Method for adjusting a high-frequency power distribution, phase-controlled hybrid coupler, hybrid coupler system and hybrid coupler arrangement

Abstract

The invention relates to a method (100) for adjusting a high-frequency power distribution at two output ports (A3, A4) of a hybrid coupler (16) having two input ports (A1, A2) and two output ports (A3, A4) and three phase shifters (Qphi1, Qphi2, Qphi3), said method (100) comprising: a) generating (102) a first input signal (S1); b) generating (104) a second input signal (S2) that is phase-shifted relative to the first input signal (S1) by a fourth phase angle (phi0); c) coupling (106) the first input signal (S1) into the first input port (A1) and the second input signal (S2) into the second input port (A2); d) adjusting (108) a power distribution of output signals (S3, S4) at the output ports (A3, A4) using one of the phase angles (phi0, phi1, phi2, phi3), and e) out-coupling (110) the first output signal (S3) at the first output port (A3) and the second output signal (S4) at the second output port (A4). The invention also relates to a hybrid coupler (16) designed to carry out the method, to a hybrid coupler system (10), to a hybrid coupler arrangement (18), and to the use thereof.

Description

[0001] METHOD FOR ADJUSTING A HIGH-FREQUENCY POWER DISTRIBUTION, PHASE-CONTROLLED HYBRID COPPER, HYBRID COPPER SYSTEM AND HYBRID COPPER ARRANGEMENT

[0002] Field of invention

[0003] The invention relates to a method for adjusting a high-frequency power distribution, in particular at two output terminals of a hybrid coupler. Furthermore, the invention relates to a phased hybrid coupler, a hybrid coupler system, a hybrid coupler arrangement, and the use of a hybrid coupler arrangement for RF heating, in particular microwave heating, of a body.

[0004] RF refers to high frequency in the range from 80 MHz to preferably 10 GHz. Microwave refers to a frequency range from 300 MHz, preferably also up to 10 GHz.

[0005] Technical background

[0006] In materials processing, the decomposition of a material through controlled heat treatment is becoming increasingly important. However, conventional approaches that use mechanical switches for energy transfer are reaching their limits in terms of component wear and process speed. Particularly when using microwaves, it is necessary to direct them precisely and rapidly to specific areas of the material in order to generate targeted mechanical stresses through alternating heating and cooling, thereby inducing the desired decomposition. Rapid and low-wear switching of the microwave currents is crucial for these processes.

[0007] The invention is based on the objective of providing a concept for processing a material using RF, in particular microwaves, in which RF power, in particular microwave power, is distributed quickly and with minimal wear to different material areas in order to effect a targeted disruption of the material.

[0008] The problem is solved by a method according to claim 1, a phased hybrid coupler according to claim 8, a hybrid coupler system according to claim 10, a hybrid coupler arrangement according to claim 12, and the use of a hybrid coupler arrangement for RF heating, in particular microwave heating, of a body according to claim 13. Some terms of this application are explained below.

[0009] The abbreviation "MW" refers to the term "microwaves".

[0010] One aspect of the invention relates to a method for adjusting a high-frequency power distribution at two output terminals of a, preferably phase-controlled, hybrid coupler.

[0011] The hybrid coupler, preferably the phase-controlled hybrid coupler, comprises two input terminals and two output terminals and three or optionally four phase shifters.

[0012] A phase shifter can be arranged between two adjacent terminals of the hybrid coupler, where "adjacent" means that a signal path exists between the terminals in question.

[0013] In one aspect, the first input port and the first output port are located adjacent to each other.

[0014] In one aspect, the first output port and the second output port are located adjacent to each other.

[0015] In one aspect, the second output port and the second input port are located adjacent to each other.

[0016] One or more phase shifters can be designed as a passive component, such as an inductor, a capacitor, a capacitance, or an RF transmission line section.

[0017] Several components and / or phase shifters can be integrated together. For example, an inductor can be implemented with conductor tracks that are not only magnetically coupled to other conductor tracks, but also coupled via electric fields, thus forming a capacitance.

[0018] Typically, such components will be fixed, meaning they will be implemented as unchanging components. This applies in particular to the first, second, and third phase shifters.

[0019] In certain cases, one or more phase shifters can be individually adjustable. In particular, they can also be adjustable via electrical signals. This applies especially to the fourth phase shifter.

[0020] The method comprises the steps a) generating a first input signal; b) generating a second input signal that is phase-shifted by a fourth phase angle relative to the first input signal; c) coupling the first input signal into the first input terminal and the second input signal into the second input terminal; d) setting a power distribution of output signals at the output terminals by one of the phase angles, wherein the first phase shifter sets a first phase angle between the signals at its two terminals, the second phase shifter sets a second phase angle between the signals at its two terminals, and the third phase shifter sets a third phase angle between the signals at its two terminals; and e) coupling the first output signal out of the first output terminal and the second output signal out of the second output terminal.

[0021] Step d) concerns setting, fixing, or configuring the power distribution at the output terminals of the hybrid coupler by setting, fixing, or configuring one or more phase angles. This phase setting or adjustment determines how the power is divided between the outputs, or, in other words, the ratio of the amounts of power supplied or delivered at the outputs, thus enabling precise control of the power flow.

[0022] Setting a phase angle means that a signal fed into one of the two terminals is phase-shifted by the phase angle along the signal path, with the phase-shifted signal arriving at the other terminal.

