Switchable Directional Coupler for Bidirectional RF Power Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing directional couplers are unable to perform power measurements in both forward and reverse directions efficiently, often requiring additional components like secondary windings or cascaded couplers, which increase insertion losses.
Innovation Solution
A directional coupler design with switchable paths and inductive elements allows for directivity to be switched between forward and reverse directions, enabling power measurements in both directions without additional inductive elements and optimizing directivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional directional coupler designs are used, then power measurement in one direction is achieved, but power measurement in both forward and reverse directions is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the coupler's directivity switchable between forward and reverse directions through controllable switchable paths. This allows a single directional coupler to adapt its measurement capability dynamically, eliminating the need for multiple fixed-direction couplers or additional inductive elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention makes the directional coupler universal by enabling it to perform both forward and reverse power measurements with the same inductive elements. The switchable paths allow the coupler to function in multiple modes (forward measurement, reverse measurement), replacing what would traditionally require separate dedicated components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If cascaded couplers or dual secondary designs are used to achieve bidirectional measurements, then power measurement in both directions is possible, but insertion losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple inductive elements into a single shared inductive element. By using one inductive element with switchable paths instead of multiple cascaded couplers or dual secondary windings, the design reduces the number of energy-dissipating components while maintaining bidirectional measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention discards the traditional approach of using multiple permanent inductive elements and instead recovers functionality by reusing the same inductive element in different configurations through switching. This allows the system to achieve bidirectional measurement without the energy losses associated with multiple coupled components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional secondary windings are added to enable reverse power measurement, then bidirectional measurement is achieved, but device complexity and insertion losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamics by making the coupling direction controllable through switching mechanisms. Instead of having fixed secondary windings for specific directions, the single inductive element's coupling behavior is dynamically changed by opening or closing switchable paths, enabling reverse power measurement without adding physical windings.
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 efficient forward and reverse power measurements while minimizing insertion losses, improving the performance of directional couplers in RF front-end circuitry.
Implementation Method 1
a second inductive element (82) mutually coupled to the first inductive element (80)
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure relates generally to directional couplers. In one embodiment, a directional coupler includes a first port, a second port, a third port, a first inductive element, a second inductive element, a first switchable path, and a second switchable path. The first inductive element is coupled between the first port and the second port, while the second inductive element is mutually coupled to the first inductive element. The first switchable path is configured to be opened and closed, wherein the first switchable path is coupled between a first location of the second inductive element and the third port. The second switchable path is configured to be opened and closed, wherein the second switchable path is coupled between a second location of the second inductive element and the third port. In this manner, a directivity of the directional coupler can be switched between a forward direction and a reverse direction.