Switch-Based Feed Line Splitter Phase Shifter Design

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional phase shifters in RF systems are either costly due to the need for multiple transceivers, physically large and unreliable mechanical phase shifters, or inefficient in terms of space and power consumption, especially in advanced antenna arrays like 5G and millimeter wave technology.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of switch-based feed line splitters, which split RF input signals into multiple paths and use a switch arrangement to vary the phase shift by changing the coupling point along the feed line, allowing for efficient phase shifting with fewer transceivers and smaller, more reliable components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional phase shifters use multiple transceivers, then phase shifting capability is achieved, but cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvephase shifting capabilityVSAvoidcost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functions (phase shifting and signal distribution) into a single integrated network module. Instead of using separate transceivers for each phase shifting operation, the invention uses one transceiver with an integrated switch-based feed line splitter network that can simultaneously serve multiple antenna elements with different phase shifts, thereby reducing the total number of transceivers needed and lowering cost.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The network module is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as both a power splitter and a phase shifter. The switch-based feed line splitter network can dynamically configure signal paths to provide different phase shifts to different antenna elements while also distributing power from a single transceiver to multiple antennas, making the system more versatile and cost-effective.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If mechanical phase shifters are used, then phase shifting is achieved, but physical size increases and reliability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvephase shifting functionVSAvoidphysical size

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical phase shifters with an electronic switching-based system. Instead of using mechanical components that physically move or adjust to change phase, the invention uses electronic switches (such as PIN diodes or FETs) that can rapidly change the signal path configuration electronically, eliminating the need for bulky mechanical parts and improving reliability through solid-state components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If conventional phase shifters are used in dense antenna arrays, then phase shifting is achieved, but space consumption and power consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvephase shifting capabilityVSAvoidpower consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The switch-based feed line splitter network provides more phase shifting options and flexibility than traditionally needed, allowing the system to achieve precise phase control with fewer active components. The network can configure signal paths dynamically to provide exact phase shifts required, avoiding the need for continuous adjustment mechanisms that would consume additional power.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

4Measurement precision

If switch-based feed line splitters are used, then phase shifting precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvephase shifting precisionVSAvoidswitch arrangement complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the feed line into multiple segments with switches placed at different positions along the line. Each switch can independently control the signal path, and by combining the states of multiple switches, the system can achieve fine-grained phase shift control. This segmentation allows precise phase adjustment while keeping each individual switch simple and manageable.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS11489255B2Phase shifters using switch-based feed line splitters

Publication Date: 2022.11.01 ANALOG DEVICES INT UNLTD CO

AI summary

A phase shifter that includes an RF splitter is disclosed. The RF splitter is arranged so that an RF input signal is provided to, and split over portions of, a feed line that connects an antenna element with a radio transmitter/receiver/transceiver, thus realizing a feed line splitter. Feed line splitters described herein are provided with switches that allow changing a point at which the RF input signal is fed to the feed line, where the switches may be semiconductor-based or MEMS-based switches. The point at which the RF input signal is provided to the feed line to be split defines the electrical path length that the RF energy will travel down each respective path of the feed line splitter, which, in turn, changes the phase shift realized at each output of the feed line splitter. Different antenna elements may be coupled to different outputs of the feed line splitter.