Tunable Distributed-Element Circuit With Movable Ground Plane
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surface-mount filters and distributed-element circuit components have fixed electrical characteristics, which cannot be tuned after manufacture, limiting their adaptability to varying radio frequency (RF) and microwave applications.
Innovation Solution
A tunable distributed-element transmission line circuit with an electromagnetic field modification member and an actuator that adjusts the position relative to the circuit, allowing for real-time modification of electrical characteristics such as center frequency and bandwidth by changing the air gap between the circuit and the modification member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If fixed geometry microstrip is used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a movable ground plane that can be dynamically adjusted relative to the fixed microstrip circuit. This dynamic element allows the electrical characteristics (center frequency, bandwidth) to be tuned after manufacture without altering the microstrip geometry itself, thus resolving the contradiction between manufacturing precision and adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of the air gap distance between the microstrip circuit and the ground plane. By adjusting this distance, the electrical characteristics are modified while the microstrip geometry remains fixed, enabling tunability without compromising manufacturing precision
2Adaptability or versatility
If tunable electrical characteristics are achieved, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the circuit into two independent parts: a fixed microstrip circuit and a movable ground plane. This segmentation allows the complex tuning function to be isolated to the ground plane movement mechanism, while the microstrip circuit remains simple and manufacturable with standard precision
Solution Approach 2:
The air gap between the microstrip circuit and ground plane serves as an intermediary element that enables electrical characteristic tuning. By adjusting this intermediate space, the system achieves adaptability without requiring complex direct modifications to the microstrip structure
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 the adjustment of electrical characteristics like center frequency and bandwidth, enhancing the component's adaptability and performance in RF and microwave applications without altering the physical geometry of the microstrip.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnetic field modification member separated from the distributed-element circuit by a gap, and an actuator that adjusts the position of the electromagnetic field modification member relative to the circuit
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to an electrical component, for example, a surface-mount resonator, including a distributed-element circuit disposed on a dielectric base and separated from an electromagnetic field modification member by a gaseous gap, wherein a frequency characteristic of the electrical component can be tuned by positioning the electromagnetic field modification member relative to the distributed-element circuit using an actuator.