Using Rotary Switching Means Patents (Class 333/106)
  • Patent number: 11398819
    Abstract: A housing for a switch network is provided, comprising a plurality of switch blocks, each of the switch blocks being adapted to receive a radio frequency switch, and one or more interlink waveguides. At least one of the waveguides is arranged to connect a respective two or more of the switch blocks to each other and arranged externally with respect to the two switch blocks. At least one of the one or more waveguides is integrally formed with at least one of the switch blocks. A method of manufacturing the housing is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2022
    Assignee: AIRBUS DEFENCE AND SPACE LIMITED
    Inventors: Maurice Joseph Hamer, Simon Rumer, Ian Morris, Oilid Bouzekri
  • Patent number: 11239535
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include waveguide switch rotors, stators, waveguide switch housings and meander clamping mechanisms. In particular, the waveguide switch rotor design employs isolation posts surrounding waveguide ports disposed on the external face of the rotor to achieve an artificial magnetic boundary condition to achieve high isolation with improved gap from rotor to stator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2022
    Inventors: Michael C. Hollenbeck, Robert Smith
  • Patent number: 11205825
    Abstract: A non-contact type coaxial switch that eliminates all contacts and inner conductors. The switch includes a stator/coax base assembly and a rotor. The stator/coax base assembly is fixed, while the rotor is rotatably mounted to the stator/coax base assembly and eliminates all contacts and inner conductors. The rotor is disposed between bearings, and consists of waveguide paths that couple between selected coax connectors. When the rotor is rotated, different selected coax connectors occur. For other arrangements selected, the rotor can switch between a condition of coax and waveguide outputs. The rotor, between bearings, consists of waveguide paths which couple between selected coax connectors. When the rotor is rotated, a different selected coax connector occurs. For other arrangements selected, the rotor can switch between a combination of coax and waveguide outputs. The switch can assume many configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2021
    Inventor: Victor Nelson
  • Patent number: 10553921
    Abstract: A mechanical, M-to-N, reciprocating millimeter waveguide switch is provided, where M and N are integers. A mechanical, one-to-four, reciprocating millimeter waveguide switch is also provided, together with a method for switching millimeter waves from one input to one of four outputs is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2020
    Assignee: Roos Instruments, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Roos, Rick Rodriguez, Ray Beers, James Cochran
  • Patent number: 10522888
    Abstract: A microwave branching switch for selectively interconnecting terminals of a plurality of microwave transmission lines, involving microwave transmission lines with a terminal; a housing in which the terminals are arranged; a switching portion with a junction portion for selectively interconnecting terminals of the microwave transmission lines through selective interconnection. The switching portion is switchable between a first position and a second position; wherein the switching portion with the junction portion is dimensioned and positioned inside the housing in dependence of an arrangement of the microwave transmission lines such that the junction portion interconnects a first group of terminals when the switching portion is in the first position and interconnects a second group of terminals when the switching portion is in the second position. The first and second groups of terminals differ in at least one terminal and the first group of terminals involves at least three terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: EUROPEAN SPACE AGENCY
    Inventors: Christoph Ernst, Petronilo Martin Iglesias, Uwe Rosenberg
  • Patent number: 10236552
    Abstract: A waveguide assembly system includes a fixed port, a sliding port, and a transmission path from the fixed port to the sliding port. The transmission path includes a waveguide assembly that includes a first minor face corresponding to the fixed port, a first major face that includes a recess extending from the first minor surface towards the fixed port. The waveguide assembly system also includes a port assembly with a first major surface disposed opposite to the first major surface of the waveguide assembly. The port assembly includes at least one port having a first opening on the first major surface of the port assembly and a second opening on a second major surface of the port assembly. The port assembly includes one or more stubs positioned to impede electromagnetic energy propagation beyond a specified distance within the port tab assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2019
    Assignee: Keyssa, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric Sweetman
  • Patent number: 9793588
