Linkage Mechanism for Compact Phase Shifter Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing phase shifter designs face challenges in efficiently adjusting phase shifts in RF energy distribution between outputs, particularly in compact and cost-effective configurations for antenna systems, as they require complex mechanical adjustments and occupy significant space.
Innovation Solution
A linkage mechanism comprising a rotation device, translation device, and drive members that allow for proportional movement between components, enabling adjustment of phase shifters on a shared printed circuit board, allowing for compact and cost-effective phase shifting with adjustable output ratios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional slider mechanism is used to adjust the electrical path on a conductive arc, then the phase shift can be adjusted, but the device occupies significant space and requires complex mechanical adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple drive members (first drive member and second drive member) onto a single rotation member, allowing both to move proportionally when the rotation member rotates. This merging of functions reduces the number of independent mechanical components and simplifies the overall adjustment mechanism while maintaining phase shift control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotation member serves multiple functions: it drives both the first drive member and the second drive member simultaneously, and can be controlled by a single actuator. This multi-functionality reduces mechanical complexity and space requirements compared to traditional separate adjustment mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple phase shifters are used to achieve desired phase shifts in RF energy distribution, then the phase control flexibility is improved, but the space and cost requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-stage phase shifter system where multiple phase shifters share a common rotation member through the linkage mechanism. This allows multiple phase adjustment functions to be combined in a compact configuration, achieving desired phase control flexibility without proportionally increasing space requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a rotational dimension to control multiple linear drive members simultaneously. By rotating the rotation member, both the first and second drive members move along their respective paths in a coordinated manner, enabling compact multi-dimensional phase control.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a linkage mechanism for a phase shifter assembly, comprising a rotation device having a rotation shaft fixed to a substrate of the phase shifter assembly and a rotation member configured to rotate about said rotation shaft; a first drive member which can be operatively engaged to the rotation member such that rotation of the rotation member can cause movement of the first drive member; a second drive member disposed on and moving together with the rotation member; and a translation device including a translation member which can be operatively engaged to the second drive member such that movement of the second drive member can cause movement of the translation member, wherein the rotation device and the translation device are configured to move in association with each other during operation of the phase shifter assembly. The present disclosure also relates to a phase shifter assembly including the above-mentioned linkage mechanism.