Reconfigurable power division network, beam steering chip and radar system

Abstract

This application provides a reconfigurable power divider network, a beam control chip, and a radar system. The reconfigurable power divider network includes: at least two stages of power dividers, with each stage connecting to the next stage for further power division; a first common terminal connected to the combining terminal of the first stage power divider; a second common terminal connected to the combining terminal of a portion of the second stage power dividers; a third common terminal connected to the combining terminal of another portion of the second stage power dividers; multiple branch terminals connected to the power division terminals of the last stage power divider; and a first switching unit for selecting and disabling the connections between the first common terminal, the second common terminal, the third common terminal, and the corresponding power dividers. When the first common terminal is enabled, the second common terminal and the third common terminal are disabled. The reconfigurable power divider network allows for flexible configuration of signal distribution paths.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of integrated circuit technology, and in particular to a reconfigurable power divider network, a beam control chip, and a radar system. Background Technology

[0002] In phased array radar, satellite communication, and 5G / 6G communication systems, power dividers are key components for beamforming. Their function is to distribute a single transmitted signal to multiple radio frequency channels or to combine multiple received signals.

[0003] Traditional power splitting networks typically employ Wilkinson power dividers, T-junction power dividers, or microstrip branch line structures. Their topology connections are fixed during manufacturing, making it impossible to dynamically adjust the power distribution path of the signal according to actual needs.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a power divider network that can flexibly configure signal distribution paths and has a reconfigurable topology. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of this, embodiments of this application provide a reconfigurable power divider network, a beam control chip, and a radar system, designed to provide flexibility in power distribution or combining.

[0006] On one hand, embodiments of this application provide a reconfigurable power divider network, including: at least two stages of power dividers, wherein the power divider of the previous stage is connected to the power divider of the next stage, and the power divider of the next stage continues to divide power; a first common terminal connected to the combining terminal of the first stage power divider; a second common terminal connected to the combining terminal of a portion of the second stage power dividers; a third common terminal connected to the combining terminal of another portion of the second stage power dividers; multiple branch terminals connected to the power dividing terminals of the last stage power divider respectively; and a first switching unit for selecting and disabling the connection between the first common terminal, the second common terminal, the third common terminal and the corresponding power divider, wherein when the first common terminal is selected, the second common terminal and the third common terminal are disabled.

[0007] The first switching unit selects and disconnects the connections between the first common terminal, the second common terminal, the third common terminal, and the corresponding power divider: when the first common terminal is on, the second common terminal and the third common terminal are off, and the first common terminal is connected to multiple branch terminals; when the first common terminal is off, the second common terminal and the third common terminal are on, and the second common terminal and the third common terminal are connected to the corresponding branch terminals. Therefore, the reconfigurable power divider network can be flexibly configured into multiple operating states according to actual needs. By flexibly configuring the on / off states of the switching units, different topologies can be implemented using the same set of hardware, improving the utilization rate of hardware resources; it can be compatible with the different requirements of various application scenarios for power divider topologies, enhancing the flexibility of the circuit.

[0008] In another aspect, embodiments of this application provide a reconfigurable power divider network, comprising: at least two stages of power dividers, wherein the preceding stage power divider is connected to the following stage power divider for further power division; a first common terminal connected to the combining terminal of the first stage power divider; a second common terminal connected to the combining terminal of a portion of the second stage power dividers; multiple branch terminals connected to the power dividing terminals of the last stage power divider; and a first switching unit for enabling and disabling the connection between the first common terminal, the second common terminal and the corresponding power divider, wherein the first switching unit enables the path between the first common terminal and the multiple branch terminals and disables the path between the second common terminal and the multiple branch terminals, or enables the path between the second common terminal and the corresponding branch terminal, and the path between the first common terminal and another portion of the branch terminals.

[0009] The first switching unit selects and disconnects the connection between the first common terminal, the second common terminal, and the corresponding power divider: when the first switching unit selects the path between the first common terminal and the plurality of branch terminals and disconnects the path between the second common terminal and the plurality of branch terminals, the first common terminal is connected to the plurality of branch terminals; when the first switching unit selects the path between the second common terminal and the corresponding branch terminal, and the path between the first common terminal and another part of the branch terminals, the first common terminal and the second common terminal are respectively connected to a part of the branch terminals. Thus, the reconfigurable power divider network can be flexibly configured into multiple working states according to actual needs. By flexibly configuring the on / off state of the switching unit, different topologies can be implemented using the same set of hardware, improving the utilization rate of hardware resources; it can be compatible with the different requirements of various application scenarios for power divider topologies, improving the flexibility of the circuit.

[0010] On the other hand, embodiments of this application provide a beam control chip, including: a reconfigurable power divider network as described above; and multiple radio frequency channels, each connected to a corresponding divider terminal.

[0011] In another aspect, embodiments of this application provide a radar system, including: the aforementioned beam control chip; and multiple antennas, each connected to a corresponding radio frequency channel. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the beam control chip and power divider network in Doppler radar mode provided in this publication;

[0013] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the beam control chip and power divider network in polarization diversity radar mode provided in this disclosure;

[0014] Figure 3This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first reconfigurable power splitting network provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0015] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the signal flow in one state of the first reconfigurable power divider network provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0016] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the signal flow in another state of the first reconfigurable power divider network provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0017] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second reconfigurable power splitting network provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0018] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the third reconfigurable power splitting network provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0019] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the fourth reconfigurable power splitting network provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0020] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the signal flow in one state of the fourth reconfigurable power divider network provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0021] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the signal flow in another state of the fourth reconfigurable power divider network provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0022] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the phase compensation unit provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0023] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the fifth reconfigurable power splitting network provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0024] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the sixth reconfigurable power splitting network provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0025] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the seventh reconfigurable power splitting network provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0026] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the radar system provided in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0027] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The described embodiments should not be regarded as limitations on this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0028] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this disclosure only and is not intended to be limiting of this disclosure.

[0029] In the following description, references are made to “some embodiments,” which describe a subset of all possible embodiments. However, it is understood that “some embodiments” may be the same subset or different subsets of all possible embodiments and may be combined with each other without conflict.

[0030] It should be noted that the terms "first, second, third" used in the embodiments of this disclosure are merely to distinguish similar objects and do not represent a specific ordering of objects. It is understood that "first, second, third" can be interchanged in a specific order or sequence where permitted, so that the embodiments of this disclosure described herein can be implemented in an order other than that illustrated or described herein.

[0031] The common port of a power divider network refers to the port where signals are converged or distributed in the network, typically connected to a baseband or radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC). In transmit mode, signals are input from the common port; in receive mode, signals are output from the common port.

[0032] Branch Port of a power splitter network: refers to the port in a power splitter network where signals are distributed to various radio frequency channels or antennas.

[0033] Power divider: A network used to distribute or combine signals, including at least one power divider stage. A power divider can distribute one input signal into multiple output signals, or combine multiple input signals into one output signal.

[0034] Combiner Port: This refers to the port on the power divider used to connect the signal input (in power divider mode) or the signal output (in combiner mode). In power divider mode, the combiner port is the common input port of the power divider; in combiner mode, the combiner port is the common output port of the power divider.

[0035] The power divider's power divider terminal: This refers to the port on the power divider used to connect the signal output terminal (in power divider mode) or the signal input terminal (in combiner mode). In power divider mode, the power divider terminal is the power divider's distribution output port; in combiner mode, the power divider terminal is the power divider's combining input port.

