Overlapping Inductor RF Delay Line for Low-Loss Beamforming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Implementing efficient radio frequency delay lines for millimeter wave signals in beamforming systems is challenging due to the need for multiple antennas and circuits that handle different delays, which requires compact and low-loss solutions that are difficult to achieve in integrated circuits.
Innovation Solution
A radio frequency delay line is designed using a plurality of inductor pairs where the inductor areas of the first and second conductors overlap, forming transformers that allow for magnetic coupling, reducing the size and improving insertion loss, enabling a fully differential true time delay implementation with a smaller occupied area and lower power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple separate inductors are used for each conductor in a delay line, then the delay functionality is achieved, but the occupied area increases and insertion loss worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate inductors (first inductor in first conductor, second inductor in second conductor) into a single shared inductor structure where both conductors utilize the same inductor area. This merging reduces the total occupied area and minimizes insertion loss by eliminating redundant inductor structures while maintaining the differential delay line functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If beamforming with multiple antennas is implemented for millimeter wave signals, then directional transmission and reception are achieved, but the circuit complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The shared inductor structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides inductance for both the first and second conductors, enables differential signal processing, and supports beamforming operations. This multi-functional design reduces circuit complexity while maintaining adaptability for millimeter wave beamforming applications.
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 approach enables efficient implementation of radio frequency delay lines with improved insertion loss and reduced area usage, suitable for high-frequency applications like millimeter wave communication and radar systems, by leveraging the magnetic coupling of overlapping inductors to achieve a compact and effective true time delay solution.
Implementation Method 1
the inductor areas of the first and second conductors overlap, forming transformers that allow for magnetic coupling
Data Source
AI summary
According to an embodiment, a radio frequency delay line is described comprising a first conductor comprising a plurality of first inductors, a second conductor comprising a plurality of second inductors, wherein each of the plurality first inductors corresponds to a respective one of the plurality of second inductors and a plurality of inductor pairs, each inductor pair comprising a first inductor and the corresponding second inductor. For each of the plurality of inductor pairs, the first inductor and the corresponding second inductor are arranged so that an inductor area of the first inductor overlaps with an inductor area of the corresponding second inductor.