A circulator, radio frequency module and communication device

Abstract

The application provides a circulator, a radio frequency module and a communication device, and relates to the technical field of communication, to solve the problem of poor circulator delay function. The circulator provided by the application comprises a center conductor circuit, the center conductor circuit comprises a center junction, a slow wave structure and a plurality of ports, and the center junction is connected with the plurality of ports; wherein the slow wave structure is connected between at least two ports, or the slow wave structure is connected with the center junction and at least one port. In the circulator provided by the application, the slow wave structure is equipped, so that the signal can improve the delay when passing through the circulator. When the circulator is applied in the communication device, the signal can reduce the phase distortion in the transmission process after improving the delay through the circulator, ensure the accurate transmission of the signal, and thus improve the quality and reliability of the communication.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a circulator, a radio frequency module, and a communication device. Background Technology

[0002] A circulator is a non-reciprocal multiport device used to control the transmission direction of microwave signals to achieve non-reciprocal transmission, which includes circling and isolation. The core principle of a circulator lies in utilizing the tensor permeability properties and Faraday rotation effect of gyromagnetic materials to achieve signal transmission from one port to another (circling) while simultaneously isolating the signal from other ports. For example, when a circulator includes three ports, it can sequentially transmit the incident wave entering the first port to the second port according to the direction determined by the static deflection magnetic field, and achieve isolation between the third port and the first and second ports.

[0003] In addition, in some cases, circulators also need to provide other additional functions such as time delay. However, the current circulator structure design is unreasonable, cannot achieve good time delay function, and has a complex structure and large size. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a circulator, RF module, and communication device with good latency performance, simple structure, and easy miniaturization design.

[0005] Firstly, this application provides a circulator, which may include a center conductor circuit. The center conductor circuit includes a center junction, a slow-wave structure, and multiple ports, with the center junction connected to all ports. The slow-wave structure is connected between at least two ports, or the slow-wave structure is connected to the center junction and at least one port. In the circulator provided in this application, by equipping it with a slow-wave structure, the signal delay is reduced when passing through the circulator. When the circulator is applied in communication equipment, the reduced delay of the signal after transmission can reduce phase distortion during transmission, ensuring accurate signal transmission and thus improving communication quality and reliability.

[0006] In one example, the slow-wave structure can be based on a high- and low-impedance line structure. For instance, the slow-wave structure may include a first impedance section and a second impedance section with different impedances, periodically arranged along the length of the slow-wave structure. Here, along the length of the slow-wave structure, the total length of adjacent first and second impedance sections is less than 1 / 4λ, where λ is the wavelength corresponding to the circulator's highest operating frequency. By making the total length of the first and second impedance sections less than 1 / 4λ, the group delay of the signal passing through the slow-wave structure can be significantly improved.

[0007] Furthermore, when the slow-wave structure can be based on a high- or low-impedance line structure, a superstructure transmission line with subwavelength structural characteristics can also be used as the slow-wave structure. That is, the total length of the first and second impedance sections is much less than 1 / 4λ. This approach can achieve better group delay and has a smaller size, which is beneficial for the miniaturization design of circulators.

[0008] In one example, the center conductor circuit also includes at least one port matching circuit. A first terminal of the port matching circuit is connected to the center junction, and a second terminal is connected to one of a plurality of ports. By incorporating the port matching circuit, the performance of the circulator can be regulated. For example, the circulator's operating bandwidth can be increased, its isolation performance can be improved, and its insertion loss can be reduced. Alternatively, the port matching circuit can also provide filtering or introduce a certain delay.

[0009] In one example, the first end of the port matching circuit is connected to the center junction via a slow-wave structure. Alternatively, the second end of the port matching circuit is connected to the port via a slow-wave structure. That is, the port matching circuit can be connected between the slow-wave structure and the center junction. Or conversely, the slow-wave structure can be connected between the port matching circuit and the center junction, offering good configuration flexibility.

[0010] In one example, multiple ports include a first port and a second port. At least one port matching circuit includes a first port matching circuit and a second port matching circuit. A first terminal of the first port matching circuit is connected to the center junction, and a second terminal of the first port matching circuit is connected to the first port. A first terminal of the second port matching circuit is connected to the center junction, and a second terminal of the second port matching circuit is connected to the second port. A slow-wave structure is connected between the first terminals of the first and second port matching circuits. That is, the slow-wave structure can also be connected between two port matching circuits, which can also achieve a good time delay effect.

[0011] In one example, the central junction and the slow-wave structure are located in the same plane, which can effectively reduce the manufacturing difficulty and cost of the central conductor circuit.

[0012] Alternatively, in one example, the central junction is located in a first plane, and the slow-wave structure is located in a second plane, with the first and second planes parallel. That is, the central junction and the slow-wave structure can be located in different planes. This approach effectively reduces the area of ​​the central conductor circuit, facilitating the miniaturization of the circulator.

[0013] In one example, the circulator includes a conductor layer, a first ferrite substrate, a first ground layer, a dielectric sheet, and a first magnet. The central junction and slow-wave structure are both located within the conductor layer. The first ground layer, the first ferrite substrate, the conductor layer, the dielectric sheet, and the magnet are stacked sequentially along a first direction.

[0014] In one example, the circulator includes a conductor layer, a first ferrite substrate, a second ferrite substrate, a first ground layer, a second ground layer, a first magnet, and a second magnet. The first magnet, the first ground layer, the first ferrite substrate, the conductor layer, the second ferrite substrate, the second ground layer, and the second magnet are stacked sequentially along a first direction.

[0015] In one example, the circulator includes a first conductor layer and a second conductor layer connected together; a central junction is located in the first conductor layer, and a slow-wave structure is located in the second conductor layer; the circulator also includes a first ferrite substrate, a second ferrite substrate, a first ground layer, a second ground layer, a third ground layer, a first magnet, a second magnet, a first dielectric sheet, and a second dielectric sheet; wherein the first magnet, the first ground layer, the first ferrite substrate, the first conductor layer, the second ferrite substrate, the second ground layer, the first dielectric sheet, the second conductor layer, the second dielectric sheet, the third ground layer, and the second magnet are stacked sequentially along a first direction. This method can effectively reduce the area of ​​the central conductor circuit, which is beneficial for the miniaturization design of the circulator.

[0016] In one example, the circulator further includes a matching segment through which the first conductor layer and the second conductor layer are connected. The matching segment extends along a first direction, with one end connected to the first conductor layer and the other end connected to the second conductor layer to achieve an electrical connection between the first and second conductor layers.