[0036] Connection: This includes direct connection and indirect connection. For example, A and B can be connected by direct contact between A and B, or by electrical connection between A and B through other devices (such as power dividers, transmission lines, switches, etc.).

[0037] Pathway: refers to the path through which radio frequency signals are transmitted in a circuit, including transmission lines, switching devices, and passive devices.

[0038] "Located in the path between..." refers to a device (such as a switching unit, phase compensation unit, etc.) being placed in the signal transmission path between two locations. For example, "C is located in the path between D and E" means that C is located in the signal transmission path between D and E. C can be any electrical location on this path, and is not limited to direct physical contact or direct connection between C and D or E. Specifically, other devices, structures, or transmission lines may exist between D and C, and / or between C and E. As long as the signal passes through C during its transmission from D to E, it falls under the "located in the path between..." description in this application.

[0039] Gating: This refers to the switch being in a low-loss conducting state, allowing signals to pass through.

[0040] Off: refers to the switch being in a high-impedance off state, or switching to the matched load side to block signal transmission and ensure impedance matching.

[0041] With the rapid development of the Internet of Things (IoT), autonomous driving, intelligent sensing, and security monitoring, higher demands are being placed on the performance, integration, multifunctionality, and cost-effectiveness of radar. Modern radar systems are evolving towards miniaturization, chip-based architecture, and intelligence, often requiring compatibility with multiple operating modes on a single hardware platform. For example, Doppler radar and polarization diversity radar are two typical application scenarios, which impose drastically different technical requirements on power distribution networks.

[0042] Doppler radar utilizes the Doppler effect to detect the velocity of a target by observing changes in the echo frequency. In Doppler radar mode, to achieve the best signal-to-noise ratio for micro-motion detection and spatial diversity, the power divider network is typically required to configure all antennas to be single-linearly polarized, in-phase, and with equal power radiation to form a wide beam that covers the target.

[0043] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the beam control chip and power divider network in Doppler radar mode provided in this disclosure. Figure 1 As shown, a beam control chip (also known as a phased array chip) can include multiple radio frequency (RF) channels (e.g., RF channels CH1-CH4), where each RF channel is a transmission channel for RF signals, including RF signal transmission channels and / or RF signal reception channels. Figure 1The following explanation uses the receiving channel as an example. Each RF channel is coupled to a corresponding antenna and can receive RF signals from antennas ANT1-ANT4. Each RF channel includes a corresponding phase shifter (PS) and / or amplitude modulator. The phase shifter is used to shift the phase of the signal, and the amplitude modulator is used to adjust the amplitude of the signal. The amplitude modulator can be an attenuator or an amplifier. When the radar needs to be pointed in a specific direction to achieve a specific beam, the corresponding RF signal can be phase-shifted by the phase shifter, and / or the corresponding RF signal can be amplitude-adjusted by the amplitude modulator, thereby obtaining a radiation pattern in a specific direction and obtaining the corresponding beam. The beam control chip also includes a power divider network for combining or splitting the signals from multiple RF channels. Figure 1 The power divider network in this example is a 1-to-4 power divider network, consisting of a common terminal and four branch terminals: the common terminal connects to the first terminal C of the chip, used to connect to the baseband or radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC, used to implement the conversion and processing between radio frequency signals and baseband signals); the four branch terminals connect to the radio frequency channels CH1-CH4 respectively; that is to say... Figure 1 The power splitter network can only achieve a fixed 1-to-4 signal distribution.

[0044] Polarization diversity radar acquires physical information about a target, such as its size, shape, orientation, and material composition, by transmitting and receiving electromagnetic waves with different polarization states (e.g., horizontal H and vertical V) and analyzing the target's changes in polarization state (i.e., the polarization scattering matrix). In polarization diversity radar mode, the antenna transmits and receives two orthogonal polarization waves (e.g., horizontal H and vertical V). This requires a power divider network to feed signals to different antennas with specific phase and amplitude relationships to excite orthogonal polarization states.

[0045] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the beam control chip and power divider network in polarization diversity radar mode provided in this disclosure. Figure 2 As shown, the beam control chip may include multiple radio frequency channels (e.g., radio frequency channels CH1-CH4), in Figure 2 The following explanation uses the receiving channel as an example. The beam control chip includes two power divider networks, each a 1-to-2 power divider network, comprising a common terminal and two branch terminals. The common terminal of the two power divider networks is connected to the first terminal C1 and the second terminal C2 of the chip, respectively, for connecting to the baseband or RFIC. The four branch terminals are connected to the RF channels CH1-CH4. The signals at the first terminal C1 and the second terminal C2 are horizontally polarized and vertically polarized signals, respectively. The signals from antennas ANT1 and ANT2 are horizontally polarized signals, and the signals from antennas ANT3 and ANT4 are vertically polarized signals. In other words, Figure 2 The combination of two 1-to-2 power divider networks can only achieve a fixed 2-to-4 signal distribution. Furthermore, the inventors conducted further research... Figure 2The topology revealed that there is a unique physical connection path between the first end C1, the second end C2 and a specific branch end, which cannot be dynamically changed. The signals of antennas ANT1 and ANT2 can only be horizontally polarized signals, while the signals of antennas ANT3 and ANT4 are vertically polarized signals, which limits the flexibility of antenna layout.

[0046] Figure 1 or Figure 2 The power divider network typically uses Wilkinson power dividers, resistive power dividers, microstrip / stripline power dividers, T-junction power dividers, and Gysel power dividers. Their topology is fixed during manufacturing, so they can only support one radar mode.

[0047] To achieve multi-mode compatibility, some solutions configure simultaneously. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The two sets of independent hardware shown are problematic. This solution is costly, bulky, and consumes a lot of power, and its data fusion is complex, making it unsuitable for the needs of modern integrated and low-cost applications.

[0048] In other solutions, the same beam control chip is integrated simultaneously. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The two power divider networks shown share the same RF channel and antenna, switching between different power divider networks in different modes. Although this scheme achieves some hardware reuse, the need to configure two power divider networks results in a larger chip area. In addition, the power divider network topology remains fixed, which still cannot solve the problem of the fixed coupling relationship between antenna polarization attributes and physical location, limiting the flexibility of antenna layout.

[0049] In view of this, in order to solve the problems of fixed topology and poor flexibility of power splitting networks, this solution provides a reconfigurable power splitting network. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first reconfigurable power splitter network provided in this embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 3 As shown, the reconfigurable power divider network 1 includes: a first common terminal COM1, a second common terminal COM2, a third common terminal COM3, multiple branch terminals Br1-Br4, at least two power dividers (including a first-stage power divider 111 and two second-stage power dividers 1121 and 1122) and a first switching unit 120.

[0050] In this system, power dividers are used to divide and combine signals. The power divided by the previous stage is connected to the next stage, which then continues to divide the signal. In this embodiment, the combining terminal of the first-stage power divider 111 is connected to the first common terminal COM1, and its two dividing terminals are respectively connected to the combining terminals of the second-stage power dividers 1121 and 1122. The dividing terminals of the second-stage power dividers 1121 and 1122 are respectively connected to the corresponding dividing terminals Br1-Br4. Thus, the signal at the first common terminal COM1 is distributed to all dividing terminals Br1-Br4 after being divided by two stages.

[0051] The second common terminal COM2 is connected to the combining terminal of part of the second-stage power divider. In this embodiment, the second common terminal COM2 is connected to the combining terminal of the second-stage power divider 1121, so that the signal of the second common terminal COM2 covers the first part of the split terminals Br1 and Br2 after being distributed by the second-stage power divider 1121.

