Directional Coupler Phase-Shift Layout for Signal Leakage Suppression

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing directional couplers experience signal loss and leakage of non-detection target signals when detection target signals are present in the main line.

Innovation Solution

A directional coupler with a main line, sub-lines, phase shift circuit, and short-circuit paths, along with switches to manage signal flow and frequency bands, reducing signal loss and leakage by adjusting line lengths and using phase shift circuits to suppress unwanted frequency bands.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a sub-line is used to extract a detection target signal from the main line, then the detection function is achieved, but a non-detection target signal flowing concurrently in the main line may leak into the sub-line

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal detection accuracyVSAvoidsignal leakage
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A phase shift circuit is introduced as an intermediary component between the sub-line and ground. This phase shift circuit modifies the impedance characteristics of the sub-line at specific frequency bands, creating a frequency-selective coupling effect that allows the detection target signal to be extracted while preventing the non-detection target signal from leaking into the sub-line.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the electrical parameters (impedance, phase) of the sub-line by introducing a phase shift circuit with specific capacitance and inductance values. This parameter modification creates different coupling conditions for different frequency bands, enabling selective signal extraction while suppressing unwanted signal leakage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If a sub-line is connected to extract signals from the main line, then signal extraction is enabled, but loss in signals flowing in the main line increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal extraction capabilityVSAvoidsignal loss in main line
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The phase shift circuit acts as an intermediary that provides a controlled coupling path between the sub-line and ground. By adjusting the phase shift characteristics, it enables signal extraction functionality while minimizing the impact on the main line signal, thereby reducing signal loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality modification by introducing the phase shift circuit only at specific positions along the sub-line. This localized modification enables signal extraction at needed points without affecting the entire length of the main line, thus minimizing overall signal loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 coupler effectively reduces signal loss and suppresses leakage of non-detection target signals, supporting multiple frequency bands with minimal interference.

Implementation Method 1

a phase shift circuit, connected between the first sub-line and the second sub-line

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhase shift:

Implementation Method 2

The first short-circuit path short-circuits both ends of the first phase shift circuit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectShort-circuit:

Implementation Method 3

short-circuiting unused components to alter the resonance frequency

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectResonance frequency alteration: Resonance

Data Source

PatentUS12614831B2Directional coupler, high frequency module, and communication apparatus
Publication Date: 2026.04.28 MURATA MFG CO LTD
  • US12614831B2 patent drawing
  • US12614831B2 patent drawing
  • US12614831B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A directional coupler includes a main line, a first sub-line, a second sub-line, a first phase shift circuit, a first short-circuit path, and a first short-circuit switch. The first phase shift circuit is connected between the first sub-line and the second sub-line. The first short-circuit path short-circuits both ends of the first phase shift circuit. The first short-circuit switch switches between conduction and non-conduction of the first short-circuit path.