Adjustable Waveguide Assembly for High-Frequency Data Transfer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current connectivity technologies for high-frequency data transfer face challenges such as signal integrity issues, alignment problems, and wear due to mechanical connectors, leading to larger device sizes and limited data transfer rates.

Innovation Solution

A waveguide assembly system comprising a conductive body and a sliding port tap assembly that uses dielectric materials and adjustable stubs to direct and propagate extremely high frequency (EHF) electromagnetic energy, allowing for flexible alignment and reversible bi-directional communication between EHF communication units.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If mechanical connectors are used for data transfer, then connectivity between devices is established, but signal integrity issues occur and device area increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesignal integrityVSAvoiddevice area

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical connectors with an electromagnetic coupling system using waveguides and EHF signals. The mechanical interface is substituted with a field-based coupling mechanism where two waveguide assemblies couple electromagnetic energy through proximity without physical contact, eliminating mechanical wear and signal integrity issues while reducing device area.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces waveguide assemblies as intermediary structures that facilitate electromagnetic energy transfer between devices. These waveguides act as mediators that guide and contain the EHF electromagnetic fields, enabling reliable data transfer without direct mechanical contact between communication units.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If mechanical connectors are used for data transfer, then connectivity is established, but alignment challenges increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvealignment toleranceVSAvoidalignment precision

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces precision mechanical alignment requirements with electromagnetic field coupling. The waveguide assemblies create a distributed electromagnetic coupling field that is inherently more tolerant to misalignment than mechanical connector interfaces, as the field can couple effectively over a range of positions rather than requiring precise point-to-point contact.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If mechanical connectors are used for data transfer, then connectivity is established, but wear occurs over time

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovedurabilityVSAvoidconnector lifespan

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent eliminates mechanical contact and wear by using electromagnetic field coupling through waveguides. The connection is established through proximity coupling of electromagnetic fields rather than physical contact between mechanical components, resulting in no wear and indefinite lifespan limited only by the durability of the waveguide structures themselves.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Productivity

If traditional connectivity methods are used, then device compatibility is maintained, but data transfer rate is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata transfer rateVSAvoiddevice compatibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from lower frequency mechanical connector operation to extremely high frequency (EHF) electromagnetic wave operation. This parameter change in frequency enables significantly higher data transfer rates while the waveguide-based approach provides adaptability to different device form factors and configurations, maintaining versatility across device types.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 system enhances data transfer rates, reduces device size, and increases alignment tolerance, providing a more efficient and reliable method for high-frequency communication compared to traditional mechanical connectors.

Implementation Method 1

A waveguide assembly system comprises a conductive body and a sliding port tap assembly that uses dielectric materials and adjustable stubs to direct and propagate extremely high frequency (EHF) electromagnetic energy

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic wave propagation: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDielectric property: Dielectric

Data Source

PatentUS10236552B2Adjustable waveguide assembly

Publication Date: 2019.03.19 MOLEX INC

AI summary

A waveguide assembly system includes a fixed port, a sliding port, and a transmission path from the fixed port to the sliding port. The transmission path includes a waveguide assembly that includes a first minor face corresponding to the fixed port, a first major face that includes a recess extending from the first minor surface towards the fixed port. The waveguide assembly system also includes a port assembly with a first major surface disposed opposite to the first major surface of the waveguide assembly. The port assembly includes at least one port having a first opening on the first major surface of the port assembly and a second opening on a second major surface of the port assembly. The port assembly includes one or more stubs positioned to impede electromagnetic energy propagation beyond a specified distance within the port tab assembly.