Reconfigurable Wilkinson Combiner for Phased Array Impedance Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Phased array communication systems, such as IEEE 802.11ad systems, face challenges in achieving spatial diversity and efficient antenna operation due to the need for N antenna arrays with M/N antenna elements, leading to issues with impedance matching and increased losses in combined and isolated antenna modes.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a reconfigurable combiner/switch device using Wilkinson combiners and single-pole, multi-throw switches allows for operation in both combined and isolated antenna modes, aligning Wilkinson combiners in series or parallel and switches to match impedances, reducing insertion and matching losses by isolating non-operational antenna arrays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If N antenna arrays with M/N antenna elements are used to achieve spatial diversity, then spatial diversity requirement is met, but impedance matching becomes difficult and losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the N antenna arrays into multiple groups and uses a reconfigurable combiner/switch device to selectively connect different arrays to different RF chains. This segmentation allows the system to achieve spatial diversity by distributing signals across multiple antenna elements while reducing losses by actively selecting optimal array combinations rather than using all arrays simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration of the antenna arrays using controllable switches that can change the connection state between antenna arrays and RF chains in real-time. This dynamic switching enables the system to adapt to different spatial diversity requirements and minimize insertion losses by selecting the most efficient array configurations for current operating conditions.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple antenna arrays are combined to improve coverage, then antenna coverage is enhanced, but impedance mismatches and power losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The reconfigurable combiner/switch device serves multiple functions: it acts as a combiner when multiple antenna arrays need to be connected to enhance coverage, and as a switch when arrays need to be selectively isolated to reduce losses. This multi-functionality allows the same device to adapt to different coverage requirements while minimizing power losses through intelligent array selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the connection parameters (switch states) dynamically based on operating conditions. By adjusting which antenna arrays are connected to which RF chains, the system can optimize the balance between coverage area and power efficiency, selecting smaller subsets of arrays when full coverage is not required to minimize power losses.
3Adaptability or versatility
If all antenna arrays are always connected to maintain spatial diversity, then spatial diversity is maintained, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic reconfiguration of the antenna array connections rather than maintaining all arrays connected continuously. The system can cycle through different array combinations or selectively activate arrays based on current spatial diversity requirements, thereby maintaining the necessary diversity while reducing average power consumption by keeping some arrays in a lower-power state when not actively used.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes circuitry configured to determine an antenna operation mode for one or more antenna arrays. The circuitry is further configured to control the one or more antenna arrays to operate in a combined antenna mode via a Wilkinson combiner. The circuitry is also configured to control the one or more antenna arrays to operate in an isolated antenna mode via a single-pole, multi-throw switch.