[0017] In one example, the circulator includes a first conductor layer and a second conductor layer connected together. The central junction is located in the first conductor layer, and the slow-wave structure is located in the second conductor layer. The circulator also includes a first ferrite substrate, a second ferrite substrate, a ground layer, a first magnet, a second magnet, a first dielectric sheet, and a second dielectric sheet. The second magnet, the second dielectric sheet, the second conductor layer, the second ferrite substrate, the ground layer, the first ferrite substrate, the first conductor layer, the first dielectric sheet, and the first magnet are stacked sequentially along a first direction. This arrangement effectively reduces the area of ​​the central conductor circuit, facilitating the miniaturization of the circulator design.

[0018] In one example, the circulator further includes a matching segment through which the first conductor layer and the second conductor layer are connected. The matching segment extends along a first direction, with one end connected to the first conductor layer and the other end connected to the second conductor layer to achieve an electrical connection between the first and second conductor layers.

[0019] Secondly, this application also provides a radio frequency (RF) module, including an RF circuit and the aforementioned circulator, wherein the RF circuit is electrically connected to at least one port of the circulator. By equipping the RF module with the aforementioned circulator, signal circulation and isolation can be achieved. Furthermore, by reducing signal delay, phase distortion during transmission can be reduced, ensuring accurate signal transmission and thereby improving communication quality and reliability.

[0020] Thirdly, this application also provides a communication device, including an antenna and the aforementioned radio frequency module, wherein the radio frequency module is electrically connected to the antenna. By equipping the radio frequency module with a circulator, signal circulation and isolation can be achieved. Furthermore, by reducing signal delay, phase distortion during transmission can be reduced, ensuring accurate signal transmission and thus improving communication quality and reliability. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 A structural block diagram of a wireless base station provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0022] Figure 2 This is a simplified structural diagram of a circulator provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0023] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of a circulator provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0024] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of a ferrite substrate provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0025] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of another planar structure of a ferrite substrate provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figure 6 This is a simplified structural diagram of a circulator provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 7 An equivalent circuit diagram of a central junction is provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 8 An equivalent circuit diagram of a slow-wave structure provided in this application embodiment;

[0029] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a slow-wave structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of another slow-wave structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 11A comparative simulation diagram showing the time delay as a function of wave vector for the slow wave structure and conventional transmission line provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0032] Figure 12 A simplified structural diagram of a center conductor circuit provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 13 A simplified structural diagram of another center conductor circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 14 A simplified structural diagram of another center conductor circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 15 A simplified structural diagram of another center conductor circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 16 An equivalent circuit diagram of a port matching circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 17 A schematic diagram of another planar structure of a center conductor circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 18 An equivalent circuit diagram of a center conductor circuit provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 19 A schematic diagram of another planar structure of a center conductor circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 20 A schematic diagram of another planar structure of a center conductor circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 21 A schematic diagram of another planar structure of a center conductor circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figure 22 A schematic diagram of another planar structure of a center conductor circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 23 A schematic diagram of another planar structure of a center conductor circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 24 A schematic diagram of another planar structure of a center conductor circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 25 A simplified structural diagram of another center conductor circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 26 A simplified structural diagram of another center conductor circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 27 A simplified structural diagram of another center conductor circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 28 A simplified structural diagram of another center conductor circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 29 A simplified structural diagram of another center conductor circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 30 A schematic diagram of another planar structure of a center conductor circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 31 A schematic diagram of another planar structure of a center conductor circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0052] Figure 32 A schematic diagram of another planar structure of a center conductor circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0053] Figure 33 A schematic diagram of another planar structure of a center conductor circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0054] Figure 34 A schematic diagram of another planar structure of a center conductor circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 35 A simulation test diagram provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 36 Another simulation test diagram provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0057] Figure 37 Another simulation test diagram provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0058] Figure 38 Another simulation test diagram provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0059] Figure 39 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of a circulator provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0060] Figure 40 A cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of another circulator provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0061] Figure 41 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a circulator provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0062] Figure 42 A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of a circulator with perspective effect provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0063] Figure 43 A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the center conductor circuit of a circulator provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0064] Figure 44 A cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of another circulator provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0065] Figure 45 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of another circulator provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0066] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0067] To facilitate understanding of the circulator provided in the embodiments of this application, its application scenarios will be introduced first below.

[0068] The circulator provided in this application embodiment can be used to realize signal circulation and isolation, and can be applied in fields such as radar, mobile communication, wireless base stations, digital microwave communication, instrumentation, and antenna systems. The circulator can be used independently in the aforementioned scenarios or devices, or it can be integrated into some modules or devices.

[0069] For example, such as Figure 1 As shown, taking a wireless base station as an example, a wireless base station may include a radio frequency (RF) module and an antenna. The antenna is used to radiate electromagnetic waves or receive electromagnetic waves from the outside world to achieve wireless transmission. The RF module is connected to the antenna and is used to send RF signals to the antenna, thereby causing the antenna to radiate electromagnetic waves. Alternatively, the electromagnetic waves received by the antenna can also be transmitted to the RF module.

[0070] Among them, Figure 1In the example provided, the RF module integrates a circulator. Specifically, the RF module includes RF circuitry and a circulator. The RF circuitry includes a transmitter and a receiver, with the transmitter, receiver, and antenna each connected to the circulator. The transmitter generates RF signals, which are transmitted to the antenna via the circulator, causing the antenna to radiate electromagnetic waves. The electromagnetic waves (or received signals) received by the antenna are transmitted back to the transmitter via the circulator, thus achieving signal reception. The circulator connects the transmitter, receiver, and antenna, allowing RF signals to be transmitted from the receiver to the antenna and preventing reverse transmission. Similarly, it allows received signals to be transmitted from the antenna to the receiver and prevents reverse transmission. Furthermore, the circulator effectively isolates the transmitted and received signals.

[0071] To make it easier to understand, the working principle of the circulator will be introduced first.

[0072] A circulator is a non-reciprocal multiport device. Its core principle lies in using the tensor permeability characteristics and Faraday rotation effect of gyromagnetic materials to enable signal transmission from one port to another to achieve circulation, while also isolating the signal from other ports.

[0073] For example, Figure 2 The diagram illustrates a circulator 10 with three ports: port 1, port 2, and port 3. In one example, a signal input from port 1 circulates within the circulator 10 to port 2 and is output from port 2. A signal input from port 2 circulates within the circulator 10 to port 3 and is output from port 3. That is, signal transmission from port 1 to port 2 is conductive, and signal transmission from port 2 to port 3 is also conductive. Conversely, signal transmission from port 2 to port 1 is isolated, and signal transmission from port 3 to port 2 is also isolated.

