Hybrid Coupler Calibration via Adjustable Capacitive Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hybrid couplers have a narrow bandwidth, requiring multiple adaptation circuits for frequency adjustments and are susceptible to manufacturing variations known as 'corner impact,' which can cause significant frequency shifts, leading to performance issues, especially when incorporated in electromagnetic systems.
Innovation Solution
A method for calibrating the central frequency of hybrid couplers using a capacitive module with adjustable capacitive value, where reference signals are applied to measure and equalize peak values at output terminals, allowing for automatic frequency adjustment without calculating the central frequency, suitable for power divider, power combiner, and phase shifter modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional hybrid coupler design is used, then the structure is simple, but the bandwidth is narrow and frequency adjustment requires multiple adaptation circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by adjusting the capacitive value of the integrated capacitive module to modify the central frequency of the hybrid coupler. By varying the capacitance parameter, the device can adapt to different frequency requirements without adding complex external adaptation circuits, thus improving bandwidth and frequency adaptability while maintaining structural simplicity.
2Manufacturing precision
If manufacturing processes are used without compensation, then production is simple, but corner impact causes frequency variation up to 20%
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by performing frequency calibration during the manufacturing process. The capacitive module is adjusted beforehand to compensate for corner impact and manufacturing tolerances, ensuring that the hybrid coupler meets frequency specifications before leaving the factory. This preliminary calibration eliminates the need for complex manufacturing processes while achieving high frequency stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback by measuring the actual central frequency of the hybrid coupler and adjusting the capacitive module accordingly during calibration. The measured frequency information feeds back to guide the capacitance adjustment, enabling automatic compensation for manufacturing variations and ensuring consistent frequency performance across production batches.
3Productivity
If manual calibration methods are used, then equipment is simple, but the calibration process is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the hybrid coupler to calibrate itself through an integrated capacitive module that can be automatically adjusted based on measured frequency deviations. The device performs its own calibration without requiring external manual intervention or complex calibration equipment, thereby increasing productivity while keeping the overall system simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical calibration methods with an electronic adjustment mechanism. Instead of physically adjusting components by hand, the capacitive module is controlled electronically through voltage or digital signals, allowing for faster, more precise, and automated frequency calibration while reducing the complexity of calibration equipment.
Data Source
AI summary
A hybrid coupler operating in a power divider mode includes two inputs, two outputs, a capacitive module coupled between the inputs and the outputs or on each input and each output. The capacitive module has an adjustable capacitive value making it possible to adjust the central frequency. A calibration method includes: delivering a first reference signal having a first reference frequency on the first input of the hybrid coupler, measuring the peak value of a first signal delivered to the first output of the coupler and measuring the peak value of a second signal delivered to the second output of the coupler. The two peak values are compared and an adjustment of the capacitive value of the capacitive module is made until an equality of the peak values is obtained to within a tolerance.