[0023] In one aspect, the first phase shifter is located between the first input terminal and the first output terminal.

[0024] In one aspect, the second phase shifter is arranged between the first output terminal and the second output terminal.

[0025] In one aspect, the third phase shifter is located between the second output terminal and the second input terminal.

[0026] One aspect of the invention relates to a phase-controlled hybrid coupler, wherein the hybrid coupler is designed for use of the method described above and comprises two input terminals and two output terminals and three or optionally four phase shifters. A phase shifter can be arranged between two adjacent terminals of the hybrid coupler, where "adjacent" means that a signal path exists between the terminals in question.

[0027] The phase-controlled hybrid coupler provides the technical infrastructure to implement the described phase settings and the resulting power distribution. Preferably, the hybrid coupler includes specific components or features that enable it to control the RF power, particularly microwave power, depending on the set phase(s). Preferably, the phase-controlled hybrid coupler is configured to allow the setting or modification of one or more phase angles, and especially the power distribution, depending on the set phase angles.

[0028] One aspect of the invention relates to a hybrid coupler system comprising a) a hybrid coupler designed for applying the method described above, b) a signal generator for coupling one of the input signals into the input terminals of the hybrid coupler, and c) a controller designed for applying the method described above.

[0029] Preferably, the controller is electrically coupled to the signal generator, the phase shifters and the output terminals and is designed in particular to control the phase angles with respect to a predetermined or specified power distribution of the output signals.

[0030] Preferably, the hybrid coupler system comprises two signal generators for coupling two input signals into the input terminals of the hybrid coupler.

[0031] One aspect of the invention relates to a hybrid coupler arrangement comprising parallel and / or series connected phased hybrid couplers or hybrid coupler systems.

[0032] One aspect of the invention relates to the use of a hybrid coupler arrangement for RF heating, in particular microwave heating, of a body, wherein RF heating, in particular microwave power, is coupled into areas of the body to be irradiated, and no RF heating, in particular no microwave power, is coupled into areas not to be irradiated. RF heating can, for example, be implemented in the form of dielectric heating. A power distribution at the outputs of the hybrid coupler arrangement, in which the full RF or microwave power is coupled to one output, is described below.MW power and zero power at the other output can be achieved, for example, by a configuration in which the hybrid coupler arrangement includes a phased hybrid coupler in which one of the input signals is phase-shifted by 90° relative to the other input signal, the first, second and third phase angles are each 90° and the amplitudes of the input signals are equal.

[0033] Preferably, the phase shift of 90° between the input signals can be achieved by providing an input signal through an RF or MW generator, wherein i) the input signal is split into a first and a second input signal and one of the input signals is phase-shifted by 90° relative to the other input signal by a fourth phase shifter, or ii) a further input signal, which is phase-shifted by 90° relative to the input signal, is provided by a further RF or MW generator.

[0034] The mechanisms and effects associated with the described aspects of the invention are explained in more detail below.

[0035] The concept of the invention enables efficient and low-wear or wear-free control of RF power, in particular microwave power, for focused material processing when the phase angles are adjusted so that full power is selectively delivered from a specific output, while the other output delivers no power. This phase angle adjustment can, for example, be a setting of all phase angles to 90°.

[0036] By controlling and rapidly switching the full RF power, especially microwave power, to different outputs of the hybrid coupler, the material in the desired areas can be cyclically heated and cooled. This thermal treatment can generate mechanical stresses that lead to material degradation without the need for mechanical RF or MW switching elements. This concept offers significant advantages in terms of reliability and cost, as wear and maintenance are reduced.

[0037] If the phase angles are set to values ​​where one output does not deliver full power while the other delivers little power (for example, to values ​​other than 90°), a differentiated and / or gradual adjustment of the RF power, particularly microwave power, via the output terminals can be achieved by precisely adjusting the phase angles. Precise control of the power distribution can improve processing quality and efficiency, especially in processes requiring fine-tuning, consistency, and / or homogeneity of the power input.

[0038] A continuous adjustment of the RF power, especially microwave power, via the output terminals, which enables precise dosing and a spatially continuous distribution of the microwave power, can be advantageous in a variety of processes.

[0039] In material processing, for example when cutting or welding plastics or other heat-sensitive materials, overheating or uneven processing can be avoided.

[0040] - In chemical reaction processes, targeted control of the reactions and thus an increase in process efficiency can be made possible.

[0041] The invention will now be explained in more detail using exemplary embodiments and with reference to the drawing, which shows:

[0042] Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a phase-controlled hybrid coupler and a flowchart of a method for adjusting a power distribution at two output terminals of the hybrid coupler;

[0043] Fig. a1a, b Schematic representation of embodiments of a phased hybrid coupler;

[0044] Fig. 2 shows a method for adjusting a power distribution at two output terminals of a hybrid coupler in a block diagram;

[0045] Fig. 3a-3d Schematic representations of embodiments of a hybrid coupler system;

[0046] Fig. 4a-4c Schematic representations of a hybrid coupler arrangement;

[0047] Fig. 5 shows a time-dependent distribution of the RF or MW power at the outputs of a hybrid coupler arrangement according to Fig. 4a; and

[0048] Figs. 6a-6d show a time sequence of the output signals of the hybrid coupler arrangement according to Fig. 4a.

