Integrated Microwave Transceiver Antenna Feed Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current microwave systems face challenges in reducing component count, RF cable and connector losses, and ease of use, particularly due to the separation of radio transceivers from antenna feed mechanisms, leading to inefficiencies and increased complexity.
Innovation Solution
Integration of the radio transceiver with the antenna feed mechanism and the use of digital cables for both signal transmission and power, eliminating the need for RF cabling and connectors, and employing 3D finite element method software for optimized design with director pins and sub-reflectors on a printed circuit board.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the radio transceiver is separated from the antenna feed mechanism and connected via RF cable, then the system allows flexible positioning, but RF cable and connector losses increase, reducing performance and increasing cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the radio transceiver with the antenna feed mechanism into a single integrated unit. The transceiver is positioned at the focal point of the parabolic reflector and directly connected to the feed pins, eliminating the need for RF cables and connectors between these components. This integration removes the source of RF losses while maintaining system functionality.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional RF cabling is used to connect the radio transceiver, then the system is easier to assemble with separate components, but the component count increases, raising cost and reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The radio transceiver and antenna feed mechanism are combined into a single integrated assembly mounted at the focal point of the parabolic reflector. This merger eliminates multiple discrete components (RF cables, connectors, mounting brackets) and simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining ease of installation as a single unit.
3Loss of energy
If the radio transceiver is integrated with the antenna feed mechanism, then RF cable losses are eliminated, but the integration complexity of the antenna feed system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integration is achieved by positioning the radio transceiver at the focal point and directly connecting its antenna ports to the feed pins that illuminate the parabolic reflector. This straightforward geometric and electrical integration minimizes complexity while eliminating RF cable losses.
4Adaptability or versatility
If separate RF and digital interfaces are required, then the system supports more communication protocols, but the ease of use decreases due to multiple connection requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated transceiver unit incorporates multiple communication interfaces (RF and digital) within a single device. This multi-functionality allows the system to support various communication protocols while requiring only a single physical installation at the focal point, thereby maintaining ease of use despite enhanced versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
A microwave system comprising a center fed parabolic reflector; a radio transceiver, said transceiver disposed on a circuit board and coupled to a radiator, said radiator disposed on the circuit board and extending orthogonally from a surface of the circuit board. Embodiments also include directors on the circuit board and a sub-reflector comprising a thin plate disposed on a weather proof cover and said sub-reflector having a substantially concave surface with a focus directed towards the radiator. The circuit board is physically integrated within the feed mechanism of the center fed parabolic reflector and the radio transceiver is configured to provide OSI layer support.