Magnetic Pillar Frequency Distributor for RF Signal Generation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing radiofrequency signal distribution systems are cumbersome, complex, and result in significant power loss, making them costly and inefficient for powering multiple apparatuses with the same information.

Innovation Solution

A method using a frequency distributor with a set of pillars, each comprising a stack of layers including a free magnetic layer, a fixed magnetic layer, and a nonmagnetic barrier layer, capable of generating multiple radiofrequency signals by exciting the pillars with an electromagnetic field, thereby producing a second frequency component in each current that matches the resonance frequency of the pillars.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If power dividers are used to distribute radiofrequency signals to multiple apparatuses, then signal distribution is achieved, but device complexity and bulk increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesignal distribution capabilityVSAvoiddistributor complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The distributor is segmented into multiple independent pillars, each capable of operating autonomously to generate and distribute radiofrequency signals. This modular architecture reduces overall system complexity while maintaining signal distribution capability across multiple apparatuses.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical power divider systems with a magnetic field-based resonance system. By using electromagnetic resonance in pillars rather than mechanical signal routing, the system achieves signal distribution with reduced complexity and bulk.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If power dividers are used to distribute radiofrequency signals, then multiple apparatuses can be powered, but significant power loss occurs in the output signals

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesignal distribution capabilityVSAvoidpower loss

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The pillars are excited at their resonance frequency, creating periodic electromagnetic oscillations that efficiently transfer energy to the output signals. This resonant periodic action minimizes energy loss during signal distribution while maintaining the ability to power multiple apparatuses.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

3Power

If amplifiers are added to compensate for power loss in power dividers, then output signal power is maintained, but device bulk and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoutput signal powerVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The pillars self-generate the required output signal power through resonant oscillation when excited at their resonance frequency. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for external amplifiers, maintaining output power while reducing system complexity and bulk.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

4Device complexity

If a frequency distributor with resonance-based pillars is used, then device size and complexity are reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedistributor complexityVSAvoidpillar fabrication precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent optimizes pillar dimensions (20nm to 5μm range) and material composition to achieve resonance at desired frequencies while maintaining manufacturability. By carefully selecting parameters within acceptable ranges, the system reduces complexity without requiring extreme manufacturing precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

This approach allows for efficient generation of multiple radiofrequency signals with reduced device size and complexity, minimizing power loss and enhancing signal control, while maintaining information integrity.

Implementation Method 1

Each pillar is able, when the pillar is passed through by a direct current and is not excited by the coupling member, to generate, in the direct current, a third frequency component having a frequency called resonance frequency of said pillar

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectResonance: Resonance

Implementation Method 2

a step for excitation, by the coupling member, of each pillar of the first set with an electromagnetic field having the first frequency

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11232894B2Method for generating a plurality of currents each having a frequency

Publication Date: 2022.01.25 THALES SA

AI summary

Disclosed is a method for generating, from a first electric current having a first frequency, a plurality of second currents each having a second respective frequency component, the method including the following steps: supplying a frequency distributor including a first set of pillars including a layer made from a first magnetic material and having a resonance frequency; exciting each pillar of the first set with an electromagnetic field having the first frequency, the ratio between twice the resonance frequency of each pillar of the first set and the first frequency being equal, to within ten percent, to a first natural integer; and generating, by each pillar of the first set, a second frequency component in the second respective current.