[0049] The various embodiments, one or more examples of which are shown in each figure, are explained in more detail below. Each embodiment can be combined with any other embodiment, provided this is technically feasible and / or permissible. Features shown or described as part of one embodiment can be used in or together with another embodiment to obtain a further embodiment. In the subsequent description of the drawings, identical reference numerals refer to identical or similar elements.

[0050] Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a phase-controlled hybrid coupler 16 and a flowchart of a method 100 for adjusting a power distribution at two output terminals A3, A4 of the hybrid coupler 16. This is explained in more detail below, particularly in connection with Fig. 1a and Fig. 2.

[0051] Fig. 1a shows a first embodiment of a phased hybrid coupler 16 in schematic representation as in Fig. 1 on the left.

[0052] The hybrid coupler 16 comprises: i) a first input terminal Al, a second input terminal A2, a first output terminal A3, a second output terminal A4 and ii) three phase shifters Qphil, Qphi2, Qphi3, namely a first phase shifter Qphil, a second phase shifter Qphi2 and a third phase shifter Qphi3.

[0053] Each phase shifter Qphil, Qphi2, Qphi3 is arranged between two adjacent terminals Al, A2, A3, A4, wherein the first phase shifter Qphil sets a first phase angle phil between the signals of its two terminals, the second phase shifter Qphi2 sets a second phase angle phi2 between the signals of its two terminals, and the third phase shifter Qphi3 sets a third phase angle phi3 between the signals of its two terminals.

[0054] A first input signal S1 can be supplied to the first input terminal Al.

[0055] A second input signal S2 can be supplied to the second input terminal A2.

[0056] A first output signal S3 can be routed from the first output terminal A3.

[0057] A second output signal S4 can be routed from the second output terminal A4.

[0058] The generation of a second input signal S2, which is phase-shifted by a fourth phase angle phiO relative to the first input signal S1, takes place here outside the hybrid coupler 16.

[0059] Fig. 1b shows a second embodiment of a phase-controlled hybrid coupler 16 in schematic representation. In contrast to Fig. 1a, only one signal S1 is supplied here. For this purpose, a further phase shifter QphiO is arranged between the first input terminal Al and the second input terminal A2. This allows a fourth phase angle phiO to be set between the first input terminal Al and the second input terminal A2, thus generating a second input signal S2 that is phase-shifted by a fourth phase angle phiO relative to the first input signal S1.

[0060] Fig. 2 shows a block diagram of a method 100 according to the invention for adjusting a high-frequency power distribution at two output terminals A3, A4 of a hybrid coupler 16, as in Fig. 1 on the right-hand side.

[0061] Method 100 comprises the following steps: a) generating 102 a first input signal Sl; b) generating 104 a second input signal S2 phase-shifted by a fourth phase angle phiO relative to the first input signal Sl; c) coupling 106 the first input signal Sl into the first input terminal Al and the second input signal S2 into the second input terminal A2;d) Setting 108 a power distribution of output signals S3, S4 at the output terminals A3, A4 by one of the phase angles phiO, phil, phi2, phi3, wherein the first phase shifter Qphil sets a first phase angle phil between the signals of its two terminals, the second phase shifter Qphi2 sets a second phase angle phi2 between the signals of its two terminals, and the third phase shifter Qphi3 sets a third phase angle phi3 between the signals of its two terminals, and e) Coupling 110 the first output signal S3 at the first output terminal A3 and the second output signal S4 at the second output terminal A4.;

[0062] Step a) enables the initialization of the procedure 100 by providing the first input signal for the hybrid coupler 16. The signal Sl represents the input material for the RF or MW power taken from the output terminals.

[0063] Step b) provides further input material for the RF or MW power drawn from output terminals A3 and A4, creating the conditions for controlled interference of the signals within the coupler and contributing to the desired distribution of the output power. Step c) ensures the physical injection of the two phase-shifted signals into the hybrid coupler 16, which is a prerequisite for the subsequent processing and distribution of the signals to the output terminals.

[0064] Step d) determines how the input signals are combined and distributed to the output terminals, which is another component for the controlled interference of the signals within the coupler and for controlling the RF or MW power available at each output.

[0065] Step e) ensures that the phase angles set according to the desired specifications and the corresponding output signals are available for further applications or processes.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the output signals S3 and S4 can be used for heating or to generate a heating effect, thereby preferably enabling targeted heat input. By controlling the phase angles and the resulting power distribution, specific areas of the material can be selectively heated, or heated and unheated areas can alternate at a predetermined operating frequency.

[0067] The ability to quickly switch the RF power, particularly MW power, between different power levels, preferably between 0% and 100%, enables efficient material processing, especially for material splitting or comminution. Furthermore, the use of RF power, particularly microwave power, for heating is generally safer than conventional heating methods using open flames or hot surfaces and reduces the risk of fires and other accidents in industrial environments.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the first input signal S 1 can be generated by a signal generator 12. Advantageously, the signal generator provides a signal source for the hybrid coupler 16 and forms the basis for the subsequent power distribution to the output terminals of the hybrid coupler 16.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the second input signal S2, which is phase-shifted relative to the first input signal S1 by a fourth phase angle phiO, can be generated by the signal generator 12 in a first operating mode. This advantageously allows the use of a simpler and / or more cost-effective hybrid coupler 16, wherein the fourth phase angle phiO is determined and / or set externally, i.e., in the signal generator 12. According to another embodiment, the second input signal S2, which is phase-shifted relative to the first input signal S1 by a fourth phase angle phiO, can be generated from the first input signal S1 in a second operating mode via a fourth phase shifter QphiO of the hybrid coupler 16 arranged between the input terminals Al, A2. This arrangement advantageously enables integrated signal processing within and autonomous operation of the hybrid coupler 16.

