Tunable Time Delay Circuit Using Switchable Floating Strips
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional time delay circuits for transmission lines are bulky and lack the ability to dynamically adjust delay, which is necessary for applications like active array radar systems where precise control over signal propagation is required.
Innovation Solution
A tunable delay circuit assembly using switchable floating strips with transistors to adjust parasitic capacitance along a coplanar wave transmission line, allowing for dynamic control of signal delay by coupling or isolating floating segments with switches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If the length of transmission line is increased to add time delay, then the time delay is improved, but the layout space required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the electrical parameters of the transmission line by introducing floating strips that create parasitic capacitance. This modifies the propagation characteristics of the transmission line, slowing down signal propagation without increasing physical length, thereby achieving time delay while maintaining compact layout space.
Solution Approach 2:
The floating strips act as intermediary elements between the signal path and ground. These strips create parasitic capacitance that loads the transmission line, effectively slowing signal propagation. The switches serve as intermediaries to dynamically connect or disconnect these floating strips, enabling adjustable delay while keeping the physical footprint small.
2Area of stationary object
If conventional time delay circuits are used, then the layout space is reduced, but the ability to dynamically adjust delay is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces switches (such as PIN diodes or transistors) that can dynamically alter the electrical characteristics of the transmission line by connecting or disconnecting floating strips. This dynamic control mechanism enables real-time adjustment of time delay while maintaining a compact layout, resolving the contradiction between space efficiency and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission line is segmented into multiple sections with individually controllable floating strips. Each segment can be independently switched, allowing for granular control of delay characteristics. This segmentation enables dynamic adjustment of total delay by selectively activating different segments, while the overall structure remains compact.
3Area of stationary object
If floating strips are added to create slow wave structure, then the layout space is reduced, but manual tuning is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical tuning (jumpers or connectors) with electronic switching mechanisms such as PIN diodes or transistors. These electronic switches can be controlled via electrical signals to dynamically connect or disconnect floating strips, eliminating the need for manual intervention while maintaining the compact slow-wave structure. This substitution enables automated and programmable delay adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The switching mechanism is designed to be self-controlled through electrical signals, where the system can autonomously adjust delay settings without external manual intervention. The electronic switches respond to control voltages or currents, enabling the system to self-regulate delay parameters dynamically while maintaining the compact layout.
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 flexible and efficient adjustment of signal delay, reducing layout space requirements while maintaining control over signal propagation, achieving significant time delay adjustments without increasing physical length.
Implementation Method 1
The floating strips of metal beneath the transmission line act as periodic parasitic capacitance loads to the transmission line
Implementation Method 2
selectively grounds one or more floating strips... switchable floating strips with transistors to adjust parasitic capacitance... coupling or isolating floating segments with switches
Data Source
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AI summary
A tunable compact time delay circuit assembly is provided. In one embodiment, the invention relates to a tunable delay circuit assembly for controllably delaying signals that propagate along a transmission line, the circuit assembly including an elongated conductor extending (102) in a first direction, the elongated conductor configured to carry the signals, at least one floating strip, each floating strip including a first elongated conductive segment (108) having a first centerline, wherein the first centerline is not parallel to the first direction, and a second elongated conductive segment (110) having a second centerline, wherein the second centerline is not parallel to the first direction, and a first switch (114) coupled between the first segment and the second segment, wherein the first switch, in a first position, is configured to connect the first segment to the second segment, wherein the first switch, in a second position, is configured to electrically isolate the first segment from the second segment, and wherein the at least one floating strip is electrically isolated from other components of the circuit assembly.