmission capability is improved, but the module size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the three supply modulators into two separate integrated circuits: the first integrated circuit contains the first supply modulator and is disposed on the module laminate, while the second integrated circuit contains the second and third supply modulators and is disposed separately from the module laminate. This segmentation reduces the area occupied on the module laminate while maintaining 3Tx transmission capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional layout where all three supply modulators would be placed on the same module laminate to a three-dimensional arrangement where the second integrated circuit is disposed separately in space. This dimensional change allows the system to maintain full 3Tx functionality without proportionally increasing the module laminate area.
2Device complexity
If all three supply modulators are disposed on the module laminate, then the voltage distribution is simplified, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the supply modulators into two integrated circuits based on their connection requirements. The first integrated circuit with the first supply modulator is disposed on the module laminate and connects to power amplifiers via the laminate's external connection terminals. The second integrated circuit with the second and third supply modulators is disposed separately and connects to its corresponding power amplifier through external connections. This segmentation simplifies the laminate structure while maintaining manageable assembly complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A tracker system is provided that includes a first integrated circuit disposed in or on a module laminate and a second integrated circuit disposed to be separate from the module laminate. The first integrated circuit includes switches of a switched-capacitor circuit and switches of first and second supply modulators. The second integrated circuit includes switches of a third supply modulator. The switched-capacitor circuit generates multiple discrete voltages. The first supply modulator outputs at least one of the discrete voltages to a first power amplifier. The second supply modulator outputs at least one of the discrete voltages to a second power amplifier. The third supply modulator outputs at least one of the discrete voltages to a third power amplifier. The first and second power amplifiers are connected to a primary antenna. The third power amplifier is connected to a secondary antenna.