[0070] Fig. 1a shows an embodiment of a phase-controlled hybrid coupler 16 according to the invention, designed for use of the method 100 in the first operating mode, and Fig. 1b shows an embodiment of a phase-controlled hybrid coupler 16 according to the invention, designed for use of the method 100 in the second operating mode.

[0071] The hybrid coupler 16 shown in Fig. 1a can be designed to process two input signals generated by two signal generators 12, namely the first input signal S1 and the second input signal S2. The two input signals S1 and S2 have a phase shift relative to each other equal to the fourth phase angle φO. This makes it possible to define and / or adjust the fourth phase angle φO externally, i.e., in the signal generator 12, which advantageously allows for a simpler and / or more cost-effective design of the hybrid coupler 16.

[0072] The hybrid coupler 16 shown in Fig. 1b can be designed to process a single input signal generated by a single signal generator 12, namely the first input signal Sl, wherein a fourth phase shifter QphiO is arranged between the input terminals Al and A2. This phase shifter causes a second input signal S2 to be generated at the second input terminal A2 from the first input signal Sl coupled into the first input terminal Al, with the second input signal S2 being phase-shifted relative to the first input signal Sl by a fourth phase angle phiO. This arrangement advantageously enables integrated signal processing in the hybrid coupler 16 and its autonomous operation.

[0073] In both embodiments of the phase-controlled hybrid coupler 16 shown in Fig. 1a, 1b, the first phase shifter Qphil can be arranged between the first and the third terminals Al, A3, which are adjacent, the second phase shifter Qphi2 can be arranged between the third and the fourth terminals A3, A4, which are adjacent, and the third phase shifter Qphil can be arranged between the fourth and the second terminals A4, A2, which are adjacent.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the hybrid coupler 16 can comprise a branchline coupler. Such a hybrid coupler 16 comprises four phase shifters Qphi0-Qphi3 with phase angles phi0-phi3 of 90° each. If the input signals Al, A2 have a phase difference of 90 degrees to each other and the same amplitude, advantageous effects can be achieved with the branchline coupler:

[0075] - All input power is concentrated at one of the outputs because the 90-degree phase difference between the input signals causes constructive interference at that output. This results in the combined power of the two signals being completely delivered at that output.

[0076] - At the same time, the phase difference causes destructive interference at the opposite output, meaning that no power is delivered at this output. The signals are canceled out at this output.

[0077] The branch line coupler is also particularly advantageous because it is an inexpensive mass-produced product.

[0078] Figures 3a-3d show embodiments of a hybrid coupler system 10 according to the invention. The hybrid coupler system 10 comprises: a) a hybrid coupler 16 designed for use in the method 100, b) a signal generator 12 for coupling an input signal SI, S2 into the input terminals A1, A2 of the hybrid coupler 16, and c) a controller 14 designed for use in the method 100, wherein the controller 14 is preferably electrically coupled to the signal generator 12, the phase shifters Qphi0-Qphi3 and the output terminals A3, A4 and is particularly configured to control the phase angles phi0, phi1, phi2, phi3 with respect to a predetermined power distribution of the output signals S3, S4.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the hybrid coupler system 10 can have several signal generators 12 designed to couple an input signal SI, S2 into the input terminals Al, A2 of the hybrid coupler 16.

[0080] In particular, a first signal generator 12 can be designed and connected in such a way that it is suitable for coupling a first input signal S1 into the first input terminal Al of the hybrid coupler 16 and a second signal generator 12 can be designed and connected in such a way that it is suitable for coupling a second input signal S2 into the second input terminal A2 of the hybrid coupler 16.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the controller 14 can be designed as a neural network, as a fuzzy system, or as a hybrid neuro-fuzzy system.

[0082] A controller 14, configured as a neural network, can learn complex patterns and relationships in the input and output signals, enabling the system to adapt to changing operating conditions and adjust the phase settings accordingly to control the power distribution.

[0083] A controller 14 configured as a fuzzy system can effectively process fuzzy or imprecise input data while still delivering stable and accurate output data. Fuzzy systems are useful for handling uncertainties and implementing human-like decision-making processes in signal processing and phase control.

[0084] A controller 14, configured as a neuro-fuzzy system, combines the advantages of both approaches. Such a system can learn to adapt and simultaneously handle fuzzy data, enabling high adaptability in dynamic and complex operating environments.

[0085] These controller configurations improve the ability of the hybrid coupler system 10 to precisely control power distribution and adapt to a variety of operating conditions and requirements, resulting in higher system performance and reliability.

[0086] According to the embodiments shown in Figs. 3a and 3c, the hybrid coupler systems 10 can be designed to apply the first operating mode of the method 100, wherein the second input signal S2, which is phase-shifted by a fourth phase angle phiO relative to the first input signal S1, is generated by the signal generator 12, which also generates the first input signal S1. For this purpose, a fourth phase shifter QphiO is provided, which can generate 104 a second input signal S2 that is phase-shifted by a fourth phase angle phiO relative to the first input signal S1.

