Single-Pole Multi-Throw Switch Using 90° Phase-Shift Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-frequency switch devices, such as those using PIN diodes, MOSFETs, and MEMS, require complex control circuits and are costly due to high parasitic capacitance and limited switching cycles, making them inefficient for modern electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
A single-pole multi-throw switch device with a simple structure utilizing a 90-degree phase shift transmission line and a single control signal, where the first and second transmission lines have identical impedances twice that of the third transmission line, and a switch unit with a photoconductive element controlled by an optical signal, allowing for efficient signal routing without the need for complex decoupling circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If PIN diode, MOSFET, or MEMS are used as switching components, then high frequency switching capability is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase due to complex control circuits and additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex control circuits and decoupling components from the switching system by using a fundamentally different switching mechanism based on transmission line phase shifts and simple switch elements, thereby achieving high-frequency switching without the complexity associated with PIN diodes, MOSFETs, or MEMS
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electronic control mechanisms (electrical control circuits for PIN diodes, MOSFETs, or MEMS) with an optical control mechanism using a photoconductive element, where an optical control signal directly modulates the conductivity of the switch element without requiring complex electrical control circuits
2Speed
If PIN diode is used as switching component, then high frequency operation is achieved, but additional decoupling circuit is required increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the requirement for decoupling circuits by using a switching mechanism based on transmission line phase shifts and simple switch elements that inherently provide the necessary isolation and switching functionality without additional decoupling components
3Speed
If MOSFET is used as switching component, then high frequency switching is achieved, but parasitic capacitance causes circuit mismatch increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses simple, low-cost switch elements (such as photoconductive elements or basic semiconductor switches) that do not suffer from the high parasitic capacitance problems of MOSFETs, achieving high-frequency switching with minimal parasitic effects and without requiring complex mismatch compensation circuits
4Speed
If MEMS is used as switching component, then high frequency operation is achieved, but limited switching cycles and high control voltage reduce reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical moving parts of MEMS switches with stationary photoconductive or semiconductor switch elements that have no moving parts, thereby eliminating the limited switching cycle problem inherent in mechanical MEMS systems while maintaining high-frequency operation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses robust semiconductor or photoconductive switch elements that can withstand high control voltages and operate for extended periods without the mechanical wear and fatigue limitations of MEMS, improving reliability while maintaining high-frequency performance
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
The solution provides a cost-effective, high-performance switch device with minimal component count, reduced interference, and simplified configuration, capable of handling high frequencies with low loss and broad operating frequency bands.
Implementation Method 1
a switch unit with a photoconductive element controlled by an optical signal
Data Source
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AI summary
A switch device is disclosed. The switch device includes: an input point; a first output point; a second output point; a first transmission line connecting the input point to the first output point; a second transmission line connecting the input point to the second output point; a switch unit connected to the first output point; and a third transmission line of which one end is connected to the switch unit and the other end is connected to the second output point, wherein the third transmission line causes a 90-degree phase shift when a signal at an operating frequency is delivered therethrough, the switch unit is controlled to be in an ON or OFF state according to one control signal, opens or grounds each of the first output point and the one end of the third transmission line.