Compact Beamforming Module Using Defected Ground Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional beamforming modules in phased array antennas face limitations due to high transmission losses, restrictive material and design constraints, and cost considerations, particularly in achieving high power handling and compact size for Ku and Ka band frequencies.
Innovation Solution
A compact beamforming module is developed using phase shifters with coupled lines on a defected ground structure and RF switches, where varactors and vanadium dioxide thin-film components are integrated to achieve phase shifts and switching, allowing for higher Q values and power handling without the need for serial switches, thus reducing transmission losses and size constraints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional semiconductor phase shifters and switched passive circuits are used, then the system can be manufactured with standard processes, but the Q values remain very low and transmission losses are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the phase shifter and RF switch into a single integrated module, eliminating the need for separate serial switching circuits. This integration reduces the number of discrete components and interconnections, thereby reducing cumulative transmission losses while maintaining compatibility with standard semiconductor manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operating parameters by using a parallel switching architecture instead of serial switching, and by optimizing the phase shifter design to operate at higher Q values. This parameter change reduces transmission losses without sacrificing manufacturability.
2Loss of energy
If serial switching circuits are used in conventional digital phase shifters, then fixed phase shift values can be selected, but the transmission loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional serial switching approach by using parallel switching circuits. Instead of switching through a series of components (which accumulates loss), multiple parallel paths are provided, each with a different phase shift value. The switch selects the desired path without adding cumulative loss from multiple series components.
3Speed
If beamforming modules are designed for Ku and Ka band frequencies, then higher frequency performance is achieved, but the physical size and component placement area decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the phase shifter and RF switch into a single integrated module, reducing the total component footprint. This integration is critical for Ku and Ka band applications where the available substrate area is limited due to the shorter wavelengths and higher frequency operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated module serves multiple functions (phase shifting and switching) within a single compact structure, making it suitable for high-frequency applications where space is constrained. The design achieves multi-functionality without increasing the physical size.
4Volume of moving object
If varactor diodes and switches are incorporated on the same substrate, then compact size is achieved, but the design must comply with strict distance constraints between patches
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the phase shifter and RF switch into a single integrated module, reducing the total component footprint. This integration is critical for Ku and Ka band applications where the available substrate area is limited due to the shorter wavelengths and higher frequency operation.
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 solution achieves significantly higher Q values and power handling, reducing transmission losses and size constraints, enabling efficient beamforming with lower costs and flexible substrate compatibility, while maintaining high performance across various frequency bands.
Implementation Method 1
Depending on the applied voltage, the capacitance of the varactor and thus the conduction phase of the coupled lines circuit can be changed to achieve the predetermined phase shift outcome
Implementation Method 2
Odd/even mode impedances are adjusted appropriately thanks to the said defected ground structure and the coupled lines arranged thereon
Implementation Method 3
Beamforming structures are widely used in satellite, aircraft, electronic warfare, radar communications, and navigation applications and enable beam steering via the application of phase delays at the antenna array elements
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a compact beamforming module (10) for phased array antennas, comprising RF switches (12) and a plurality of phase shifters (20), each of which has at least one defected ground structure (26/27/18), by applying a thin film structure on any type of substrate (22). The beamforming module of the invention provides unique synergistic features and advantages, such as material selection independent of the substrate (22) type, ease of integration with semiconductor circuits, usability with high-power amplifiers to provide high EIRP antennas, and high space savings with cost-effectiveness.