    Abstract: A movable waveguide block 50 having transmission lines 51 and 52 slides in a non-contact manner between a first end surface 30b of a first fixing waveguide block 30 having transmission lines 31 and 32 and a second end surface 40a of a second fixing waveguide block 40 having a transmission line 41, and switching of propagation paths is performed. Grooves 35A, 35B, 36A, 36B, 45A, 45B, 55A, 55B, 56A, 56B, 57A, 57B, 58A, and 58B having depths equivalent to ΒΌ of a guide wavelength of an electromagnetic wave of a leakage prevention object are provided in pairs around openings of the transmission lines 31, 32, 41, 51, and 52 facing each other across a gap between blocks. Accordingly, unintended leakage of electromagnetic waves to the transmission lines via the gap between the blocks is prevented, and isolation increases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignee: ANRITSU CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takashi Kawamura, Akihito Otani
  • Patent number: 9368851
    Abstract: An arrangement is disclosed for providing the functionality of a four port, four channel rotary switch. The arrangement includes a first four port rotary microwave switch, the first switch including a first rotor and a first set of four waveguide ports, and a second four port rotary microwave switch, communicatively coupled to the first switch, the second switch including a second rotor and a second set of four waveguide ports. Each of the first switch and the second switch has at most three channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: Space Systems/Loral, LLC
    Inventors: Ali Shayegani, Will Caven, Richard Hoffmeister, Gerald Murdock
  • Patent number: 9298191
    Abstract: A system and method for detecting leaks using sensors to report the leak and communicate with a control unit to turn off the source of the leak once detected. A valve can be turned off in the event of a leak and embodiments employing battery power can function during loss of power such as a power blackout. Wireless sensors can be employed to detect leaks that wirelessly communicate with a control and operate solely with a designated control unit. The wireless sensors can operate using low power provided by batteries. The control panel can display alarm conditions from the sensors, including: low battery, poor signal, wet sensor, communication failure, sensor failure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2016
    Inventor: Timothy Meyer
  • Publication number: 20140184353
    Abstract: An arrangement is disclosed for providing the functionality of a four port, four channel rotary switch. The arrangement includes a first four port rotary microwave switch, the first switch including a first rotor and a first set of four waveguide ports, and a second four port rotary microwave switch, communicatively coupled to the first switch, the second switch including a second rotor and a second set of four waveguide ports. Each of the first switch and the second switch has at most three channels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2012
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Applicant: SPACE SYSTEMS/LORAL, LLC
    Inventors: Ali Shayegani, Will Caven, Richard Hoffmeister, Gerald Murdock
  • Patent number: 8587386
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to a high isolation waveguide switch that can either be manually or mechanically operated. Operation proceeds by loosening a fastener, which draws a rotor portion of the switch away from a stator portion; rotating the rotor by 90 degrees; and tightening the fastener, pushing the rotor into contact with the stator and completing connections to the waveguide ports. Gaskets may provide EMI shielding and ensure port-to-port isolation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventor: John W. Hauff
  • Publication number: 20090315638
    Abstract: A switch for selectively providing an input signal to an output terminal. The switch includes a first waveguide terminal, a second waveguide terminal, a reduced-width waveguide connecting the first waveguide terminal to the second waveguide terminal, and at least one switching element spanning the reduced-width waveguide between the first and second waveguide terminals. The reduced-width waveguide is configured to pass a signal from the first waveguide terminal to the second waveguide terminal when the at least one switching element is in a first state and block a signal when the at least one switching element is in a second state. In some embodiments, the switch also includes at least one additional waveguide terminal and the reduced-width waveguide also connects the first waveguide terminal to the at least one additional waveguide terminal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2008
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Yi-Chi Shih, Kiet Mai, Long Bui
  • Patent number: 7330087
    Abstract: A microwave switch housing assembly for operation in a selected frequency range. The housing assembly includes a housing having ports, a rotor containing at least one waveguide passage, and power absorbing material positioned either in the housing or in the rotor. Ports are positioned within the housing it so that in a first position of the rotor, the waveguide passage connects the ports and in a second position of the rotor, the waveguide passage is unconnected to the ports. The power absorbing material is positioned adjacent to one end of said waveguide passage when said rotor is in said second position it absorbs electromagnetic energy in the frequency range and reduces the tendency of the isolation passage to act as a volume resonator when the rotor is in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignee: Com Dev Ltd.