[0087] According to the embodiments shown in Fig. 3b, 3d, the hybrid coupler systems 10 can be designed for the application of the second operating mode of the method 100, wherein the second input signal S2, which is phase-shifted by a fourth phase angle phiO relative to the first input signal S1, is generated from the first input signal S1 via a fourth phase shifter QphiO of the hybrid coupler 16 arranged between the input terminals Al, A2.

[0088] According to the embodiment shown in Fig. 3a, the hybrid coupler system 10 can include a controller 14 connected to the signal generator 12 for controlling parameters such as power and frequency, and to the fourth phase shifter QphiO for controlling the fourth phase angle phiO with respect to the RF or MW power distribution at the output terminals A3 and A4. The remaining phase angles phi1 and phi3 are preset to values ​​determined, for example, by offline simulation or optimization.

[0089] According to the embodiment shown in Fig. 3b, the hybrid coupler system 10 can include a controller 14 connected to both signal generators 12 to control the fourth phase angle phiO with respect to the RF or MW power distribution at the output terminals A3, A4, as well as parameters such as power and frequency. The remaining phase angles phi1-phi3 are preset to values ​​determined, for example, by simulation or optimization.

[0090] According to the embodiments shown in Fig. 3c, 3d, the hybrid coupler system 10 can include a controller 14 which is connected to the signal generator 12 or signal generator modules for controlling parameters such as power, frequency and the four or three phase shifters Qphi0-Qphi3 for controlling the available phase angles phi0-phi3 with respect to the RF or MW power distribution at the output terminals A3, A4.

[0091] The combined design of signal generator 12 and hybrid coupler 16 in a hybrid coupler system 10 reduces the complexity of the external signal paths and reduces possible interference or signal losses that may occur during transmission via external lines.

[0092] The use of a controller 14, which is electrically coupled to the signal generator 12, the phase shifters Qphi0-Qphi3, and the output terminals, enables centralized control of all critical system components. This helps to precisely control the phase angles phi0-phi3 and the power distribution, and to effectively distribute the input signals to the output terminals.

[0093] These elements of the hybrid coupler system 10 contribute to the efficient application of the method 100 for adjusting the RF or MW power distribution, which is crucial for effective material processing. According to one embodiment, a signal generator 12, and in particular several signal generators 12, can each be designed to provide an RF power, in particular an RF or MW power, of at least 3 kW, in particular at least 6 kW, and most preferably at least 18 kW.

[0094] In order to provide such a particularly high RF power, especially microwave power, a signal generator 12 can have several signal generator modules whose output powers are interconnected via a power coupler.

[0095] According to one embodiment, several, in particular all, signal generators 12 and / or signal generator modules can have a semiconductor-based power amplifier, also called a "solid-state amplifier", i.e., for example, a transistor-based amplifier. This makes it particularly easy to change and precisely adjust the phase.

[0096] In one aspect, at least one, indeed every, semiconductor-based power amplifier features an LDMOS transistor. These transistors are considered particularly robust and are especially efficient at the frequencies mentioned above.

[0097] In one aspect, the transistor is a GaN-based transistor. During the development phase, it became apparent that such transistors are particularly well-suited for this application because they are especially suitable for high frequencies and high temperatures.

[0098] At least one, and in fact every, semiconductor-based power amplifier has one common feature: at least two transistors, especially those connected in a push-pull configuration. This allows for the construction of highly efficient power amplifiers.

[0099] In one aspect, at least one, indeed every, semiconductor-based power amplifier has at least one balun. This allows power amplifiers to be built with very low weight and improved efficiency.

[0100] At least one, indeed every, semiconductor-based power amplifier has one feature: at least one impedance matching circuit. This reduces reflections and improves the efficiency of the power amplifiers.

[0101] In one aspect, at least one, and in particular every, semiconductor-based power amplifier has at least one circulator. This reduces negative effects from reflections. In another aspect, at least one, and in particular every, semiconductor-based power amplifier has at least one attenuator designed to absorb more power at at least one, and in particular several, frequencies different from the operating frequency range than at the operating frequency range.

[0102] According to one embodiment, several, in particular all, signal generator modules can be controlled via a common controller 14.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the signal generators 12 and / or signal generator modules can be synchronized with a clock generator, thereby enabling them to be synchronized in phase, either partially in groups or preferably all at once. The clock frequency can be below the high frequency, for example, in the range of 10 MHz to 40 MHz. Subsequently, the signal generators 12 and / or signal generator modules with integrated phase shifters can adjust the phase references.

[0104] Figures 4a-4c show embodiments of a hybrid coupler arrangement 18 according to the invention. The hybrid coupler arrangement 18 comprises parallel and / or series connected i) phase-controlled hybrid couplers 16 or ii) hybrid coupler systems 10.

[0105] RF antennas, in particular microwave antennas 2, are connected to the outputs of the hybrid couplers 16 and / or hybrid coupler systems 10.

[0106] According to the embodiment shown in Fig. 4b, 4c, the hybrid coupler arrangement 18 can comprise two or more hybrid couplers 16 connected in parallel.

