Tracker Module Circuit Layout for Low-Loss Voltage Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tracker modules and communication devices face degradation in characteristics due to complex line configurations in integrated circuits, particularly when modularized, which affects the performance of power supply voltage modulation in radio-frequency signal processing.
Innovation Solution
A tracker module configuration that includes a module laminate with integrated circuits featuring a pre-regulator circuit, switched-capacitor circuit, and supply modulator, utilizing signal lines to connect IC terminals and switches, which generates discrete voltages and selectively outputs them to improve power supply voltage modulation efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the tracker module is modularized using an integrated circuit, then integration and compactness are improved, but line complexity increases causing characteristic degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated circuit is divided into multiple functional blocks (pre-regulator circuit, switched-capacitor circuit, supply modulator) with dedicated signal lines connecting them. This segmentation allows each block to be optimized independently while reducing overall line complexity through functional specialization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional IC terminal arrangements and multi-layer signal line routing to reduce planar line complexity. By transitioning from two-dimensional layout to three-dimensional signal paths, the design achieves compact integration without excessive line complexity.
2Ease of operation
If signal lines are extended to connect IC terminals, then connectivity is improved, but signal line losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
Buffer circuits and impedance matching networks are introduced as intermediary elements between IC terminals and signal lines. These intermediaries reduce signal reflections and losses by optimizing impedance transitions, enabling longer signal lines without excessive loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes signal line parameters including characteristic impedance, conductor width, and dielectric thickness to minimize signal losses. By carefully controlling these parameters, the design achieves low-loss signal transmission over extended IC terminal connections.
3Measurement precision
If discrete voltage generation is implemented, then power supply voltage modulation precision is improved, but circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switched-capacitor circuit uses periodic switching of capacitors to generate discrete voltage levels. This periodic action enables precise voltage modulation through time-division multiplexing, achieving high precision with relatively simple circuit elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent generates discrete voltages by changing capacitor connection configurations and switching states rather than using multiple complex voltage generation circuits. This parameter-based approach achieves precise voltage modulation with reduced circuit complexity.
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 solution effectively suppresses degradation, enhancing the efficiency and heat dissipation of the tracker module by reducing signal line losses and improving the tracking of radio-frequency signal envelope variations in digital ET mode.
Implementation Method 1
a power inductor L71
Implementation Method 2
a first capacitor having a first electrode and a second electrode and a second capacitor having a third electrode and a fourth electrode
Implementation Method 3
a supply modulator that is configured to selectively output at least one of the discrete voltages generated by the switched-capacitor circuit
Data Source
AI summary
A tracker module is provided that includes a module laminate and one or more integrated circuits that are disposed on the module laminate and that includes an integrated circuit. The integrated circuit includes a switch included in a pre-regulator circuit, at least one switch included in a switched-capacitor circuit, a first IC terminal connected to the switch included in the pre-regulator circuit, and a second IC terminal connected to one of the at least one switch included in the switched-capacitor circuit. The at least one integrated circuit includes a switch included in a supply modulator. The module laminate includes a signal line with which the first IC terminal is connected to the second IC terminal.