A miniature waveguide switch

Abstract

The present application relates to the field of microwave control, in particular to a kind of miniature waveguide switch, including radio frequency component, drive component and control component.The core technical scheme is that: the radio frequency rotor of radio frequency component is recessed to form first installation slot in axial direction;Drive stator of drive component is arranged in the first installation slot, and drive magnet is arranged on the radio frequency rotor, forming the embedded integrated structure of drive unit and radio frequency unit.The present application accommodates drive component in the radio frequency rotor, compresses the axial dimension of switch, reduces overall volume and weight, and is suitable for aerospace and other sensitive size and weight high-integration application scenarios.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of microwave control, and more specifically to a miniature waveguide switch. Background Technology

[0002] Waveguide switches are key components for switching radio frequency (RF) signals and are widely used in satellite communications, electronic countermeasures, and automated testing. Existing waveguide switches often employ a separate or simple stacked layout for their drive structure and RF cavity, resulting in low internal space utilization and a large, heavy overall size. As microwave systems evolve towards higher integration and lighter weight, especially in applications such as aerospace and UAV payloads where size and weight are extremely sensitive, traditional waveguide switches can no longer meet the requirements for lightweight and miniaturized assembly.

[0003] Based on the above, this application proposes a miniature waveguide switch that can effectively solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the problem that existing waveguide switches are too large and heavy, making it difficult to meet the requirements for miniaturization and lightweight applications, this application proposes a micro waveguide switch.

[0005] A miniature waveguide switch, comprising:

[0006] A radio frequency (RF) assembly includes an RF mounting cover and an RF rotor. The RF mounting cover defines an RF cavity inside, and the RF rotor is rotatably disposed within the RF cavity. At least two RF ports are provided on the side wall of the RF mounting cover, and a microwave channel selectively communicating with the RF ports is provided inside the RF rotor. One end of the RF rotor is recessed along the axial direction to form a first mounting groove.

[0007] A drive assembly, including a drive stator and a drive magnet, wherein the drive stator is disposed within the first mounting slot, and the drive magnet is disposed on the radio frequency rotor; and

[0008] The control component includes a control circuit board electrically connected to the drive component to drive the radio frequency rotor to rotate.

[0009] By housing the drive components in a groove inside the RF rotor, an integrated structure distinct from traditional stacking is formed, which helps to reduce the axial dimension of the switch and provides a technical approach for the miniaturization and integration of switches.

[0010] In one embodiment, the drive stator integrally extends a plurality of extension legs toward the central axis, with coils wound around the extension legs to form stator windings. The end face of each extension leg toward the drive magnet forms an arc-shaped pole face, which is conformally disposed to the outer peripheral surface of the drive magnet and maintains a radial clearance. This structure defines a specific configuration of the built-in motor, which facilitates the generation of an effective electromagnetic drive torque between the stator poles and the rotor magnet.

[0011] In one embodiment, the drive assembly further includes a stator mounting base located between the drive stator and the control circuit board. A stator mating groove is formed on the side surface of the stator facing the drive stator to accommodate the drive stator, and the drive stator is fixed to the bottom of the groove. This design provides a positioning and fixing method for the drive stator, facilitating modular assembly.

[0012] In one embodiment, a first connecting post extends axially from the center of the bottom surface of the first mounting groove, and the driving magnet is axially sleeved and fixed on the first connecting post. The other end of the RF rotor is recessed axially to form a second mounting groove, and a second connecting post extends axially from the center of the bottom surface of the second mounting groove. The second connecting post is rotatably connected to the inner bottom surface of the RF mounting cover via a first rotary bearing. The control assembly further includes a circuit board mounting base, which has a second mating groove for accommodating a second rotary bearing. The end of the first connecting post mates with the second rotary bearing to form a double-bearing support structure. This double-bearing support structure provides rotational support for the RF rotor at both ends, helping to improve the accuracy and stability of the rotor during rotation.

[0013] In one embodiment, the outer wall of the RF mounting cover has multiple first weight-reduction grooves, and the side wall of the circuit board mounting base near the control circuit board has multiple second weight-reduction grooves. By setting weight-reduction grooves in non-critical load-bearing parts of the housing, the overall weight of the switch is effectively reduced while ensuring structural strength, and the heat dissipation surface area is increased.

[0014] In one embodiment, multiple pairs of limiting posts are arranged on the inner bottom surface of the RF mounting cover along the rotation path of the RF rotor, and multiple positioning blocks are arranged on the corresponding end face of the RF rotor. When the RF rotor rotates to a predetermined angle position, connecting the microwave channel with the corresponding RF port, the positioning blocks and the limiting posts mechanically abut against each other. This mechanical limiting structure provides a simple and reliable method for positioning the rotation endpoint, ensuring the alignment of the microwave channel and the RF port.

