Vertical RF Front-End Module Layout for Smaller Multi-Band Filters

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Solution Overview

Problem

Legacy RF FEMs have a large form factor due to their 2D component arrangement, occupying valuable space that could be used for other components like a larger battery, and lack efficient integration of multiple filter components operating at different frequencies.

Innovation Solution

The integration of acoustic wave resonator (AWR) dies with active dies and on-package passives in a vertical stackup on a PCB or package substrate, enabling double-sided assembly and reducing the overall footprint of RF FEMs, allowing for more compact designs and integration of additional components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If components are assembled in a two-dimensional arrangement on a PCB or package substrate, then the assembly process is simple and straightforward, but the form factor becomes large and occupies excessive space

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly simplicityVSAvoidform factor
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from traditional two-dimensional component arrangement on a PCB to a three-dimensional vertical stackup architecture. Multiple filter components (SAW filters, BAW filters, FBARs) are stacked vertically along the z-axis, enabling spatial consolidation that dramatically reduces the horizontal footprint while maintaining assembly feasibility through standardized packaging and interconnection techniques

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple filter components operating at different frequencies are integrated, then filtering performance is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefiltering performanceVSAvoidintegration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple filter components (surface acoustic wave filters, bulk acoustic wave filters, thin-film bulk acoustic resonators) operating at different frequencies into a single integrated RF FEM package. These diverse filter types are merged through a unified vertical stackup architecture with shared interconnection structures, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining multi-frequency filtering capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The vertical stackup architecture serves as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple types of filter components (SAW, BAW, FBAR) and support various frequency bands simultaneously. This multi-functional design allows a single RF FEM to handle diverse filtering requirements without proportionally increasing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

This approach reduces the form factor of RF FEMs, enabling the integration of multiple filter components operating at different frequencies on the same die, freeing up space for other components and improving the efficiency of electronic devices.

Implementation Method 1

an acoustic wave resonator (AWR) die (120) communicatively coupled with the package substrate (110)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAcoustic wave resonator: Resonance

Data Source

PatentUS12040776B2Integrated radio frequency (RF) front-end module (FEM)
Publication Date: 2024.07.16 INTEL CORP
  • US12040776B2 patent drawing
  • US12040776B2 patent drawing
  • US12040776B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments may relate to a radio frequency (RF) front-end module (FEM) that includes an acoustic wave resonator (AWR) die. The RF FEM may further include an active die coupled with the package substrate of the RF FEM. When the active die is coupled with the package substrate, the AWR die may be between the active die and the package substrate. Other embodiments may be described or claimed.