Double-Rib Waveguide Coupler Using Antenna-Based Short-Length Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bidirectional microwave couplers with holes are inefficient in terms of length, as they require significant space for hole-based coupling, leading to increased size and reduced directivity compared to desired specifications.
Innovation Solution
A bidirectional microwave coupler design featuring two parallel waveguides with double ribs and mechanically connected faces via a metallic layer, incorporating antenna assemblies within a dielectric insert to enhance coupling efficiency and reduce length, utilizing a dielectric insert with shoulders for secure mounting and thermal exchange facilitation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hole-based coupling is used in parallel waveguides, then coupling between waveguides is achieved, but the coupler length becomes excessive and directivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the coupling mechanism from hole-based to antenna-based, fundamentally altering the coupling parameter. The antenna assemblies with specific geometries (dipoles, monopoles, or patches) enable stronger coupling coefficients, allowing the same coupling effect to be achieved in a shorter length. This parameter change directly addresses the contradiction by improving directivity while reducing length.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical hole-based coupling system with an antenna-based electromagnetic coupling system. The antenna assemblies, consisting of radiating elements mounted in dielectric inserts, create more efficient electromagnetic field interaction between waveguides, achieving better directivity in a compact form factor.
2Reliability
If hole-based coupling is used, then coupling is achieved, but the coupler size becomes too large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the coupling parameter from hole diameter and spacing to antenna geometry and positioning. The antenna assemblies provide stronger and more localized coupling, reducing the overall volume required to achieve the same coupling efficiency. This allows compact coupler designs without sacrificing coupling performance.
3Length of stationary object
If antenna assemblies are used instead of holes, then coupling strength increases and length is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the coupler into modular antenna assemblies, each consisting of a radiating element mounted in a dielectric insert. These standardized modules can be replicated and positioned at different locations along the waveguides, providing design flexibility while maintaining manufacturing simplicity. The segmentation principle resolves the complexity issue by creating reusable building blocks.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna assemblies serve multiple functions: they provide coupling between waveguides, define the coupling coefficient through their geometry, and can be configured to achieve different coupling strengths. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, offsetting the increased structural complexity with functional integration.
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 design shortens the coupler length by 30% to 70% while maintaining high directivity, achieving greater than 17 dB in the 6 to 18 GHz band, and allows for stronger coupling between the main and coupled tracks, outperforming hole-based couplers in terms of directivity and size.
Implementation Method 1
comprising antenna assemblies connecting the respective interiors of solid non-rib portions of the two waveguides, an antenna assembly comprising an antenna fixedly mounted in a dielectric insert fixedly mounted in said metal layer
Implementation Method 2
an antenna fixedly mounted in a dielectric insert fixedly mounted in said metal layer
Data Source
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AI summary
Bidirectional hyperfrequency coupler comprising two parallel (VP, VC) double-rib (NVP, NVC) waveguides having two respective faces arranged facing one another and mechanically connected by a metal layer (CM), and comprising antenna assemblies (EA) connecting the respective interiors of solid portions outside the ribs of the two waveguides (VP, VC), an antenna assembly (EA) comprising an antenna (Ant) securely mounted in a dielectric insert (Ins) securely mounted in the metal layer (CM).