[0074] See also Figure 1 and Figure 2 The transmitter can be connected to port 1 of the circulator 10, the receiver can be connected to port 3 of the circulator 10, and the antenna can be connected to port 2 of the circulator 10. That is, the radio frequency (RF) signal generated by the transmitter can be transmitted from port 1 to port 2 to the antenna, but not to port 3. Similarly, the electromagnetic waves (or received signals) received by the antenna can be transmitted from port 2 to port 3 to the receiver, but not to port 1. This achieves effective transmission of the RF and received signals, as well as effective isolation between them.

[0075] In some current circulators 10, they typically only have the aforementioned circulation and isolation functions. With the continuous development of communication technology, in some application scenarios, it is desirable for the circulator 10 to also have additional functions such as latency.

[0076] Therefore, this application provides a circulator 10 with a time delay function.

[0077] 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 and specific embodiments.

[0078] First, it should be noted that the commonly used circulator 10 typically includes three ports. In other examples, the circulator 10 may also include four or more ports, and this application does not limit the number of ports included in the circulator 10.

[0079] To facilitate understanding of the technical solution of this application, the following example will be illustrated by circulator 10 having three ports.

[0080] The basic structure of the circulator 10 will be introduced below.

[0081] like Figure 3 The diagram shows a cross-sectional structure of a circulator 10 in the form of a stripline. The circulator 10 includes a conductor layer 101, a first ferrite substrate 102a, a second ferrite substrate 102b, a first ground layer 103a, a second ground layer 103b, a first magnet 104a, and a second magnet 104b.

[0082] The first magnet 104a, the first ground layer 103a, the first ferrite substrate 102a, the conductor layer 101, the second ferrite substrate 102b, the second ground layer 103b, and the second magnet 104b are stacked sequentially along the first direction.

[0083] Specifically, the conductor layer 101 can be a copper layer or other layer structure formed of conductive material. The conductor layer 101 is patterned by etching or other processes to form a central conductor circuit 11 with the desired function.

[0084] exist Figure 3 In the example provided, circulator 10 is specifically a stripline structure type.

[0085] Specifically, the first ground layer 103a and the second ground layer 103b are located on both sides of the conductor layer 101, respectively. Both the first ground layer 103a and the second ground layer 103b can have good conductivity, so that the signal can be transmitted laterally between the first ground layer 103a and the conductor layer 101, and between the second ground layer 103b and the conductor layer 101.

[0086] In addition, the first ground layer 103a and the second ground layer 103b also have good magnetic permeability. For example, the relative permeability of the first ground layer 103a and the second ground layer 103b can be greater than or equal to 1. That is, the first ground layer 103a and the second ground layer 103b have low magnetic reluctance, which can avoid significantly reducing the strength of the magnetic field, so that the magnetic field of the first magnet 104a and the second magnet 104b can effectively act on the first ferrite substrate 102a and the second ferrite.

[0087] The first grounding layer 103a and the second grounding layer 103b can be layer structures made of conductive materials such as copper or silver. This application does not limit the specific materials and preparation methods of the first grounding layer 103a and the second grounding layer 103b.

[0088] The first ferrite substrate 102a is located between the first ground layer 103a and the conductor layer 101, and the second ferrite substrate 102b is located between the second ground body and the conductor layer 101.

[0089] The first ferrite substrate 102a and the second ferrite substrate 102b can specifically be as follows: Figure 4 The pure ferrite substrate shown. Alternatively, the first ferrite substrate 102a and the second ferrite substrate 102b can also be as follows. Figure 5 The composite substrate shown is composed of ferrite and dielectric.

[0090] The first ferrite substrate 102a and the second ferrite substrate 102b can both be of commonly used types, and this application does not impose any restrictions on them.

[0091] The first magnet 104a and the second magnet 104b are both permanent magnets, used to provide magnetic field bias for the first ferrite substrate 102a and the second ferrite substrate 102b.

[0092] Under the combined action of the magnetic field of the first magnet 104a and the magnetic field of the second magnet 104b, gyromagnetic properties (or tensor permeability properties) will be generated in the first ferrite substrate 102a and the second ferrite substrate 102b.

[0093] The first ferrite substrate 102a is located between the first ground layer 103a and the conductor layer 101. Therefore, signals (or electromagnetic waves) that are transversely transmitted between the first ground layer 103a and the conductor layer 101 will propagate in the first ferrite substrate. Correspondingly, the second ferrite substrate 102b is located between the second ground layer 103b and the conductor layer 101. Therefore, signals (or electromagnetic waves) that are transversely transmitted between the second ground layer 103b and the conductor layer 101 will propagate in the second ferrite substrate.

[0094] Based on the gyromagnetic properties of the first ferrite substrate 102a and the second ferrite substrate 102b, the signals (electromagnetic waves) propagating in the first ferrite substrate 102a and the second ferrite substrate 102b undergo polarization rotation under the Faraday effect, thereby realizing the circulator 10's circulatory and isolation functions.

[0095] The design of the central conductor circuit 11 in the conductor layer 101 determines the radio frequency characteristics and main functions of the circulator 10.

[0096] For example, such as Figure 6 As shown, a possible structure of the center conductor circuit 11 (or conductor layer 101) is illustrated. The center conductor circuit 11 includes a center junction 111 and ports 1, 2, and 3 connected to the center junction 111.

[0097] like Figure 7 As shown, the central junction 111 can be equivalent to an LC series-parallel circuit, meaning that this circuit structure includes several inductors L and capacitors C connected in series and parallel. By reasonably adjusting the shape, area, and other parameters of the central junction 111, the RF performance or matching performance of the circulator 10 can be changed. The specific shape or structure type of the central junction 111 can be reasonably configured with reference to commonly used types, and will not be elaborated here.

[0098] In the example provided in this application, the time delay function of the circulator 10 can be realized by configuring a slow wave structure in the center conductor circuit 11. When the circulator 10 is applied in a communication device, the signal is delayed by the circulator 10, which can reduce the phase distortion of the signal during transmission, ensure accurate signal transmission, and thus improve the quality and reliability of communication.

[0099] The main function of the slow-wave structure is to increase the interaction time between the electromagnetic wave and matter (such as the electromagnetic wave and the first ferrite substrate 102a and the second ferrite substrate 102b) by reducing the phase velocity of the electromagnetic wave. This achieves a group velocity reduction effect, thereby realizing a time delay function. In practical applications, increasing the time delay allows the energy of the electron flow to be converted into high-frequency energy of the electromagnetic wave more efficiently. For example, when a circulator 10 with a large time delay characteristic is used in an RF module, it can effectively improve the efficiency of the RF module.

