Octant-Symmetric Vector Generator for Reduced-Range Phase Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Typical phase shifters face limitations such as discrete components taking up space, fixed frequency operation, and size being frequency-dependent, with vector modulators using binary weighted attenuators or current sources that generate discrete steps in signal amplitudes, leading to inefficient amplitude control.
Innovation Solution
An active vector generator with two amplitude adjustment components, one with full range and the other with partial range capabilities, and a vector component switch to route signals based on magnitude, allowing for all phase states to be achieved using less robust and expensive components, reducing the number of attenuators or current sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If binary weighted attenuators or current sources are used to control phase shift, then discrete phase steps can be achieved, but the number of components increases and occupies more space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by using two amplitude adjustment components with different dynamic ranges - a first component with full range (0 to 1) and a second component with partial range (0 to 0.707). This asymmetric configuration allows the system to achieve all phase states while reducing the total number of components needed, as the second component only needs to cover a portion of the amplitude range
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the amplitude control function into two separate components with different capabilities. The first amplitude adjustment component handles the full dynamic range while the second component handles a partial range. This segmentation allows the system to achieve precise phase control without requiring both components to have full range capabilities, thereby reducing overall component count and complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If full range amplitude adjustment components are used for both I and Q vectors, then all phase states can be achieved, but more robust and expensive components are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different amplitude adjustment capabilities to different parts of the system - the first amplitude adjustment component has full range capabilities while the second component has only partial range capabilities. This localized differentiation allows the system to achieve all necessary phase states while reducing the overall robustness and cost requirements, as not all components need full range capabilities
3Stability of the object's composition
If discrete components are used in phase shifters, then fixed frequency operation is achieved, but the size becomes frequency dependent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by using switchable signal pathways that can dynamically route signals through different amplitude adjustment components based on the required phase state. This dynamic switching capability allows the system to maintain stable frequency operation while adapting the component configuration to minimize size, rather than being locked into a fixed frequency-dependent configuration
Data Source
AI summary
In various embodiments, an active vector generator may comprise a vector component switch and a first amplitude adjustment component in parallel with a second amplitude adjustment component. The first and second amplitude adjustment components may operate with different ranges of amplitude. For example, the first amplitude adjustment component may have a full range of amplitude and the second amplitude adjustment component may have a partial range of amplitude. The vector component switch may operate to receive two signals and route the signals to the various amplitude adjustment components based on the relative magnitudes of the two signals. A benefit of having two amplitude adjustment components with selectable signal pathways is that the all the phase states may be obtained but using less robust and expensive amplitude adjustment components.