RF Combiner Divider With Automatic Impedance Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing RF combiner/dividers are not suitable for systems with a changeable number of branches, as they require manual adjustment of impedance transformers, which is impractical and can lead to signal distortion and damage.
Innovation Solution
An RF combiner/divider with an input switch, output switch, impedance matching transmission network, and control circuit that automatically adjusts impedance matching by selectively connecting switching elements to a center connection point based on the number of active input channels, using digital inputs to control the on/off states of input channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment of impedance transformers is used, then impedance matching can be achieved for a fixed number of branches, but the device cannot adapt to changeable numbers of branches and requires impractical manual reconfiguration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic impedance transformation by using multiple switchable impedance transformation circuits that can be selectively activated based on the number of active branches. The control circuit dynamically selects which impedance transformation circuits to enable, allowing the combiner/divider to adapt to different numbers of branches without manual reconfiguration. This transforms a static impedance matching system into a dynamic one that automatically adjusts to changing conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the impedance transformation parameters by providing multiple impedance transformation circuits with different transformation ratios (e.g., 2:1, 3:1, 4:1). The control circuit selects the appropriate transformation ratio based on the number of active input or output branches, thereby changing the system's impedance parameters to match the current configuration and eliminate the need for manual adjustment.
2Reliability
If fixed impedance transformers are used for a specific number of channels, then impedance matching is achieved for that configuration, but the structure becomes impractical when the number of channels changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the impedance transformation function into multiple independent impedance transformation circuits, each designed for a specific number of branches (e.g., one circuit for 2 branches, another for 3 branches, etc.). The control circuit activates only the segment corresponding to the current number of active branches, ensuring accurate impedance matching for each specific configuration while maintaining the ability to adapt to different channel numbers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal combiner/divider structure that can handle multiple different numbers of branches by integrating multiple impedance transformation circuits into a single device. This multi-functional design allows the same physical device to serve different configurations (2-way, 3-way, 4-way, etc.) by selectively enabling the appropriate impedance transformation circuit, thereby achieving both reliability across configurations and versatility in application.
3Reliability
If precision manufacturing and location of impedance-matching elements are required, then impedance matching performance is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-configuring impedance matching system where the control circuit automatically selects and activates the appropriate impedance transformation circuit based on the detected number of active branches. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual configuration and reduces manufacturing precision requirements, as the system automatically adapts to different configurations without requiring precise manual adjustment during assembly or operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuit acts as an intermediary that manages the complexity of impedance matching by automatically selecting the appropriate transformation circuit. This intermediary component shields the user and manufacturer from the complexity of precise impedance matching adjustments, allowing standard manufacturing processes to be used while still achieving accurate impedance matching through the control circuit's intelligent selection of the appropriate transformation ratio.
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 efficient and cost-effective automatic impedance transformation for impedance matching, allowing for seamless operation with varying numbers of branches without the need for precise manual adjustments, reducing signal distortion and potential damage.
Implementation Method 1
Impedance transformation networks are used in the combiners or dividers. When the characteristic impedance at the input port is not matched with the output impedance at the output port, an impedance transformation circuit increases or reduces the impedance stage between the input and output ports to match the output impedance with the characteristic impedance as much as possible.
Implementation Method 2
Each input branch includes a quarter-wavelength impedance transformer for impedance transformation to match the output impedance with the input impedance.
Implementation Method 3
The input switch includes several input channels for receiving input signals. The control circuit controls the number of the input channels of the input switch that are electrically connected to a center connection point, and selectively connects an impedance-matched one of the switching elements to the center connection point based on the number.
Data Source
AI summary
An RF combiner/divider includes an input switch, an output switch, an impedance-matching transmission network for connecting the input switch to the output switch, and a control circuit connected to the input switch and the impedance-matching transmission network. The RF combiner/divider is used for automatic impedance transformation for impedance-matching. The RF combiner/divider is suitable for use in an RF system with a changeable number of combiner/divider branches.