High Frequency Switch Orthogonal Strip Conductors

Solution Overview

Problem

Current high-frequency signal switches are unable to handle frequencies above 85 GHz effectively due to increased complexity and cost, and require a larger physical footprint.

Innovation Solution

A high-frequency switch design featuring orthogonally arranged strip conductors and a switching actuator that moves between positions to achieve high isolation and signal switching, with a compact footprint and low construction cost, utilizing a sandwich construction and non-conductive support elements for precise positioning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional high frequency switches are used to handle signals above 85 GHz, then frequency handling capability is improved, but device complexity and construction cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefrequency handling capabilityVSAvoidhardware complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The switch is divided into multiple independent switching units, each handling a specific signal path. Each unit consists of simple planar conductors and switching elements that can be independently manufactured and assembled, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high frequency capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from three-dimensional complex waveguide structures to two-dimensional planar conductor arrangements. The signal paths are laid out in flat layers with orthogonal orientations, simplifying the structural complexity while preserving electromagnetic signal integrity at high frequencies

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If conventional high frequency switches are used to handle signals above 85 GHz, then frequency handling capability is improved, but construction cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefrequency handling capabilityVSAvoidconstruction cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The switch is divided into multiple independent switching units, each handling a specific signal path. Each unit consists of simple planar conductors and switching elements that can be independently manufactured and assembled, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high frequency capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the geometric parameters of the conductors, specifically using orthogonal planar arrangements with controlled dimensions and spacing. This simplifies manufacturing by allowing standard fabrication processes while maintaining the electromagnetic performance required for high frequency operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If conventional high frequency switches are used, then frequency handling capability is improved, but physical footprint increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefrequency handling capabilityVSAvoidphysical footprint

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from three-dimensional complex waveguide structures to two-dimensional planar conductor arrangements. The signal paths are laid out in flat layers with orthogonal orientations, simplifying the structural complexity while preserving electromagnetic signal integrity at high frequencies

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple signal paths and switching elements are arranged in a compact nested configuration where conductors are positioned in orthogonal planes and layers. This allows multiple signal channels to share the same physical space efficiently, reducing the overall footprint while maintaining signal isolation and integrity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS10090128B2Switch for switching between different high frequency signals

Publication Date: 2018.10.02 ROHDE & SCHWARZ GMBH & CO KG

AI summary

A high frequency switch is provided. The high frequency switch comprises a first high frequency connector, comprising a first inner conductor, integrally formed with a first strip conductor. Moreover, the high frequency switch comprises a second strip conductor arranged orthogonally in a first plane relative to the first strip conductor, a third strip conductor, arranged orthogonally in the first plane relative to the first strip conductor, a first switching conductor, having an orthogonally angled shape relative to the first plane, a second switching conductor, having an orthogonally angled shape relative to the first plane. A switching actuator is mechanically connected to the first switching conductor and to the second switching conductor adapted to move vertically relative to the first plane, to a first position and to a second position.