[0015] In one embodiment, a metal bushing is tightly fitted to the inner wall of the first mounting slot. The drive stator and the stator winding wound thereon are disposed within the metal bushing. The sidewalls and bottom wall of the metal bushing electromagnetically isolate the stator winding from the microwave channel of the RF rotor. This metal bushing forms a Faraday cage, which helps to shield the electromagnetic field generated by the drive assembly, thereby reducing its interference with the microwave signal within the RF rotor and improving the electromagnetic compatibility issues caused by the embedded structure.

[0016] In one embodiment, a radially outwardly extending thermally conductive flange is provided at the opening edge of the metal bushing. The upper surface of the thermally conductive flange forms surface contact with the lower surface of the stator mounting base to conduct heat to the stator mounting base. This thermally conductive flange provides an outlet path for the heat generated by the motor, helping to prevent heat accumulation inside the RF rotor and playing a positive role in maintaining the thermal stability of the drive magnet and RF components.

[0017] In one embodiment, a magnetic positioning mechanism is further included. This mechanism comprises at least one driven magnet and at least two sets of positioning magnets. The driven magnet is disposed on one end face of the RF rotor near the RF mounting cover. Multiple sets of positioning magnets are disposed on the inner bottom surface of the RF mounting cover and distributed at different predetermined angular positions along the rotation path of the RF rotor. The driven magnet and the positioning magnets are configured such that when the RF rotor rotates to a predetermined angular position, the magnetic force generated between the driven magnet and the positioning magnets holds the RF rotor in that position. When the RF rotor deviates from that position due to an external force, a magnetic restoring torque is generated between them to pull the RF rotor back to that position. This magnetic positioning mechanism enables non-contact, zero-power retention of the rotor at the target position. This retention method avoids the holding current applied to resist disturbances in traditional designs, thereby eliminating the resulting steady-state Joule heating. This not only helps reduce wear and extend service life but also helps reduce the overall thermal load of the system.

[0018] In one embodiment, each positioning magnetic assembly includes a first positioning magnet and a second positioning magnet spaced apart along the rotation path of the radio frequency rotor. The first and second positioning magnets have the same magnetic polarity along their sweep paths toward the driven magnet. This magnetic pole configuration is designed so that when the driven magnet approaches the positioning magnetic assembly with its corresponding magnetic pole, it first generates a magnetic braking torque to smoothly decelerate the radio frequency rotor. When the driven magnet passes a critical position, it then generates a magnetic attraction torque to lock the radio frequency rotor at a predetermined angular position. This two-stage mechanism of "first repulsive braking, then attractive locking" achieves non-contact positioning while also ensuring the smoothness of the movement process and the stability of the final position.

[0019] In summary, this application includes at least one of the following beneficial technical effects:

[0020] By incorporating the drive components into a first mounting slot formed by a recess inside the RF rotor, an integrated layout of the drive unit and the RF unit is achieved, which helps to reduce the overall size and weight of the waveguide switch to meet the application requirements of high-density installation and lightweight design.

[0021] By setting weight-reducing grooves on the RF mounting cover and circuit board mounting base, the overall weight of the switch is effectively controlled while ensuring structural strength, thus achieving lightweighting. On the other hand, the heat dissipation surface area of ​​the switch is increased, which helps to improve passive heat dissipation efficiency and plays a positive role in maintaining the stability of the internal temperature of the switch.

[0022] By setting up a double-bearing support structure consisting of a first connecting column and a second connecting column, along with two upper and lower rotating bearings, stable rotational support is provided, which helps to improve the working reliability of the switch in vibration and shock environments.

[0023] By placing a metal bushing tightly against the inner wall of the first mounting slot, the interference of the driving electromagnetic field on the microwave signal in the embedded structure can be alleviated. Furthermore, by setting the heat-conducting flange on the bushing to contact the stator mounting surface, a conduction path is constructed for heat dissipation, which effectively improves the electromagnetic compatibility performance and thermal stability of the switch.

[0024] By setting up a non-contact magnetic positioning mechanism consisting of a driven magnet and a positioning magnet assembly, wear-free latching of the rotor at the target position is achieved, which helps to extend the working life of the switch. Furthermore, this zero-power holding characteristic avoids the steady-state heat generated by applying holding current, so that the system's heat dissipation structure only needs to handle the brief heat during switching, reducing the overall thermal management requirements of the system. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of Embodiment 1 of a miniature waveguide switch provided in this application.

[0026] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the first explosion view of Embodiment 1 of a microwaveguide switch provided in this application.

[0027] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the second explosion view of Embodiment 1 of a microwaveguide switch provided in this application.

[0028] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the radio frequency rotor and the drive stator in Embodiment 1 of a microwaveguide switch provided in this application.

[0029] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the radio frequency rotor in Embodiment 1 of a microwaveguide switch provided in this application.

