Two-Transmitter Two-Receiver Antenna Coupling Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional antenna coupling devices for microwave digital radios suffer from significant signal power loss due to the use of signal splitters, leading to higher power consumption and inefficiency in wireless communications.
Innovation Solution
The development of an antenna coupling device that incorporates a circulator plate to support two-transmitter-two-receiver configurations, utilizing isolators and filters to minimize signal loss and provide better isolation, with the option of integrating tunable filters for frequency flexibility, thereby reducing device size and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If signal splitters are used in conventional antenna coupling devices, then signal routing is achieved, but signal power loss increases significantly (more than 50% power loss)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (isolator, circulator, filter) into a single integrated antenna coupling device. The isolator and circulator are merged into one component structure, and the filter is integrated within the same device housing, eliminating the need for separate signal splitter components and reducing overall signal power loss while maintaining signal routing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna coupling device performs multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as an isolator to prevent signal reflection, a circulator to route signals between antenna and radio components, and a filter to select specific frequency bands. This multi-functionality replaces the need for separate dedicated components including signal splitters, reducing both power loss and device complexity.
2Reliability
If traditional duplexer with external isolator approach is used, then signal isolation is provided, but device size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The isolator function is merged into the circulator structure, forming an integrated component that provides both signal isolation and directional routing. This eliminates the need for external isolators mounted separately on the duplexer, significantly reducing device size while maintaining the required signal isolation performance between transmitter and receiver paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter is nested within the circulator-isolator assembly, with the filter elements positioned inside the existing component housing. This nested arrangement allows the filter to share the same physical space as other components, reducing overall device volume without compromising signal isolation or filtering performance.
3Productivity
If conventional antenna coupling devices are used, then signal routing is achieved, but power consumption increases due to signal loss
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the isolator and circulator into a single integrated component with minimal internal transitions, the device reduces signal loss at each interface. The direct coupling between components eliminates multiple connection points where signal power could be lost, thereby reducing the power needed to maintain effective transmission levels and improving overall wireless communication efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses tunable filter elements that can adjust their frequency response parameters dynamically. This allows the system to optimize signal transmission characteristics for different operating conditions, maximizing signal power delivery to the antenna and reducing the power required to achieve the desired communication range and quality.
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna coupling device is disclosed. The device includes a first isolator that includes an input port and an output port and a first circulator that includes a first port, a second port, and a third port. The first port of the first circulator is coupled with the output port of the first isolator; and the second port of the first circulator is configured for coupling with a first antenna. The device also includes a second isolator that includes an input port and an output port. The input port of the second isolator is coupled with the third port of the first circulator.