Multilayer Butler Matrix Layout Without Crossovers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 16×16 Butler matrices suffer from increased complexity, loss, size, and phase error due to a high number of crossovers, making them unsuitable for applications requiring smaller form factors.
Innovation Solution
A 2N×2N Butler matrix design using non-aperture couplers and phase shifters on separate substrates connected by vias through a ground plane, eliminating crossovers and utilizing stripline technology for reduced size and loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional Butler matrix topology with crossovers is used, then beam switching and steering functions are achieved, but the number of crossovers increases loss, size, and phase error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the crossover components from the Butler matrix topology. By eliminating crossovers entirely and replacing them with a planar design using only directional couplers and phase shifters, the invention removes the source of excessive loss, size, and phase error while preserving the essential beam switching and steering functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a traditional three-dimensional layout requiring crossovers to a two-dimensional planar configuration. This dimensional change allows the signal paths to be routed without intersections, eliminating the need for crossovers and their associated problems while maintaining all required functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If 16×16 Butler matrix is designed with traditional topology, then beam switching capability is provided, but the complexity and number of components increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the 16×16 Butler matrix into multiple smaller 4×4 sub-matrices or blocks. Each sub-matrix is implemented using a standardized planar topology with directional couplers and phase shifters. This segmentation reduces the overall complexity by breaking down the large matrix into manageable, repeatable units that can be systematically interconnected without requiring excessive crossovers.
3Ease of operation
If conventional Butler matrix design is used, then beam steering function is achieved, but the form factor and size are relatively large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adopts a planar two-dimensional layout that eliminates the need for vertical crossovers, allowing the entire 16×16 Butler matrix to be implemented in a compact flat structure. This dimensional change enables the device to achieve the required beam steering function while significantly reducing the overall form factor and making it suitable for space-constrained applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple signal paths and components into a unified planar structure where directional couplers and phase shifters are integrated in a compact arrangement. By combining all necessary functionality into a single layered planar design without separate crossover sections, the overall form factor is reduced while maintaining full beam steering capability.
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 design achieves a smaller footprint, reduced transmission line length, and lower insertion loss, enabling efficient use in mobile devices and base station antennas at millimeter-wave frequencies.
Implementation Method 1
the non-aperture couplers and the phase shifters on the first substrate are connected to the non-aperture couplers and the phase shifters on the second substrate using vias extending from the first substrate to the second substrate and passing through the ground plane
Implementation Method 2
By designing the Butler matrix with non-aperture couplers, components of the Butler matrix may be designed using stripline technology. The use of striplines may allow the Butler matrix to have a relatively smaller form factor than corresponding Butler matrices in the prior art.
Data Source
AI summary
A Butler matrix includes non-aperture couplers and phase shifters on a first substrate, non-aperture couplers and phase shifters on a second substrate, and a ground plane separating the first substrate from the second substrate. The non-aperture couplers and the phase shifters on the first substrate are connected to the non-aperture couplers and the phase shifters on the second substrate using vias extending from the first substrate to the second substrate and passing through the ground plane. The Butler matrix is a 2N×2N matrix, and N is an integer greater than or equal to 4.