[0030] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the radio frequency mounting cover in Embodiment 1 of a miniature waveguide switch provided in this application.

[0031] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the radio frequency rotor in the first working position in Embodiment 1 of a miniature waveguide switch provided in this application.

[0032] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the radio frequency rotor in the second working position in Embodiment 1 of a miniature waveguide switch provided in this application.

[0033] Figure 9 An exploded view of Embodiment 2 of a miniature waveguide switch provided in this application.

[0034] Figure 10 An exploded view of Embodiment 3 of a miniature waveguide switch provided in this application.

[0035] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the positioning magnetic group in Embodiment 3 of a miniature waveguide switch provided in this application.

[0036] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the driven magnet in Embodiment 3 of a miniature waveguide switch provided in this application.

[0037] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the radio frequency rotor in the third working position in Embodiment 3 of a miniature waveguide switch provided in this application.

[0038] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the radio frequency rotor in the fourth working position in Embodiment 3 of a miniature waveguide switch provided in this application.

[0039] 1. RF component; 11. RF mounting cover; 111. RF cavity; 112. RF port; 113. First weight reduction groove; 114. Limiting post; 115. First mating groove; 12. RF rotor; 121. Microwave channel; 122. First mounting groove; 123. First connecting post; 1231. Annular groove; 1232. Retaining ring; 124. Second mounting groove; 125. Second connecting post; 126. Positioning block; 2. Drive component; 21. Drive stator; 211. Extension foot; 212. Coil; 213. Arc-shaped pole face ; 22. Drive magnet; 23. Stator mounting base; 231. Stator mating groove; 232. First cable outlet hole; 3. Control assembly; 31. Control circuit board; 32. Circuit board mounting base; 321. Second mating groove; 322. Second weight reduction groove; 323. Receiving cavity; 324. Second cable outlet hole; 4. First rotary bearing; 5. Second rotary bearing; 6. Metal bushing; 61. Thermal flange; 7. Magnetic positioning mechanism; 71. Driven magnet; 72. Positioning magnet assembly; 721. First positioning magnet; 722. Second positioning magnet. Detailed Implementation

[0040] This application provides a miniature waveguide switch, which is described below in conjunction with the appendix. Figure 1-14 This application will be described in further detail. Example 1

[0041] Reference Figure 1-8 This embodiment provides a miniature waveguide switch, including a radio frequency component 1, a driving component 2, and a control component 3. These three components are designed as independently assembleable modules, stacked sequentially along the central axis of the switch, and integrated into a compact whole by means of pin positioning and screw fastening.

[0042] In this embodiment, the radio frequency component 1 is the core part for selectively switching on and off microwave signals. It mainly includes a radio frequency mounting cover 11 and a radio frequency rotor 12 rotatably disposed therein.

[0043] Specifically, the RF mounting cover 11 is preferably made of aluminum alloy material with high strength and good thermal conductivity. An RF cavity 111 is precisely machined inside the RF mounting cover 11 to accommodate the RF rotor 12. At least two RF ports 112 are provided on the side walls of the RF mounting cover 11 according to application requirements. In this embodiment, the RF mounting cover 11 has a square structure, with one RF port 112 on each of its four side walls, named J1 port, J2 port, J3 port, and J4 port, respectively, for connection to an external waveguide system. To achieve weight reduction and optimize heat dissipation, multiple first weight-reducing grooves 113 are provided on the outer wall of the RF mounting cover 11, especially in the non-central load-bearing area around the perimeter. In this embodiment, the number of first weight-reducing grooves 113 is eight.

[0044] Specifically, the first weight-reducing groove 113 removes some material to reduce mass while also increasing the surface area of ​​the switch housing. According to the heat exchange formula Q=KA△t (Q is the heat flow rate; K is the heat transfer coefficient; A is the heat transfer area; △t is the temperature difference between the hot and cold environments), with the temperature difference and heat transfer coefficient remaining constant, the increased heat transfer area can increase the heat flow rate, thus enhancing the passive heat dissipation capability of the switch.

[0045] Specifically, the RF rotor 12 is also preferably made of aluminum alloy, and its outer contour matches the inner wall of the RF cavity 111. It is supported in the RF cavity 111 by a bearing structure to achieve low-friction rotation. The RF rotor 12 has microwave channels 121 inside for connecting different RF ports 112. In this embodiment, the RF rotor 12 has two microwave channels 121 that are bent at 90 degrees, so that the two ports of each microwave channel 121 are distributed at a 90-degree angle on the side wall of the RF rotor 12. By controlling the RF rotor 12 to rotate at a specific angle, i.e., 90 degrees, the combination of RF ports 112 connected to the microwave channels 121 can be changed, thereby achieving signal path switching. Specifically, when one microwave channel 121 is initially connected to two RF ports, namely J1 and J2, and the other microwave channel 121 is initially connected to two RF ports, namely J3 and J4, the RF rotor 12 rotates 90 degrees. The two RF ports connected to one microwave channel 121 will be converted to J1 and J4, and the two RF ports connected to the other microwave channel 121 will be converted to J2 and J3.

