De-embedding Calibration Apparatus for Guided Wave Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems face challenges in providing high bandwidth and efficient data transmission, especially with the increasing demand for mobile data and reliance on broadband services, as they require complex infrastructure and are limited by the need for electrical circuits to propagate signals.
Innovation Solution
A guided wave communication system that uses electromagnetic waves bound to a transmission medium, such as wires or dielectric materials, to propagate signals without an electrical return path, allowing for efficient data transmission over long distances with minimal loss, using couplers and transceivers to launch and receive these waves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If electromagnetic waves are used to propagate signals without electrical circuits, then transmission flexibility and bandwidth are improved, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to coupling effects between the device under test and test equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces calibration apparatus as an intermediary component between the device under test and measurement equipment. This calibration apparatus includes a transmission medium with known characteristics that mediates the measurement process, allowing the system to account for and remove coupling effects through calibration procedures. The calibration apparatus serves as a bridge that enables accurate measurements despite the presence of coupling effects in the guided wave transmission system.
2Measurement precision
If de-embedding techniques are used to improve measurement accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for calibration apparatus and procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing calibration measurements before actual device measurements. The calibration apparatus is configured and calibrated in advance to characterize the coupling effects and transmission medium properties. This preliminary calibration data is then used during subsequent measurements to de-embed and remove the effects of test equipment and coupling, simplifying the actual measurement process while maintaining high accuracy.
3Measurement precision
If calibration apparatus is added to the system, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration apparatus is designed with multi-functionality to justify its inclusion. It serves multiple purposes: characterizing the transmission medium, calibrating the measurement system, enabling de-embedding of coupling effects, and providing reference data for subsequent measurements. This universal calibration apparatus can be used across different measurement scenarios and device types, reducing overall system complexity compared to having separate calibration solutions for each measurement task.
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
This system enables efficient data transmission with reduced propagation loss and the ability to transmit signals over non-traditional paths, such as power lines, without the need for electrical circuits, enhancing bandwidth and flexibility in wireless communication networks.
Implementation Method 1
A guided wave communication system that uses electromagnetic waves bound to a transmission medium, such as wires or dielectric materials, to propagate signals without an electrical return path
Implementation Method 2
A short circuit, coupled to the second end of the transmission medium, reflects the electromagnetic waves back to the first end of the transmission medium
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the subject disclosure may include, a transmission medium having a first end configured to be coupled to a first port of the launching device, wherein electromagnetic waves are induced by the launching device on a surface of the transmission medium, wherein the electromagnetic waves are bound to the surface of the transmission medium, and wherein the electromagnetic waves propagate without requiring an electrical return path to a second end of the transmission medium. A short circuit, coupled to the second end of the transmission medium, reflects the electromagnetic waves back to the first end of the transmission medium for reception by the launching device as reflected electromagnetic waves at the first port to facilitate a de-embedding of the launching device. Other embodiments are disclosed.