Non-blocking Switch Matrix Using Rotary C-switches
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spacecraft payload systems require a substantial number of switches for redundant component switching and channel rerouting, but existing solutions do not efficiently implement non-blocking switch matrices for high power microwave RF components.
Innovation Solution
A switch matrix comprising a plurality of four-port rotary C-switches arranged in a configuration allowing non-blocking, switch-selectable routing between inputs and outputs, with a controller managing the positions of C-switches to achieve flexible routing, using waveguides or coaxial cables for communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a substantial number of switches are used for redundant component switching and channel rerouting, then switching functionality and system redundancy are improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple C-switches are combined into a single switch matrix structure where N(N-1)/2 C-switches work together to provide non-blocking switching for N inputs and N outputs. This merging reduces the total number of individual switch components needed while maintaining comprehensive switching functionality across all input-output pairs.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch matrix provides universal switching capability where any input can be routed to any output through the coordinated operation of multiple C-switches. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated switches for each input-output pair, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional switch arrangements are used for high power microwave RF components, then switching capability is provided, but power consumption and heat dissipation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces solid-state electronic switches with mechanical C-switches that use waveguide or coaxial cable connections. This mechanical substitution eliminates the high power consumption and heat generation associated with solid-state switches handling high power microwave RF signals, while maintaining full switching capability through the coordinated operation of multiple C-switches in the matrix.
3Volume of moving object
If solid-state switches are used for switching, then compact size is achieved, but power consumption and heat dissipation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes mechanical C-switches for solid-state switches to eliminate the heat dissipation problem. Although individual C-switches are larger than solid-state switches, the overall system volume is optimized through the compact switch matrix arrangement where N(N-1)/2 C-switches are systematically organized to provide non-blocking switching while generating minimal heat.
4Adaptability or versatility
If more C-switches are arranged in the switch matrix, then non-blocking routing capability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switch matrix is segmented into a systematic arrangement of N(N-1)/2 C-switches organized in a structured pattern. This segmentation allows each C-switch to be manufactured and tested independently using standard waveguide or coaxial cable connections, while the overall non-blocking routing capability emerges from the coordinated operation of all segments in the matrix.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for implementing a non-blocking switch matrix. In one aspect, a switch matrix can include an arrangement of C-switches. Each of the C-switches can be configured to switch between two positions to couple between different channels. The C-switches can be arranged in the switch matrix as to provide non-blocking functionality such that each of the inputs of the switch matrix is routed to an output of the switch matrix in any combination of the configurations of the C-switches.