[0046] More specifically, in order to maximize the use of the rotor's internal space while ensuring the structural integrity and radio frequency performance of the microwave channel 121, the wall thickness between the bottom of the first mounting groove 122 and the microwave channel 121 can be set to 1.0mm-1.5mm, preferably 1.2mm in this embodiment; its groove wall thickness can be set to 0.5mm-1.0mm, preferably 0.75mm in this embodiment. This ensures sufficient structural strength while effectively utilizing the rotor's internal space.

[0047] In this embodiment, the drive assembly 2 mainly includes a drive stator 21, a drive magnet 22, and a stator mounting base 23. To integrate the drive assembly 2 within a limited space, the RF rotor 12 has a first mounting groove 122 recessed at one end along its rotation axis. This "grooving" design at both ends of the rotor ensures maximum utilization of the ineffective space inside the rotor while maintaining the structural integrity of the microwave channel 121. The drive stator 21, serving as the driving force source, is directly disposed within the first mounting groove 122, and its axial height is designed to be slightly greater than the height of the first mounting groove 122, so that it can extend appropriately from the first mounting groove 122 to engage with the stator mounting base 23 above.

[0048] Specifically, the drive stator 21 is an irregular ring structure, with two integrally extending legs 211 extending from the inner peripheral wall of the ring structure toward the central axis, and the two extending legs 211 are symmetrically arranged. A coil 212 is wound around the extending legs 211 to form a stator winding; the coil 212 is preferably made of enameled wire. The end face of the extending leg 211 facing the drive magnet 22 is machined into an arc-shaped pole face 213. This design ensures that the stator pole face matches the outer peripheral surface of the drive magnet 22 in shape.

[0049] Specifically, the drive magnet 22, which is part of the motor rotor, is fixed to the radio frequency rotor 12. For installation, a first connecting post 123 is integrally formed by extending the center of the bottom surface of the first mounting groove 122 along the axial direction. The drive magnet 22 is an annular permanent magnet, which is mounted on the first connecting post 123 by axial sleeve. To achieve axial positioning, an annular groove 1231 is formed circumferentially on the side wall of the first connecting post 123. A retaining ring 1232 is installed in the annular groove 1231, and the drive magnet 22 is confined to the lower part of the retaining ring 1232.

[0050] Specifically, corresponding to the first mounting groove 122, the other end of the radio frequency rotor 12 is also recessed along the axial direction to form a second mounting groove 124.

[0051] More specifically, the arc-shaped pole surface 213 of the drive stator 21 is not in close contact with the outer peripheral surface of the drive magnet 22, but a radial gap is maintained between them. This radial gap is a necessary structure to ensure that the motor can rotate without friction and form an effective driving magnetic field. When the stator winding is energized, an electromagnetic field is generated on the extension leg 211. This electromagnetic field interacts with the permanent magnetic field of the drive magnet 22 to generate an electromagnetic torque, driving the radio frequency rotor 12 to rotate.

[0052] Specifically, the stator mounting base 23 is plate-shaped and located between the RF mounting cover 11 and the control assembly 3. A through hole is formed in the center of the stator mounting base 23 so that the first connecting post 123 can pass through this through hole. On the surface of the stator mounting base 23 facing the drive stator 21, a stator mating groove 231 matching the shape of the drive stator 21 is formed. The main body of the drive stator 21 is accommodated within the stator mating groove 231 and is securely positioned from the bottom of the groove by screws. In this embodiment, Phillips head flathead screws are preferably used.

[0053] In this embodiment, the control component 3 is mainly responsible for receiving external commands and controlling the operation of the drive component 2. The control component 3 includes a ring-shaped control circuit board 31 with a central opening and a circuit board mounting base 32. The control circuit board 31 is electrically connected to the stator winding in the drive component 2 via wires. Electronic components such as a microcontroller and a drive chip are integrated on the control circuit board 31. When the microcontroller receives an external switching command signal, it controls the drive chip to apply a current with a specific timing and direction to the designated stator winding, thereby controlling the rotation direction and angle of the radio frequency rotor 12.

[0054] Specifically, the control circuit board 31 is mounted on the other side of the stator mounting base 23, while the circuit board mounting base 32 covers the top layer. The RF mounting cover 11, stator mounting base 23, and circuit board mounting base 32, as three main static housing components, each have connecting holes and pin holes at corresponding positions on their corners. During assembly, the three components are initially aligned by inserting pins, and then fastened into a single unit using screws. Red steel paper washers are fitted onto the pins to cushion and limit the movement of the control circuit board 31.

