Modular Ferrite Switch Network for Redundant Signal Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication networks face challenges in maintaining redundancy and accessibility for communication nodes, particularly those in inaccessible locations like space, due to complex switch network designs that fail to reuse previously designed ferrite circulator configurations for different redundancy levels.
Innovation Solution
A modular ferrite switch network is developed using circulator modules with interconnection ports and a circulator switch controller, allowing for the formation of N for M redundancy networks by connecting circulator modules with short waveguide segments and terminating unconnected ports with matched loads, enabling flexible configuration for various redundancy levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If order constrained networks of ferrite circulators are used to provide N for M redundancy, then any M of the N input ports can be connected to the M output ports, but the network design becomes complex and cannot reuse previously designed switch networks for different N and M combinations
Solution Approach 1:
The switch network is divided into multiple identical modular units, each containing a subset of ferrite circulators and associated components. Each module can independently handle a portion of the N for M redundancy function, and modules are interconnected through standardized interfaces. This segmentation allows the same modular design to be scaled for different N and M values without redesigning the entire network.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular switch network design creates universal building blocks that can serve multiple redundancy configurations. A single modular unit design can be reused across different N for M scenarios by varying the number of modules and their interconnections, rather than designing unique networks for each specific redundancy level. This universality reduces design complexity while maintaining adaptability.
2Reliability
If standby equipment is added to communication nodes to prevent failures, then network reliability is improved, but the switch network complexity increases and accessibility for repairs remains difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The redundant switch network is segmented into modular units that can be independently installed, tested, and maintained. Each module contains a defined subset of the redundancy function, making the overall complex system manageable through standardized, repeatable units. This modular approach maintains high reliability through redundancy while reducing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design enables self-contained units that can be pre-tested and configured before deployment to inaccessible locations. Each module is designed to be functionally complete within itself, reducing the need for complex现场 adjustments and facilitating easier maintenance through standardized replacement procedures.
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 solution allows for efficient switching between active and standby components in communication nodes, ensuring continuous operation by reconfiguring communication paths through the use of circulator modules, which can be reused for different redundancy configurations, thus enhancing network reliability and reducing design complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of circulators configurable to route received signals between the at least one input, the at least one output, and the plurality of interconnection ports
Implementation Method 2
a circulator switch controller, configured to control the direction of circulation for the plurality of circulators in the plurality of circulator modules
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
Systems and methods for a modular ferrite switch for constructing switch networks are provided. In one implementation, a circulator redundancy network comprises multiple inputs; multiple outputs; and multiple circulator modules that connect the inputs to the outputs. A circulator module includes at least one module input connected to at least one input; at least one module output, where the number of module outputs equals the number of module inputs; multiple interconnection ports, configured to connect the circulator module to other circulator modules; and multiple circulators that route received signals between the at least one input, the at least one output, and the interconnection ports. Further, multiple interconnects connect the plurality of circulator modules to one another at the interconnection ports; and a circulator switch controller controls the direction of circulation for the plurality of circulators.