Radio Frequency Circuit Architectures

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Future microwave and millimetre-wave communications systems and vehicle radar systems will depend on phased array antennae and the microelectronic chips that enable these. This program will create novel and disruptive technologies in the field of radio frequency (RF) integrated circuit architectures. Over the next 5 years, innovation will focus on four related areas: i) alias lock loop frequency synthesis architectures, ii) integrated phased array receivers and radar architectures, iii) high density integrated linear phase shifters suitable for 5G cellular networks, and iv) circuits for phased array satellite antennae. It is my intention to develop this research program to the point where early demonstrations can attract project funding from industry and elsewhere.******This proposed RF circuit architectures research program will make new radio and radar applications feasible. Better frequency synthesis will open up higher frequencies for more bandwidth. More bandwidth will also flow from better phased-array and MIMO (Multiple Input, Multiple Output) antenna designs and the microelectronic chips that enable these, as will be required by 5G, the next generation of high performance cellular phones. High-resolution phased array radars, will move from a military budget to a consumer electronics budget, enabling safer autonomous cars and aircraft. ******My lab has produced a number of disruptive technologies which have become programs in themselves, spinning out as start-up companies or transforming the product capabilities of Canadian manufacturers. All of these breakthrough technologies in integrated circuit design have been conceived and initially explored with Discovery Grant funded research. These technologies have included processors-in-memory, multi-level memory, and integrated microfluidic/electronic circuits. Of my inventions, 15 US patents have issued (plus additional patents in other countries). Of those, 9 have been licenced to Canadian companies (in some cases as many as 3 Canadian companies), producing net university revenue. My inventions have helped spawn 3 Canadian start-up companies that I've been involved with. 7 more patents are pending. ******My lab not only teaches analysis and design, but inspires invention and trains the next generation of inventors. My students have outstanding success with inventing, patenting and licencing technologies, attracting international attention for their work, and successfully competing for the top design jobs, from startup companies to the world's best known companies.