Balun Device for Differential Phase Shifter Area Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing differential phase shifters require two balun devices, which occupy a large area due to their size being related to the operating frequency, making them inefficient in terms of space usage.
Innovation Solution
A balun device with a first primary coil, a first secondary coil, a second primary coil, and a second secondary coil is used to receive and process differential signals, outputting four orthogonal differential signals, thereby reducing the number of balun devices needed in a differential phase shifter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two balun devices are used to convert differential signals into orthogonal differential signals, then the signal conversion function is achieved, but the occupied area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of two separate balun devices into a single integrated balun device. This integrated device includes a primary coil and two secondary coils, where the first secondary coil generates the in-phase component and the second secondary coil generates the quadrature component. By merging the functionality of two baluns into one, the occupied area is reduced while maintaining the signal conversion capability to produce four orthogonal differential signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The single balun device is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it converts differential signals into both in-phase and quadrature components, and generates all four orthogonal differential signals (I+, I-, Q+, Q-). This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate balun devices for different signal paths, thereby reducing the overall area occupation while achieving comprehensive signal conversion.
2Reliability
If the size of balun devices is related to wavelength corresponding to operating frequency, then the balun devices can function properly, but the area occupied by the balun devices becomes large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested coil structure where the primary coil and secondary coils are arranged in a compact, space-efficient configuration. The coils are positioned such that they share common space and magnetic flux paths, allowing the balun device to maintain proper electromagnetic coupling and wavelength-related functionality while occupying minimal area. The nested arrangement enables the coils to be tightly integrated without compromising their operational characteristics.
3Area of stationary object
If one balun device is used to output four orthogonal differential signals, then the occupied area is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single balun device is segmented into distinct functional components: a primary coil for receiving the input differential signal, a first secondary coil for generating the in-phase component, and a second secondary coil for generating the quadrature component. Each segment has a specific function, and their coordinated operation enables the device to output all four orthogonal differential signals. This segmentation allows for modular design and simplifies the understanding and fabrication of the complex device.
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
This configuration allows for the reduction of balun devices in a differential phase shifter, minimizing the occupied area and enhancing efficiency by using one balun device to produce four orthogonal differential signals.
Implementation Method 1
a first primary coil L1, a first secondary coil L2, a second primary coil L3 and a second secondary coil L4... a first terminal of the first primary coil L1 is configured to receive a first differential signal... a first terminal of the first secondary coil L2 is configured to output a first orthogonal component
Data Source
AI summary
Balun device and differential phase shifter are provided. The balun device includes a first primary coil, a first secondary coil, a second primary coil and a second secondary coil, the first primary coil having a first terminal receiving a first differential signal, and a second terminal outputting a first in-phase component, the first secondary coil having a first terminal outputting a first component orthogonal to the first in-phase component, and a second terminal coupled to AC ground, the second primary coil having a first terminal receiving a second differential signal, and a second terminal outputting a second in-phase component; the second secondary coil having a first terminal outputting a second component orthogonal to the second in-phase component, and a second terminal coupled to AC ground; phase differences between the first and second differential signals, between the first and second in-phase components, between the first and second orthogonal component are 180°.