Filter synthesis enhances EM simulation software

Widely used by engineers developing low-cost or compact printed electronics for applications such as networking, communication and signal processing, planar filters typically require a two stage design process. First, an appropriate filter topology must be selected from a synthesis tool or textbook and the filter coefficients that match the specification need to be calculated. Secondly, the filter must be analysed and fine-tuned through simulation or prototyping to ensure that it operates correctly when installed.

Filter Designer 2D is built on Nuhertz Technologies’ technology and, with CST STUDIO SUITE, it enables the full workflow to be carried out with a single tool. The tool includes a database with a wide variety of filter types, including both lumped element and distributed element implementations. Filter Designer 2D will automatically suggest a design once specifications of the filter have been inputted, such as the frequency response and physical limitations including the maximum size of the filter and the properties of the substrate. Fully parametric models of this design can be created for circuit simulation or full-wave 3D simulation with a single click.

CST’s design automation framework, System Assembly and Modeling (SAM), allows models to be simulated and optimised to tune their performance and take into account the unforeseen coupling between elements. SAM can also integrate these filter models into larger systems and allow the integration of electromagnetic, thermal and structural simulation for a multiphysics analysis of filter detuning.

Dr Bernhard Wagner, Managing Director, CST, comments: “Filter Designer 2D is a major advance in our planar filter design offering. By automating the filter design process wherever possible, we want to free engineers to focus on the bigger picture.”

“Nuhertz has long been a market leader for filter synthesis tools, and we’re proud that our technology has been incorporated into CST STUDIO SUITE. Through this partnership, we intend to make our technology available to an even wider market of filter designers and engineers,” adds Jeff Kahler, President, Nuhertz Technologies.