Tunable RF Bandpass Filter With Variable Cross-Coupling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing co-location RF filters are large, lack high power handling, slow tuning speeds, and limited in selectivity, failing to support newer waveforms with improved bandwidth and selectivity needs.
Innovation Solution
A tunable RF bandpass filter with variable cross-coupling using GaN switches and tunable capacitors, allowing for faster tuning speeds and improved selectivity through adjustable transmission zeros and passband widths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If traditional RF filter designs are used, then high power handling is achieved, but the form factor is large and tuning speed is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic tuning capability in the filter by using variable capacitors controlled by GaN switches, allowing the filter characteristics to be adjusted electronically without changing the physical structure. This enables fast tuning speeds while maintaining high power handling capability and compact form factor
2Power
If traditional RF filter designs are used, then high power handling is achieved, but tuning speed is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical tuning mechanisms with electronic switching using GaN devices and variable capacitors. This substitution enables significantly faster tuning speeds while maintaining the ability to handle high RF power levels, as electronic switching occurs much faster than mechanical adjustment
3Reliability
If traditional RF filter designs are used, then basic filtering is achieved, but selectivity and bandwidth are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamically adjustable filtering characteristics through variable capacitors that can be tuned to change the resonant frequencies and coupling coefficients. This allows the filter to adapt its bandwidth and selectivity to match different waveform requirements while maintaining high filtering performance for protecting against interference
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical parameters of the filter by adjusting capacitor values through electronic switching. This enables the filter to optimize its bandwidth and selectivity parameters for different communication waveforms and frequency bands, providing versatility without sacrificing filtering effectiveness
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
Enables high-power handling, agile co-location filter performance with faster tuning speeds and improved selectivity in a compact form factor, supporting diverse RF communication applications.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of shunt resonators coupled in series and configured to allow signals within a range of frequencies to pass; and a cross-coupling circuit connected to the plurality of shunt resonators and configured to generate a first transmission zero in a low rejection band of the bandpass filter and generate a second transmission zero in a high rejection band of the bandpass filter
Data Source
AI summary
A bandpass filter comprising: a plurality of shunt resonators connected in series and configured to allow signals within a range of frequencies to pass; and a cross-coupling circuits connected to the plurality of shunt resonators and configured to generate a first transmission zeros in a low rejection band of the bandpass filter and generate a second transmission zero in a high rejection band of the bandpass filter.