Revolving Multi-Slug Harmonic Tuner for Wider Frequency Coverage

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing harmonic impedance tuners for microwave transistors lack the ability to switch between individual tuning probes in situ, limiting their frequency coverage and requiring additional remote-control electronics or manual intervention for configuration.

Innovation Solution

A harmonic load pull tuner using two or more revolving multi-slug tuning probes, controlled by a single vertical axis mechanism, allowing seamless switching between tuning probes without additional remote-control electronics or manual intervention, expanding frequency coverage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single tuning probe is used in existing harmonic impedance tuners, then the device structure remains simple and control mechanisms remain minimal, but the frequency coverage is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefrequency coverageVSAvoidtuner structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The single tuning probe is segmented into multiple revolving tuning probes (first, second, and third tuning probes), each capable of being positioned independently within the slabline. This segmentation allows each probe to handle specific frequency ranges, thereby expanding the overall frequency coverage of the tuner without requiring complete structural redesign

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The multiple tuning probes are designed to perform the same fundamental function (impedance tuning) but across different frequency bands. Each probe can be selectively activated based on the operating frequency, making the tuner universally applicable across a broader spectrum while maintaining a relatively compact structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If additional remote-control electronics are added to switch between tuning probes, then probe switching capability is achieved, but the device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprobe switching capabilityVSAvoidcontrol electronics

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The tuning probe selection and switching between different probes is performed manually by the operator without requiring additional remote-control electronics or automated switching mechanisms. The operator directly positions the appropriate probe based on the desired frequency range, eliminating the need for complex control systems while maintaining probe switching capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of using electronics to select and activate specific probes automatically, the system inverts the approach by allowing direct manual selection and positioning of probes. This mechanical inversion simplifies the control architecture by removing the electronic switching layer while achieving the same functional outcome

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Device complexity

If manual intervention is required to configure tuning probes, then no additional electronics are needed, but the operation time and productivity decrease

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol systemVSAvoidtuner configuration speed

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple tuning probes are pre-configured and pre-positioned within the tuner structure, each optimized for specific frequency ranges. This preliminary preparation allows the operator to quickly select and deploy the appropriate probe without requiring time-consuming configuration or calibration procedures during operation, thereby improving productivity while maintaining simple control

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Enables broader frequency coverage and efficient operation across multiple frequency ranges without structural modifications or additional control mechanisms, maintaining compatibility with existing tuner calibration routines.

Implementation Method 1

the tuning probe 34 in slide screw tuners is capacitively coupled with the center conductor 33

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCapacitive coupling: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentUS12517169B1Multi-band harmonic tuner using revolving tuning probes

Publication Date: 2026.01.06 TSIRONIS CHRISTOS

AI summary

Multi band remotely configurable tuning probes for slide screw impedance tuners allow instantaneous larger frequency coverage beyond the capacity of existing tuning probes using the single horizontal and vertical axis mechanism of a prior art single probe, single band tuner. This is done by installing three slugs of different length and frequency coverage on a revolving disc-formed holder, which rotates inside the legs of a captive unit and locks in distinct angles. The captive unit is attached to the vertical control mechanism of the tuner and rotation is ensured using a permanent fork close to the idle port of the tuner. An automated procedure ensures remote toggling between tuner states. Calibration and tuning is as in prior art single probe tuners.