[0055] In this embodiment, in order to ensure that the radio frequency rotor 12 can rotate stably and accurately for a long time, a dual bearing support structure is also designed.

[0056] Specifically, as described above, the lower end of the RF rotor 12 is recessed to form a second mounting groove 124, and a second connecting post 125 extends from the center of the bottom surface of the second mounting groove 124. A first rotary bearing 4 is fitted onto the second connecting post 125. Correspondingly, the RF mounting cover 11 is located at the center of the inner bottom surface inside the RF cavity 111, and is provided with a first mating groove 115 for accommodating the first rotary bearing 4. During assembly, the second connecting post 125, on which the first rotary bearing 4 is fitted, is placed into the first mating groove 115, thereby forming the lower end support of the RF rotor 12.

[0057] Specifically, to form the upper support, the length of the first connecting post 123 is designed to be long enough to pass sequentially through the retaining ring 1232, the stator mounting base 23, and the control circuit board 31. The circuit board mounting base 32 is located at the top of the entire switch, and its interior has a receiving cavity 323 for accommodating the control circuit board 31. A second mating groove 321 extends axially from the center of the bottom surface of this receiving cavity 323. A second rotary bearing 5 is installed within the second mating groove 321. The end portion of the first connecting post 123 mates with the inner ring of the second rotary bearing 5. Thus, the two rotary bearings located at the bottom and top of the switch together provide stable and accurate support for the rotation of the RF rotor 12. In this embodiment, both the first rotary bearing 4 and the second rotary bearing 5 are preferably deep groove ball bearings.

[0058] In this embodiment, a clear wiring structure is designed to establish an electrical signal path between the drive component 2 and the control component 3. After the drive stator 21 is fixed to the stator mounting base 23, the coil lead-out end of its stator winding needs to be connected to the control circuit board 31 above. A first lead-out hole 232 is provided on the stator mounting base 23. The coil lead-out end of the stator winding passes through the first lead-out hole 232 and is soldered to the control circuit board 31 to realize the electrical connection between the drive component 2 and the control component 3. Furthermore, a second lead-out hole 324 is also provided on the side wall of the circuit board mounting base 32. One end of a main control cable is connected to the control circuit board 31, and the other end extends out from the second lead-out hole 324 for connection to an external power supply and control unit.

[0059] In this embodiment, in order to achieve switching and reliable limiting of the RF rotor 12 between two defined working positions, this application adopts a mechanical limiting structure. The structure includes multiple sets of limiting posts 114 fixed on the inner bottom surface of the RF mounting cover 11, and multiple positioning blocks 126 fixed on the corresponding end faces of the RF rotor 12.

[0060] Specifically, in this embodiment, two sets of limiting posts 114 are provided, two in each set, which together limit the total stroke range of the RF rotor 12 by 90 degrees. Simultaneously, two positioning blocks 126 are symmetrically arranged on the lower end face of the RF rotor 12. When the RF rotor 12 is in the first working position, the sidewall of one of its positioning blocks 126 abuts against one set of limiting posts 114, thereby stabilizing the rotor in that position. When the motor drives the RF rotor 12 to rotate towards the second working position, the rotor will rotate freely 90 degrees until the sidewall of the other positioning block 126 mechanically abuts against the other set of limiting posts 114. In this embodiment, the first working position is a 45-degree position, and the second working position is a -45-degree position. These two stable and repeatable endpoint positions, determined by mechanical limiting, are designed to ensure that the microwave channel 121 inside the RF rotor 12 is aligned with the RF port 112 on the RF mounting cover 11. To optimize the contact effect and disperse the impact force, the sidewalls of each positioning block 126 that contact the limiting post 114 are designed to be curved surfaces that fit it.

[0061] The working principle of a miniature waveguide switch provided in this application embodiment is as follows:

[0062] When the external control system sends a switching command to the control circuit board 31, the control circuit board 31 drives the stator windings on the drive stator 21 to be energized. The energized windings generate an electromagnetic field, which interacts with the drive magnet 22 fixed on the RF rotor 12, generating a driving torque that drives the RF rotor 12, supported by dual bearings, to rotate. As the RF rotor 12 rotates, its internal microwave channel 121 selectively connects to different RF ports 112. When the RF rotor 12 rotates to a predetermined target angle, the positioning block 126 on its end face will mechanically abut against the limiting post 114 fixed on the inner bottom surface of the RF mounting cover 11. This physical abutment stops the RF rotor 12 from rotating, thereby locking it in the target position, ensuring accurate alignment of the microwave channel 121 and the RF port 112, and completing a signal path switching. Example 2

[0063] refer to Figure 9 The miniature waveguide switch provided in this embodiment has the same overall structure as that in embodiment 1. The key improvement of this embodiment is that an independent metal bushing 6 is tightly attached to the inner wall of the first mounting groove 122.