[0100] Phase velocity refers to the propagation speed of a wave's constant phase point. In other words, the phase of any frequency component of a wave is transmitted at this speed. For example, if we select the crest of a wave for observation, the crest will travel at the phase velocity. Group velocity refers to the propagation speed of the wave's envelope; it is the speed at which the energy of the wave group propagates. In other words, group velocity is the propagation speed of a family of waves with similar frequencies. In summary, group velocity and phase velocity are two important concepts in waveguide theory, and group velocity can be reduced by decreasing the phase velocity of electromagnetic waves.

[0101] like Figure 8 As shown, the equivalent circuit diagram of the slow wave structure is illustrated. This slow wave structure can be equivalent to an LC series-parallel circuit, that is, the circuit structure includes multiple series-parallel inductors L and capacitors C.

[0102] In one example, the specific type of slow-wave structure can be diverse.

[0103] For example, such as Figure 9 As shown, in one example provided in this application, the slow wave structure 112 can be a transmission line in the form of a zigzag line.

[0104] Or, such as Figure 10 As shown, in another example provided in this application, the slow wave structure 112 is a transmission line of the high and low impedance line type.

[0105] Specifically, in Figure 10 In the example provided, the slow-wave structure 112 includes a first impedance section 1121 and a second impedance section 1122, which are periodically arranged along the length direction of the slow-wave structure 112. The total length T of adjacent first impedance sections 1121 and second impedance sections 1122 along the length direction of the slow-wave structure 112 is less than 1 / 4λ, where λ is the wavelength corresponding to the highest operating frequency of the circulator 10, thereby effectively reducing the phase velocity of electromagnetic waves propagating in the slow-wave structure 112.

[0106] In this design, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first impedance section 1121 is larger than that of the second impedance section 1122, resulting in a lower resistance value for the first impedance section 1121 compared to the second impedance section 1122. The first impedance section 1121 can also be referred to as a low-impedance section, and the second impedance section 1122 as a high-impedance section. In one example, the resistance value of the first impedance section 1121 can be less than the matching impedance point of the circulator 10, and the resistance value of the second impedance section 1122 can be greater than the matching impedance point of the circulator 10. The industry standard for the matching impedance point is typically defined as approximately 50 ohms.

[0107] It should be noted that the adjacent first impedance section 1121 and second impedance section 1122 can be regarded as a periodic structure (or slow wave period). By setting the length of the periodic structure to be less than 1 / 4λ, the phase velocity of the electromagnetic wave when passing through the periodic structure can be effectively reduced.

[0108] In one example, the periodic structure can also satisfy the subwavelength dimension, meaning the size of the periodic structure is much smaller than 1 / 4λ, to further reduce the phase velocity of electromagnetic waves passing through the periodic structure. When the periodic structure is much smaller than 1 / 4λ, it can also be considered as radio frequency (RF) metamaterial structures. As a class of artificially designed composite electromagnetic materials, RF metamaterial structures can achieve special electromagnetic properties that are difficult to obtain in nature through the precise arrangement of subwavelength units. With the rapid development of 5G communication systems, future communication systems, high-power microwave devices, and terahertz technology, RF metamaterial structures have even better application prospects.

[0109] In summary, in the examples provided in this application, the equipped slow-wave structure 112 can be a slow-wave transmission line based on an RF superstructure to achieve better time delay control. Furthermore, a RF superstructure-based Mann-wave transmission line can achieve better time delay control in a smaller size, facilitating the miniaturization design of the circulator 10.

[0110] In addition, such as Figure 11 As shown in the embodiments of this application, the wave vector curves of two different types of transmission lines as a function of frequency are also illustrated.

[0111] Figure 11 In the diagram, the horizontal axis k represents the wave vector, and the vertical axis f represents the frequency. The solid line represents the wave vector variation with frequency for a slow-wave transmission line (or a transmission line based on slow-wave structure 112); the dashed line represents the wave vector variation with frequency for a conventional transmission line.

[0112]

[0113] In equation (1), τ represents the group delay, l represents the distance, and v g This represents the group velocity. That is, this formula indicates that the wave travels at a group velocity v. g The time delay generated when the propagation distance is l.

[0114]

[0115] Equation (2) represents the group velocity v g It is defined as the derivative of frequency f with respect to wave vector k.

[0116] from Figure 11 As can be seen from the dashed line, the group velocity v of a conventional transmission line... gIt increases linearly, and the rate of increase remains essentially constant. From Figure 11 As can be seen from the implementation in [the document], the group velocity v of the slow wave transmission line... g The increase gradually decreases. That is, the decrease in group velocity leads to an increase in group delay.

[0117] In summary, through Figure 11 As can be seen from equations (1) and (2) above, the transmission line based on the slow wave structure 112 can achieve the effect of increasing the time group delay.

[0118] In the example provided in this application, the function of increasing time group delay can be achieved by equipping the center conductor circuit 11 with a slow wave structure 112 (or a transmission line based on the slow wave structure 112).

[0119] In one example, parameters such as the number and connection relationships in the central conductor circuit 11 can be varied.

[0120] For example, such as Figure 12 As shown, in one example provided in this application, the center conductor circuit 11 is equipped with a slow-wave structure 112, which is connected between the center junction 111 and port 1. This effectively reduces signal delay during transmission between the center junction 111 and port 1.

[0121] Or, such as Figure 13 As shown, in another example provided in this application, the central conductor circuit 11 includes three slow-wave structures: slow-wave structure 112a, slow-wave structure 112b, and slow-wave structure 112c. Slow-wave structure 112a is connected between the central junction 111 and port 1, slow-wave structure 112b is connected between the central junction 111 and port 2, and slow-wave structure 112c is connected between the central junction 111 and port 3. That is, signals input or output from any port will pass through the corresponding slow-wave structure 112, further enhancing the time delay capability of the circulator 10.

[0122] Or, in other examples, Figure 13 At least one of the medium-slow wave structure 112a, slow wave structure 112b and slow wave structure 112c may be omitted.

[0123] In summary, in one example, the number of slow-wave structures 112 can be the same as the number of ports, and each port can be connected to the central node 111 via a slow-wave structure 112. Alternatively, the number of slow-wave structures 112 can be less than the number of ports. That is, the slow-wave structures 112 are connected to the central node 111 and at least one port.

[0124] Alternatively, in some examples, the slow-wave structure 112 can also be connected between ports.

[0125] For example, such as Figure 14 As shown, in one example provided in this application, the center conductor circuit 11 includes three slow-wave structures: slow-wave structure 112d, slow-wave structure 112e, and slow-wave structure 112f. Slow-wave structure 112d is connected between port 1 and port 2, slow-wave structure 112e is connected between port 2 and port 3, and slow-wave structure 112f is connected between port 3 and port 1.