    Inventors: Evgeni Gorovoy, Jeffrey M. Wiesel
  • Patent number: 7193488
    Abstract: An R switch with a stator and a rotor with three paths wherein a central, straight interconnection is constructed as step transformers and formed bar-like by recesses incorporated laterally in the in the steps of the transformers in order to lower the low frequency limit of the HF signals which can be transmitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: Tesat-Spacecom GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Bernd Mayer
  • Publication number: 20040183615
    Abstract: A selectable waveguide transitions between two positions to at least two independent signals by their polarization or frequency. This waveguide consists of dissimilar wave sections coupled to an antenna feed and is mechanically actuated for signal selection switching to route signals to output ports and respective probes that are polarization sensitive. The waveguide sections offer high polarization purity so that signal components remain separated to avoid mutual interference and low insertion loss to maintain system efficiency. Selectable waveguide can be extended for multiple polarization and frequency operation. Frequency selective surfaces and tapers establish pass bands and attenuation levels for frequency selection. The selectable waveguide is suitable for both frequency and polarization selectively in antenna system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 1998
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Inventor: ROBERT B. DYBDAL
  • Patent number: 6762373
    Abstract: A compact rotary attenuator comprises a housing (1), a terminal board (3) having input and output terminals (20A and 20B) and electronic components connected between the input and output terminals, a driving shaft (13) attached to the terminal board (3) at right angles therewith within the housing (1), input and output contact shoes (11 and 12) for spring contact with the input and output terminals (20A and 20B), and input and output coaxial connectors (9 and 10) each having a central conductor extending into the housing (1), wherein the input and output contact shoes (11 and 12) make contact with the input and output terminals (20A and 20B) on different sides of the terminal board (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Assignee: Hirose Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yasuhiro Matsuo
  • Patent number: 6667671
    Abstract: A waveguide switch having a stator and an electrically conducting movable element, the stator having waveguide paths between waveguide terminal pairs, each path being switchable to conducting or nonconducting with the help of the movable element for high-frequency waves. To permit lower requirements regarding manufacturing tolerances, the movable element is designed as a septum in a gap in the stator and extends in the waveguide path, which is switched to nonconducting, in parallel to its E plane. This divides the waveguide path into two partial waveguides, which run in parallel with one another and, in comparison with the switched-to-conducting state of the waveguide path, have smaller cut-off wavelengths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Assignee: Tesat-Spacecom GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Werner Speldrich, Uwe Rosenberg
  • Patent number: 6489858
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for switching waveguides between T switch and a bypass waveguide. The apparatus comprises a housing having a first, second and third housing port and a waveguide rotor, having a first and second rotary position. The waveguide rotor includes a first T waveguide, having a first and second T port, for connecting the second and third housing ports in the first rotary position, a second T waveguide having a third and fourth T port, for connecting the first and fourth housing ports in the first rotary position and a bypass waveguide, having a first and second bypass port, for connecting the first and second housing ports in the second rotary position. The first and second rotary positions are alternately selectable by rotating the waveguide rotor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: James M. Barker, Rolf Kich, Richard L. Bennett
  • Publication number: 20020135437
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for switching waveguides between a junction waveguide and a bypass waveguide among a plurality of housing ports. The apparatus comprises a housing having a first, second and third housing port and a waveguide rotor, having a first and second rotary position. The waveguide rotor includes a junction waveguide, having a first, second and third junction port, for combining the first, second and third housing ports in the first rotary position and a bypass waveguide, having a first and second bypass port, for connecting the first and second housing ports in the second rotary position. The junction and bypass waveguides are alternately selectable by rotating the waveguide rotor to the first and second rotary positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventors: Rolf Kich, Richard L. Bennett, James M. Barker
  • Publication number: 20020135436
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for switching waveguides between T switch and a bypass waveguide. The apparatus comprises a housing having a first, second and third housing port and a waveguide rotor, having a first and second rotary position. The waveguide rotor includes a first T waveguide, having a first and second T port, for connecting the second and third housing ports in the first rotary position, a second T waveguide having a third and fourth T port, for connecting the first and fourth housing ports in the first rotary position and a bypass waveguide, having a first and second bypass port, for connecting the first and second housing ports in the second rotary position. The first and second rotary positions are alternately selectable by rotating the waveguide rotor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventors: James M. Barker, Rolf Kich, Richard L. Bennett
