Cavity Phase Shifter Assembly With Controlled Dielectric Gap
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cavity phase shifters in base station antennas suffer from phase deviations due to dimensional errors between the dielectric element and the phase shift circuit, particularly at high frequencies, resulting in poor phase-shifting performance.
Innovation Solution
Introducing a non-zero gap between the dielectric element and the phase shift circuit by using protruding ribs or bosses to maintain a set distance, reducing the impact of manufacturing tolerances and eliminating step changes in gap size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the dielectric element is placed in close contact with the phase shift circuit (zero gap), then the device complexity is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but phase deviations occur due to dimensional errors leading to unwanted step changes in gap distances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary component (support structure or spacer) between the dielectric element and the phase shift circuit to maintain a consistent non-zero gap. This intermediary absorbs dimensional variations and prevents direct contact, thereby eliminating step changes in gap distance while maintaining manufacturing feasibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the gap parameter from zero (contact) to a controlled non-zero value. By establishing a minimum gap distance and using support structures to maintain this parameter, the design compensates for dimensional errors in the dielectric element, improving phase stability without significantly increasing device complexity.
2Reliability
If the dielectric element is in close contact with the phase shift circuit, then the device structure is simplified, but frictional losses increase and the dielectric element may get stuck
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure acts as an intermediary that separates the dielectric element from the phase shift circuit, preventing direct contact. This eliminates friction between the moving dielectric element and the circuit board, reducing energy losses and preventing the element from getting stuck during phase shifting operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the frictional contact interface by removing direct contact between the dielectric element and the phase shift circuit. By taking out the harmful contact interaction while maintaining the necessary structural support through spacers, the design reduces frictional losses and improves reliability.
3Manufacturing precision
If a non-zero gap is maintained between the dielectric element and phase shift circuit, then phase stability is improved and dimensional errors are mitigated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses simple intermediary components (support structures or spacers) that are easy to manufacture and install. These intermediaries maintain the required non-zero gap without adding significant complexity to the assembly process, making the increased precision achievable with minimal additional complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
By changing the gap parameter from zero to a small controlled value, the patent achieves improved phase stability. The support structures required to maintain this parameter are simple in design, so the increase in device complexity is minimal compared to the significant improvement in phase shifting precision.
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
Enhances phase stability and reduces frictional losses, improving phase-shifting performance and reducing the risk of the dielectric element being stuck, especially at high frequencies.
Implementation Method 1
reducing frictional losses and ensuring smooth phase shifting
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a phase shifter assembly comprising a phase shift circuit and a dielectric assembly having at least one dielectric element movable relative to the phase shift circuit for phase shifting, wherein the at least one dielectric element is disposed at a set distance from the phase shift circuit to form a gap between the at least one dielectric element and the phase shift circuit. In addition, the present disclosure also relates to a cavity phase shifter and a base station antenna.