Microwave Antenna Power Divider Shielding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microwave antennas suffer from impedance mismatch in power divider networks, leading to spurious radiation and unwanted cross-talk due to curved connections that alter impedance, resulting in inefficient power transfer to the radiator array.
Innovation Solution
The design includes a power divider network with vias through the substrate to connect each end of the power divider network directly to its associated column in the radiator array, and an electrically conductive layer overlying the power divider network except at the via points, connected to a ground plane for shielding, to prevent spurious radiation from reaching the radiator array.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If curved connections are used in the power divider network to connect to the radiator array, then the power divider can be compactly arranged, but impedance mismatch occurs at connection points causing spurious radiation and cross-talk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions the connection geometry from two-dimensional curved paths on the substrate surface to three-dimensional vertical vias through the substrate. This dimensional change allows direct connection between the power divider network and radiator array while maintaining impedance control through via design parameters such as diameter, length, and positioning, thereby avoiding the impedance mismatch caused by curved surface connections.
2Area of stationary object
If the power divider network is placed close to the radiator array to reduce size, then device compactness is improved, but spurious radiation from the power divider can couple into the radiator array causing cross-talk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the harmful spurious radiation from the power divider network by introducing an electrically conductive shield between the power divider and radiator array. This shield is connected to ground through vias, effectively removing the electromagnetic coupling path and preventing cross-talk while allowing the power divider to be positioned close to the radiator array for compactness.
3Device complexity
If conventional power divider networks are used without shielding, then device complexity is reduced, but spurious radiation causes unwanted cross-talk and reduces power transfer efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an electrically conductive shield as an intermediary element between the power divider network and the radiator array. This shield acts as a mediator that blocks the propagation of spurious radiation while maintaining the structural simplicity of the power divider network. The shield is connected to ground through vias, creating an effective electromagnetic barrier without requiring complex modifications to the power divider design.
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 configuration ensures a perfect impedance match and shields the radiator array from spurious radiation, enhancing power transfer efficiency and reducing cross-talk, thereby improving the performance of the microwave antenna.
Implementation Method 1
the electrically conductive layer and ground plane electrically shield the power divider network from the radiator array thus shielding the radiator array from spurious radiation from the divider network
Implementation Method 2
a via is formed through the substrate which electrically connects each end of the power divider network to its associated column in the radiator array
Data Source
AI summary
A microwave antenna having an electrically nonconductive substrate with a top and bottom side. A radiator array having a plurality of rows of radiator patches is disposed on the top side of the substrate while an input feed line and power divider network are disposed on the bottom side of the substrate. The power divider network includes a plurality of ends wherein each end is adapted for electrical connection through a via formed through the substrate to the end of its associated row in the radiator array. An electrically conductive layer is disposed over a portion of the top side of the substrate so that the electrically conductive layer overlies the power divider network and shields the power divider network from the radiator array.