  • Patent number: 6448869
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for switching waveguides between a junction waveguide and a bypass waveguide among a plurality of housing ports. The apparatus comprises a housing having a first, second and third housing port and a waveguide rotor, having a first and second rotary position. The waveguide rotor includes a junction waveguide, having a first, second and third junction port, for combining the first, second and third housing ports in the first rotary position and a bypass waveguide, having a first and second bypass port, for connecting the first and second housing ports in the second rotary position. The junction and bypass waveguides are alternately selectable by rotating the waveguide rotor to the first and second rotary positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Rolf Kich, Richard L. Bennett, James M. Barker
  • Patent number: 6380822
    Abstract: A satellite signal routing system includes a satellite using one or more waveguide switches for routing M-inputs to M of N-outputs. A waveguide switch includes a first waveguide, used as a stationary input coupled to a rotary joint. A joint rotation device, such as a motor, rotates the rotary joint. A rotary waveguide is attached to the rotary joint and also rotates. Two or more second waveguides, used as stationary outputs, are coupled to the rotary waveguide through a non-contacting waveguide. A controller controls the joint rotation device to rotate the rotary joint to align the rotary waveguide with one of the second waveguides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Hughes Electronics Corporation
    Inventor: Gary M. Lindgren
  • Patent number: 6246298
    Abstract: A dielectric line switch is provided which is capable of easily controlling the propagation of an electromagnetic wave. Also provided is an antenna device employing said dielectric line switch. As an embodiment of the invention, a plurality of dielectric lines and a plurality of primary radiators are provided on a rotary unit. With the rotation of the rotary unit, the dielectric lines are switched ON and OFF by virtue of mechanical means, so that a desired change-over may be effected among the plurality of primary radiators in a time sharing manner, and the positions of the primary radiators may be shifted within a plane of the focal point of a dielectric lens, thereby enabling the transmission wave beam and/or reception wave beam to scan in a desired manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Assignee: Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yohei Ishikawa, Koichi Sakamoto, Toru Tanizaki, Hiroshi Nishida, Taiyo Nishiyama, Nobuhiro Kondo, Atsushi Saitoh, Yoshinori Taguchi, Hideaki Yamada
  • Patent number: 6218912
    Abstract: The microwave switch includes a housing (1) and a rotor (2) having a rotor axis (A). The rotor (2) includes respective plate-shaped parts (10,20) having corresponding ring-shaped outer surfaces (OS, OS′) and walls (15 to 18) extending between the plate-shaped parts. The rotor (2) is provided with through-going passages (7,8,9) extending transversely to the rotor axis (A) between the plate-shaped parts (10,20) and the walls (15 to 18). Grooves (6) for improving isolation of the passages (7,8,9) are provided only in the ring-shaped outer surfaces (OS, OS′) and extend longitudinally substantially parallel to the rotor axis (A). The grooves (6) open into the passages and the passages are bounded by the plate-shaped parts (10,20) in both directions of the rotor axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Bernd Mayer
  • Patent number: 6201906
    Abstract: A compact “T” switch for use in a waveguide communication system switch includes a housing, a rotor, and a motor. The housing includes a pair of ends and an interconnecting sidewall enclosing a cylindrical cavity. One of the housing ends including an entry port, and the sidewall includes a plurality circumferentially spaced exit ports. The rotor is rotatably disposed within the housing cylindrical cavity, and includes an input end having an input port aligned with the housing entry port and an outer surface having a plurality of output ports for alignment with the housing exit ports. The rotor includes a primary or first passage connecting the input port to one of the output ports and further includes at least one secondary passages connecting a pair of the output ports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Assignee: Hughes Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: Rolf Kich, Michael N. Ando
  • Patent number: 6031300
    Abstract: To eliminate interference with digital broadband service created by bridge tapped connections in local loop distribution cables, a switch is associated with each broadband customer drop cable connection in the terminals along the length of each distribution cable. In one position, a switch connects the upstream portion of a metallic circuit to the downstream portion of the circuit. The switch also may connect the metallic circuit to an associated one of the connectors. This bridge tapped connection enables use of the metallic circuit for a subscriber drop connection through a downstream terminal. In a second position, a switch connects the upstream portion of the metallic circuit only to the connector associated with the switch in the local terminal. A drop cable for broadband service runs from the connector in the local terminal to a nearby subscriber premises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Bell Atlantic Networks Services, Inc.
