Transmitter Module Circulator Connection for Radar Loss Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transmission modules for active antenna radars suffer from insertion loss due to the introduction of devices like couplers or switches between amplifiers and circulators, limiting the power emitted in radar mode.
Innovation Solution
The second end of the first transmission channel is connected to the first arm of the circulator, and the second end of the second transmission channel is connected to the second arm of the circulator, avoiding additional devices and reducing insertion loss in radar mode by using a circulator to inject signals from the second transmission channel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a coupler or switch is introduced between the amplifier and circulator to enable dual-mode operation, then the radar can operate in both radar mode and uplink communication mode, but insertion loss increases and transmitted power decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the signal path into separate physical channels: a first transmission channel connected to the first arm of the circulator for radar mode, and a second transmission channel connected to the second arm for uplink mode. This segmentation allows each channel to be optimized independently, with the radar channel experiencing minimal insertion loss while the uplink channel handles communication signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The circulator is used as a multi-functional component that routes signals differently based on the operating mode. By connecting both transmission channels to different arms of the same circulator, the system achieves dual-mode operation (radar and uplink communication) using a single circulator device, eliminating the need for additional switching components in the radar path.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional devices like switches or couplers are added to the transmission path for mode switching, then dual-mode operation is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The circulator serves multiple functions: it isolates the amplifier from reflected signals, routes radar signals through the first arm, and routes uplink signals through the second arm. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for additional switches or couplers that would otherwise be required to achieve mode switching, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the mode switching function with the circulator's inherent signal routing capability. Instead of adding separate switching devices, the system uses the circulator's natural directionality and arm isolation to achieve mode selection, combining multiple functions into a single component.
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
This configuration reduces insertion loss in radar mode, allowing for higher power emission without modifying the main channel, enabling efficient operation in both radar and uplink modes without performance degradation.
Implementation Method 1
a circulator comprising at least a first arm, a second arm and a third separate arm; a CIRC circulator is suitable for conveying, in a single direction of rotation, the radiofrequency signals present on the three arms
Data Source
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AI summary
Transmission module (10), said module being adapted to combine two modes of operation, and including: - a switch (12) comprising an input adapted to receive a signal to be transmitted, to be switched between two outputs, each corresponding to a transmission channel; - a circulator (14) comprising at least a first arm, a second arm and a third arm (B1, B2, B3) distinct; - a first transmission channel (V1) and a second transmission channel (V2), each comprising a first end connected to said main switch and a second end connected to said circulator; said switch being adapted to selectively connect the input of the switch, in the first mode of operation, to the first end (E11) of the first transmission channel (V1) and, in the second mode of operation, to the first end (E21) of the second transmission channel (V2);said emission module being characterized in that the second end (E12) of the first emission channel (V1) is connected to the first arm (B1) of the circulator and the second end (E22) of the second emission channel (V2) is connected to the second arm (B2) of the circulator.;