2D Grid Phase Shifter for Multi-Port Antenna Feeding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing phase shifters based on one-dimensional transmission lines face challenges with increased wiring complexity, reduced flexibility, and performance degradation in large-scale sensor networks and array antennas due to complex feeding networks.
Innovation Solution
A phase shifter design utilizing a two-dimensional transmission line with a grid-patterned metal electrode layer and transparent conductive portions, allowing electromagnetic waves to propagate in two dimensions, utilizing a dielectric layer that changes phase through applied bias voltage, and featuring multiple coupling ports for simultaneous phase shifting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a one-dimensional transmission line is used for phase shifting, then the structure is simple, but the wiring complexity increases and flexibility is reduced in large-scale applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional one-dimensional transmission lines to a two-dimensional transmission line structure. The grid-patterned metal electrode layer and transparent conductive portions are arranged in two dimensions, allowing electromagnetic waves to propagate in multiple directions simultaneously. This dimensional change enables signal distribution to multiple coupling ports without requiring complex one-dimensional wiring networks, thereby reducing wiring complexity while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The two-dimensional transmission line structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the transmission medium and the signal distribution network. The grid pattern allows the same structure to couple signals to multiple ports in different directions, eliminating the need for separate feeding networks and making the device adaptable to various large-scale array configurations.
2Ease of manufacture
If a one-dimensional transmission line is used for phase shifting, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the flexibility and adaptability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By arranging the metal electrode layer and transparent conductive portions in a two-dimensional grid pattern, the structure gains spatial flexibility. The grid can be scaled and configured to match different array sizes and geometries, allowing the same basic structure to adapt to various application scenarios without requiring complete redesign, thus maintaining ease of manufacture while improving adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The grid pattern allows different regions of the transmission line to be optimized for different functions. Specific areas can be adjusted to prioritize signal transmission in certain directions or to accommodate different coupling port requirements, enabling local optimization while maintaining the overall simplicity of the manufacturing process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple coupling ports are added for simultaneous phase shifting, then the versatility increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The two-dimensional grid structure naturally supports multiple coupling ports by providing signal distribution paths in multiple directions simultaneously. Unlike one-dimensional structures that require sequential signal distribution, the two-dimensional grid allows electromagnetic waves to reach multiple ports through spatial distribution, adding multi-port capability without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the transmission function and the signal distribution function into a single two-dimensional grid structure. The same metal electrode layer and transparent conductive portions that transmit signals also serve as the distribution network to multiple coupling ports, eliminating the need for separate components and reducing overall device complexity despite the enhanced multi-port capability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The two-dimensional phase shifter offers enhanced flexibility, simplicity, and reduced manufacturing costs, enabling efficient signal coupling and phase shifting across multiple ports, suitable for large-area applications.
Implementation Method 1
a dielectric layer between the first base substrate and the second base substrate
Implementation Method 2
a phase shifter is a device that can adjust the phase of a microwave signal (electromagnetic wave)
Implementation Method 3
allowing electromagnetic waves to propagate in two dimensions
Implementation Method 4
The metal electrode layer includes a plurality of metal wires that are crisscrossed and spaced apart. The plurality of metal wires form the grid pattern.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure discloses a phase shifter and an antenna. A metal electrode layer is provided with a grid pattern, and a plurality of coupling ports are provided on a side of a second substrate facing away from a first substrate, so that electromagnetic waves may be propagated in two dimensions. That is, the phase shifter of the present disclosure is a phase shifter based on a two-dimensional transmission line. Coupling transmission of signal energy may be carried out on the surface of the two-dimensional transmission line. Therefore, coupling of signal energy with different phase shift amount may be implemented by means of the plurality of coupling ports, so that signals and energy may be extracted at different coupling ports, and electromagnetic waves having different phases may be simultaneously outputted at different coupling port, which is equivalent to a plurality of phase shifters working at the same time.