[0052] The third common terminal COM3 is connected to the combining terminal of another part of the second-stage power divider 1122. In this embodiment, the third common terminal COM3 is connected to the combining terminal of the second-stage power divider 1122, so that the signal of the third common terminal COM3 covers the second part of the split terminals Br3 and Br4 after being distributed by the second-stage power divider 1122.

[0053] The first switching unit 120 is used to select and disconnect the connection between the first common terminal COM1, the second common terminal COM2, the third common terminal COM3 and the corresponding power divider:

[0054] When the first common terminal COM1 is enabled, the second common terminal COM2 and the third common terminal COM3 are disabled: For example Figure 4 As shown, when the first switching unit 120 selects the path between the first common terminal COM1 and the first-stage power divider 111, and simultaneously shuts off the paths between the second common terminal COM2, the third common terminal COM3 and the corresponding second-stage power dividers, taking signal power division as an example, the signal at the first common terminal COM1 is distributed with equal amplitude and in phase to the four branch terminals Br1-Br4 via the first-stage power divider 111, the second-stage power divider 1121, and 1122, achieving a one-to-four signal distribution. This state is suitable for scenarios where signals need to be distributed with equal amplitude and in phase to the four branch terminals, such as Doppler radar mode;

[0055] When the first common terminal COM1 is turned off, the second common terminal COM2 and the third common terminal COM3 are connected: For example Figure 5As shown, when the first switching unit 120 shuts off the path between the first common terminal COM1 and the first-stage power divider 111, and simultaneously opens the paths between the second common terminal COM2 and the second-stage power divider 1121, and the third common terminal COM3 and the second-stage power divider 1122, taking signal power division as an example, the signal from the second common terminal COM2 is distributed in phase and equal amplitude to the branch terminals Br1 and Br2 via the second-stage power divider 1121, and the signal from the third common terminal COM3 is distributed in phase and equal amplitude to the branch terminals Br3 and Br4 via the second-stage power divider 1122, thus achieving two independent 1-to-2 signal distribution. In this state, the two independent signals drive the two branch terminals respectively. This state is suitable for scenarios that require simultaneous driving of two different sets of signals, such as polarization diversity radar mode, where the second common terminal COM2 can be connected to a horizontally polarized signal, and the third common terminal COM3 can be connected to a vertically polarized signal.

[0056] Therefore, the reconfigurable power divider network 1 can be flexibly configured into multiple operating states according to actual needs, switching between different circuit topologies in different operating states. In this embodiment, it can dynamically switch between two power divider topologies: "one-to-four" and "two one-to-two". By configuring the on / off state of the first switching unit, different topologies can be implemented with the same set of hardware, improving the utilization rate of hardware resources and being compatible with the different power divider topology requirements of various application scenarios, thus enhancing the flexibility of the circuit.

[0057] In this scheme, the "switching units" are selected or turned off based on their respective control signals, which can change the transmission path of the radio frequency signals, thereby achieving dynamic reconfiguration of the power divider network topology. The control signals can be generated by external control circuits, such as control modules in baseband or radio frequency integrated circuits (RFICs). The control circuit generates corresponding control signals based on the required operating state of the system (such as Doppler mode or polarization diversity mode), driving the switching units to be selected or turned off.

[0058] exist Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the first switching unit 120 is connected to the second common terminal COM2, the third common terminal COM3, the first-stage power divider 111, and the second-stage power dividers 1121 and 1122; as shown Figure 4 As shown, when the first switching unit 120 selects the first-stage power divider 111, the first common terminal COM1 is connected to multiple branch terminals Br1-Br4; as Figure 5 As shown, when the first switch unit 120 selects the second common terminal COM2 and the third common terminal COM3, the second common terminal COM2 is connected to the branch terminals Br1 and Br2, and the third common terminal COM3 is connected to the branch terminals Br3 and Br4.

[0059] exist Figure 3In this circuit, the first switching unit 120 includes two single-pole double-throw (SPDT) switches 121 and 122. The common terminal of SPDT switch 121 is connected to the closing terminal of the second-stage power divider 1121, the first throwing terminal is connected to the second common terminal COM2, and the second throwing terminal is connected to the corresponding power dividing terminal of the first-stage power divider 111. The common terminal of SPDT switch 122 is connected to the closing terminal of the second-stage power divider 1122, the first throwing terminal is connected to the third common terminal COM3, and the second throwing terminal is connected to the corresponding power dividing terminal of the first-stage power divider 111.

[0060] like Figure 6 As shown, in the second type of reconfigurable power divider network, the first switch unit 120 may further include a first switch 123 to a third switch 125: wherein, the first switch 123 connects the first common terminal COM1 and the first-stage power divider 111, and is used to turn on or off the path between the first common terminal COM1 and the first-stage power divider 111; the second switch 124 connects the second common terminal COM2 and the second-stage power divider 1121, and is used to turn on or off the path between the second common terminal COM2 and the second-stage power divider 1121; the third switch 125 connects the third common terminal COM3 and the second-stage power divider 1122, and is used to turn on or off the path between the third common terminal COM3 and the second-stage power divider 1122. When the first switch 123 is turned on and the second switch 124 and the third switch 125 are turned off, the path between the first common terminal COM1 and the first-stage power divider 111 is open, while the paths between the second common terminal COM2, the third common terminal COM3 and the corresponding second-stage power dividers 1121 and 1122 are closed. When the first switch 123 is turned off and the second switch 124 and the third switch 125 are turned on, the path between the first common terminal COM1 and the first-stage power divider 111 is closed, while the paths between the second common terminal COM2 and the second-stage power divider 1121, and between the third common terminal COM3 and the second-stage power divider 1122 are open.

[0061] like Figure 7As shown, in the third type of reconfigurable power divider network, the first switch unit 120 may further include a second switch 124 to a fifth switch 127: the second switch 124 connects the second common terminal COM2 and the second-stage power divider 1121, and is used to turn on or off the path between the second common terminal COM2 and the second-stage power divider 1121; the third switch 125 connects the third common terminal COM3 and the second-stage power divider 1122, and is used to turn on or off the path between the third common terminal COM3 and the second-stage power divider 1122; the fourth switch 126 connects the first-stage power divider 111 and the second-stage power divider 1121, and is used to turn on or off the path between the first-stage power divider 111 and the second-stage power divider 1121; the fifth switch 127 connects the first-stage power divider 111 and the second-stage power divider 1122, and is used to turn on or off the path between the first-stage power divider 111 and the second-stage power divider 1122. When the fourth switch 126 and the fifth switch 127 are turned on, and the second switch 124 and the third switch 125 are turned off, the path between the first common terminal COM1 and the branch terminals Br1-Br4 is open, while the paths between the second common terminal COM2, the third common terminal COM3 and the corresponding second-stage power divider are closed. When the fourth switch 126 and the fifth switch 127 are turned off, and the second switch 124 and the third switch 125 are turned on, the path between the first common terminal COM1 and the branch terminals Br1-Br4 is closed, while the paths between the second common terminal COM2 and the second-stage power divider 1121, and between the third common terminal COM3 and the second-stage power divider 1122 are open.

[0062] exist Figures 3-7 In the illustrated embodiment, the reconfigurable power divider network includes two stages of power dividers, each stage being a 1-to-2 power divider with a total of four branching ends. However, this disclosure does not limit the specific topology of the reconfigurable power divider network: the number of branching ends of the power divider can not only be a 1-to-2 structure, but also a 1-to-4 structure. Regarding the number of cascaded stages of the power divider, the number of stages is not limited to two; it can also be three, four, or more stages.

