Phased Array PCB Signal Multiplexing for Lower-Layer Beamforming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Phased array antennas face challenges in achieving a cost-efficient and compact architecture that maintains robust performance, particularly in applications like satellite communication systems and automotive systems, where reducing the complexity and number of printed circuit board (PCB) layers is necessary to lower manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A distributed multiplexed control and element signal architecture is implemented, where a shared signal path carries both control and element signals for each control circuit, reducing the number of PCB layers and complexity by using signal routing circuits like diplexers to multiplex and demultiplex signals between the beam forming network and antenna elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate control signal paths and element signal paths are used for each antenna element, then signal routing reliability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines control signal paths and element signal paths into a single shared signal path. Control circuits multiplex both control signals and element signals onto the same physical transmission line, reducing the number of required PCB layers and interconnects while maintaining signal integrity through frequency-domain or time-domain multiplexing techniques.
Solution Approach 2:
The shared signal path serves dual functions: transmitting control signals from control circuits to antenna elements and carrying element signals in the reverse direction. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate dedicated paths, reducing overall system complexity while preserving routing reliability through intelligent signal management.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more PCB layers are used to accommodate separate signal paths, then signal routing flexibility is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple signal types (control and element signals) are merged into a single shared signal path, reducing the number of PCB layers required. This consolidation maintains routing flexibility through software-controlled signal allocation while significantly reducing manufacturing complexity and cost associated with high-layer-count PCBs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic signal routing where control circuits can flexibly allocate the shared signal path for different signal types based on operational requirements. This dynamic multiplexing provides adaptability equivalent to having multiple dedicated paths while using a simpler, lower-layer PCB structure.
3Manufacturing precision
If distributed control circuits are implemented at each antenna element, then beam forming performance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges control and signal functions into a unified distributed control circuit architecture. Each antenna element location hosts a control circuit that handles both control signal generation and element signal processing through multiplexing, reducing the number of separate components and interconnects needed while maintaining precise beam forming capability through localized control.
Data Source
AI summary
The phased array antenna system is described. The phased array antenna system formed on one or more layers of a printed circuit board (PCB). The phased array antenna system be may include a beam forming network to convert between one or more element signals and a beam signal. The phased array antenna system may include one or more control circuits, where each control circuit may receive the element signals for corresponding antenna element. Each of the control circuits may further may establish a control signal path and an element signal path between the antenna elements and the beamforming network, where the signal path may carry multiplexed element and control signals. The control circuits may include a signal adjustment circuit that may adjust the corresponding element signal (e.g., in phase or amplitude) based on the control signal.