    Inventor: James W. Moran
  • Patent number: 5973577
    Abstract: A microwave switch having a switch housing with side walls in which waveguide connections are arranged; a switch rotor rotatably arranged in the switch housing; a drive means arranged on the switch housing with a shaft for providing a moment for rotating the switch rotor; and a transmission arrangement arranged to transmit the moment of the drive means to the switch rotor. The transmission arrangement has a first link with a radially extended slot, and a second link fixed to the shaft and fitted with a guide member arranged to be slidably moved in the slot. Further provided is a first stop member fixedly connected to the switch rotor and arranged, in the respective switch position, to engage with a second stop member fixedly connected to the switch housing; and a means arranged to apply a torque to the switch rotor in order to press the stop members against each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: Sivers Lab AG
    Inventor: Anders Karlsson
  • Patent number: 5815049
    Abstract: A dual switch for coupling a waveguide microwave switch to a coaxial microwave switch. The waveguide microwave switch has a waveguide hollow member and a waveguide rotating section rotatably mounted about a rotational axis within the waveguide hollow member at one end. The coaxial microwave switch has a coaxial hollow member adjacent to the one end of the waveguide hollow member and a coaxial rotating section rotatably mounted within the coaxial hollow member about an axis coaxial with the rotational axis. The waveguide microwave switch is coupled to the coaxial microwave switch by at least one set of cooperating magnets fastened at a given radial distance from the rotational axis to the waveguide rotating section and the coaxial rotating section respectively, such that any rotation of the waveguide rotating section about the rotational axis will be followed by a corresponding rotation about the rotational axis of the coaxial rotating section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1998
    Inventor: Guido G. Cappelli
  • Patent number: 5748055
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a microwave switch comprising a switch housing having side walls in which wave guide terminals are provided, and a switch rotor carried by a shaft which is mounted in bearings in said switch housing and being rotatable between switch positions defined by stop means limiting the rotation of said switch rotor a maximum of 180.degree., and an electromagnetic driving device having a permanent magnetic rotor part fixed directly onto the shaft of the switch rotor and having diametrically positioned magnetic poles of opposite polarities, and a stator part having an electric driving coil arranged on a magnetic yoke which is connected with two poles shoes, said stop means comprising a stop element on said switch rotor and impact elements provided in said switch housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Assignee: Sivers Lab Aktiebolag
    Inventor: Goran Ors
  • Patent number: 5635881
    Abstract: A conducting housing for use in a coaxial cable distribution system is of larger length than width and defines an RF signal path therein. A part of the RF signal path is the inner conductor of inner and outer approximately coextensive conductors. The inner conductor except near its ends has only air separating it from the outer conductor. The outer conductor will usually be of a U-shape lying, in section, on three sides of the central conductor. The outer conductor may be structally combined with an insulating plate supporting the remainder of the RF circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 3, 1997
    Assignee: J.E. Thomas Specialties Limited
    Inventors: Robert L. Romerein, David B. Crowhurst
  • Patent number: 5635944
    Abstract: A single integrated antenna feed transmits and receives electromagnetic waves in the C, X, and Ku frequency bands. This antenna feed includes an inner metal tube which lies along a central axis, and an outer metal tube which surrounds and is coaxial with the inner metal tube. Through the inner tube, a passageway is provided which is sized to carry electromagnetic waves in the X-band and Ku-band, but reject electromagnetic waves in the C-band. Between the inner tube and the outer tube, another passageway is provided which is sized to carry electromagnetic waves in the C-band. An I/O port for the X and Ku-bands is provided by a first end of the inner tube, and an I/O port for the C-band is provided by a corresponding first end of the outer tube. This first end of the outer tube lies proximate to but not past the first end of the inner tube. A solid dielectric is inserted into and fills the first end of the inner tube; and, a hollow metal cone is attached to the first end of the outer tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 3, 1997
    Assignee: Unisys Corporation
    Inventors: Harry M. Weinstein, Joseph M. Baird, Bryant F. Anderson
  • Patent number: 5583469