[0063] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the fourth reconfigurable power splitter network provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 8 In the embodiment shown, in order to further improve the flexibility of the circuit and achieve decoupling of the signals between the branch terminal and the common terminal, the reconfigurable power divider network 1 includes at least two second switching units, a first connecting line L1, and a second connecting line L2, which are used to change the connection relationship between the power divider terminal and the branch terminal.

[0064] like Figure 8 As shown, the second switching unit includes a second switching unit 130a, a second switching unit 130b, a second switching unit 130c, and a second switching unit 130d:

[0065] The power divider terminal D1 of the last stage power divider (second stage power divider 1121) connected to the second common terminal COM2 is connected to the corresponding branch terminal Br1 through one of the second switch units 130a. The second switch unit 130a connects the power divider terminal D1, the branch terminal Br1, one end of the first connecting line L1, and one end of the second connecting line L2. The second switch unit 130a is used to select one of the paths between the power divider terminal D1 and the branch terminal Br1, and between the first connecting line L1 and the power divider terminal D1.

[0066] The power divider terminal D4 of the last stage power divider (second stage power divider 1122) connected to the third common terminal COM3 is connected to the corresponding branch terminal Br4 through another second switch unit 130b. The second switch unit 130b connects the power divider terminal D4, the branch terminal Br4, the other end of the first connecting line L1, and the other end of the second connecting line L2. The second switch unit 130b is used to select one of the paths between the power divider terminal D4 and the branch terminal Br4, or between the second connecting line L2 and the power divider terminal D4.

[0067] In practical circuit design, factors such as trace length can cause phase inconsistencies in signals transmitted from the common terminal to each branch terminal. For example... Figure 8 As shown, the distance between branch terminals Br1 and Br2 is relatively short, the distance between branch terminals Br3 and Br4 is relatively short, and the distance between branch terminals Br1 and Br4 is relatively long. When the second switching unit 130a connects the power divider terminal D1 to the branch terminal Br4 via a longer connecting line L1, and the second switching unit 130b connects the power divider terminal D4 to the branch terminal Br1 via a longer connecting line L2, the longer lengths of connecting lines L1 and L2 introduce additional phase delay. At this time, the distance from the second common terminal COM2 to branch terminal Br2 is different from that to branch terminal Br4, and the distance from the third common terminal COM3 to branch terminal Br1 is also different from that to branch terminal Br3, resulting in a phase difference between the signals. This phase inconsistency affects the beamforming effect of the antenna array. To compensate for the phase difference, such as... Figure 8 As shown, in the branch terminals Br2 and Br3 where the first and second connecting lines L1 and L2 are not set, the corresponding second switching units 130c and 130d are provided with phase compensation units 170 on the path connecting the corresponding branch terminals and power distribution terminals.

[0068] exist Figure 8In this configuration, a second switching unit is provided between each power dividing terminal D1-D4 of each last-stage power divider (such as the second-stage power divider) and the corresponding branch terminal Br1-Br4. The second switching unit 130c is located between the power dividing terminal D2 of the second-stage power divider 1121 and the corresponding branch terminal Br2, and is used to selectively connect the phase compensation unit 170 to the path between the power dividing terminal D2 and the corresponding branch terminal Br2; the second switching unit 130d is located between the power dividing terminal D3 of the second-stage power divider 1122 and the corresponding branch terminal Br3, and is used to selectively connect the phase compensation unit 170 to the path between the power dividing terminal D3 and the corresponding branch terminal Br3.

[0069] When the first common terminal COM1 is off and the second common terminal COM2 and the third common terminal COM3 are on, the second switching unit is configured to operate in the following two states:

[0070] Status 1:

[0071] like Figure 9 As shown, when the power divider terminal D1 is connected to the branch terminal Br1 and the power divider terminal D4 is connected to the branch terminal Br4, the second switch unit 130c and the second switch unit 130d will bypass the phase compensation unit 170, and no phase compensation is required.

[0072] The signal from the second common terminal COM2 is routed to the branch terminals Br1 and Br2, and the signal from the third common terminal COM3 is routed to the branch terminals Br3 and Br4.

[0073] State Two:

[0074] like Figure 10 As shown, power divider D1 is connected to branch terminal Br4 via connecting line L1, and power divider D4 is connected to branch terminal Br1 via connecting line L2. Because connecting lines L1 and L2 are relatively long, a phase difference is introduced. At this time, the second switching unit 130c connects to the path between power divider D2 and the corresponding branch terminal Br2, and connects the phase compensation unit 170 to the path between power divider D2 and the corresponding branch terminal Br2. The second switching unit 130d connects to the path between power divider D3 and the corresponding branch terminal Br3, and connects another phase compensation unit 170 to the path between power divider D3 and the corresponding branch terminal Br3. The two phase compensation units 170 compensate for the phase difference introduced by connecting lines L1 and L2, ensuring that the output signal phase of each branch terminal remains consistent.

[0075] The signal from the second common terminal COM2 is routed to the branch terminals Br2 and Br4, and the signal from the third common terminal COM3 is routed to the branch terminals Br1 and Br3.

[0076] This solution enables flexible routing between the power divider and the branching ends through a second switching unit, decoupling the antenna polarization attributes from their physical location. Simultaneously, it selectively connects the phase compensation unit to the path to automatically compensate for the phase difference introduced by the routing path differences, ensuring that the output signals of each branching end are in phase. This ensures topology flexibility while avoiding the impact of additional phase errors on beamforming performance.

[0077] In this embodiment, the phase compensation unit 170 is a delay line, which is a transmission line structure with a specific length. Signals passing through this transmission line will experience a phase delay proportional to its length. By designing the physical length of the delay line, the phase delay it provides can precisely compensate for the phase deviation caused by path differences. It should be noted that the phase delay amounts of the two phase compensation units 170 can be the same or different, depending on the phase difference to be compensated.

[0078] like Figure 11 As shown, the phase compensation unit 170 can be a serpentine delay line. A serpentine delay line is a transmission line structure that adopts a back-and-forth bending layout. Within the same projected area, the actual physical length of the serpentine trace is much greater than that of the straight trace, thereby achieving the required phase delay within a limited chip area, making full use of the layout space, and realizing a compact design.

[0079] In other embodiments, the phase compensation unit 170 may also employ other devices with phase adjustment functions, such as phase shifters, LC networks, etc., as long as they can provide the required amount of phase delay.

[0080] Specifically, in this plan, such as Figure 8 As shown, the second switching unit 130a includes sub-switches 131 and 132, the second switching unit 130b includes sub-switches 133 and 134, the second switching unit 130c includes sub-switches 135 and 136, and the second switching unit 130d includes sub-switches 137 and 138. Sub-switches 131-138 are all single-pole double-throw switches.

[0081] The common terminal of sub-switch 131 is connected to the power splitter terminal D1, the first throwing terminal is connected to the branch terminal Br4 through sub-switch 134, and the second throwing terminal is connected to the branch terminal Br1 through sub-switch 132;

[0082] The common terminal of sub-switch 132 is connected to the branch terminal Br1, the first throwing terminal is connected to the power divider terminal D4 through sub-switch 133, and the second throwing terminal is connected to the power divider terminal D1 through sub-switch 131.

