W-Band Passive Phase Shifter With Slow-Wave Line Phase Tuning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing passive phase shifters for millimeter wave operations in the W band are lossy and lack precise control over phase shift, which is essential for efficient signal processing in phased array systems.
Innovation Solution
A passive phase shifter design featuring a ground shield, patterned metal features, and a signal line with intermediate and top signal lines connected by conductive vias, along with a plurality of blocks that can be electrically isolated and switched to tune the phase shift, minimizing losses and optimizing device size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional passive phase shifters are used for W band operation, then phase shift control is provided, but signal losses are high and phase shift precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The signal line is divided into multiple segments (first signal line portion, second signal line portion, third signal line portion) with different characteristic impedances. Each segment contributes differently to the total phase shift, allowing precise control while maintaining lower losses through optimized impedance matching in each section.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the signal line are assigned different local properties (characteristic impedances of 50Ω, 75Ω, and 100Ω) to optimize performance in specific regions. The ground walls are also positioned at different heights above the ground shield to create localized impedance variations that reduce overall signal loss while enabling precise phase control.
2Volume of moving object
If phase shifter size is reduced for miniaturization, then device compactness is improved, but phase shift control precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The phase shifter utilizes vertical dimension by positioning ground walls at different heights above the ground shield (first height, second height, third height). This three-dimensional configuration allows multiple impedance values to be achieved within a compact footprint, enabling precise phase control without increasing device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where ground walls are positioned within the space defined by the signal line and ground shield, creating multiple functional layers in a compact arrangement. The intermediate ground walls are nested between the outer ground walls, maximizing space utilization while maintaining precise phase control capability.
3Measurement precision
If multiple ground walls at different heights are used, then phase shift precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ground walls serve multiple functions simultaneously: they define characteristic impedance values, provide mechanical support for the signal line, and create the necessary spacing for electromagnetic field distribution. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity despite achieving precise phase control.
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
The design allows for precise control of phase shift with reduced losses, enabling efficient signal processing and miniaturization of phase shifters for W band operations, enhancing performance in phased array systems.
Implementation Method 1
a top signal line separated from the intermediate signal line at a third height above the ground shield and electrically connected to the intermediate signal line by one or more conductive vias
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of blocks positioned between and electrically isolated from the intermediate signal line and the top signal line
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment of passive phase shifter comprises a ground shield, a pair of ground walls electrically connected to the ground shield having a first height above the ground shield; and a signal line positioned between the ground walls and electrically isolated from the ground shield. The signal line may comprise an intermediate signal line separated a second height above the ground shield; a top signal line separated from the intermediate signal line at a third height above the ground shield and electrically connected to the intermediate signal line by one or more conductive vias; and a plurality of blocks positioned between and electrically isolated from the intermediate signal line and the top signal line.