Rack-Driven Phase Shifter Assembly for Compact 5G Antennas
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing phase shifter assemblies in mobile communication systems occupy a large area, limit the number of assemblies that can be arranged, and have low accuracy in phase shift adjustment due to non-linear movement strokes and complex assembly requirements.
Innovation Solution
A phase shifter assembly design featuring two phase shifters arranged in overlapping or staggered planes with a U-shaped bracket and a rack mechanism, where wiper supports are rotationally coupled to tooth portions on the rack, allowing for precise linear movement and reduced area occupancy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional wiper arm phase shifters with mechanical linkages are used, then phase shift adjustment is achieved, but the assembly occupies a large area and has low transmission accuracy due to non-linear movement stroke
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a planar mechanical linkage system to a three-dimensional stacked configuration where multiple phase shifters are arranged vertically on different layers. This dimensional change allows compact packaging while maintaining functional performance, directly addressing both the area reduction and accuracy improvement goals
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where the second phase shifter is positioned directly above the first phase shifter, with their respective components (wiper supports, printed circuit boards, guides) stacked vertically. This nesting approach minimizes the horizontal footprint while preserving the individual functionality of each phase shifter
2Measurement precision
If traditional mechanical linkage with pull rod is used, then phase shift is implemented, but transmission accuracy is low due to non-linear relationship between pull rod movement and wiper support rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical linkage system (pull rod, pivoting connections, slots) with a rack and pinion gear mechanism. This substitution provides a direct, linear-to-rotational transmission with predictable geometry, eliminating the non-linear relationship and improving transmission accuracy while reducing mechanical complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the transmission mechanism from a flexible mechanical linkage with non-linear parameters to a rigid gear system with fixed, predictable geometric parameters. The rack and pinion configuration establishes a precise mathematical relationship between linear rack movement and rotational pinion movement, ensuring accurate phase shift control
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 design reduces the area occupied by phase shifter assemblies, enabling more units to be arranged in the same space and improves the accuracy of phase shift adjustments, addressing the limitations of prior art.
Implementation Method 1
a rack that is configured to move linearly. At least one of the wiper supports is rotationally coupled to a tooth portion that engages the rack. The wiper supports are configured to rotate in response to linear movement of the rack
Data Source
AI summary
A phase shifter assembly includes first and second phase shifters that respectively include a wiper printed circuit board and a rotatable wiper support, where the wiper printed circuit board and the wiper support are coupled in motion. The phase shifter assembly further comprises: a U-shaped bracket having first and second arms, where the first phase shifter is held on the first arm, and the second phase shifter is held on the second arm; and a rack that is linearly movably supported and is drivable to move linearly; wherein the slide holders has a tooth portion respectively, and the tooth portions are engaged with the common rack. By means of linear movement of the rack, the slide holders can be rotated respectively, and thus the slides are movable within a predetermined range respectively so as to implement phase shifts.