[0126] Good latency can also be achieved when signals are transmitted between ports.

[0127] For example, consider ports 1 and 2. When a signal is input from port 1 and output from port 2, a portion of the signal input from port 1 passes through the central junction 111 before being output from port 2. Another portion of the signal passes through the slow-wave structure 112d before being output from port 2. That is, the signal passing through the slow-wave structure 112d can achieve a time delay effect.

[0128] exist Figure 14 The example provided is exemplified by a central conductor circuit 11 comprising three slow-wave structures connected between three ports.

[0129] In other examples, the number of slow-wave structures can be reduced. For example, one or both of slow-wave structures 112d, 112e, and 112f can be omitted. In general, in one example, at least two ports can be connected via slow-wave structure 112.

[0130] In addition, Figure 12 and Figure 13 The example provided is exemplified by a slow-wave structure connected between a central junction 111 and a port within a central conductor circuit 11. Figure 14 The example provided is an exemplary illustration using a central conductor circuit 11 that includes a slow-wave structure connected between ports.

[0131] In other examples, the center conductor circuit 11 may also contain both a slow wave structure connected between the center junction 111 and the port and a slow wave structure connected between the ports.

[0132] For example, such as Figure 15 As shown, in one example provided in this application, the center conductor circuit 11 may include six slow-wave structures 112. The six slow-wave structures 112 are slow-wave structure 112a, slow-wave structure 112b, slow-wave structure 112c, slow-wave structure 112d, slow-wave structure 112e, and slow-wave structure 112f.

[0133] Specifically, slow-wave structure 112a is connected between central node 111 and port 1, slow-wave structure 112b is connected between central node 111 and port 2, and slow-wave structure 112c is connected between central node 111 and port 3. Slow-wave structure 112d is connected between port 1 and port 2, slow-wave structure 112e is connected between port 2 and port 3, and slow-wave structure 112f is connected between port 3 and port 1.

[0134] In summary, the central node 111 and each port are connected by a slow-wave structure, and there is also a slow-wave structure between two ports.

[0135] In other examples, when the center conductor circuit 11 includes both a slow wave structure connected between the center junction 111 and the port and a slow wave structure connected between the ports, the center conductor circuit 11 may include at least one slow wave structure connected between the center junction 111 and the port, and at least one slow wave structure connected between the ports, which will not be elaborated here.

[0136] Additionally, in some examples, the center conductor circuit 11 may also include a port matching circuit. The port matching circuit is implemented based on the LC structure of the transmission line (including microstrip lines and striplines).

[0137] For example, such as Figure 16 As shown in the figure, this application also provides an equivalent circuit diagram of a port matching circuit. That is, the port matching circuit includes several inductors L and capacitors C connected in series and parallel. By reasonably adjusting the shape and other parameters of the port matching circuit, its filtering or impedance matching performance can be changed. The specific shape or structure type of the port matching circuit can be reasonably configured according to various different types.

[0138] Port matching circuits can be used to regulate the performance of circulator 10. For example, port matching circuits can optimize the operating bandwidth of circulator 10. Alternatively, port matching circuits can effectively reduce insertion loss or improve isolation performance of circulator 10. Or, port matching circuits can also perform filtering functions.

[0139] It should be noted that in some examples, the slow-wave structure can not only implement the time delay function, but also some or all of the functions of the port matching circuit mentioned above. That is, in some examples, the circulator 10 may not be equipped with an additional port matching circuit.

[0140] For ease of understanding, the following example will be illustrated by circulator 10 equipped with additional port matching circuitry.

[0141] like Figure 17 As shown, Figure 17The diagram shows three port matching circuits. These are port matching circuits 113a, 113b, and 113c. Port matching circuit 113a is connected at one end to port 1 and at the other end to the center junction 111. Port matching circuit 113b is connected at one end to port 2 and at the other end to the center junction 111. Port matching circuit 113c is connected at one end to port 3 and at the other end to the center junction 111.

[0142] like Figure 18 The equivalent circuit diagram of the center conductor circuit 11 is shown. In summary, the center junction 111 can be equivalent to an LC series-parallel circuit, meaning that this circuit structure includes several inductors L and capacitors C connected in series and parallel. The port matching circuit includes several inductors L and capacitors C connected in series and parallel.

[0143] exist Figure 17 The example provided illustrates one possible structure of the center conductor circuit 11. In other examples, the center junction 111 and port matching circuit in the center conductor circuit 11 may also have other structural shapes.

[0144] For example, such as Figures 19 to 24 As shown, six different structural shapes of center conductor circuits 11 are illustrated.

[0145] Simply put, in Figure 19 In the middle, the central knot 111 is roughly triangular in shape, and the port matching circuits 113a, 113b and 113c extend outward from the forked concave point of the central knot 111.

[0146] exist Figure 20 In the middle, the central knot 111 is roughly a combination of a circle and a sector, and the port matching circuits 113a, 113b and 113c extend outward from between two adjacent sector regions.

[0147] exist Figure 21 In the middle, the central knot 111 is roughly a combination of a circle and a fan shape. The port matching circuits 113a, 113b and 113c extend outward from between two adjacent fan-shaped areas. In addition, the bends of the three port matching circuits 113 have structural widening and reverse extension parts.

[0148] exist Figure 22 In the center, knot 111 is roughly circular. Please refer to the reference section. Figure 21 and Figure 22 .exist Figure 22 In the example, it can be considered that in Figure 21Based on the above, port matching circuits 113a, 113b and 113c respectively added arc-shaped structures to the parts near the central junction 111.

[0149] exist Figure 23 In the middle, the central knot 111 is roughly a combination of a circle and a fan shape. The port matching circuits 113a, 113b and 113c extend outward from between two adjacent fan-shaped areas. In addition, the bends of the three port matching circuits 113 have structural widening and reverse extension parts.

[0150] exist Figure 24 In the middle, the central knot 111 is roughly a combination of circles and rectangles, and the port matching circuits 113a, 113b and 113c extend outward from between two adjacent rectangular areas respectively; in addition, the bends of the three port matching circuits 113 have structural widening and reverse extension parts.

[0151] In other examples, the center junction 111 and the port matching circuit in the center conductor circuit 11 may also have other structural shapes, which will not be elaborated here.

[0152] exist Figures 19 to 24 The example provided is exemplified by connecting the central node 111 to each port via a port matching circuit. In other examples, a port matching circuit may also be provided between the central node 111 and at least one port.

[0153] For example, in Figure 24 Based on the diagram shown, any one or any two of the port matching circuits 113a, 113b, and 113c can be omitted, which will not be elaborated here.

[0154] In one example, when the center conductor circuit 11 includes a port matching circuit, the connection relationship between the slow wave structure 112 and the port matching circuit can also be varied.

