Multilayered Dielectric Broad-Side Couplers for Phase Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing feed network devices in 3G mobile communication systems suffer from poor electrical performance due to differences in dielectric constants between the main and branch lines of branch line directional couplers, leading to issues with signal power distribution and phase alignment.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a feed network device using multilayered dielectric broad-side couplers with identical dielectric constants on a PCB, cascaded with phase shifters to achieve equal or unequal amplitude outputs and precise phase differences between output ports, improving signal distribution and phase alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If branch line directional couplers with different dielectric constants are used for main and branch lines, then the feed network device can be implemented with standard Butler matrix topology, but the electrical performance deteriorates due to signal power distribution and phase alignment issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies homogeneity by using the same dielectric material (PCB substrate) for both the main line and branch line couplers. This eliminates the dielectric constant difference between main and branch lines, ensuring uniform electrical characteristics and proper signal distribution throughout the feed network device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material structure by integrating multiple coupler units with identical dielectric properties into a unified feed network device. The composite arrangement of couplers with consistent dielectric constants creates a homogeneous electromagnetic environment, resolving the phase alignment and power distribution issues.
2Reliability
If multilayered dielectric broad-side couplers with identical dielectric constants are used, then electrical performance is improved with high isolation and reduced insertion loss, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from planar two-dimensional coupler design to three-dimensional multilayered structure. By stacking multiple dielectric layers and positioning coupling elements in different vertical planes, the patent achieves superior isolation and reduced insertion loss through enhanced spatial separation and controlled electromagnetic coupling in the third dimension.
Solution Approach 2:
The feed network device is segmented into multiple functional coupler units, each implemented as a separate layer or module. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each coupler's electrical characteristics while maintaining overall system performance, and facilitates modular manufacturing and assembly.
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 configuration enhances the electrical performance of the feed network device by ensuring high isolation, reduced insertion loss, and improved power flatness, while allowing for flexible beam shaping and cost-effective production.
Implementation Method 1
each first stage coupler and second stage coupler is a multilayered dielectric broad-side coupler
Implementation Method 2
broad-side coupler that provides an output signal at a coupling port and an output signal at a direct connection port
Data Source
AI summary
A feed network device, an antenna feeder subsystem, and a base station system are provided. The feed network device comprises: two first stage couplers, two phase shifters, and two second stage couplers cascaded on a Printed Circuit Board, wherein each coupler is a multilayered dielectric broad-side coupler, and the difference of phase between an output signal at the coupling port and an output signal at the direct connection port is 90° in each multi-dielectric broad-side coupler.