Electromechanical Broadband Multiplexer for High Signal Isolation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing semiconductor-based switches in military platforms fail to provide sufficient broadband data isolation, particularly below 100 MHz, due to their non-linear nature and miniaturization limitations, which are insufficient for achieving the required 60+dB channel-to-channel and 100 dB active channel to power source isolation.
Innovation Solution
A broadband switch utilizing multi-stage electromechanical ganged stage relays that provide at least 65 dB electrical isolation from 1 kHz to 100 MHz between active broadband inputs and outputs, and at least 100 dB isolation from broadband inputs to power inputs, using RF relays and low-pass filters with feed-through capacitors to ensure electromagnetic isolation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If semiconductor-based switches are used for broadband data multiplexing, then device miniaturization and integration are improved, but electrical isolation between channels and from power source deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces semiconductor-based electronic switches with electromechanical relay switches. This substitution uses mechanical contact points instead of semiconductor junctions, providing linear switching characteristics and superior electrical isolation. The electromechanical relays achieve 60+dB channel-to-channel isolation and 100 dB isolation from power sources, meeting the stringent isolation requirements that semiconductor devices cannot satisfy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental switching mechanism from solid-state semiconductor operation to electromechanical contact operation. This parameter change transforms the switching characteristics from non-linear with limited isolation to linear with high isolation. The electromechanical relays maintain consistent switching behavior across the broadband frequency range (including audio frequencies) while providing the required isolation levels through physical contact separation.
2Manufacturing precision
If semiconductor devices are miniaturized to reduce size, then device integration is improved, but signal isolation capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces miniaturized semiconductor devices with electromechanical relays that do not rely on miniaturization for isolation. The mechanical contact points and physical separation in electromechanical relays provide inherent signal isolation without requiring small feature sizes. This eliminates the trade-off between miniaturization and isolation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electromagnetic fields as intermediaries to achieve isolation. The electromechanical relays use electromagnetic actuation to open or close contacts, creating an intermediary field that provides isolation without direct physical proximity of signals. This intermediary mechanism prevents signal leakage and interference that plagues miniaturized semiconductor devices.
3Device complexity
If semiconductor switches are used below 100 MHz, then device complexity is reduced, but electromagnetic isolation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces semiconductor switches with electromechanical relays specifically optimized for RF and broadband applications. These electromechanical RF relays maintain simple switching operation while providing superior electromagnetic isolation at frequencies below 100 MHz and across the entire broadband range including audio frequencies. The mechanical contact architecture naturally provides isolation without the frequency-dependent limitations of semiconductor devices.
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 effectively achieves the necessary isolation levels, preventing signal interference and ensuring secure data transmission across different systems, suitable for high-assurance routing and secure deterministic fabrics in military communication systems.
Implementation Method 1
multi-stage electromechanical ganged stage relays
Implementation Method 2
low-pass filters with feed-through capacitors
Data Source
AI summary
A broadband switch includes multi-stage electromechanical ganged stage relays. The ganged stage relays provide at least 65 dB of electrical isolation from active broadband input or active broadband output to all non-active broadband inputs. In a further aspect, the ganged stage relays provide at least 100 dB of electrical isolation from 1 kHz to 100 MHz from broadband inputs and broadband output to power inputs.