[0155] The following example illustrates the process using a central conductor circuit 11 that includes a port matching circuit.

[0156] like Figure 25 As shown, in one example, the central junction 111 is connected to port 1 via a slow-wave structure 112 and a port matching circuit 113a, with the slow-wave structure 112 connected between the central junction 111 and the port matching circuit 113a.

[0157] Or, such as Figure 26 As shown, in one example, the slow-wave structure 112 can be connected between port 1 and port matching circuit 113a.

[0158] In addition, when the center conductor circuit 11 includes multiple port matching circuits, the connection relationship between the slow wave structure 112 and the port matching circuits can also be varied.

[0159] For example, such as Figures 27 to 29 As shown, in one example provided in this application, the center conductor circuit 11 includes three port matching circuits and three slow-wave structures. The three port matching circuits are port matching circuit 113a, port matching circuit 113b, and port matching circuit 113c. The three slow-wave structures are slow-wave structure 112a, slow-wave structure 112b, and slow-wave structure 112c.

[0160] exist Figure 27 In one example provided, port matching circuit 113a is connected between central junction 111 and slow wave structure 112a, port matching circuit 113b is connected between central junction 111 and slow wave structure 112b, and port matching circuit 113c is connected between central junction 111 and slow wave structure 112c.

[0161] Or, in Figure 28 In another example provided, port matching circuit 113a is connected between port 1 and slow wave structure 112a, port matching circuit 113b is connected between port 2 and slow wave structure 112b, and port matching circuit 113c is connected between port 3 and slow wave structure 112c.

[0162] Or, in Figure 29 In another example provided, slow-wave structure 112a is connected between port matching circuit 113a and port matching circuit 113b. Slow-wave structure 112b is connected between port matching circuit 113b and port matching circuit 113c. Slow-wave structure 112c is connected between port matching circuit 113c and port matching circuit 113a.

[0163] In summary, in one example, the slow-wave structure can be connected between the center junction 111 and the port matching circuit, or the slow-wave structure can be connected between the port matching circuit and the port. Alternatively, different port matching circuits can also be connected using a slow-wave structure.

[0164] Among them, Figures 25 to 29 The structures shown are simplified versions of the center conductor circuit 11. In practical applications, the specific structure of the center conductor circuit 11 can be configured according to the connection logic shown above.

[0165] For example, such as Figure 30 As shown, Figure 30 The diagram illustrates a possible implementation structure of the central conductor circuit 11. Wherein, Figure 30The structure shown is based on Figure 27 The connection logic shown is used to implement this. Specifically, port matching circuit 113a is connected between the central junction 111 and the slow wave structure 112a, port matching circuit 113b is connected between the central junction 111 and the slow wave structure 112b, and port matching circuit 113c is connected between the central junction 111 and the slow wave structure 112c. Alternatively, it can be understood that the slow wave structure can also be considered as being integrated into the port matching circuit.

[0166] In addition, Figure 25 and Figure 26 The example provided illustrates the connection between the central junction 111 and a port via a slow-wave structure and a port matching circuit. Figure 27 and Figure 28 The example provided illustrates how the central junction 111 is connected to each port via a slow-wave structure and port matching circuit. Other examples may also show the central junction 111 connected to at least one port via a slow-wave structure and port matching circuit, which will not be elaborated upon here.

[0167] Furthermore, in the example described above, which exemplifies the inclusion of a port matching circuit in the center conductor circuit 11, in other examples, the center conductor circuit 11 may also include additional matching circuits connected between different port matching circuits.

[0168] The additional matching circuit is implemented based on the LC structure of transmission lines (including microstrip lines and striplines). That is, the additional matching circuit includes several inductors L and capacitors C connected in series and parallel. By reasonably adjusting the shape and other parameters of the additional matching circuit, its filtering or impedance matching performance can be changed. The specific shape or structure type of the additional matching circuit can be configured in various ways.

[0169] Additional matching circuitry can be used to regulate the performance of circulator 10. For example, it can optimize the operating bandwidth of circulator 10. Alternatively, it can effectively reduce insertion loss or improve isolation performance. Or, it can perform filtering functions.

[0170] For example, such as Figure 31 As shown, in another example provided in this application, the center conductor circuit 11 further includes three additional matching circuits. These three additional matching circuits are additional matching circuit 114a, additional matching circuit 114b, and additional matching circuit 114c.

[0171] exist Figure 17 and Figure 31In this context, the specific configurations of the central junction 111, port matching circuit 113a, port matching circuit 113b, port matching circuit 113c, slow wave structure 112a, slow wave structure 112b, and slow wave structure 112c are basically the same, and will not be elaborated here.

[0172] In summary, Figure 17 On this basis, Figure 31 Additional matching circuits 114a, 114b, and 114c are added. One end of additional matching circuit 114a is connected to port matching circuit 113c, and the other end is connected to port matching circuit 113a. One end of additional matching circuit 114b is connected to port matching circuit 113a, and the other end is connected to port matching circuit 113b. One end of additional matching circuit 114c is connected to port matching circuit 113b, and the other end is connected to port matching circuit 113c. That is, additional matching circuit 114a is connected between port matching circuit 113a and port matching circuit 113c, additional matching circuit 114b is connected between port matching circuit 113a and port matching circuit 113b, and additional matching circuit 114c is connected between port matching circuit 113b and port matching circuit 113c.

[0173] In one example, the location of the slow wave structure can be varied when the center conductor circuit 11 includes a port matching circuit and an additional matching circuit.

[0174] For example, such as Figure 32 As shown, in one example provided in this application, a slow-wave structure 112a is integrated in port matching circuit 113a, a slow-wave structure 112b is integrated in port matching circuit 113b, and a slow-wave structure 112c is integrated in port matching circuit 113c.

[0175] Or, such as Figure 33 As shown, in one example provided in this application, the additional matching circuit 114a integrates a slow wave structure 112d, the additional matching circuit 114b integrates a slow wave structure 112e, and the additional matching circuit 114c integrates a slow wave structure 112f.

[0176] Or, such as Figure 34 As shown, in another example provided in this application, a slow-wave structure 112a is integrated in port matching circuit 113a, a slow-wave structure 112b is integrated in port matching circuit 113b, and a slow-wave structure 112c is integrated in port matching circuit 113c. A slow-wave structure 112d is integrated in additional matching circuit 114a, a slow-wave structure 112e is integrated in additional matching circuit 114b, and a slow-wave structure 112f is integrated in additional matching circuit 114c.

[0177] In addition, to facilitate understanding of the time delay effect after equipping the center conductor circuit 11 with a slow wave structure in the example of this application, the embodiments of this application also provide test simulation diagrams and comparison diagrams of the circulator 10.

