Modular Phased Array RF Feed Using Low-Loss Interposers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing phased antenna arrays face challenges in signal routing, particularly at higher frequencies due to lossy PCB materials and increased complexity and cost when using baseband or intermediate frequency signals for distribution.
Innovation Solution
A modular beamforming architecture with a master IC and satellite ICs, utilizing low-loss interposers for RF signal distribution, minimizes conversions and optimizes IC area usage, enabling scalable and efficient signal distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If RF signals are routed on PCB to feed antenna elements, then signal distribution is achieved, but signal loss increases at higher frequencies due to lossy PCB materials
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the phased array into multiple sub-arrays, each fed by a separate RF beamformer IC. This segmentation allows RF signals to be generated close to each sub-array, minimizing the distance RF signals must travel through lossy PCB materials, thereby reducing signal loss while maintaining manageable routing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces BB/IF to RF conversion ICs as intermediary components that convert baseband or intermediate frequency signals to RF signals at the location of each sub-array. This intermediary approach eliminates the need to route high-frequency RF signals across the entire PCB, reducing signal loss while keeping the routing structure organized and manageable.
2Ease of operation
If baseband signals are used for distribution, then signal routing on PCB becomes easier, but beamforming ICs become more complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the beamforming function across multiple RF beamformer ICs, each handling a subset of antenna elements. Each RF beamformer IC performs only RF beamforming on its designated sub-array, reducing the complexity of individual ICs compared to a single IC handling all elements at baseband frequency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local BB/IF to RF conversion at each sub-array location, allowing each RF beamformer IC to operate at RF frequency with reduced complexity. The conversion is performed locally rather than centrally, enabling simpler IC design while maintaining ease of PCB routing for BB/IF signals.
3Power
If BB or IF to RF conversion is performed on sub-module level, then enough power is provided for beamforming submodules, but number of conversion ICs increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the BB/IF to RF conversion function with the RF beamforming function in integrated RF beamformer ICs. Each RF beamformer IC performs both conversion and beamforming for its designated sub-array, reducing the total number of separate conversion ICs needed while providing sufficient power for beamforming operations.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a modular architecture for transmitting and/or receiving radio frequency (RF) signals using a phased antenna array. A first portion of the RF signal is transmitted/received by a master IC (21) and a second portion of the RF signal is transmitted/received by a plurality of satellite ICs (22). RF distribution between the master IC (21) and the satellite ICs (22) occur over a low-RF-loss interposer (51). The master IC (21) performs upconversion/downconversion between RF signal and a baseband or intermediate frequency signal.