[0064] In this embodiment, the metal bushing 6 is preferably made of pure aluminum material with high conductivity and high thermal conductivity. It has an overall upward-opening cup-shaped structure, and its inner and outer contours mate with the inner wall of the first mounting groove 122 and the outer contour of the drive stator 21. During assembly, the entire drive stator 21 and the stator winding wound around it are no longer directly placed into the first mounting groove 122 of the RF rotor 12, but are housed within the metal bushing 6. The sidewalls and bottom wall of the metal bushing 6 are tightly fitted with the groove wall of the RF rotor 12, forming a complete, closed conductive shell that completely encloses the stator winding. This structure physically constitutes a Faraday cage, effectively shielding the low-frequency alternating electromagnetic field generated by the stator winding during energization switching. The electromagnetic field is confined within the metal bushing 6 and cannot penetrate the bushing wall and the inner wall of the RF rotor 12 to interfere with the microwave channel 121 on the other side, thus ensuring the transmission quality of the microwave signal while achieving embedded integration.

[0065] Specifically, a radially outwardly extending thermally conductive flange 61 is integrally formed at the opening edge of the metal bushing 6. After the entire switch is assembled, the upper surface of the thermally conductive flange 61 forms a tight surface contact with the lower surface of the stationary stator mounting base 23. This creates a heat conduction path: the heat generated by the stator winding is first rapidly absorbed by the highly thermally conductive metal bushing 6, then conducted through the body of the metal bushing 6 to the thermally conductive flange 61 at its upper edge, and then transferred through the contact surface between the thermally conductive flange 61 and the stator mounting base 23 to the larger RF mounting cover 11 and the circuit board mounting base 32, which have more contact with the outside environment, and finally dissipated into the environment.

[0066] The working principle of the miniature waveguide switch provided in this embodiment is as follows:

[0067] The startup and driving process in this embodiment is the same as in Embodiment 1. The key difference is that the metal bushing 6 functions simultaneously at the instant the stator winding is energized to drive the RF rotor 12 to rotate. First, the metal bushing 6 forms a Faraday cage, shielding the electromagnetic interference field generated by the stator winding inside the bushing, ensuring the signal purity of the microwave channel 121 within the RF rotor 12. Second, the Joule heat generated by the stator winding is rapidly absorbed by the high thermal conductivity bushing and conducted to the stationary stator mounting base 23 through the thermally conductive flange 61 on its top, and then dissipated by the entire switch housing, thus constructing an efficient heat dissipation path that actively conducts heat from the rotating component to the stationary component. Finally, the RF rotor 12 is also positioned by the mechanical contact between the positioning block 126 and the limiting post 114. Example 3

[0068] refer to Figure 10-14The miniature waveguide switch provided in this embodiment has a structure that is basically the same as that in embodiment 2. The difference is that a non-contact magnetic positioning mechanism 7 is used to replace the mechanical limiting post 114 and positioning block 126 structure in embodiment 2.

[0069] In this embodiment, the magnetic positioning mechanism 7 includes at least one driven magnet 71 and at least two sets of positioning magnetic groups 72. The driven magnet 71 is fixed to the end face of the RF rotor 12 near the RF mounting cover 11. The positioning magnetic groups 72 are fixed to the inner bottom surface of the RF mounting cover 11. In this embodiment, the number of driven magnets 71 is preferably two, and the two driven magnets 71 are symmetrically arranged along the same circumference. The number of positioning magnetic groups 72 is preferably two, and the positioning magnetic groups 72 are distributed at different predetermined angular positions along the rotation path of the RF rotor 12. Specifically, they are set at the third working position and the fourth working position at 0 degrees and 90 degrees, respectively, corresponding to the positions of the J4 port and the J3 port, where the microwave channel 121 and the RF port 112 are completely aligned.

[0070] Specifically, each set of positioning magnets 72 preferably consists of a first positioning magnet 721 and a second positioning magnet 722. The first positioning magnet 721 and the second positioning magnet 722 are arranged oppositely at intervals along the rotation path of the radio frequency rotor 12, forming a gap between them. The key design is that the adjacent magnetic poles of the first positioning magnet 721 and the second positioning magnet 722, facing the path swept by the driven magnet 71, have opposite polarities. This magnetic pole arrangement creates a region with the weakest magnetic field but the largest magnetic gradient at the center position between the first positioning magnet 721 and the second positioning magnet 722, i.e., a stable angular equilibrium position.

[0071] More specifically, the operation of the magnetic positioning mechanism 7 can be divided into three stages, taking the following scenario as an example: one microwave channel 121 connects to ports J1 and J4, and another microwave channel 121 connects to ports J2 and J3. Currently, the two driven magnets 71 are aligned with the positions of ports J2 and J4, respectively. It is necessary to drive the RF rotor 12 to rotate 90 degrees clockwise so that the first microwave channel 121 connects to ports J1 and J2, the other microwave channel 121 connects to ports J3 and J4, and the two driven magnets 71 are aligned with the positions of ports J3 and J1, respectively.

