Waveguide to Substrate Integrated Waveguide Transition Taper

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing transition couplings between waveguides and printed circuit boards with substrate integrated waveguides are limited in bandwidth, restricting the efficient transfer of electromagnetic signals.

Innovation Solution

A broadband transition coupling system that includes an air-filled waveguide section and a transition section, where the transition section continuously tapers to reduce height and merge with an air-filled portion of the printed circuit board, enabling a step-less transition and broadening the signal processing bandwidth without the need for radiating elements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional transition couplings are used between waveguide and printed circuit board, then the structure is simple to manufacture, but the bandwidth is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovebandwidthVSAvoidtransition coupling structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a third dimension (vertical height) by creating a recessed coupling region that extends downward from the printed circuit board surface. This vertical dimension allows the transition section to taper continuously from the waveguide interface down to the substrate integrated waveguide, enabling broadband operation without complicating the planar layout.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The transition coupling is divided into distinct functional sections: an air-filled waveguide section for high-frequency signals, a tapered transition section for impedance transformation, and a substrate integrated waveguide section for planar circuit integration. This segmentation allows each section to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall broadband performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If the transition section height is reduced for better coupling, then the coupling with printed circuit board improves, but the electromagnetic signal propagation may be affected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoupling with printed circuit boardVSAvoidelectromagnetic signal propagation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent continuously changes the height parameter of the transition section along its length, creating a gradual taper from the full waveguide height at the input to a reduced height at the output. This continuous parameter change enables smooth impedance transformation, maintaining signal integrity while achieving proper coupling to the printed circuit board.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The transition section employs curved, continuous surfaces rather than sharp edges or abrupt changes. The tapered walls follow smooth contours that gradually transform the electromagnetic field distribution, preventing reflections and maintaining reliable signal propagation throughout the transition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

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 system achieves a broadband transition by ensuring optimal electromagnetic characteristics and cost-effective manufacturing, allowing for efficient propagation of electromagnetic signals across a wide frequency range without specific materials or complex manufacturing techniques.

Implementation Method 1

The air-filled waveguide section comprises a first interface for the waveguide. The transition section provides a second interface for the printed circuit board. The electromagnetic signals coupled into the substrate integrated waveguide propagate along a longitudinal extension

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic wave propagation: Waveguide

Data Source

PatentUS11264689B2Transition between a waveguide and a substrate integrated waveguide, where the transition includes a main body formed by symmetrical halves
Publication Date: 2022.03.01 ROHDE & SCHWARZ GMBH & CO KG
  • US11264689B2 patent drawing
  • US11264689B2 patent drawing
  • US11264689B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A broadband transition coupling for transition between a waveguide and a printed circuit board with a substrate integrated waveguide is disclosed. The broadband transition coupling comprises a main body that encompasses an air-filled waveguide section and a transition section. The air-filled waveguide section comprises a first interface for the waveguide. The transition section provides a second interface for the printed circuit board. The transition section continuously tapers along the second interface in order to reduce a height of the transition section for transition coupling with the printed circuit board. Further, the present disclosure relates to a broadband system for processing electromagnetic signals.