    Abstract: A dual frequency waveguide switch passes electromagnetic waves in the X-band along one route, and passes electromagnetic waves in the Ku-band along a different route. This switch includes a housing which has first, second, and third openings for the electromagnetic waves to pass through; and a movable member, mounted in the housing, having first and second passageways. The first passageway is shaped to pass electromagnetic waves in both the X-band and the Ku-band, and the second passageway is shaped to pass electromagnetic waves in the Ku-band but reject electromagnetic waves in the X-band. A forcing mechanism forces the moveable member to a position "A" in the housing where the first passageway interconnects the first opening to the second opening, and to a position "B" where the second passageway interconnects the first opening to the third opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1996
    Assignee: Unisys Corporation
    Inventors: Harry M. Weinstein, Joseph M. Baird, Bryant F. Anderson
  • Patent number: 5347243
    Abstract: A non-contacting waveguide "T" switch (10) is provided including a stator (12), a rotor (14) mounted for rotation relative to the stator, and a coaxial conductor (64) located at the axis of the rotor for carrying a coaxial transmission. The stator (12) has at least one waveguide port (32). The rotor (14) includes a through-waveguide (48) and an impedance matching transformer (52) disposed in the through-waveguide (48) for converting the coaxial transmission into a waveguide transmission. The transformer (52) has a bore which forms a non-contacting sleeve about the coaxial conductor (64). The through-waveguide (48) carries the waveguide transmission radiated from the transformer to the at least one waveguide port (32).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 13, 1994
    Assignee: Hughes Aircraft Company
    Inventors: Rolf Kich, Omar M. Al-Bundak
  • Patent number: 5257872
    Abstract: A mechanism (100) for fixing the relative position of two members including a first member (104) having a first coefficient of thermal expansion and a second member (102) positioned adjacent to the first member and having a second coefficient of thermal expansion. The first member (104) is adapted to receive thermal energy. The first and second members are mounted for relative motion therebetween at a first temperature and are in contact at a relative fixed position at a second temperature. In a specific embodiment, a microwave control valve (100) for use in a waveguide is disclosed and includes a housing (104) having a first coefficient of thermal expansion and a first plurality of housing waveguide openings (130). A rotor (102) is positioned within the housing and has a second coefficient of thermal expansion and a plurality of rotor waveguide openings (132). The housing (104) is adapted to receive RF energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1993
    Assignee: Hughes Aircraft Company
    Inventors: Robert Morgen, David S. Levinson
  • Patent number: 5206610
    Abstract: A transfer device for selectively combining and switching microwave signals between selective ports in a housing in which is a cylindrical rotor. In a lower portion of the rotor is a first passage having three arms each of which terminates at one of the ports when the rotor is one position so that microwave signals entering the passage via two of the arms are combined and leave the rotor and housing via the third arm. In an upper portion of the rotor are second and third passages which are blocked when the rotor is in the first position to prevent switching of signals therein When the rotor is in the second and third positions the second and third passages pass microwave signals between selected pairs of ports, while the arms of the first passage are blocked to prevent combining of signals therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1993
    Inventor: Victor Nelson
  • Patent number: 5155456
    Abstract: A microwave switch arrangement for the selective connection of n input lines with n+ a output lines including m microwave switches, where m.gtoreq.n, each including a rotor and a stator with at least two waveguide passages in the rotor and waveguide switch inputs and outputs in the stator, as well as waveguides for establishing interconnections between the microwave switches. The microwave switches are fastened to a carrier plate by means of respective waveguide flanges; waveguide connections, corresponding in their dimensions to the waveguide passages, are formed in the carrier plate; further waveguide connections extend at least in one plane parallel to the carrier plate; and selected of the microwave switch inputs and outputs are connected with the waveguide connections formed in the carrier plate, via the associated waveguide flanges, and with the further waveguide connections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1992
    Assignee: Teldix GmbH
    Inventors: Gerd Ruff, Herbert Rubik, Eckart Hettlage
  • Patent number: 5053732
    Abstract: A waveguide switch assembly having a common stator in which a network of signal paths are provided inserted by rotors operated by individual motors responsive to a digital computer. An interface including a line receiver the input of which is coupled to the output of the computer. A one-shot multivibrator is coupled to and triggered by the line receiver. A relay driven by the one-shot controls application of current to the switch motor when the computer applies a differential input across the line receiver. A timer and a counter is used to prevent the switch motor from exceeding a defined duty cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1991
    Assignee: Logus Manufacturing Corp.