[0083] The common terminal of sub-switch 133 is connected to the power splitter terminal D4, the first throwing terminal is connected to the branch terminal Br1 through sub-switch 132, and the second throwing terminal is connected to the branch terminal Br4 through sub-switch 134.

[0084] The common terminal of sub-switch 134 is connected to the branch terminal Br4, the first throwing terminal is connected to the power divider terminal D1 through sub-switch 131, and the second throwing terminal is connected to the power divider terminal D4 through sub-switch 133.

[0085] The four sub-switches 131-134 can be used to control the power distribution terminal and the branch terminal in a coordinated manner, which can achieve flexible connection.

[0086] The common terminal of sub-switch 135 is connected to the power divider terminal D2. The first throwing terminal is connected to the branch terminal Br2 through a phase compensation unit 170 and sub-switch 136. The second throwing terminal is connected to the branch terminal Br2 through connecting line L3 and sub-switch 136.

[0087] The common terminal of sub-switch 136 is connected to the branch terminal Br2. The first throwing terminal is connected to the power divider terminal D2 through a phase compensation unit 170 and sub-switch 135. The second throwing terminal is connected to the power divider terminal D2 through connecting line L3 and sub-switch 135.

[0088] The common terminal of sub-switch 137 is connected to the power divider terminal D3. The first throwing terminal is connected to the branch terminal Br3 through another phase compensation unit 170 and sub-switch 138. The second throwing terminal is connected to the branch terminal Br3 through connecting line L3 and sub-switch 138.

[0089] The common terminal of sub-switch 138 is connected to the branch terminal Br3. The first throwing terminal is connected to the power divider terminal D3 through another phase compensation unit 170 and sub-switch 137. The second throwing terminal is connected to the power divider terminal D3 through connecting line L3 and sub-switch 137.

[0090] The phase compensation unit 170 can be connected or bypassed through the coordinated control of the four sub-switches 135-138.

[0091] It should be noted that the implementation of the second switch unit 130a-130d is not limited to the structure of the sub-switch mentioned above. Any switch that can selectively connect the power distribution terminal to different branch terminals is within the protection scope of the second switch unit of this application.

[0092] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the fifth reconfigurable power splitter network provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 12In the embodiment shown, each branch terminal Br1-Br4 is configured with a fourth common terminal COM41-COM44. The fourth common terminal and the corresponding branch terminal are connected through a third switch unit 141-144, which is used to select or cut off the path between the corresponding fourth common terminal and the branch terminal. Specifically: the fourth common terminal COM41 is connected to the branch terminal Br1, and the third switch unit 141 is configured on the path between the fourth common terminal COM41 and the branch terminal Br1 to select or disconnect the path between COM41 and Br1; the fourth common terminal COM42 is connected to the branch terminal Br2, and the third switch unit 142 is configured on the path between the fourth common terminal COM42 and the branch terminal Br2 to select or disconnect the path between COM42 and Br2; the fourth common terminal COM43 is connected to the branch terminal Br3, and the third switch unit 143 is configured on the path between the fourth common terminal COM43 and the branch terminal Br3 to select or disconnect the path between COM43 and Br3; the fourth common terminal COM44 is connected to the branch terminal Br4, and the third switch unit 144 is configured on the path between the fourth common terminal COM44 and the branch terminal Br4 to select or disconnect the path between COM44 and Br4.

[0093] like Figure 12 As shown, multiple fourth common terminals COM41-COM44 can receive or transmit independent radio frequency signals respectively. By independently controlling the on / off state of multiple third switching units 141-144, each branch terminal Br1-Br4 can be connected to the corresponding fourth common terminal COM41-COM44 to achieve four-to-four signal distribution. By cooperating with one or more of the first to second switching units, a more flexible topology can be achieved.

[0094] In this embodiment, the third switching units 141-144 can be single-pole double-throw switches, used to select or disconnect the path between the fourth common terminal and the branch terminal. In other embodiments, the third switching unit can also be a single-pole single-throw switch or other radio frequency switching devices with selection functions.

[0095] In this embodiment, the structure on the path from the second common terminal COM2 to the corresponding branch terminal (e.g., Br1, Br2) and the structure on the path from the third common terminal COM3 to the corresponding branch terminal (e.g., Br3, Br4) are symmetrically distributed relative to the first common terminal COM1. Specifically, the symmetrical distribution includes at least one of the following:

[0096] Electrical length symmetry: The total length of the transmission line from the second common terminal COM2 to the branch terminal is equal to or the difference between the total length of the transmission line from the third common terminal COM3 to the branch terminal is less than a preset threshold, so as to ensure that each branch terminal has consistent insertion loss and phase delay;

[0097] Symmetrical device layout: The number, type, and arrangement order of the switching units (such as the second switching unit), power divider, and phase compensation units on the second common terminal COM2 path are consistent with the corresponding devices on the third common terminal COM3 path.

[0098] Symmetrical layout: On the chip layout, the layout of transmission lines, power dividers, switches and other components corresponding to the second common terminal is symmetrical with respect to the axis of symmetry AA' of the first common terminal.

[0099] By adopting a symmetrical distribution structure, consistent insertion loss and phase delay can be ensured at each branch end, thereby guaranteeing signal accuracy. In addition, the symmetrical layout is beneficial to chip design, simplifies design complexity, optimizes chip layout area, and improves the overall reliability and consistency of the reconfigurable power divider network.

[0100] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the sixth reconfigurable power splitter network provided in the embodiments of this application; as shown below. Figure 13 As shown, the reconfigurable power divider network 1 includes at least two power dividers (e.g., first-stage power dividers 1111, 1112, and second-stage power dividers 1121-1124), a first common terminal COM1, a second common terminal COM2, multiple branch terminals Br1-Br8, and a first switching unit 120.

[0101] The first-stage power dividers 1111 and 1112 are 1-to-2 power dividers. The combining terminal of the first-stage power divider 1111 is connected to the second common terminal COM2, and its two power dividing terminals are respectively connected to the combining terminals of the second-stage power dividers 1121 and 1122; the combining terminal of the first-stage power divider 1112 is connected to the first common terminal COM1, and its two power dividing terminals are respectively connected to the combining terminals of the second-stage power dividers 1123 and 1124.

[0102] The second-stage power dividers 1121-1124 are 1-to-2 power dividers. The two power divider terminals of each second-stage power divider are connected to the corresponding branch terminals: the second-stage power divider 1121 is connected to branch terminals Br1 and Br2, the second-stage power divider 1122 is connected to branch terminals Br3 and Br4, the second-stage power divider 1123 is connected to branch terminals Br5 and Br6, and the second-stage power divider 1124 is connected to branch terminals Br7 and Br8.

[0103] The switching unit 120 includes a sub-switch 129 and a sub-switch 128. The sub-switch 128 is connected to the first-stage power divider 1111 and the second-stage power divider 1112. The sub-switch 129 is connected to the second common terminal COM2 and the first-stage power divider 1111.

[0104] The first common terminal COM1 is connected to the combining terminal of the first-stage power divider 1111 and the first-stage power divider 1112 via sub-switch 128; the second common terminal COM2 is connected to the combining terminal of the first-stage power divider 1111 via sub-switch 129.

