Multi-RET Actuator Linkage Selection for Antenna Phase Shifter Control

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional base station antennas with remote electronic tilt capabilities require numerous RET actuators, leading to increased size, weight, and cost, making it challenging to design antennas that fit within customer-demanded size limitations and accommodate multiple actuators.

Innovation Solution

A multi-RET actuator system that includes a motor, linkage drive system, and a linkage selection system with a state changeover switch, allowing the motor to selectively connect to and drive multiple phase shifters, reducing the number of required motors and enhancing transmission efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate RET actuators are used to control multiple phase shifters, then each phase shifter can be independently controlled, but the antenna size, weight, and cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple RET actuators into a single integrated actuator unit that can control multiple phase shifters. This merging approach consolidates what would otherwise be separate actuator assemblies, reducing the overall volume, weight, and cost while maintaining the capability to independently control multiple phase shifters through a unified control system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single RET actuator is designed with multi-functional capability to control multiple phase shifters. The actuator incorporates a selector switch that allows it to sequentially or selectively connect to different phase shifters, enabling one actuator to perform the functions of multiple separate actuators. This universality reduces the total number of actuators needed while preserving full control adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate RET actuators are used, then comprehensive phase shifter control is achieved, but manufacturing cost and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple separate actuator systems into a single integrated unit. This consolidation reduces device complexity by eliminating redundant actuator components while maintaining comprehensive phase shifter control through a unified actuator with selector switching capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single RET actuator is designed as a universal controller that can interface with multiple phase shifters. The selector switch mechanism enables the actuator to selectively connect to different phase shifters, providing comprehensive control functionality without requiring multiple specialized actuators, thus reducing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Volume of moving object

If a single motor controls multiple phase shifters through selective connection, then antenna size is reduced, but transmission efficiency and switching reliability must be maintained

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a selector switch as an intermediary component between the single motor and multiple phase shifters. This selector switch acts as a reliable connection mechanism that ensures secure electrical and mechanical coupling between the motor and the selected phase shifter, maintaining control reliability while enabling the single motor to efficiently control multiple phase shifters through controlled switching.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 multi-RET actuator system minimizes physical size and manufacturing costs while enabling efficient control of multiple phase shifters, allowing for more compact and cost-effective base station antenna designs.

Implementation Method 1

The actuator may include a motor

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a linkage drive system including a plurality of drive mechanisms for driving mechanical linkages of multiple phase shifters

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical transmission: Gear

Data Source

PatentUS11374316B2Base station antennas with remote electronic tilt actuators for controlling multiple phase shifters

Publication Date: 2022.06.28

AI summary

The present invention relates to base station antennas having remote electronic tilt capabilities. Actuators for multiple phase shifters are described herein. An actuator may include a motor, a linkage drive system including a plurality of drive mechanisms for driving mechanical linkages of multiple phase shifters, a linkage selection system that is configured to selectively connect the motor to a selected one of the drive mechanisms of the linkage drive system. The linkage selection system may include a support seat, a carrier disposed on the support seat, and a movement transmission mechanism.