[0072] Phase 1: When the RF rotor 12 rotates 90 degrees clockwise, the driven magnet 71 aligned with port J2 also begins to rotate clockwise towards port J3 along with the RF rotor 12, entering the magnetic field range of the positioning magnetic group 72 located at port J3. This positioning magnetic group 72 consists of a first positioning magnet 721 and a second positioning magnet 722, both with their N poles facing the rotation path. Since the first positioning magnet 721 and the second positioning magnet 722 are arranged opposite each other, and one end of the driven magnet 71 is also designed with an N pole, it sequentially approaches the N poles of the first and second positioning magnets 721 and 722. Due to the identical magnetic poles, repulsion occurs, and the rotational speed of the driven magnet 71 gradually decreases, effectively "braking." This allows the RF rotor 12 to decelerate smoothly, avoiding direct impact. Simultaneously with the generating braking repulsive force, the N pole of the positioning magnetic group 72 also exerts a forward attractive force on the S pole of the driven magnet 71. Although the repulsive force is greater than the attractive force due to the distance, and the overall effect is deceleration, this combined "push and pull" action means that the driven magnet 71 does not experience a sudden resistance, but rather a flexible torque that smoothly decelerates it, thus achieving a shock-free transition.

[0073] The second stage: After deceleration, the RF rotor 12, relying on its remaining rotational inertia, continues to push the driven magnet 71 past the point of strongest repulsion generated by the N poles of the first positioning magnet 721 and the second positioning magnet 722. At the instant it crosses this critical point, the magnetic force vector within the system is reconstructed. First, the N pole of the positioning magnet group 72, which previously generated the repulsion, is now located behind the N pole of the driven magnet 71, becoming a thrust in the same direction as the driven magnet 71's movement. Second, the N pole of the driven magnet 71 rapidly approaches the S pole of the positioning magnet, experiencing an attractive force as the dominant force. Simultaneously, the S pole of the driven magnet 71 also experiences an attractive force from the N pole of the positioning magnet group 72. At this instant, all the main forces form a resultant torque with a consistent direction pointing towards the target position, "capturing" and "pulling" the RF rotor 12 into the final latched position.

[0074] The third stage: When the driven magnet 71, under the acceleration and attraction of the second stage, finally stops at the center of the positioning magnetic group 72 at the J3 port, it reaches a stable equilibrium point. At this position, a three-dimensional force field balance network is formed between the S and N poles of the driven magnet 71 and the four magnetic poles of the positioning magnetic group 72. The key to the stability at this position lies in its strong restoring torque: any tiny angular displacement that attempts to deviate the RF rotor 12 from this equilibrium point will break this force field balance and immediately trigger a restoring torque pointing towards the equilibrium point in one or more directions, generated by the combined action of multiple magnetic poles. It is this "magnetic potential trap" composed of multi-point, multi-directional forces that locks the RF rotor 12 at the equilibrium point, giving it vibration and shock resistance, and achieving stable holding without continuous current input.

[0075] The working principle of the miniature waveguide switch provided in this embodiment is as follows:

[0076] The startup and driving process in this embodiment is similar to that in the previous embodiment. The core difference lies in the stopping and latching method of the RF rotor 12. When the motor drives the RF rotor 12 to rotate close to the target position, the driven magnet 71 on it enters the magnetic field range of the static positioning magnetic group 72. At this time, the mechanism goes through three stages: First, the interaction of the magnetic fields generates a torque opposite to the direction of motion, causing the RF rotor 12 to decelerate smoothly and avoid mechanical impact. Second, after passing a critical point, the driven magnet 71 is quickly captured by the "magnetic potential trap" formed by the positioning magnetic group 7, producing a decisive "attraction" action, pulling the RF rotor 12 into the alignment position. Finally, at the target position, the permanent magnet torque firmly latches the RF rotor 12, enabling it to resist external vibrations. At this time, the power supply to the drive motor can be completely cut off, achieving zero-power position holding. This non-contact, wear-free magnetic latching method fundamentally improves the positioning accuracy, service life, and thermal stability of the switch.