    Inventors: Manfred C. Elgass, Vincent A. Colucci
  • Patent number: 5039968
    Abstract: A system for setting in particular the rotor (2) of a coaxial or waveguide switch in n possible locking positions S.sub.1, S.sub.2, S.sub.3, . . . has an axially staggered drive on one side and on the opposite side a locking means (6, 7, 8/9, 10/11, 12). On the side facing the stator, the drive (3, 4, 5) has a drive winding composed of the drive coils (5) connected to only one pair of conductors by means of which a current of a determined polarity is supplied to the drive winding (5) and which turns the rotor (2) in the direction of the n locking positions S.sub.1, S.sub.2, S.sub.3, . . . by means of magnetic forces. The main purpose of the locking means (6, 7, 8/9, 10/11, 12) is to turn the rotor (2) into the exact locking position and to maintain it in that position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1991
    Assignee: Teldix GmbH
    Inventors: Gerd Ruff, Harald Knorrchen
  • Patent number: 5039962
    Abstract: The coupling device is of the plug-like switch type in which the plug has three internal conduits separated from one another. These internal conduits enable at least two of the other input conduits to be made to communicate with one another, depending on the angular position of the plug. A device such as this can be used to disconnect a malfunctioning emitter and thus prevent any loss of power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1991
    Assignee: Thomson - CSF
    Inventor: Pierre Blanchard
  • Patent number: 5012292
    Abstract: Device for setting the rotor of a rotary switch in one of three possible switching positions (positions 1 to 3). Such rotary switches can be for example wave guide or coaxial switches. The excitation of windings in this device for a rotary direction is effected by a pair of conductors with a current pulse. This current pulse, via an initial drive system and by means of a drive torque produced by the windings of the latter, moves the rotor from an initial end position (position 1) in the direction of a mid-position (position 3) and to an intermediate position. After the current pulse has been switched off, a permanently imprinted magnetic detent torque brings about the further rotation of the rotor to the mid-position (position 3), where the rotor is centered by the shape of the detent torque. A further current pulse on the same pair of conductors produces a drive moment which moves the rotor from the mid-position (position 3) to the other end position (position 2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1991
    Assignee: Teldix GmbH
    Inventor: Gerd Ruff
  • Patent number: 4967170
    Abstract: A waveguide switch with four outputs or inputs (A, B, C, D) normally has one rotor (2) with three passages (3, 4, 5) with which, as appropriate, two waveguide connections can be effected in specific rotor positions. In two switching positions only the central waveguide passage (3) conducts HF signals, whereas in the two other switching positions both curved passages (4, 5) simultaneously conduct HF signals. Whereas the transmission losses in the central passage are low, a very high reflection level has hitherto been obtained in the two curved passages because of the points of inflexion. In order to improve the transmission characteristics, it is proposed to design the curved passages with an elliptical shape. For this, the longitudinal passage (3) is narrowed toward the central point of the rotor, so that sufficient space is provided for the curved portion of the lateral passages. The circular shape of the curved passages (4, 5) can also be approximated by a facet-like shaping of the sidewalls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 30, 1990
    Assignee: Teldix GmbH
    Inventors: Eckart Hettlage, Gerd Ruff
  • Patent number: 4945320
    Abstract: A waveguide switch selectively connects at least one coaxial input line with at least one of two output lines of which at least one is a coaxial line. The waveguide switch includes a rotor having at least one rectangular waveguide passage which has a height which is relatively small, as well as a housing for rotatably supporting the rotor. The housing has a plurality of waveguide sections, each of the waveguide sections have substantially the same cross-sectional dimensions, and which are connectable with one another by the waveguide passage in the rotor by rotation of the rotor. At least one of the plurality of waveguide sections has an adapter for connection to at least one of the coaxial input line and at least one of the two output lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 31, 1990
    Assignee: Teldix GmbH
    Inventors: Eckart Hettlage, Gerd Ruff
  • Patent number: 4920324
    Abstract: An RF switch for use e.g. in space has a pair of rotary switch contacts mounted for rotation into and out of a closed position in which a switch connection is established between the switch contacts. A dielectric material is located between the switch contacts, the dielectric material and the switch contacts constituting a capacitive RF connection between the switch contacts in the closed position to eliminate multipactor discharge and ionization and to improve heat dissipation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 24, 1990
    Assignee: Canadian Patents and Development Limited/Societe Canadienne Des Brevets Et D'Exploitation Limitee
    Inventors: Neil Whittaker, Denis Boulanger
  • Patent number: 4908589
    Abstract: A dielectrically loaded waveguide switch is disclosed which provides high power handling capability, small size and low weight. The invention includes first and second dielectrically loaded waveguides selectively connected by a switch. In a specific embodiment of the invention, the switch includes a third dielectrically loaded waveguide mounted for communication with said first and second waveguides upon switch actuation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1987
    Date of Patent: March 13, 1990
    Assignee: Hughes Aircraft Company
    Inventors: Richard V. Basil, Jr., Juri G. Leetmaa
  • Patent number: 4908587
    Abstract: In an antenna selector in the form of a matrix, in which connections are established as desired between first feeder lines (F11, . . . , F13) on a first level and second feeder line (F21, . . . , F24) on a second level, the number of switches (S11, . . . , S34) can be reduced or the number of selectable antennae can be increased, in that at least one third level with third feeder lines (F31, . . . , F34) is introduced and each switch (S11, . . . , S34) is extended by an additional switching level and switching position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 13, 1990
    Assignee: ASEA Brown Boveri Ltd.
