Balun Assembly With Ground Opening for Efficient RF Feeding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing balun structures for microwave radio frequency devices face issues such as sealant breakage, nonuniform thickness, liquid leakage, and low feeding efficiency when using a direct welding method, particularly in manufacturing liquid crystal phase shifters.
Innovation Solution
A balun assembly with a first substrate, dielectric layer, and transmission electrodes, where the ground electrode has an opening allowing electromagnetic coupling between the transmission electrodes, achieving higher feeding efficiency and a 180° phase difference, and reducing manufacturing complexities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If direct welding method is used to connect transmission electrodes, then structural strength is improved, but manufacturing reliability deteriorates due to sealant breakage and liquid leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the direct welding mechanical connection with an electromagnetic coupling system. The ground electrode with opening allows electromagnetic fields to couple the transmission electrodes without physical contact, eliminating welding-related manufacturing defects while maintaining electrical functionality through field-based energy transfer
2Strength
If direct welding method is used, then connection strength is improved, but device complexity increases due to manufacturing defects
Solution Approach 1:
The ground electrode with opening serves as an intermediary structure that enables electromagnetic coupling between transmission electrodes. This intermediary approach provides mechanical support and electrical grounding while allowing field-based energy transfer, simplifying manufacturing by eliminating welding operations and reducing defects
3Productivity
If electromagnetic coupling through opening is used, then feeding efficiency is improved, but structural strength may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The ground electrode with opening functions as a flexible structural element that maintains mechanical integrity while allowing electromagnetic field penetration. The opening in the ground electrode creates a controlled aperture that supports both structural requirements and electromagnetic coupling for improved feeding efficiency
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 balun assembly enhances feeding efficiency and reflection bandwidth by up to 15% and maintains a 180° phase difference, while minimizing manufacturing issues like sealant breakage and liquid leakage.
Implementation Method 1
the ground electrode has an opening allowing electromagnetic coupling between the transmission electrodes
Data Source
AI summary
A balun assembly is provided. The balun assembly includes a first substrate having first and second surfaces opposite to each other, a first transmission electrode on the first surface of the first substrate, a ground electrode having an opening therein and on a side of the first substrate distal to the first transmission electrode, a first dielectric layer on a side of the ground electrode distal to the first substrate, and second and third transmission electrodes both on a side of the first dielectric layer distal to the ground electrode, the second and third transmission electrodes being spaced apart from each other. Orthographic projections of the first, second and third transmission electrodes on the first substrate intersect with an orthographic projection of the opening on the first substrate at first, second and third intersection points, respectively, and the first intersection point is between the second and third intersection points.