Cam Part Multi-Drive Apparatus for Phase Shifters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-radiator antenna systems require a large number of phase shifters and motors, leading to a bulky and complex driving apparatus due to the need for multiple motors to supply feed signals of different phases to each radiator.
Innovation Solution
A multi-drive apparatus for phase shifters that uses a main-axle gear, output shafts, output gears, and a cam part with recesses and elastic elements to efficiently drive multiple phase shifters with just two motors, allowing for smooth engagement and rotation of output gears with the main-axle gear to achieve phase changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of phase shifters and motors are used to supply feed signals of different phases to each radiator, then the phase shifting function is achieved, but the volume and structural complexity of the antenna system becomes excessively large
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple output shafts are merged into a single cam part structure, allowing multiple phase shifters to be driven by one motor through the cam part's recesses that selectively engage with the output shafts at different angular positions
Solution Approach 2:
The cam part serves multiple functions: it acts as a distributor to select which output shaft engages with the main-axle gear, a positioning mechanism to control engagement timing, and a space-saving integration structure that consolidates multiple drive paths into one component
2Ease of operation
If a large number of motors are mounted to operate each phase shifter, then each phase shifter can be independently driven, but the driving apparatus becomes bulky and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The cam part is segmented with multiple recesses positioned at different angular locations, allowing selective engagement with different output shafts to achieve independent control of multiple phase shifters through a single motor
Solution Approach 2:
The cam part acts as an intermediary mechanism between the single motor and multiple phase shifters, using its recesses to mediate the transmission of rotational motion to specific output shafts at controlled intervals
3Ease of operation
If output shafts are inserted into recesses for engagement, then smooth insertion and retraction is achieved through the inclined portion, but friction must be minimized at the contact point
Solution Approach 1:
The distal end of the output shaft is formed with a spherical shape to minimize contact area and friction with the cam part's recess, while the inclined portion of the recess provides a smooth transition surface for insertion and retraction motion
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 apparatus enables efficient phase shifting of multiple phase shifters with a reduced number of motors, minimizing space and complexity while ensuring smooth operation and reducing the overall volume of the antenna system.
Implementation Method 1
elastic elements can be mounted on the output shafts between the first support part and the second support parts, and the elastic elements can be mounted in a compressed state so as to provide elastic forces by which each output shaft can be inserted into the recess
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-drive apparatus for phase shifters is disclosed. The disclosed multi-drive apparatus for phase shifters includes: a main-axle gear; a multiple number of output shafts each connected to a phase shifter; a multiple number of output gears coupled with the output shafts; and a cam part having the output shafts arranged on its upper surface, where at least one recess is formed in the upper surface of the cam part, and when at least one of the output shafts is inserted into the recess according to a movement of the cam part, then an output gear coupled with the output shaft inserted into the recess engages the main-axle gear. With the disclosed multi-drive apparatus, it is possible to drive multiple phase shifters using just two motors.