Switchable Antenna Array Configurable Distribution Network
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing antenna arrays face inefficiencies and noise due to power loss and impedance mismatch when reconfiguring for different modes of operation, as they typically rely on non-configurable passive elements like Wilkinson power combiners.
Innovation Solution
A switchable antenna array with a configurable distribution and summing (CDS) network that uses multiple stages of switches to selectively connect and disconnect antenna elements, reducing signal loss and noise by maintaining low insertion loss and return loss across various configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If non-configurable passive elements like Wilkinson power combiners are used in the summing/distribution network, then the antenna array can be reconfigured for different modes of operation, but power loss and noise increase due to impedance mismatch and inefficiencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by replacing static passive elements with dynamic active elements (switches) that can change the configuration of the summing/distribution network. The switches are controlled based on which antenna elements are active, allowing the network to adapt its topology dynamically. This resolves the contradiction by enabling reconfiguration without the fixed impedance mismatch problems of non-configurable passive elements, thereby reducing power loss and noise while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the summing/distribution network by using switches that can be opened or closed based on the active antenna elements. This parameter change allows the network to transform from a fixed passive structure to a configurable active structure, optimizing signal paths and minimizing impedance mismatch. The switches enable the network to adjust its configuration parameters dynamically, reducing power loss and noise while maintaining reconfiguration capability.
2Productivity
If certain active elements coupled to selected antenna elements are turned off, then the antenna array can be optimized for specific modes of operation, but the signal paths associated with the turned off antenna elements cause noise and interference due to impedance mismatch and timing issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the extraction principle by removing the harmful signal paths from the system. When certain antenna elements are turned off, the switches associated with those elements are opened, effectively extracting or disconnecting the inactive elements from the summing/distribution network. This prevents the turned-off elements from generating noise and interference through impedance mismatch, while still allowing the active elements to operate optimally for their specific modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses switches as intermediary elements between the active elements and the summing/distribution network. These switches act as mediators that can selectively connect or disconnect signal paths based on which antenna elements are active. By introducing this intermediary control mechanism, the system can prevent noise and interference from inactive elements while maintaining the productivity benefits of mode-specific optimization.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes an impedance circuit and a plurality of inductors coupled to the impedance circuit. Each of the plurality of inductors is coupled in parallel to a corresponding switch of a plurality of switches.