[0105] The first switching unit 120 is used to select and disconnect the connection between the first common terminal COM1, the second common terminal COM2 and the corresponding power divider. In this embodiment, the configuration of the first switching unit 120 can achieve the following two working states:

[0106] First state, one-to-eight mode:

[0107] The first switching unit 120 enables the path between the first common terminal COM1 and multiple branch terminals Br1-Br8, and disables the path between the second common terminal COM2 and multiple branch terminals. The signal from the first common terminal COM1 enters the first-stage power dividers 1111 and 1112, and after two stages of power division, it is distributed equally and in phase to the eight branch terminals Br1-Br8. Sub-switch 128 is turned on, and sub-switch 129 is turned off.

[0108] Second state, two one-to-four modes:

[0109] The first switch unit 120 selects the path between the second common terminal COM2 and the corresponding branch terminal, and the path between the first common terminal COM1 and another set of branch terminals. Sub-switch 128 is open, and sub-switch 129 is closed. In this state:

[0110] The signal from the first common terminal COM1 is distributed to the first-stage power divider 1112, and then distributed to the branch terminals Br5-Br8 via the second-stage power dividers 1123 and 1124, thus realizing a one-to-four signal distribution.

[0111] The signal from the second common terminal COM2 is distributed by the first-stage power divider 1111 to the second-stage power dividers 1121 and 1122, and then distributed to the branch terminals Br1-Br4, thus realizing another one-to-four signal distribution.

[0112] Therefore, the reconfigurable power divider network 1 can be flexibly configured into multiple operating states according to actual needs, switching between different circuit topologies in different operating states. In this embodiment, it can dynamically switch between two power divider topologies: "one-to-eight" and "two one-to-four". By configuring the on / off state of the first switching unit, different topologies can be implemented with the same set of hardware, improving the utilization rate of hardware resources and being compatible with the different power divider topology requirements of various application scenarios, thus enhancing the flexibility of the circuit.

[0113] like Figure 13As shown, the first common terminal COM1 is connected to the combined terminal of the first-stage power divider 1111 and the first-stage power divider 1112 through the sub-switch 128; the second common terminal COM2 is first connected to the combined terminal of the first-stage power divider 1111 through the sub-switch 129 and then connected to the combined terminal of part of the second-stage power dividers 1121 and 1122.

[0114] The first switching unit 120 is disposed in the path between the first common terminal COM1, the second common terminal COM2 and the first-stage power dividers 1121 and 1112. For example, the first switching unit 120 includes sub-switches 128 and 129, with sub-switch 128 located between the first common terminal COM1 and the first-stage power divider 1111, and sub-switch 129 located between the second common terminal COM2 and the first-stage power divider 1111.

[0115] In the first state, sub-switch 128 is turned on, sub-switch 129 is turned off, and the first switch unit 120 turns on the path between the first common terminal COM1 and multiple branch terminals Br1-Br8, and turns off the path between the second common terminal COM2 and multiple branch terminals Br1-Br4.

[0116] In the second state, sub-switch 129 is turned on and sub-switch 128 is turned off, turning on the path between the second common terminal COM2 and the corresponding branch terminals Br1-Br4, and the path between the first common terminal COM1 and another part of the branch terminals Br5-Br8.

[0117] It should be noted that the implementation of the first switch unit 120 is not limited to the structure of the sub-switch described above. Any switch that can selectively connect the power distribution terminal to different branch terminals is within the protection scope of the first switch unit 120 of this application.

[0118] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the seventh reconfigurable power divider network provided in the embodiments of this application; as shown... Figure 14 As shown, the reconfigurable power divider network 1 includes at least two power dividers (e.g., first-stage power divider 111, second-stage power divider 1121, 1122), a first common terminal COM1, a second common terminal COM2, multiple branch terminals Br1-Br4, and a first switching unit 120.

[0119] The first-stage power divider 111 is a 1-to-2 power divider. The combining terminal of the first-stage power divider 111 is connected to the first common terminal COM1, and its two dividing terminals are respectively connected to the combining terminals of the second-stage power dividers 1121 and 1122.

[0120] The second-stage power dividers 1121 and 1122 are both 1-to-2 power dividers. The two power-dividing terminals of each second-stage power divider are connected to the corresponding branch terminals: second-stage power divider 1121 is connected to branch terminals Br1 and Br2, and second-stage power divider 1122 is connected to branch terminals Br3 and Br4. The second common terminal COM2 is connected to the combiner terminal of second-stage power divider 1121.

[0121] The first switching unit 120 is connected to the second common terminal COM2, the first-stage power divider 111, and the second-stage power divider 1121. When the first-stage power divider 111 is selected, the switching unit 120 selects the first common terminal COM1 and disconnects the second common terminal COM2, and the path between the first common terminal COM1 and the branch terminals Br1-Br4 is connected. When the first switching unit 120 selects the second-stage power divider 1121, the second common terminal COM2 is selected, the path between the first common terminal COM1 and the first switching unit 120 is disconnected, the path between the first common terminal COM1 and the branch terminals Br3-Br4 is connected, and the path between the first common terminal COM1 and the branch terminals Br1-Br2 is disconnected, and the path between the second common terminal COM2 and the branch terminals Br1-Br2 is connected.

[0122] exist Figure 14 In the first switching unit 120, a single-pole double-throw switch is included. The single-pole double-throw switch 120 includes a common terminal, a first throwing terminal, and a second throwing terminal. The common terminal of the first switching unit 120 is connected to the combining terminal of the second-stage power divider 1121, the first throwing terminal is connected to the second common terminal COM2, and the second throwing terminal is connected to a power dividing terminal of the first-stage power divider 111. The common terminal of the first switching unit 120 can be selected to be connected to either the first throwing terminal or the second throwing terminal according to a control signal: when the first throwing terminal of the first switching unit 120 is connected to the first throwing terminal, the common terminal of the first switching unit 120 is connected to either the first throwing terminal or the second throwing terminal. When the throwing terminal of the first switching unit 120 is connected to the second common terminal COM2, the second common terminal COM2 is connected to the branch terminals Br1 and Br2, and the first common terminal COM1 is connected to the branch terminals Br3-Br4, thus realizing two 1-to-2 topologies; when the second throwing terminal of the first switching unit 120 is connected to the first power divider 111, the second common terminal COM2 is turned off from the branch terminals Br1 and Br2, and the first common terminal COM1 is connected to the branch terminals Br1-Br4, thus realizing a 1-to-4 topology.

[0123] Furthermore, Figure 14 The reconfigurable power divider network 1 also includes a second switching unit, a first connecting line L1, and a second connecting line L2, used to connect the power divider end and the branch end, thereby decoupling the antenna polarization attributes from their physical location. The configuration of the second switching unit can be referred to... Figure 8 The embodiments shown will not be described in detail here.

[0124] Furthermore, Figure 14The reconfigurable power divider network 1 may further include a phase compensation unit 170 for compensating for the phase difference introduced by the first connection line L1 and the second connection line L2. The configuration of the phase compensation unit 170 can be referred to... Figure 8 , Figure 11 The embodiments shown will not be described in detail here.

[0125] Furthermore, Figure 14 The reconfigurable power distribution network 1 also includes third common terminals COM41-COM44 and third switching units 141-144, used to achieve independent power supply to each branch terminal. The configuration of the third common terminals COM41-COM44 and the third switching units 141-144 can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 12 The fourth common terminals COM41-COM44 and the third switching units 141-144 in the illustrated embodiment will not be described in detail here.

[0126] It should be noted that, Figure 13 The reconfigurable power divider network 1 shown may also include a second switching unit, a phase compensation unit 170, a third common terminal COM41-COM44 and a third switching unit 141-144, so as to realize the position decoupling of the power divider end and the branch end, phase compensation, and independent power supply of each branch end.