    Inventor: Stojan Davcev
  • Patent number: 4831222
    Abstract: An integrated pad switch has conductive contacts that may be embedded in a flexible substrate to form a wiper contact. The flexible substrate is backed by a foamed elastic block and mounted on a driver. The wiper contact moves across the surface of a hybrid circuit substrate having an electrical circuit to provide the desired switching function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1985
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1989
    Assignee: Tektronix, Inc.
    Inventors: Heinz E. Grellmann, Leonard A. Roland
  • Patent number: 4829271
    Abstract: An antenna matrix switch bay includes a housing which is subdivided in a plurality of chambers defining a matrix configuration of coaxial transmitter switches and coaxial antenna switches provided with opposing fixed contacts in row direction and column direction. Each chamber of the housing contains one single switch whereby one transmitter switch and one antenna switch define a node and have a common switch drive shaft perpendicular to both planes. The switch drive includes a straight switch member in each plane and a double-cranked switch member insulated from the switch members and connecting the fixed contacts of one plane with those of the other plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1989
    Assignee: Spinner GmbH, Elektrotechnische Fabrik
    Inventors: Franz-Xaver Pitschi, Georg Spinner
  • Patent number: 4806887
    Abstract: A waveguide R-switch has transformers in one or more of its three waveguide paths. The presence of the transformers allows the R-switch to be constructed of a smaller size than previous R-switch with curved outer paths. This results in important weight and volume savings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1987
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1989
    Assignee: Com Dev Ltd.
    Inventor: Henry Y. M. Au-Yeung
  • Patent number: 4761622
    Abstract: Waveguide switching apparatus includes a stator and a rotor arranged to rotate relative to it. The rotor includes passages therethrough arranged to make connections between channels in the stator depending on the relative position of the rotor and stator. One passage is defined partly by the rotor and partly by the stator. This reduces the inertia of the rotor compared with a conventional switch in which all passages are entirely contained within the rotor, and thus improves switching accuracy. A passage in the rotor may have a dimension, in a plane transverse to the axis of rotation, which varies along its length, being smallest at its mid-length. Curved passages in the rotor may be arranged such that tangents to their center lines at their ports are non-radial. This enables the diameter of the rotor to be smaller than would otherwise be required. In another aspect of the invention, an asymmetric circumferential slot arrangment is included in the rotor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1986
    Date of Patent: August 2, 1988
    Assignee: The General Electric Company, p.l.c.
    Inventors: David J. Cracknell, Raymond P. Smith
  • Patent number: 4665373
    Abstract: A small size waveguide switch having a stationary body with four mutually perpendicular sides and a port on each side. A rotor is mounted on the body and has two coupling arc-shaped symmetrical channels, along with a mechanism for alternately bringing the rotor to two switching positions where the channels of the rotor differently connect in pairs the ports. The driving mechanism is a d.c. motor consisting of a permanent magnet coupled to one end of the rotor, and a toroidal stator associated with the stationary body and having polar shoes and energizing coils supplied with a direct current with the direction being set by the status of optoelectronic devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1985
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1987
    Inventor: Michele Merlo