Feeder Circuit Simplification Using Inverted Coupler Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing feed circuit for multibeam antennas is complicated due to crossing connecting lines, which are necessary to input signals to different input terminals of septum polarizers, leading to a complex circuit configuration when circularly polarized beams with different rotation directions are used in overlapping multibeams.
Innovation Solution
A feed circuit configuration using a first and second polarizer, a first and second two-way distributor, and a third coupler, where the third coupler outputs signals from the two-way distributors to the polarizers' input terminals, avoiding the need for crossing connecting lines and simplifying the circuit arrangement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If connecting lines are arranged to input signals to different input terminals of septum polarizers for adjacent multibeams, then circularly polarized beams with different rotation directions can be radiated, but the connecting lines cross each other requiring detour arrangements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies inversion by swapping the connection assignments: instead of connecting coupler outputs directly to septum polarizer inputs in the conventional manner, the patent connects the output of the first coupler to the second input terminal of the second septum polarizer, and the output of the second coupler to the first input terminal of the first septum polarizer. This inverted connection scheme eliminates the crossing of connecting lines while maintaining the capability to radiate circularly polarized beams with different rotation directions from adjacent multibeams.
2Ease of operation
If conventional feed circuit configuration is used with crossing connecting lines, then signal distribution to radiating elements is achieved, but the circuit configuration becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent simplifies the circuit configuration by inverting the conventional connection topology. Specifically, it establishes direct connections between coupler outputs and the cross-assigned septum polarizer input terminals without requiring detour paths. This inverted arrangement maintains full signal distribution capability to all radiating elements while eliminating the complexity of crossing connecting lines and their associated detour arrangements.
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 configuration allows for a simple circuit configuration and enables the use of polarized beams with different directions in overlapping multibeams without the need for detouring connecting lines, improving the antenna's design and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
Septum polarizers output a circularly polarized signal with a rotation direction which differs between when a signal is inputted to the first input terminal and when a signal is inputted to the second input terminal
Implementation Method 2
Each coupler has four terminals, and two of these terminals are connected to the two input terminals of a septum polarizer disposed for each radiating element, respectively. Further, in each coupler, a signal inputted from one terminal is outputted from two terminals, and the ratio of amplitudes of output signals is determined by a designed degree of coupling. The phase difference between the output signals is 90 degrees.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~5B
AI summary
A third coupler (3c) outputs a signal outputted from a first coupler (3a) to an input terminal (8-1) of a second septum polarizer (8b), and outputs a signal outputted from a second coupler (3b) to an input terminal (8-2) of a first septum polarizer (8a).