[0127] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the radar system provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 15 In the illustrated embodiment, the radar system 100 includes a beam control chip 10 and antennas ANT1-ANT4.

[0128] The beam control chip 10 includes a reconfigurable power divider network 1 and radio frequency channels CH1-CH4. The reconfigurable power divider network 1 can be... Figures 3-13 Any type of reconfigurable power distribution network in the diagram. For clarity, Figure 15 by Figure 8 The reconfigurable power divider network shown is used as an example for illustration; some labels are omitted in the figure.

[0129] Radio frequency (RF) channels CH1-CH4 are connected to corresponding branch terminals Br1-Br4. Each RF channel CH1-CH4 includes a corresponding phase shifter PS and / or amplitude modulator 11. The phase shifter PS is used to shift the phase of the signal, and the amplitude modulator 11 is used to adjust the amplitude of the signal. The amplitude modulator can be an attenuator or an amplifier. When the radar needs to point in a specific direction to achieve a specific beam, the corresponding RF signal can be phase-shifted by the phase shifter, and / or the corresponding RF signal can be amplitude-adjusted by the amplitude modulator, thereby obtaining a radiation pattern in a specific direction and obtaining the corresponding beam.

[0130] Multiple antennas ANT1-ANT4 are connected to corresponding radio frequency channels CH1-CH4, respectively, for radiating radio frequency signals into space or receiving radio frequency signals from space. Antennas ANT1-ANT4 can be microstrip patch antennas, dipole antennas, or other types of antenna elements.

[0131] Based on the coordinated layout of the chip and antenna, RF channels CH1-CH2 are typically located on one side of the chip, while RF channels CH3-CH4 are located on the other side. Therefore, the physical distance between splitter terminals Br1 and Br2 is relatively short, as is the physical distance between splitter terminals Br3 and Br4, while the physical distance between splitter terminals Br1 and Br4 is relatively long. While this layout helps reduce the length of internal traces and parasitic effects, it leads to differences in signal transmission path lengths between different splitter terminals, thus introducing phase inconsistency. To address this, the reconfigurable power divider network 1 in this embodiment uses a second switching unit to achieve flexible routing between the power divider terminals and the splitter terminals. Furthermore, through the coordinated operation of the second switching unit and the phase compensation unit 170, it dynamically compensates for the phase error introduced by the differences in physical layout.

[0132] By controlling the on / off state of each switching unit in the reconfigurable power divider network 1, the radar system 100 can be configured into multiple operating modes to adapt to different application scenarios:

[0133] The first mode (e.g., Doppler radar mode)

[0134] When the radar system operates in the first mode, the reconfigurable power distribution network 1 is configured as a one-to-four split. Specifically:

[0135] The first switching unit 120 selects the path between the first common terminal COM1 and the branch terminal, and disconnects the path between the second and third common terminals COM2 and COM3 and the branch terminal. The second switching units 130a-130d select the power dividing terminal D1 / D2 of the second-stage power divider 1121 to the branch terminal Br1 / Br2, and select the power dividing terminal D3 / D4 of the second-stage power divider 1122 to the branch terminal Br3 / Br4.

[0136] The signal from the first common terminal COM1 is then distributed to the four branch terminals Br1-Br4 in equal amplitude and phase by the power divider; the branch terminals Br1-Br4 drive the antennas ANT1-ANT4 through the radio frequency channels CH1-CH4 respectively.

[0137] In this mode, the four antennas ANT1-ANT4 radiate in phase and at the same power, forming a wide beam, which can maximize the receiving sensitivity and spatial diversity of the Doppler signal, making it suitable for scenarios that require detecting the speed of target movement, such as drone detection and traffic monitoring.

[0138] The second mode (e.g., polarization diversity radar mode)

[0139] When the radar system operates in the second mode, the reconfigurable power distribution network 1 is configured as a two-to-four split. Specifically:

[0140] The first switching unit 120 disconnects the path between the first common terminal COM1 and the branch terminal, and connects the path between the second and third common terminals COM2 and COM3 and the branch terminal. The second switching units 130a-130d select the power dividing terminal D1 / D2 of the second-stage power divider 1121 to the branch terminal Br1 / Br2, and select the power dividing terminal D3 / D4 of the second-stage power divider 1122 to the branch terminal Br3 / Br4.

[0141] The signal from the second common terminal COM2 is distributed to the two branch terminals Br1-Br2 with equal amplitude and in phase via a power divider, and the signal from the third common terminal COM3 is distributed to the two branch terminals Br3-Br4 with equal amplitude and in phase via a power divider; thus, the signal from the second common terminal COM2 drives antennas ANT1 and ANT2 through RF channels CH1 and CH2; the signal from the third common terminal COM3 drives antennas ANT3 and ANT4 through RF channels CH3 and CH4.

[0142] In this mode, the signal at the second common terminal COM2 can be a horizontally polarized signal, and the signal at the third common terminal COM3 can be a vertically polarized signal. Therefore, antennas ANT1 and ANT2 radiate horizontally polarized waves, and antennas ANT3 and ANT4 radiate vertically polarized waves, thus forming a dual-polarized antenna array. This array can acquire physical information such as the size, shape, orientation, and material composition of the target, and is suitable for target recognition, classification, and other scenarios.

[0143] The third mode (polarization diversity radar mode with flexible antenna layout)

[0144] When the radar system operates in the third mode, the reconfigurable power distribution network 1 is configured as a two-to-four split. The difference from the second mode is:

[0145] The second switching unit 130a selects the power dividing terminal D1 of the second-stage power divider 1121 to the branch terminal Br4, and the second switching unit 130b selects the power dividing terminal D4 of the second-stage power divider 1122 to the branch terminal Br1; then the signal of the second common terminal COM2 drives antennas ANT2 and ANT4; the signal of the third common terminal COM3 drives antennas ANT1 and ANT3; antennas ANT2 and ANT4 radiate horizontally polarized waves, and antennas ANT1 and ANT3 radiate vertically polarized waves;

[0146] In this mode, the positions of horizontally and vertically polarized antennas can be flexibly adjusted according to the actual installation space and performance requirements, thus decoupling the antenna polarization attributes from the physical position. This can be achieved by changing the conduction state of the switching unit without redesigning the hardware.

[0147] The physical layout of antenna arrays is often constrained by various engineering factors such as installation space, heat dissipation structure, and the location of openings in the housing. This may require placing horizontally polarized antennas in locations originally designed for vertically polarized antennas. In traditional solutions, this adjustment necessitates a redesign of the power divider network's physical layout, resulting in long development cycles and high costs. In this third mode, only the control state of the second switching unit needs to be changed to flexibly configure the polarization attributes of antennas at various physical locations without requiring a complete hardware redesign.

[0148] The reconfigurable power distribution network 1 in this scheme can also employ... Figure 12 The structure shown, when using Figure 12 In the configuration shown, in addition to the first to third modes, the radar system can also operate in a fourth mode:

[0149] The third switching units 141-144 select the corresponding fourth common terminal and the branch terminal. The fourth common terminals COM41-COM44 are respectively connected to independent transmit or receive signals. Each signal drives the corresponding antennas ANT1-ANT4 independently through the corresponding third switching unit, branch terminal, and radio frequency channel.

[0150] In this mode, each antenna channel can independently control the amplitude and phase of the signal, making it suitable for scenarios requiring advanced functions such as multi-beam scanning and adaptive beamforming.

