Transformer-Based Millimeter-Wave Amplifier With Integrated Phase Shifting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional millimeter wave amplifiers primarily perform signal amplification but not phase shifting, requiring additional phase shifters which can complicate design and increase size, especially in phase array antenna systems where simultaneous amplification and phase change are needed.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating transformers on the input and output sides of the millimeter wave amplifier, with phase shifters and additional transformers between amplification stages, allowing for signal phase shifting and impedance matching, thereby enabling simultaneous amplification and phase shifting without the need for external phase shifters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a phase shifter is added to enable phase shifting function, then the phase shifting capability is improved, but the device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the phase shifting function with the amplifier structure by integrating phase shifters within the amplifier stages. Specifically, phase shifters are incorporated into the signal path between amplification stages, allowing phase adjustment to be performed as part of the amplification process rather than as a separate external component. This merging reduces the overall device complexity while maintaining both amplification and phase shifting capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The amplifier stages are designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously - both signal amplification and phase shifting. By configuring the amplification stages with adjustable phase shift capabilities, the same hardware components serve dual purposes: amplifying the signal strength while also controlling the phase angle. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated phase shifter components, thereby reducing device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If external phase shifters are used for phase shifting, then the phase shifting function is achieved, but the amplifier size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The phase shifting functionality is merged into the existing amplifier structure by incorporating phase shifters within the amplifier stages rather than using external components. This integration allows the phase shifting function to be achieved while maintaining a compact amplifier design, as the phase control elements share the same physical space with the amplification components.
3Device complexity
If only amplification function is provided, then the amplifier design is simple, but the phase shifting function cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The amplification stages are designed with multi-functionality, enabling them to perform both signal amplification and phase shifting operations. By configuring the amplifier stages with adjustable phase control mechanisms, the same hardware that amplifies the signal also provides phase adjustment capability. This approach maintains relatively simple amplifier design while adding the necessary phase shifting function through intelligent configuration of existing components.
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 reduces the size of the amplifier, allows for flexible design, and effectively performs both amplification and phase shifting, enhancing the functionality of millimeter wave amplifiers in phase array antenna systems.
Implementation Method 1
a first transformer configured to convert a single signal into differential signals and transmit the converted signal to an amplification stage, and a second transformer configured to output differential signals output from an amplification stage as a single signal
Data Source
AI summary
A transformer-based amplifier, an operating method thereof, and devices including the same are disclosed. A millimeter wave amplifier includes a first transformer positioned on an input side of the millimeter wave amplifier, a second transformer positioned on an output side of the millimeter wave amplifier, and one or more of amplification stages positioned between the first transformer and the second transformer.