YIG Resonator Closed-Loop Filtering and Attenuation

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Solution Overview

Problem

YIG resonator-based microwave filters and attenuators face issues with frequency instability due to temperature dependence, require separate devices for filtering and attenuation, leading to higher signal insertion loss and manufacturing costs, and have limited switching speed and lifespan due to mechanical operation.

Innovation Solution

A closed-loop control system using a YIG resonator in an electromagnetic coil voltage-controlled magnetic field, where the resonator is magnetically coupled to input and output wires, operating in a detuned mode to provide both filtering and attenuation, with attenuation controlled by adjusting the magnetic field strength based on detected power differences compared to a reference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If separate electromechanical attenuator devices are used for signal level control, then a very low insertion loss and wide amplitude control range are achieved, but the switching speed and life time are limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinsertion lossVSAvoidswitching speed

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the filter and attenuator into a single integrated device using a YIG resonator that performs both frequency filtering and amplitude control functions simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate electromechanical attenuator components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces mechanical attenuator components with a solid-state YIG resonator system controlled by magnetic field adjustments, eliminating moving parts while maintaining low insertion loss and achieving fast switching speeds through electronic control

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If separate filter and attenuator devices are used, then filtering and attenuation functions are provided, but signal insertion loss and manufacturing costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefiltering and attenuation functionalityVSAvoidsignal insertion loss

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the filter and attenuator into a single integrated device where the YIG resonator simultaneously provides frequency-selective filtering and amplitude control, reducing the number of components and minimizing cumulative insertion loss

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The YIG resonator is designed to perform multiple functions including frequency filtering, signal attenuation, and amplitude control within a single device, providing versatile signal processing capabilities without requiring separate dedicated components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Stability of the object's composition

If YIG resonator operating frequency is stabilized through temperature control, then frequency stability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresonant frequency stabilityVSAvoidtemperature control mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces thermal management mechanisms with a magnetic field-based frequency stabilization system using a feedback loop that adjusts the magnetic field strength to compensate for frequency drift, eliminating the need for complex temperature control hardware

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent stabilizes resonant frequency by dynamically adjusting the magnetic field parameter rather than controlling temperature, using a feedback mechanism that modifies magnetic field strength to maintain constant frequency despite environmental variations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

This approach stabilizes the resonant frequency, reduces signal insertion loss, enhances control mechanisms, and lowers manufacturing costs by integrating filtering and attenuation functions in a single device, achieving reliable and efficient signal processing with improved frequency stability.

Implementation Method 1

a YIG resonator positioned in an electromagnetic coil voltage controlled magnetic field such that a YIG resonant frequency of the YIG resonator is tuned by the electromagnetic coil voltage

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The YIG resonator is magnetically coupled to both an input coupling wire and an output coupling wire so that the input coupling wire uses the YIG resonator to transfer input signals to the output coupling wire

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic coupling: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS9843086B1YIG-based closed loop signal filtering and amplitude control

Publication Date: 2017.12.12 MICRO LAMBDA WIRELESS INC

AI summary

An apparatus and method for building and operating of a YIG-based filter-attenuator module with closed-loop control. The module combines both signal filtering and amplitude control functions by utilizing an yttrium-iron-garnet (YIG) resonator. A technique for a closed-loop calibration and control also disclosed. This apparatus and method provides a cost effective harmonic rejection/amplitude control solution for microwave test-and-measurement instruments such as signal generators and spectrum analyzers.