Beam Forming Network Using 180-Degree Bridges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional base station antennas with single beams have limited network capacity and complex beam forming networks, such as the Butler matrix, are difficult to fabricate.
Innovation Solution
A beam forming network with a simple structure comprising 180-degree bridges for equal and unequal power division, 90-degree phase shifters, and additional power dividers, which are connected in specific configurations to form a base station antenna capable of generating multiple orthogonal beams.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a Butler matrix is used as a beam forming network, then multiple beams can be formed, but the structure becomes complex and difficult to fabricate
Solution Approach 1:
The Butler matrix is segmented into multiple 180-degree bridge modules, each handling a portion of the beam forming function. This modular segmentation reduces the complexity of any single module while maintaining the overall multi-beam capability through coordinated operation of the segmented units.
Solution Approach 2:
The 180-degree bridge modules serve multiple functions: they perform power division, phase shifting, and beam steering simultaneously. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby reducing overall structural complexity while maintaining beam forming versatility.
2Device complexity
If a single-beam antenna is used, then the structure is simple, but the network capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between single-beam and multi-beam modes by activating or deactivating specific 180-degree bridge modules and their associated power dividers. This dynamic configurability allows the antenna to adapt its complexity level based on network capacity requirements, maintaining structural simplicity when high capacity is not needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The beam forming network uses a nested structure where 180-degree bridges are nested within larger network configurations, and power dividers are nested within the bridge outputs. This nested architecture allows progressive expansion from simple single-beam to complex multi-beam configurations by adding nested layers rather than redesigning the entire structure.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide a beam forming network, including: a first 180-degree bridge for equal-power division, a 180-degree bridge for unequal-power division, a 90-degree phase shifter, and a second 180-degree bridge for equal-power division. A coupling port of a sum input port of the first 180-degree bridge for equal-power division is connected to a difference input port of the 180-degree bridge for unequal-power division, a straight-through port of the sum input port of the first 180-degree bridge for equal-power division is connected to an input port of the 90-degree phase shifter, an output port of the 90-degree phase shifter is connected to a difference input port of the second 180-degree bridge for equal-power division, and a straight-through port of a sum input port of the 180-degree bridge for unequal-power division is connected to a sum input port of the second 180-degree bridge for equal-power division.