[0178] Please see Figure 35 and Figure 36 . Figure 35 In the graph, the horizontal axis represents frequency in GHz, and the vertical axis represents time delay in nanoseconds (ns). The solid line represents the curve of time delay of circulator 10 equipped with center conductor circuit 11 of slow wave structure as a function of frequency, and the dashed line represents the curve of time delay of circulator 10 without center conductor circuit 11 of slow wave structure as a function of frequency.

[0179] By comparing the two curves, it is clear that the circulator 10 equipped with the slow wave structure can achieve a larger time delay.

[0180] Figure 26 In the graph, the horizontal axis represents frequency in MHz, and the vertical axis represents time delay in nanoseconds (ns). The solid line represents the curve of time delay of circulator 10 with center conductor circuit 11 equipped with slow wave structure as a function of frequency, and the dashed line represents the curve of time delay of circulator 10 without center conductor circuit 11 equipped with slow wave structure as a function of frequency.

[0181] By comparing the two curves, it is clear that the circulator 10 equipped with the slow wave structure can achieve a larger time delay.

[0182] In addition, such as Figure 37 and Figure 38 As shown, this test simulation diagram is based on the circulator 10 equipped with, for example, Figure 33 The value was measured by the central conductor circuit 11 shown.

[0183] Figure 37 The figure shown is the S-curve of circulator 10. Figure 38 The curve shown is the time delay of circulator 10 as a function of frequency.

[0184] exist Figure 37 In the diagram, the horizontal axis represents frequency in MHz, and the vertical axis represents amplitude in dB. Curves S11 and S22 represent the return loss of two ports (e.g., port 1 and port 2) of circulator 10, respectively. Curve S12 represents insertion loss.

[0185] from Figure 37 It can be clearly seen that in the frequency range of 660MHz to 820MHz, circulator 10 can have low return loss and insertion loss, and has good performance.

[0186] In addition, Figure 38 In the graph, the horizontal axis represents frequency in MHz, the vertical axis represents time delay in nanoseconds (ns), and the curve represents the time delay as a function of frequency.

[0187] from Figure 38 It can be clearly seen that circulator 10 can achieve a large latency of more than 2.4ns within a bandwidth of nearly 200MHz.

[0188] In summary, in the example provided in this application, by equipping the circulator 10 with a slow-wave structure, the circulator 10 can have performance such as low return loss and insertion loss, while also achieving a large time delay.

[0189] Alternatively, in one example, the central knot 111 and the slow wave structure 112 are located in the same plane, or the central knot 111 and the slow wave structure 112 may be located in different planes.

[0190] For example, such as Figure 34 and Figure 39 As shown, in one example provided in this application, the central junction 111 and the slow-wave structure are located in the same plane. Alternatively, it can be understood that the circulator 10 includes a conductor layer 101, in which both the central junction 111 and the slow-wave structure are located.

[0191] Specifically, such as Figure 39 The diagram shows a cross-sectional structure of a circulator 10, which is a stripline structure. The circulator 10 includes a conductor layer 101, a first ferrite substrate 102a, a second ferrite substrate 102b, a first ground layer 103a, a second ground layer 103b, a first magnet 104a, and a second magnet 104b. The first magnet 104a, the first ground layer 103a, the first ferrite substrate 102a, the conductor layer 101, the second ferrite substrate 102b, the second ground layer 103b, and the second magnet 104b are sequentially stacked along a first direction.

[0192] Or, such as Figures 40 to 43 As shown, in another example provided by the embodiments of this application, the central knot 111 and the slow wave structure are located in different planes. Alternatively, it can be understood that the central knot 111 is located in a first plane, the slow wave structure is located in a second plane, and the first and second planes are parallel.

[0193] Specifically, Figure 40 A cross-sectional structure of a circulator 10 is shown, which is a circulator 10 in the form of a strip line structure.

[0194] The circulator 10 includes a first conductor layer 101a and a second conductor layer 101b. A central junction 111 may be located in the first conductor layer 101a, and a slow-wave structure may be located in the second conductor layer 101b. The circulator 10 also includes a first ferrite substrate 102a, a second ferrite substrate 102b, a first ground layer 103a, a second ground layer 103b, a third ground layer 103c, a first magnet 104a, a second magnet 104b, a first dielectric sheet 105a, and a second dielectric sheet 105b. The first magnet 104a, the first ground layer 103a, the first ferrite substrate 102a, the first conductor layer 101a, the second ferrite substrate 102b, the second ground layer 103b, the first dielectric sheet 105a, the second conductor layer 101b, the second dielectric sheet 105b, the third ground layer 103c, and the second magnet 104b are stacked sequentially along a first direction. The first conductor layer 101a and the second conductor layer 101b are electrically connected through a matching segment 1010.

[0195] Its three-dimensional structure is as follows Figures 41 to 43 As shown, where, Figure 41 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the circulator 10. Figure 42 This is a perspective structural diagram of the circulator 10. Figure 43 for Figure 41 and Figure 42 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the central conductor circuit 11 in the diagram.

[0196] like Figure 43 As shown, the central conductor circuit 11 includes three matching segments, and the first conductor layer 101 and the second conductor layer 101 are connected through the three matching segments.

[0197] Specifically, the three matching segments are matching segment 1010a, matching segment 1010b, and matching segment 1010c. Port 1 and the central junction 111 are connected by a slow-wave structure 112a, matching segment 1010a, and port matching circuit 113a connected in sequence. Port 2 and the central junction 111 are connected by a slow-wave structure 112b, matching segment 1010b, and port matching circuit 113b connected in sequence. Port 3 and the central junction 111 are connected by a slow-wave structure 112c, matching segment 1010c, and port matching circuit 113c connected in sequence.

[0198] In summary, Figure 43 In the example provided, the central junction 111 and the port matching circuit are both located in the same layer (such as the first conductor layer 101), while the slow wave structure 112 is located in another layer (such as the second conductor layer 101). In this way, the area of ​​the conductor layer can be effectively reduced, and the height dimension of the circulator 10 can be reasonably applied to reduce the area of ​​the circulator 10, which is conducive to the miniaturization design of the circulator 10.

[0199] It should be noted that, in Figures 39 to 43 The example provided is exemplified by the circulator 10 being a stripline structure. In other examples, the circulator 10 may also be other types of transmission line structures.

[0200] For example, such as Figure 44 and Figure 45 As shown in the figure, this application embodiment also provides a circulator 10 in the form of a microstrip line structure.

[0201] Among them, Figure 44 In the example provided, the central knot 111 and the slow-wave structure lie in the same plane. Figure 45 In the example provided, the central knot 111 and the slow wave structure are located in different planes.

