Phased Array Antenna Feed Layout for Compact Phase Shifting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Phased array antenna devices face space constraints and signal quality issues due to the long lengths of antenna element transmission line segments, which are necessary for phase shifting and signal transmission, leading to unwanted electromagnetic radiation and interference.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a feeding network with transition structures that allow multiple antenna element transmission line segments to connect to a single feeding transmission line segment, reducing the need for curved or meandering paths and minimizing electromagnetic radiation, while using tunable dielectric materials for phase shifting within a compact and efficient design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a large number of antenna elements are arranged in a plane with distance approx. λ/2, then the radiation intensity in desired direction is increased, but the space requirements for antenna element transmission line segments become huge
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple antenna element transmission line segments are merged into a single common feed transmission line segment, eliminating the need for separate transmission lines for each antenna element and significantly reducing the total space required
Solution Approach 2:
The common feed transmission line segment serves multiple antenna elements simultaneously through transition structures, allowing a single transmission line to perform the function of multiple separate lines
2Adaptability or versatility
If antenna element transmission line segments are made long for phase shifting, then phase control capability is improved, but unwanted electromagnetic radiation and interference increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple transmission line segments into a common feed line, the patent reduces the total length of transmission lines required, thereby reducing electromagnetic radiation while maintaining phase control through the unified feed structure
Solution Approach 2:
The common feed transmission line segment acts as an intermediary that provides phase control to multiple antenna elements without requiring long individual transmission lines, reducing harmful radiation
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 arrangement significantly reduces space requirements and unwanted electromagnetic radiation, improving signal quality and reducing interference between unit cells, allowing for a more compact and effective phased array antenna design with enhanced performance.
Implementation Method 1
using tunable dielectric materials for phase shifting
Data Source
AI summary
A phased array antenna device comprises antenna elements positioned within a corresponding unit cell. The unit cells are arranged non-overlappingly next to each other. A feeding network transmits antenna signals between a common control unit and the respective antenna element. The feeding network comprises a plurality of antenna element transmission line segments, each running into an antenna element, and a plurality of phase shifting devices. Several feeding transmission line segments, each comprising more than two transition structures are provided. Each transition structure couples a signal into a corresponding antenna element transmission line segment. The transition structure for an antenna element transmission line segment that runs into a unit cell is positioned in the direction of the feeding transmission line segment passing by or traversing this unit cell at a phase shifting distance that is larger than an extension of the unit cell measured in this direction.