Hybrid Coupler Phase Detection for RF Signal Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional phase-detecting electronic devices are unsuitable for high-frequency electromagnetic applications, particularly in the radio-frequency (RF) domain, requiring substantial modifications to existing electronic circuits.
Innovation Solution
A method and device utilizing a hybrid coupler operating in power-combiner mode to detect and adjust the phase of an analog signal, employing a first and second input to receive the analog and reference signals, and two outputs to calculate and align the phase shift, suitable for high-frequency applications with low complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional phase-detecting electronic devices (analog multipliers, logic gates, flip-flops) are used, then phase detection can be performed, but the device complexity and unsuitability for high-frequency RF applications increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional electronic phase detection circuits (analog multipliers, logic gates, flip-flops) with a measurement-based approach using a hybrid coupler. The hybrid coupler is a passive RF component that inherently provides phase detection capability through its scattering parameters, eliminating the need for complex active electronic circuits at high frequencies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a hybrid coupler as an intermediary component between the signal source and the measurement system. The hybrid coupler receives the signal under test and a reference signal, and its output signals contain phase information that can be measured using standard network analyzers or power meters, thus mediating between the RF signal and the measurement equipment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional electronic circuits are modified for high-frequency applications, then phase detection may be achieved, but substantial modifications to existing circuits are required
Solution Approach 1:
The hybrid coupler serves multiple functions: it acts as a power combiner, a phase detector, and a signal splitter simultaneously. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate phase detection circuits and their associated modifications, as the hybrid coupler inherently performs phase detection through its scattering parameters while combining or splitting signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the inherent scattering parameters of the hybrid coupler to obtain phase information without physically modifying the signal path or adding complex detection circuits. The phase information is copied from the relationship between input and output signals of the hybrid coupler, which can be measured using standard equipment.
3Device complexity
If a hybrid coupler is used for phase detection, then low complexity and non-invasive solution are achieved, but the coupling factor must be precisely controlled between 0.8 and 1.0
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies a coupling factor range (0.8 to 1.0) rather than a single precise value, and corresponds this to a phase shift range (−75° to 75°). This parameter mapping allows for manufacturing tolerances while ensuring accurate phase detection, as the relationship between coupling factor and phase shift is well-defined for hybrid couplers.
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 precise phase detection and adjustment in high-frequency electromagnetic applications without invasive modifications, ensuring accurate phase alignment for improved performance in directional signal emission.
Implementation Method 1
a hybrid coupler operating in a power-combiner mode is proposed. The hybrid coupler comprises a first input that receives the analog signal, a second input that receives a reference signal having a reference phase and a frequency that is identical to the frequency of the analog signal
Implementation Method 2
The method comprises measuring the peak values of the analog signal, the reference signal, and at least one of the first and second output signals, calculating the phase shift between the phase of the analog signal and the reference phase from the measured peak values
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment method for detecting the phase of an analog signal via a hybrid coupler operating in a power-combiner mode, the hybrid coupler comprises a first input intended to receive the analog signal, a second input intended to receive a reference signal having a reference phase and the same frequency as the analog signal, and two outputs, and is configured to generate, at these two outputs, a first output signal and a second output signal, respectively. The embodiment method comprises measuring peak values of the analog signal, the reference signal, and at least one of the first and second output signals, calculating the phase shift between the phase of the analog signal and the reference phase depending on the measured peak values, and determining the phase of the analog signal depending on the calculated phase shift and the reference phase.