RF Power Combining Arrangement with Variable Mismatch for Phase Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Combining high-power RF outputs from multiple magnetrons is challenging due to inefficiencies at higher power levels, and existing methods for phase and frequency locking are either expensive or ineffective in achieving high power outputs.
Innovation Solution
A self-correcting combining arrangement using match-dependent oscillators and variable power dividers/combiners that reflect power back to the oscillators for phase and frequency locking, eliminating the need for external locking signals and reducing complexity and cost, while allowing for flexible power distribution and isolation of faulty oscillators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If circulator technology is used for power combining, then reliability is improved, but cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive circulator technology with a cheaper power combining approach using simple resistive or reactive matching networks. While circulators provide reliable isolation, this invention uses inexpensive passive components to achieve the same function, accepting that the matching networks may need adjustment but eliminating the high cost of circulators.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the essential function of phase and frequency locking from the expensive circulator system and implements it separately through power supply modulation. This separates the locking function from the power combining function, allowing the use of simpler, cheaper components for power combining while maintaining reliable locking through a dedicated control mechanism.
2Device complexity
If hybrid technology is used for power combining, then cost is reduced, but effectiveness in obtaining high power outputs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the magnetrons through power supply modulation to ensure they operate at the same frequency and phase. By dynamically adjusting voltage and current parameters, the system achieves effective power combining at high output levels without relying on fixed hybrid junctions that limit power handling capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using static hybrid junctions with fixed coupling characteristics, the invention employs dynamic power supply control that can adapt in real-time to maintain optimal operating conditions. This dynamic adjustment of magnetron parameters enables the system to achieve high power outputs that exceed the limitations of conventional hybrid technology.
3Power
If magnetrons operate at higher RF power levels, then individual output power is increased, but efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the high power requirement into multiple lower-power magnetrons that operate at their optimal efficiency points. By segmenting the total power output into several contributions from individual magnetrons, each operating in its efficient range, the system achieves high combined power without sacrificing the efficiency of individual devices.
4Reliability
If phase and frequency locking is implemented through power supply modulation, then locking capability is improved, but control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system serves multiple functions: it provides the primary power to the magnetrons and simultaneously acts as the control mechanism for phase and frequency locking. By modulating the power supply parameters, the system achieves both power delivery and synchronization functions through a single integrated control path, reducing the need for separate locking hardware.
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 high RF power levels up to three times the magnetron peak without efficiency loss, achieving stable phase and frequency locking and minimizing the impact of oscillator failures, with flexible configuration options for various applications.
Implementation Method 1
a variable mismatch 4 connected to said third port and having a variable reflection coefficient
Implementation Method 2
a variable attenuator power combiner 3 having four ports, input port 1, input port 2, port 3 and output port 4... by tuning the centre frequency of the device
Data Source
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AI summary
A combining arrangement comprises a power combiner 3 having at least four ports; a first match-dependent oscillator 1 connected to input power at a first frequency to a first input port of the power combiner 3; a second match-dependent oscillator 2 connected to input power at a second frequency to a second input port of the power combiner 3; and a mismatch 4 connected to a third port of the power combiner. The power combiner 3 is operative to combine power from the first and second oscillators and, when the first and second frequencies are different, to apply a fraction of the combined power to the mismatch 4. The mismatch 4 reflects at least some of the fraction to the first and second oscillators to phase and frequency lock their outputs. A fourth output port of the power combiner is connected to receive the combined power. The power combiner attenuation is variable to adjust the proportion of the combined power split between the third port and fourth output port from 0% to 100% of the total combined power for any power values at the first input port and second input port. The oscillators may be magnetrons. The arrangement may include a plurality of power combiners connected in series, in parallel or in an arrangement including both in series and in parallel connections.