[0202] Specifically, such as Figure 44 As shown, the central junction 111 and the slow wave structure are located in the same plane. That is, the central junction 111 and the slow wave structure are both located in the same conductor layer 101. The ground layer 103, ferrite substrate 102, conductor layer 101, dielectric sheet 105 and magnet 104 are stacked sequentially along the first direction.

[0203] In addition, such as Figure 45 As shown, the central junction 111 and the slow-wave structure are located in different planes; that is, the central junction 111 is located in the first conductor layer 101a, and the slow-wave structure is located in the second conductor layer 101b. The circulator 10 includes a first conductor layer 101a, a second conductor layer 101b, a first ferrite substrate 102a, a second ferrite substrate 102b, a ground layer 103, a first dielectric sheet 105a, a second dielectric sheet 105b, a first magnet 104a, and a second magnet 104b. The second magnet 104b, the second dielectric sheet 105b, the second conductor layer 101b, the second ferrite substrate 102b, the ground layer 103, the first ferrite substrate 102a, the first conductor layer 101a, the first dielectric sheet 105a, and the first magnet 104a are stacked sequentially along a first direction. The specific structural form of the central conductor circuit 11 can be referred to... Figure 43 Similar settings are implemented, and will not be elaborated upon here.

[0204] It is understood that the above example is an illustrative illustration assuming that the central junction 111 and the slow-wave structure in the central conductor circuit 11 are located in the same conductor layer or different conductor layers. In other examples, the central junction 111, the slow-wave structure, the port matching circuit, and the additional matching circuit in the central conductor circuit 11 may all be located in the same conductor layer, or at least two of them may be located in different conductor layers. In specific applications, the structure type of the central conductor circuit 11 can be reasonably set according to actual needs, which will not be elaborated here.

[0205] In other examples, the circulator 10 may also include other additional structures such as a housing. The type and number of these additional structures included in the circulator 10 can be reasonably configured according to currently commonly used types. That is, the circulator 10 provided in this embodiment only needs to include the aforementioned center conductor circuit equipped with a slow-wave structure.

[0206] In the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terminology and / or descriptions of different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. The technical features of different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationship.

[0207] In this application, "multiple" means two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, or B exists alone, where A and B can be singular or plural.

[0208] It is understood that the various numerical designations used in the embodiments of this application are merely for descriptive convenience and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. The order of the process numbers described above does not imply the order of execution; the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic.

Claims

1. A circulator, characterized in that, It includes a center conductor circuit, which includes a center junction, a slow wave structure, and multiple ports, wherein the center junction is connected to all of the multiple ports. The slow wave structure is connected between at least two of the ports, or the slow wave structure is connected to the central knot and at least one of the ports.

2. The circulator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The slow wave structure includes a first impedance section and a second impedance section, which are periodically arranged along the length direction of the slow wave structure. Wherein, along the length direction of the slow wave structure, the total length of adjacent first impedance parts and second impedance parts is less than 1 / 4λ, where λ is the wavelength corresponding to the highest operating frequency of the circulator.

3. The circulator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The central conductor circuit also includes at least one port matching circuit; At least one of the port matching circuits has a first end connected to the central junction and a second end connected to one of the plurality of ports.

4. The circulator according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first end of the port matching circuit is connected to the central junction through the slow wave structure; or, the second end of the port matching circuit is connected to the port through the slow wave structure.

5. The circulator according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The plurality of ports includes a first port and a second port; The at least one port matching circuit includes a first port matching circuit and a second port matching circuit. The first end of the first port matching circuit is connected to the central junction, and the second end of the first port matching circuit is connected to the first port. The first end of the second port matching circuit is connected to the central junction, and the second end of the second port matching circuit is connected to the second port; The slow-wave structure is connected between the first terminal of the first port matching circuit and the first terminal of the second port matching circuit.

6. The circulator according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The central knot and the slow-wave structure are located in the same plane; or, the central knot is located in a first plane and the slow-wave structure is located in a second plane, with the first plane and the second plane being parallel.

7. The circulator according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The circulator includes a conductor layer, a first ferrite substrate, a first ground layer, a dielectric sheet, and a first magnet; Both the central junction and the slow-wave structure are located within the conductor layer; The first grounding layer, the first ferrite substrate, the conductor layer, the dielectric sheet, and the magnet are stacked sequentially along a first direction.

8. The circulator according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The circulator includes a conductor layer, a first ferrite substrate, a second ferrite substrate, a first ground layer, a second ground layer, a first magnet, and a second magnet; The first magnet, the first grounding layer, the first ferrite substrate, the conductor layer, the second ferrite substrate, the second grounding layer, and the second magnet are stacked sequentially along a first direction.

9. The circulator according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The circulator includes a first conductor layer and a second conductor layer connected to each other; The central junction is located in the first conductor layer, and the slow-wave structure is located in the second conductor layer; The circulator also includes a first ferrite substrate, a second ferrite substrate, a first ground layer, a second ground layer, a third ground layer, a first magnet, a second magnet, a first dielectric sheet, and a second dielectric sheet; The first magnet, the first grounding layer, the first ferrite substrate, the first conductor layer, the second ferrite substrate, the second grounding layer, the first dielectric sheet, the second conductor layer, the second dielectric sheet, the third grounding layer, and the second magnet are stacked sequentially along a first direction.

10. The circulator according to claim 9, characterized in that, The circulator further includes a matching segment, through which the first conductor layer and the second conductor layer are connected; The matching segment extends along the first direction, with one end connected to the first conductor layer and the other end connected to the second conductor layer.

11. The circulator according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The circulator includes a first conductor layer and a second conductor layer connected to each other; The central junction is located in the first conductor layer, and the slow-wave structure is located in the second conductor layer; The circulator also includes a first ferrite substrate, a second ferrite substrate, a grounding layer, a first magnet, a second magnet, a first dielectric sheet, and a second dielectric sheet; The second magnet, the second dielectric sheet, the second conductor layer, the second ferrite substrate, the ground layer, the first ferrite substrate, the first conductor layer, the first dielectric sheet, and the first magnet are stacked sequentially along a first direction.

12. The circulator according to claim 11, characterized in that, The circulator further includes a matching segment, through which the first conductor layer and the second conductor layer are connected; The matching segment extends along the first direction, with one end connected to the first conductor layer and the other end connected to the second conductor layer.

13. A radio frequency module, characterized in that, It includes a radio frequency circuit and a circulator as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the radio frequency circuit is electrically connected to at least one of the ports of the circulator.

14. A communication device, characterized in that, It includes an antenna and a radio frequency module as described in claim 13, wherein the radio frequency module is electrically connected to the antenna.

Images