Integrated Phase Shifter With Filtering Stub for Antenna PIM Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current remote electrical tilt antennas require separate filters and phase shifters for inter-frequency isolation and downtilt adjustment, increasing costs, design complexity, and reducing the magnitude and stability of PIM (Passive Intermodulation) due to numerous screws and welding points.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a filtering stub and phase shift unit into a single phase shifter, where the filtering stub is in an open-circuit state, simplifying the connection of the main feeder network and reducing the number of screws or welding points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate filter and phase shifter are used, then inter-frequency isolation function is achieved, but antenna cost and design complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the filter and phase shifter into a single integrated component. The phase shifter structure incorporates filtering elements that provide inter-frequency isolation functionality, eliminating the need for a separate filter component while maintaining the required isolation performance between different frequency bands.
Solution Approach 2:
The phase shifter is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides phase shifting capability for beamforming control and incorporates filtering elements that deliver inter-frequency isolation. This multi-functional design reduces the overall component count and simplifies the antenna system architecture.
2Reliability
If separate filter and phase shifter are used, then inter-frequency isolation function is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the filter and phase shifter into one component, the patent reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, stocked, and assembled. This consolidation lowers manufacturing costs through reduced material usage, simplified production processes, and decreased assembly operations.
3Reliability
If separate filter and phase shifter are used, then inter-frequency isolation function is achieved, but quantity of screws or welding points increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of filter and phase shifter into a single component eliminates the need for mechanical fasteners or welding connections between separate filter and phase shifter assemblies. This reduces the quantity of screws or welding points, thereby improving PIM performance by minimizing potential sources of passive intermodulation distortion.
4Reliability
If separate filter and phase shifter are used, then inter-frequency isolation function is achieved, but connection of main feeder network becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
By providing a single integrated phase shifter component that incorporates filtering functionality, the patent simplifies the main feeder network connection. Instead of requiring separate connection points and assembly steps for both a filter and a phase shifter, the integrated design provides a unified interface that reduces connection complexity and potential points of failure.
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 integration reduces antenna costs, simplifies the connection of the main feeder network, and improves the magnitude and stability of PIM by eliminating the need for separate components, thereby enhancing the overall performance and reliability of the antenna system.
Implementation Method 1
the filtering stub and the phase shift unit are integrated into the phase shifter
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a phase shifter, including a cavity body, and a fixed circuit board and a phase shift unit that are located inside the cavity body, and the phase shift unit being capable of moving relative to the fixed circuit board. A power division circuit is disposed on the fixed circuit board. The power division circuit includes an input end, a main feeder, a node, at least two output ends, a filtering stub, and at least two output circuits. The main feeder is electrically connected between the input end and the node. The filtering stub is electrically connected to the main feeder, and the filtering stub is in an open-circuit state. The at least two output circuits are respectively electrically connected between the node and the at least two output ends. The phase shift unit is disposed in correspondence with the at least two output circuits, and the phase shift unit is configured to change a phase value that is from the node to the at least two output end. The present invention further provides an antenna. In the present invention, the filtering stub is integrated into the phase shifter, so that costs of an antenna are reduced, a connection manner of the main feeder network is simplified, and magnitude or stability of PIM is improved.