[0151] The above description is merely an embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and scope of this application are included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A reconfigurable power splitting network, characterized in that, include: At least two power dividers are used. After the power is divided by the previous power divider, it is connected to the next power divider, which continues to divide the power. The first common terminal is connected to the combiner terminal of the first-stage power divider; The second common terminal is connected to the combining terminal of part of the second-stage power divider; The third common terminal is connected to the combiner terminal of another part of the second-stage power divider; Multiple branch terminals are connected to the power division terminals of the last stage power divider, respectively; The first switching unit is used to select and disconnect the connection between the first common terminal, the second common terminal, the third common terminal and the corresponding power divider; when the first common terminal is selected, the second common terminal and the third common terminal are disconnected; when the first common terminal is disconnected, the second common terminal and the third common terminal are selected.

2. The reconfigurable power splitter network as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first switching unit includes: The first switch connects the first common terminal to the first stage power divider; The second switch connects the second common terminal to a second-stage power divider; The third switch connects the third common terminal to another second-stage power divider; or, The first switching unit is connected to the second common terminal, the third common terminal, the first-stage power divider, and the second-stage power divider. When the first-stage power divider is selected, the first common terminal is connected to the plurality of branch terminals. When the second common terminal and the third common terminal are selected, the second common terminal and the third common terminal are connected to the corresponding branch terminals.

3. The reconfigurable power splitter network as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The first switching unit connects the second common terminal, the third common terminal, the first-stage power divider, and the second-stage power divider, and includes: The first switching unit includes two single-pole double-throw switches; The single-pole double-throw switch is connected to the combiner terminal of the second-stage power divider, the second common terminal, and a power divider terminal of the first-stage power divider. Another single-pole double-throw switch is connected to the combiner terminal of another second-stage power divider, the third common terminal, and another power divider terminal of the first-stage power divider; Alternatively, the first switching unit includes: The second switch connects the second common terminal to the common terminal of a second-stage power divider. The third switch connects the third common terminal to the common terminal of another second-stage power divider. The fourth switch connects a power divider terminal of the first-stage power divider to a common terminal of the second-stage power divider. The fifth switch connects another power divider terminal of the first-stage power divider to the common terminal of another second-stage power divider.

4. The reconfigurable power splitter network as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: At least two second switch units, a first connecting line, and a second connecting line; At least one of the power divider terminals of the last stage power divider connected to the second common terminal is connected to the corresponding branch terminal through one of the second switching units. The second switching unit connects the power divider terminal, the branch terminal, one end of the first connecting line, and one end of the second connecting line. The second switching unit is used to select one of the paths between the power divider terminal and the branch terminal, or between the first connecting line and the power divider terminal. At least one of the power divider terminals of the last stage power divider connected to the third common terminal is connected to the corresponding branch terminal via another second switch unit. The second switch unit connects the power divider terminal, the branch terminal, the other end of the first connection line, and the other end of the second connection line. The second switch unit is used to select one of the paths between the power divider terminal and the branch terminal, or between the second connection line and the power divider terminal.

5. The reconfigurable power splitter network as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The second switching unit is provided between each power divider terminal and the corresponding branch terminal of each last-stage power divider.

6. The reconfigurable power splitter network as described in claim 4, characterized in that, In the branch terminals where the first and second connecting lines are not provided, a phase compensation unit is provided on the path between the corresponding branch terminal and the power divider terminal of the second switching unit.

7. The reconfigurable power splitter network as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The phase compensation unit includes a delay line, a phase shifter, or an LC network.

8. The reconfigurable power splitter network as described in any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, Each of the branch terminals is configured with a fourth common terminal, and the fourth common terminal is connected to the corresponding branch terminal through a third switching unit.

9. The reconfigurable power splitter network as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The structures on the path from the second common terminal to the corresponding branch terminal and the structures on the path from the third common terminal to the corresponding branch terminal are symmetrically distributed relative to the first common terminal.

10. A reconfigurable power splitting network, characterized in that, include: At least two power dividers are used. After the power is divided by the previous power divider, it is connected to the next power divider, which continues to divide the power. The first common terminal is connected to the combiner terminal of the first-stage power divider; The second common terminal is connected to the combining terminal of part of the second-stage power divider; Multiple branch terminals are connected to the power division terminals of the last stage power divider, respectively; The first switching unit is used to select and disconnect the connection between the first common terminal, the second common terminal and the corresponding power divider. The first switching unit selects the path between the first common terminal and the plurality of branch terminals and disconnects the path between the second common terminal and the plurality of branch terminals, or selects the path between the second common terminal and the corresponding branch terminal, and the path between the first common terminal and another part of the branch terminals.

11. The reconfigurable power splitter network as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The first common terminal is connected to the combining terminal of the first first-stage power divider and the second first-stage power divider; the second common terminal is first connected to the combining terminal of the first first-stage power divider and then connected to the combining terminal of part of the second-stage power divider. The first switching unit is disposed on the path between the first common terminal, the second common terminal and the first first-stage power divider. When working, it includes a first state and a second state. In the first state, the path between the first common terminal and the plurality of branch terminals is turned on and the path between the second common terminal and the plurality of branch terminals is turned off. In the second state, the path between the second common terminal and the corresponding branch terminal and the path between the first common terminal and another part of the branch terminals are turned on.

12. The reconfigurable power splitter network as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The first common terminal is connected to the combiner terminal of the first-stage power divider; the second common terminal is connected to the combiner terminal of part of the second-stage power divider. The first switching unit is connected to the second common terminal, the first-stage power divider, and the second-stage power divider. When the first-stage power divider is selected, the first common terminal is selected; when the second-stage power divider is selected, the second common terminal is selected.

13. The reconfigurable power splitter network as described in claim 10, characterized in that, Also includes: At least two second switch units, a first connecting line, and a second connecting line; At least one of the power divider terminals of the last stage power divider connected to the second common terminal is connected to the corresponding branch terminal through one of the second switching units. The second switching unit connects the power divider terminal, the branch terminal, one end of the first connecting line, and one end of the second connecting line. The second switching unit is used to select one of the paths between the power divider terminal and the branch terminal, or between the first connecting line and the power divider terminal. At least one of the power divider terminals of the last stage power divider that is not connected to the second common terminal is connected to the corresponding branch terminal through another second switch unit. The second switch unit connects the power divider terminal, the branch terminal, the other end of the first connection line, and the other end of the second connection line. The second switch unit is used to select one of the paths between the power divider terminal and the branch terminal, or between the second connection line and the power divider terminal.

14. The reconfigurable power splitter network as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The second switching unit is provided between each power divider terminal and the corresponding branch terminal of each last-stage power divider.

15. The reconfigurable power splitter network as described in claim 13, characterized in that, In the branch terminals without connecting lines, a phase compensation unit is provided on the path between the corresponding branch terminal and the power divider terminal of the second switch unit.

16. The reconfigurable power splitter network as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The phase compensation unit includes a delay line, a phase shifter, or an LC network.

17. The reconfigurable power splitter network as described in any one of claims 10-16, characterized in that, Each of the branch terminals is configured with a third common terminal, and the third common terminal is connected to the corresponding branch terminal through a third switching unit.

18. A beam control chip, characterized in that, include: Reconfigurable power splitting network as described in any one of claims 1 to 17; Multiple radio frequency channels are connected to the corresponding branch terminals.

19. A radar system, characterized in that, include: The beam control chip as described in claim 18; Multiple antennas are connected to the corresponding radio frequency channels.

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