3D Hybrid Coupler Coil Layout for Lower Loss and Bulk

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hybrid couplers face challenges in achieving higher performance, reducing bulk size, and minimizing signal losses.

Innovation Solution

A ninety-degree hybrid coupler design comprising a first assembly of input, intermediate, and output unit elements, each with a cross-shaped configuration of coils and terminals, optimized for spatial positioning to minimize parasitic coupling and enhance signal handling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If conventional hybrid coupler designs are used, then signal coupling functionality is achieved, but bulk size is large and signal losses are high

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebulk sizeVSAvoidsignal losses
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The coupler is divided into multiple discrete unit elements (input unit element, intermediate unit element, output unit element), each performing a specific function in the signal path. This segmentation allows for optimized spatial arrangement and reduced overall bulk while maintaining coupling functionality and minimizing signal losses through controlled parasitic coupling between segments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If unit elements are arranged in linear sequence, then signal flow is simplified, but parasitic coupling increases and performance decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveperformanceVSAvoidspatial arrangement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The unit elements are arranged in a three-dimensional configuration rather than a simple linear sequence. The input unit element, intermediate unit element, and output unit element are positioned at different spatial locations with specific orientations, creating controlled coupling paths that reduce parasitic effects while maintaining signal integrity. This dimensional arrangement optimizes performance without excessive complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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

The proposed design achieves lower bulk size, reduced signal losses, and improved performance by optimizing the spatial arrangement of unit elements and coil configurations, thereby enhancing the coupler's efficiency and effectiveness.

Implementation Method 1

each unit element comprising: a first coil and a second coil arranged in a cross having a general 'H' shape

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20250038391A1Ninety degree hybrid coupler
Publication Date: 2025.01.30 STMICROELECTRONICS INT NV
  • US20250038391A1 patent drawing
  • US20250038391A1 patent drawing
  • US20250038391A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a coupler including a first assembly of an input unit element, an intermediate unit element, and an output unit element. Each unit element includes a first coil and a second coil arranged in a cross having a general “H” shape. A first input terminal and a second input terminal of the intermediate unit element are coupled to a first output terminal and to a second output terminal of the input unit element, a first output terminal and a second output terminal of the intermediate unit element are coupled to a first input terminal and to a second input terminal of the output unit element, and the input unit element is spatially positioned between the intermediate unit element and the output unit element.