[0107] According to the embodiment shown in Fig. 4b, the hybrid coupler arrangement 18 can comprise two or more parallel connected units of two hybrid couplers 16 each, each of which is part of a hybrid coupler system 10.

[0108] According to the embodiment shown in Fig. 4c, the hybrid coupler arrangement 18 can comprise a parallel circuit consisting of i) a hybrid coupler system 10 connected in series with two hybrid couplers 16, and ii) a hybrid coupler 16.

[0109] The configuration with series or parallel connection of several hybrid couplers 16 and / or hybrid coupler systems 10 enables high scalability and flexibility of the RF or MW power to be provided, which can be distributed to several outputs by parallel connection, while series connection improves the fine-tuning of the power distribution between the outputs. Fig. 5 shows a time distribution of the RF or MW power at the output terminals or at the RF or microwave antennas 2 of a hybrid coupler arrangement 18 according to the invention as shown in Fig. 4a, and Figs. 6a to 6d show a time course of the output signals of the hybrid coupler arrangement 18 according to the invention as shown in Fig. 4a.

[0110] The hybrid coupler arrangement 18 according to Fig. 4a can comprise two or more hybrid couplers 16, the illustration in Figs. 5 and 6a-d assuming two hybrid couplers 16. The output terminals A3, A4 of the first hybrid coupler are labelled "F", "G" and the output terminals A3, A4 of the second hybrid coupler are labelled "H", "I".

[0111] The hybrid couplers 16 in the hybrid coupler arrangement 18, which is based on Fig. 5 and Fig. 6a-d, can be designed as branch line couplers, wherein the input signals Al, A2 have a phase difference of 90 degrees to each other and have the same amplitude.

[0112] The relationships shown in Figs. 5 and 6a-d illustrate the use of a hybrid coupler arrangement 18 for RF heating, in particular microwave heating, of a body that is divided into several areas F, G, H, I to be irradiated. Areas of the body to be irradiated, into which RF power, in particular microwave power, is coupled, are shown, as are areas not to be irradiated, into which no RF power, in particular no microwave power, is coupled.

[0113] According to one embodiment, irradiated and non-irradiated areas can alternate at a predetermined operating frequency. This allows for particularly precise temperature control.

[0114] Figures 6a and 6b show the time profiles of the powers PF and PI, and Figures 6c and 6d show the time profiles of the powers PG and PH. In Figure 5, the irradiated areas are shown as white rectangles and the unirradiated areas as hatched rectangles. Here, it is shown that the power PF hits area F, the power PG hits area G, the power PH hits area H, and the power PI hits area I. The spatial arrangement of the hybrid couplers 16 in the hybrid coupler arrangement 18 is chosen such that the output terminals are arranged in a square. This means that the RF waves, especially microwaves, emitted from the output terminals strike a surface, e.g., a square material surface, which encompasses the alternately irradiated and unirradiated areas. According to one embodiment, the antennas 2 can also be arranged in another regular structure, e.g.,be arranged in a hexagonal honeycomb structure.

[0115] According to one embodiment, the antennas 2 can also be arranged in an irregular structure and / or a structure according to the laws of chaos theory.

[0116] According to one embodiment, the number of antennas 2 can also have a value greater than 4, in particular at least 16, preferably at least 30.

[0117] Figures 5 and 6a-d show that the quadrants of the irradiated area alternately receive full or zero RF or MW power. This causes the quadrants of the irradiated area to be alternately heated and cooled, generating mechanical stresses that bring about the desired decomposition of the material.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the power distribution of the output signals S3, S4 can be adjusted by setting the phase angles phi0-phi3, preferably as a function of the output signals S3, S4. This advantageously enables dynamic control of the power distribution at the output terminals, with the variability of the phase angle positions allowing for increased flexibility in the configuration of the hybrid coupler 16.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the phase angles phi0-phi3 can be adjusted in real time during the operation of the hybrid coupler 16. This advantageously allows the settings to react immediately to changes in the system, increasing flexibility and being particularly important in dynamic environments where operating conditions can change.

[0120] According to one embodiment, the phase angles phi0-phi3 can be set offline during an operational simulation of the hybrid coupler 16. This advantageously allows for a pre-determination of the phase settings with regard to the desired power distribution at the outputs of the hybrid coupler 16, which contributes to risk reduction and increased operational efficiency.

[0121] During an operational simulation, individual, and in particular multiple, real-world conditions, such as parasitic elements, can be taken into account. Parasitic elements can be, for example, parasitic inductances, parasitic capacitances, and / or parasitic resistive elements. According to one embodiment, the operational simulation of the hybrid coupler 16 can include an optimization in which the magnitude of any deviation of the output signals S3, S4 from predetermined output signals S3, S4 is minimized as a function of the phase angles phiO-phi3. This advantageously enables a predetermination of the phase angles for the most effective configuration with regard to the desired RF or MW power distribution at the outputs of the hybrid coupler 16 or the hybrid coupler system 10, which increases the system performance and reliability of the hybrid coupler 16 or the hybrid coupler system 10.If necessary, the values ​​of the phase angles phi0-phi3 obtained through optimization can serve as starting values ​​for the online control of the phase angles phi0-phi3, enabling faster and more efficient adaptation to the actual operating conditions and requirements.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the output signals S3 and S4 can be monitored. This advantageously allows direct feedback of data about the actual power distribution at the output and helps to ensure that deviations from the desired signal parameters are detected immediately, enabling rapid correction to adapt the signal output to the intended specifications.