[0077] The above are all preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, all equivalent changes made in accordance with the structure, shape and principle of this application should be covered within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A miniature waveguide switch, characterized in that, include: The radio frequency (RF) assembly (1) includes an RF mounting cover (11) and an RF rotor (12). The RF mounting cover (11) defines an RF cavity (111) inside. The RF rotor (12) is rotatably disposed in the RF cavity (111). At least two RF ports (112) are provided on the side wall of the RF mounting cover (11). The RF rotor (12) has a microwave channel (121) that selectively communicates with the RF ports (112) inside. One end of the RF rotor (12) is recessed along the axial direction to form a first mounting groove (122). A drive assembly (2) includes a drive stator (21) and a drive magnet (22), wherein the drive stator (21) is disposed within the first mounting slot (122), and the drive magnet (22) is disposed on the radio frequency rotor (12); and The control component (3) includes a control circuit board (31) which is electrically connected to the drive component (2) to drive the radio frequency rotor (12) to rotate. The drive stator (21) has multiple extension legs (211) extending integrally in the direction of the central axis. Coils (212) are wound on the extension legs (211) to form stator windings. An arc-shaped pole surface (213) is formed on the end face of the extension leg (211) facing the drive magnet (22). The arc-shaped pole surface (213) is conformally configured with the outer peripheral surface of the drive magnet (22) and maintains a radial gap. The bottom center of the first mounting groove (122) has a first connecting post (123) extending along the axial direction. The driving magnet (22) is axially sleeved and fixed on the first connecting post (123). The other end of the radio frequency rotor (12) is recessed along the axial direction to form a second mounting groove (124). The bottom center of the second mounting groove (124) has a second connecting post (125) extending from it. The second connecting post (125) is rotatably connected to the inner bottom surface of the radio frequency mounting cover (11) through a first rotary bearing (4). The control component (3) also includes a circuit board mounting base (32). The circuit board mounting base (32) is provided with a second mating groove (321) for accommodating a second rotary bearing (5). The end of the first connecting post (123) mates with the second rotary bearing (5) to form a double bearing support structure.

2. A miniature waveguide switch according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drive assembly (2) further includes a stator mounting base (23), which is located between the drive stator (21) and the control circuit board (31). On the side surface of the stator mounting base (23) facing the drive stator (21), a stator mating groove (231) for accommodating the drive stator (21) is formed, and the drive stator (21) is fixed to the bottom of the stator mating groove (231).

3. A miniature waveguide switch according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer wall of the radio frequency mounting cover (11) is provided with a plurality of first weight reduction grooves (113), and the side wall of the circuit board mounting base (32) near the control circuit board (31) is provided with a plurality of second weight reduction grooves (322).

4. A miniature waveguide switch according to claim 1, characterized in that, On the inner bottom surface of the RF mounting cover (11), multiple pairs of limiting posts (114) are arranged along the rotation path of the RF rotor (12). Multiple positioning blocks (126) are arranged on the corresponding end face of the RF rotor (12). When the RF rotor (12) rotates to a predetermined angle position, so that the microwave channel (121) is connected to the corresponding RF port (112), the positioning block (126) and the limiting post (114) mechanically abut against each other.

5. A miniature waveguide switch according to claim 2, characterized in that, A metal bushing (6) is tightly fitted to the inner wall of the first mounting groove (122). The drive stator (21) and the stator winding wound thereon are disposed on the metal bushing (6). The side wall and bottom wall of the metal bushing (6) electromagnetically isolate the stator winding from the microwave channel (121) of the radio frequency rotor (12).

6. A miniature waveguide switch according to claim 5, characterized in that, A heat-conducting flange (61) extending radially outward is provided at the opening edge of the metal bushing (6). The upper surface of the heat-conducting flange (61) forms a surface contact with the lower surface of the stator mounting base (23) to conduct heat to the stator mounting base (23).

7. A miniature waveguide switch according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a magnetic positioning mechanism (7), which includes at least one driven magnet (71) and at least two sets of positioning magnets (72). The driven magnet (71) is disposed on one end face of the radio frequency rotor (12) near the radio frequency mounting cover (11). The multiple sets of positioning magnets (72) are disposed on the inner bottom surface of the radio frequency mounting cover (11) and distributed at different predetermined angle positions along the rotation path of the radio frequency rotor (12). The driven magnet (71) and the positioning magnets (72) are configured such that when the radio frequency rotor (12) rotates to a predetermined angle position, the magnetic force generated between the driven magnet (71) and the positioning magnets (72) can hold the radio frequency rotor (12) in that position. When the radio frequency rotor (12) deviates from that position due to external force, a magnetic restoring torque can be generated between the two to pull the radio frequency rotor (12) back to that position.

8. A miniature waveguide switch according to claim 7, characterized in that, Each of the positioning magnetic groups (72) includes a first positioning magnet (721) and a second positioning magnet (722). The first positioning magnet (721) and the second positioning magnet (722) have the same magnetic polarity in the sweep path toward the driven magnet (71). The positioning magnetic group (72) is configured to generate a magnetic braking torque for deceleration when the driven magnet (71) approaches with its same magnetic pole, and to generate a magnetic attraction torque to lock the radio frequency rotor (12) at the predetermined angular position after the driven magnet (71) passes a critical position.

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