Variable Inductor with Modulating Coils for Q Factor Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current variable inductor designs in integrated circuits face challenges in maintaining the Q factor due to magnetic coupling issues across different frequency bands, which are addressed by incorporating modulating coils and switches to control inductance.
Innovation Solution
An 8-shaped inductor apparatus with a pair of modulating coils and switches that form open or closed loops to modulate inductance, allowing for variable inductance without degrading the Q factor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If modulating circuits are added to enable variable inductance, then inductance variability is improved, but Q factor deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The inductor is divided into multiple independently controllable winding groups (first winding group, second winding group, third winding group). Each group can be selectively connected or disconnected through switches, allowing the inductance to be varied by changing the active winding configuration. This segmentation enables inductance adjustment without requiring complex modulating circuits that would degrade Q factor.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic inductance adjustment by using switches to dynamically reconfigure which winding groups are active. The inductance can be changed in real-time by opening or closing switches that connect or disconnect specific winding groups, providing variable inductance capability while maintaining simple circuit topology and high Q factor.
2Productivity
If multiple frequency bands are integrated in a single chip, then circuit integration is improved, but magnetic coupling among circuits worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The inductor is segmented into multiple winding groups that can be independently controlled. This segmentation allows different frequency band circuits to share the same physical inductor structure while using different winding groups, thereby reducing magnetic coupling between circuits operating at different frequencies and enabling better integration on a single chip.
Solution Approach 2:
Different winding groups are positioned and configured to serve different frequency bands. The first winding group, second winding group, and third winding group can be selectively activated based on the operating frequency band, providing localized optimization for each frequency range while minimizing interference between bands.
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 modulates inductance while maintaining the Q factor, enabling efficient operation across multiple frequency bands without degrading the inductor's performance.
Implementation Method 1
each of the first modulating coil and the second modulating coil forms a closed loop when the first switch and the second switch are under a closed status that enables a modulation of an inductance of the inductor
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus is provided that includes an inductor, a pair of modulating coils, a first switch and a second switch. The inductor includes two sub-loops electrically coupled with each other. The modulating coils include a first modulating coil and a second modulating coil respectively disposed corresponding to each of the two sub-loops. The first switch and the second switch are respectively disposed at the first modulating coil and the second modulating coil. Each of the first modulating coil and the second modulating coil forms an open loop when the first switch and the second switch are under an open status, and each of the first modulating coil and the second modulating coil forms a closed loop when the first switch and the second switch are under a closed status that enables a modulation of an inductance of the inductor.