HF Measuring Tip With Tapered Conductor For Impedance Matching
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional high-frequency measuring tips face challenges in accurately transmitting signals over a wide frequency band without reflections, as existing impedance converters are limited in their frequency range and can introduce unwanted reflections when measuring test objects with different impedances.
Innovation Solution
A contact arrangement featuring a conductor section with a gradually changing cross section, utilizing a Klopfenstein taper for impedance transformation, which minimizes reflections and allows for flexible use across a broad frequency band by matching the impedance of the measuring tip to the test object.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a passive component such as an RF transformer or SMD is used as an impedance converter, then the impedance transformation is achieved, but the frequency range is limited and reflections occur outside this band
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by continuously varying the cross-sectional dimensions of the conductor section along its length. The cross-section transitions from a smaller size at one end to a larger size at the other end, creating a gradual impedance transformation that works across a wide frequency band without the limitations of fixed-parameter components like RF transformers.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductor section implements a dynamic geometry where the cross-sectional area changes continuously along the length of the conductor. This dynamic variation in physical dimensions enables the impedance converter to adapt to different frequencies, eliminating the fixed frequency range limitation of traditional passive components.
2Ease of manufacture
If a stepped change in conductor cross-section is used, then the structure is simple, but reflections are generated at the transition points
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a curved or tapered transition in the conductor cross-section rather than a stepped or abrupt change. This continuous curvature in the geometric progression of the cross-section eliminates sudden impedance discontinuities, thereby preventing signal reflections while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through techniques like laser cutting or precision molding.
3Reliability
If additional components like SMDs are integrated into the conductor structure, then the impedance conversion is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the impedance conversion function directly into the conductor structure itself by varying its cross-sectional geometry. This integration eliminates the need for separate SMD components, reducing device complexity while achieving reliable impedance matching through the tapered conductor design.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductor structure performs the impedance transformation function on its own through its geometric design, without requiring external passive components. The tapered cross-section inherently provides the impedance conversion needed for wideband operation, making the system self-sufficient and simpler in construction.
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
Enables reliable impedance transformation across a wide frequency band, from approximately 700 MHz to 2.7 GHz, with a reflection factor less than 0.2, allowing for accurate measurement of test objects with varying impedances without the need for additional components like SMDs, thus providing a flexible and cost-effective solution.
Implementation Method 1
The impedance converter has an electrical conductor section with a gradually tapering or widening cross-section... the characteristic impedance of the conductor structure changes by a predetermined value
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The invention relates to a contacting assembly (10; 10'), in particular an HF measuring tip, comprising a carrier (12), on which a conductor structure (20) is arranged, wherein the conductor structure (20) has, at a contact end (16), at least one contact element (22) protruding from the carrier for electrically contacting at least one contact point of a test specimen, and wherein the conductor structure (20) has at least one impedance converter (24), wherein the impedance converter (24) has a conductor segment (26; 26') having a gradually tapered or expanding cross-section.