[0123] According to one embodiment, the output signals S3 and S4 can be used via a feedback mechanism for dynamically adjusting the phase angles phi0-phi3 to control the power distribution of the output signals S3 and S4 in real time. This advantageously enables autonomous, automatic, and / or immediate adaptation to real operating conditions, including, for example, external disturbances, temperature fluctuations, or changes in load conditions, and avoids power losses or disruptions in the operating sequence.

[0124] According to one embodiment, the phase angles phi0-phi3 can be monitored and / or adjusted by means of a system master controller. This advantageously enables centralized control and fine-tuning of the phase angles to achieve desired power distributions at the output terminals A3 and A4, in order to respond to changing operating conditions or specific system requirements.

[0125] According to one embodiment, the phase angles phi0-phi3 can be set at an operating frequency of more than 1 MHz, which preferably allows switching of the output power between terminals A3 and A4 at the operating frequency. This advantageously enables short heating cycles and can be beneficial for materials where rapid temperature changes are required to bring about certain physical or chemical changes, and / or can prevent local overheating.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the phase angles phi0-phi3 can be set at an operating frequency of less than 1 Hz, which preferably allows switching of the output power between terminals A3 and A4 at the operating frequency. This enables long heating cycles and can be advantageous for materials with high density or complex geometries where deep heat penetration into the material is desired.

[0127] According to one embodiment, the phase shifters Qphi0-Qphi3 can be electronically controlled or regulated and preferably digitally or analogously adjusted or adapted. This advantageously enables wear-free, fast and / or precise adjustment of the phase shifters Qphi0-Qphi3.

[0128] According to one embodiment, the phase shifters Qphi0-Qphi3 can be initialized at the start of operation, preferably by an operating simulation of the hybrid coupler 16, in order to achieve a predetermined power distribution under no-load conditions. This allows, on the one hand, calibration of the phase shifters before the system enters active operation, and on the other hand, reduces the need for adjustments to the phase angles phi0-phi3, thus advantageously enabling more precise control or, if necessary, eliminating the need for control altogether, resulting in cost savings.

[0129] According to one embodiment, several hybrid couplers 16 can be connected in series or parallel to enable the distribution of RF power, in particular microwave power, to more than two outputs. This allows the RF power, in particular microwave power, to be distributed to a larger number of outputs, thus advantageously enabling the processing of larger material areas.

[0130] According to one embodiment, the phase angles phi0-phi4 can be realized by discrete phase-shifting elements such as inductors, capacitors, and / or conductor elements. This enables stable adjustment of the phase angles and / or a robust implementation of the phase control mechanism, which is advantageously less susceptible to interference from software errors.

[0131] According to one embodiment, impedance matching, preferably to 50 Ω, can be performed at terminals Al-A4 at the operating frequency. This allows for the avoidance of power losses and / or the increase of system performance and is advantageous in applications requiring precise control of power distribution.

[0132] According to one embodiment, the method 100 and / or the hybrid coupler system 10 can be advantageously used for a microwave heating device and / or for a microwave-assisted processing device, as described in the unpublished patent application PCT / EP2024 / 060087, filed on April 12, 2024, entitled: “Microwave heating device for a microwave-assisted processing device and use thereof”. The aforementioned application is incorporated in its entirety by reference into the present application.

[0133] By controlled and rapid switching of the full RF power, particularly microwave power, to different outputs of the hybrid coupler, the material can be cyclically heated and cooled in the desired areas, as described in PCT / EP2024 / 060087. This thermal treatment can generate mechanical stresses that lead to the degradation of the material without the need for mechanical RF or MW switching elements. This concept offers significant advantages in terms of reliability and cost, as wear and maintenance are reduced.

[0134] According to one embodiment, one or more hybrid couplers 16, as described in one of the following documents, can be used:

[0135] DE 20 2010 016 850 Ul, DE 20 2010 016 732 Ul, DE 10 2011 086 557 B4, WO 2005 / 027258 Al, EP 1 699 107 Al, DE 10 2010 002 753 B4, DE 10 2015 212 233 Al, shall be further developed in accordance with the properties described herein.

Claims

Claims 1. Method (100) for adjusting a high-frequency power distribution at two output terminals (A3, A4) of a hybrid coupler (16), wherein the hybrid coupler (16) comprises: i) a first input terminal (Al), a second input terminal (A2), a first output terminal (A3), a second output terminal (A4) and ii) three phase shifters (Qphil, Qphi2, Qphi3), the method (100) comprising: a) generating (102) a first input signal (Sl); b) generating (104) a second input signal (S2) phase-shifted relative to the first input signal (Sl) by a fourth phase angle (phiO); c) coupling (106) the first input signal (Sl) into the first input terminal (Al) and the second input signal (S2) into the second input terminal (A2);d) Setting (108) a power distribution of output signals (S3, S4) at the output terminals (A3, A4) by a phase angle (phiO, phil, phi2, phi3), wherein the first phase shifter (Qphil) sets a first phase angle (phil) between the signals of its two terminals, the second phase shifter (Qphi2) sets a second phase angle (phi2) between the signals of its two terminals, and the third phase shifter (Qphi3) sets a third phase angle (phi3) between the signals of its two terminals, and e) coupling (110) the first output signal (S3) at the first output terminal (A3) and the second output signal (S4) at the second output terminal (A4).

