Metasurface Phase Shifter Assembly for Transmission Line Decoupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of multiple frequency bands and functional modules in base station antennas leads to restricted installation space, causing coupling interference between transmission lines and negatively affecting radio frequency performance due to limited design size.
Innovation Solution
A radio frequency device with a metasurface decoupling element between transmission lines and a multi-band phase shifter assembly with metasurface decoupling elements between filter gaps to reduce coupling interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple radiating element arrays are integrated to support multiple frequency bands, then the antenna can provide service in more frequency bands, but the antenna width increases which may exceed deployment constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a planar two-dimensional arrangement of radiating element arrays to a three-dimensional configuration where arrays are stacked vertically. This dimensional change allows multiple frequency bands to be supported without increasing the horizontal width of the antenna, thereby resolving the contradiction between multi-band capability and antenna width constraints for tower deployment
2Area of stationary object
If the antenna size is reduced to meet deployment constraints, then the antenna can be deployed at more locations, but the installation space and operation space for radio frequency devices are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested structure where radiating element arrays are stacked vertically in multiple layers within a compact antenna housing. This nesting approach maximizes the use of vertical space, allowing multiple frequency band arrays to be accommodated in a small horizontal footprint while maintaining adequate spacing for installation and operation
3Area of stationary object
If the design size of radio frequency devices is reduced to fit compact antenna spaces, then the antenna can be made more compact, but the gaps between transmission lines are reduced causing coupling interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces ground planes as intermediary structures between adjacent transmission lines and radiating element arrays. These ground planes act as electromagnetic shields that reduce coupling interference between closely spaced transmission lines, enabling compact radio frequency device design while maintaining signal integrity
Data Source
AI summary
A radio frequency device, multi-band phase shifter assembly, an antenna system and a base station antenna in which metasurface decoupling elements between transmission lines are provided. For example, a radio frequency device may include: a substrate; a first transmission line printed on a first major surface of the substrate; a second transmission line adjacent the first transmission line printed on the first major surface of the substrate; a metasurface decoupling element printed on the first major surface of the substrate, where the metasurface decoupling element is arranged between the first transmission line and the second transmission line.