Multi-Bladed Wiper Phase Shifter for Antenna Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wiper-type phase shifters introduce undesirable phase errors and are bulky, leading to suboptimal antenna performance and unsuitability for compact applications.
Innovation Solution
A multi-bladed wiper-type phase shifter design with conductive strips of varying electrical length and a wiper that pivots to adjust path lengths, ensuring symmetric phase shifts and reduced size, by connecting antenna elements with maximum phase shifts to different arcs and using increased electrical length conductive strips.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If antenna elements with maximum phase shifts are connected to arcs of different radii, then phase shift range is increased, but phase errors are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by intentionally using arcs of different radii (R1 ≠ R2) to create different phase shift ranges for different antenna ports. This asymmetric configuration allows each port to be optimized for its specific phase shift requirements while the overall system maintains controlled phase errors through careful design of the asymmetric structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by making each arc have different electrical characteristics (different radii R1 and R2) tailored to the specific phase shift requirements of the antenna elements connected to it. This allows each part of the system to have locally optimized properties rather than uniform characteristics throughout.
2Adaptability or versatility
If wiper-type phase shifter is used, then phase adjustment capability is achieved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nesting by placing the wiper mechanism within the annular coupling region, effectively nesting the moving component inside the existing structural footprint. The wiper pivots within the annular region rather than requiring additional external space, allowing phase adjustment capability without proportionally increasing overall device volume.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional wiper phase shifter configuration is used, then phase shift functionality is provided, but symmetric phase shifts are not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses asymmetric arc radii (R1 ≠ R2) to achieve what appears to be a paradox: by introducing controlled asymmetry in the physical structure, the system can provide different phase shift characteristics to different ports while maintaining overall system balance and predictable performance through the deliberate asymmetric 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
The solution reduces phase errors, achieves linear phase distribution, and allows for a more compact design while enhancing antenna performance by improving sidelobe and null-fill performance and increasing the range of electrical angle adjustment.
Implementation Method 1
Rotation of the wiper around this point alters the path length between the input line 11 and each of the signal ports A1, A2, A3 and A4, thereby introducing phase shifts to signals transmitted to each of those ports.
Implementation Method 2
The input line 11 includes a central annular coupling region 14. This annular conductive region 14 couples capacitively to a conductive wiper 15 which in turn couples capacitively at each end to a conductive arc 16, 17.
Data Source
AI summary
A phase shifter includes two or more conductive strips, an input line and a wiper coupled to both the input line and the conductive strips. Rotation of the wiper about a pivot point alters the path lengths between the input line and output ports or antenna elements connected to the conductive strips. The wiper is a multi-bladed wiper. Phase errors in multi-bladed wiper-type phase shifters are reduced. Arrangements for reduction of phase shifter size or increase in phase shift range are described.