2. Method (100) according to claim 1, wherein the output signals (S3, S4) are used for heating; and / or the first input signal (Sl) is generated by a signal generator (12); and / or the generation of a second input signal (S2) phase-shifted by a fourth phase angle (phiO) relative to the first input signal (Sl) is carried out in a first operating mode by the signal generator (12) or in a second operating mode from the first input signal (Sl) by means of a fourth phase shifter (QphiO) of the hybrid coupler (16) arranged between the input terminals (Al, A2).

3. Method (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the adjustment of the power distribution of the output signals (S3, S4) is carried out by adjusting the phase angles (phi0-phi3), preferably as a function of the output signals (S3, S4); and / or the adjustment of the phase angles (phi0-phi3) is carried out in real time during the operation of the hybrid coupler (16) or offline during an operating simulation of the hybrid coupler (16).

4. Method (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the operational simulation of the hybrid coupler (16) comprises an optimization in which the amount of a deviation of the output signals (S3, S4) from predetermined output signals (S03, S04) is minimized as a function of the phase angles (phi0-phi3); and / or the output signals (S3, S4) are monitored and / or are used by means of a feedback mechanism for the dynamic adjustment of the phase angles (phi0-phi3) for real-time control of the power distribution of the output signals (S3, S4).

5. Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the phase angles (phi0-phi3) are monitored and / or adjusted by means of a system master controller; and / or the phase angles (phi0-phi3) are adjusted with an operating frequency of more than 1 MHz or less than 1 Hz, which preferably enables switching of the output power between the terminals (A3, A4) with the operating frequency; and / or the phase angles (phi0-phi4) are realized by means of discrete phase-shifting elements, such as inductors, capacitors and / or line elements.

6. Method (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the phase shifters (Qphi0-Qphi3) are electronically controlled or regulated, and preferably digitally or analogously adjusted or adapted; and / or the phase shifters (Qphi0-Qphi3) are initialized at the start of operation, preferably by an operating simulation of the hybrid coupler (16) to achieve a predefined power distribution under no-load conditions.

7. Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein several hybrid couplers (16) are connected in series or in parallel to enable distribution of the RF power, in particular microwave power, to more than two outputs; and / or impedance matching, preferably to 50 Q, is performed at the terminals (Al -A4) at the operating frequency.

8. Phase-controlled hybrid coupler (16), wherein the hybrid coupler (16) is designed for applying the method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, the hybrid coupler (16) comprising: i) a first input terminal (A1), a second input terminal (A2), a first output terminal (A3), a second output terminal (A4), and ii) three phase shifters (Q1, Q1, Q1, Q1, Q1, Q1, Q1, each phase shifter (Q1, Q ...

9. Phase-controlled hybrid coupler (16) according to the preceding claim 8, wherein the hybrid coupler (16) comprises a branch line coupler.

10. Phase-controlled hybrid coupler (16) according to one of claims 8 or 9, wherein the first input terminal (Al) and the first output terminal (A3) are arranged adjacent to each other.

11. Phase-controlled hybrid coupler (16) according to one of claims 8 - 10, wherein the first output terminal (A3) and the second output terminal (A4) are arranged adjacent to each other.

12. Phase-controlled hybrid coupler (16) according to one of claims 8 - 11, wherein the second output terminal (A4) and the second input terminal (a2) are arranged adjacent to each other.

13. Phase-controlled hybrid coupler (16) according to one of claims 8 - 12, wherein the first phase shifter (Qphil) is arranged between the first input terminal (Al) and the first output terminal (A3).

14. Phase-controlled hybrid coupler (16) according to one of claims 8 - 13, wherein the second phase shifter (Qphi2) is arranged between the first output terminal (A3) and the second output terminal (A4).

15. Phase-controlled hybrid coupler (16) according to one of claims 8 - 14, wherein the third phase shifter (Qphi3) is arranged between the second output terminal (A4) and the second input terminal (A2).

16. Hybrid coupler system (10) comprising: a) a phase-controlled hybrid coupler (16) according to any one of the preceding claims 8-15; b) a signal generator (12) for coupling an input signal (SI, S2) into the input terminals (Al, A2) of the hybrid coupler (16); and c) a controller (14) designed for applying the method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein preferably the controller (14) is electrically coupled to the signal generator (12), the phase shifters and the output terminals (A3, A4) and is particularly configured to control the phase angles (phiO, phil, phi2, phi3) with respect to a predetermined power distribution of the output signals (S3, S4).

17. Hybrid coupler system (10) according to the preceding claim 16, wherein the controller (14) is configured as a neural network, as a fuzzy system or as a hybrid neuro-fuzzy system.

18. Hybrid coupler arrangement (18) comprising parallel and / or series connected phased hybrid couplers (16) according to any one of claims 8 - 15, or hybrid coupler systems (10) according to any one of claims 16 or 17.

19. Use of a hybrid coupler arrangement (18) according to claim 18 for RF heating, in particular microwave heating, of a body, wherein RF power, in particular microwave power, is coupled into areas of the body to be irradiated, and no corresponding power is coupled into areas not to be irradiated.

20. Use according to the preceding claim 19, wherein irradiated and non-irradiated areas alternate at a predetermined operating frequency.

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