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EP2690703B1 - Frequency tunable bandpass filter for hyperfrequency waves - Google Patents

Frequency tunable bandpass filter for hyperfrequency waves Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2690703B1
EP2690703B1 EP13177704.7A EP13177704A EP2690703B1 EP 2690703 B1 EP2690703 B1 EP 2690703B1 EP 13177704 A EP13177704 A EP 13177704A EP 2690703 B1 EP2690703 B1 EP 2690703B1
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European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
dielectric
input
output
cavity
filter
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EP13177704.7A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2690703A1 (en
Inventor
Aurélien Perigaud
Damien Pacaud
Nicolas Delhote
Olivier Tantot
Stéphane BILA
Serge Verdeyme
Laetitia Estagerie
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Thales SA
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Thales SA
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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01P—WAVEGUIDES; RESONATORS, LINES, OR OTHER DEVICES OF THE WAVEGUIDE TYPE
    • H01P1/00—Auxiliary devices
    • H01P1/20—Frequency-selective devices, e.g. filters
    • H01P1/207—Hollow waveguide filters
    • H01P1/208—Cascaded cavities; Cascaded resonators inside a hollow waveguide structure
    • H01P1/2084—Cascaded cavities; Cascaded resonators inside a hollow waveguide structure with dielectric resonators
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01P—WAVEGUIDES; RESONATORS, LINES, OR OTHER DEVICES OF THE WAVEGUIDE TYPE
    • H01P1/00—Auxiliary devices
    • H01P1/20—Frequency-selective devices, e.g. filters
    • H01P1/207—Hollow waveguide filters
    • H01P1/208—Cascaded cavities; Cascaded resonators inside a hollow waveguide structure
    • H01P1/2084—Cascaded cavities; Cascaded resonators inside a hollow waveguide structure with dielectric resonators
    • H01P1/2086—Cascaded cavities; Cascaded resonators inside a hollow waveguide structure with dielectric resonators multimode
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01P—WAVEGUIDES; RESONATORS, LINES, OR OTHER DEVICES OF THE WAVEGUIDE TYPE
    • H01P7/00—Resonators of the waveguide type
    • H01P7/10—Dielectric resonators

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the field of frequency filters in the field of microwave waves, typically frequencies between 1GHz to 30GHz. More particularly, the present invention relates to frequency tunable band pass filters.
  • microwave wave for example received by a satellite
  • the processing of a microwave wave requires the development of specific components, allowing the propagation, amplification, and filtering of this wave.
  • a microwave received by a satellite must be amplified before being sent back to the ground.
  • This amplification is only possible by separating all the frequencies received into channels, each corresponding to a given frequency band. The amplification is then carried out channel by channel. Channel separation requires the development of bandpass filters.
  • tunable bandpass filters in the microwave domain is the use of passive semiconductor components, such as PIN diodes, continuously variable capacitors, or capacitive switches.
  • passive semiconductor components such as PIN diodes, continuously variable capacitors, or capacitive switches.
  • MEMS micro electromechanical systems
  • the technology of the filters based on dielectric elements is known. It allows non-tunable band pass filters.
  • the figure 1 describes an example of a filter based on dielectric elements for non-tunable microwave wave.
  • An input excitation means 10 introduces the wave into the cavity, this element is typically a conducting medium such as a coaxial cable (or probe).
  • the cavity 13 is a closed cavity made of metal, typically aluminum or invar.
  • An output excitation means 11 typically a conducting medium such as a coaxial cable (or probe), makes it possible to cause the wave to exit the cavity.
  • the dielectric element 12 is round or square in shape and disposed inside the metal cavity 13.
  • the dielectric material is typically zirconia, alumina or BMT.
  • a filter typically comprises at least one resonator comprising a metal cavity and a dielectric element.
  • a resonance mode of the filter corresponds to a particular distribution of the electromagnetic field which is excited at a particular frequency.
  • a bandpass filter allows the propagation of a wave over a certain frequency range and attenuates this wave for the other frequencies. This defines a bandwidth and a central frequency of the filter. For frequencies around its center frequency, a bandpass filter has high transmission and low reflection.
  • these filters may be composed of a plurality of resonators coupled together.
  • the center frequency and the filter bandwidth depend on both the geometry of the cavities and the dielectric elements, as well as the coupling resonators between them as well as couplings to the input and output excitation means of the filter.
  • Coupling means are for example openings or slots called iris, electrical or magnetic probes or microwave lines.
  • the bandwidth of the filter is characterized in different ways depending on the nature of the filter.
  • Parameter S is a parameter that accounts for filter performance in terms of reflection and transmission.
  • S11, or S22 corresponds to a measurement of the reflection and S12, or S21, to a measurement of the transmission.
  • a filter performs a filtering function.
  • This function can generally be approximated via mathematical models (iterative functions such as Chebychev, Bessel, etc. functions). These functions are usually based on polynomial relationships.
  • the filter bandwidth is determined at S11 (or S22) equi-ripple, for example at 15 dB or 20 dB of reflection reduction with respect to its level. out of band.
  • the band is taken at -3dB (when S21 crosses S11).
  • FIG. 2 An example of a characteristic of the parameters S11 and S12 of a filter is illustrated figure 2 .
  • the curve 21 corresponds to the reflection S11 of the wave on the filter as a function of its frequency.
  • the bandwidth equi-ripple at 20 dB of reflection is noted 26.
  • the filter has a center frequency corresponding to the frequency of the middle of the bandwidth.
  • Curve 22 of the figure 2 corresponds to the transmission S12 of the filter as a function of the frequency.
  • the filter thus passes a signal whose frequency is located in the bandwidth, but the signal is nevertheless attenuated by the losses of the filter.
  • the tuning of the filter making it possible to obtain a transmission maximum for a given frequency band is very difficult to produce and depends on all the parameters of the filter. It is moreover dependent on the temperature.
  • the resonance frequencies of the filter resonators can be very slightly modified using metal screws, but this process carried out empirically, is very expensive in time and allows a very low frequency tunability, typically of the order of a few%.
  • the objective is not the tunability but the obtaining of a precise value of the central frequency, and it is desired to obtain a reduced sensitivity of the frequency of each resonator with respect to the depth of the screw.
  • the circular or square symmetry of the resonators simplifies the design of the filter and the selection of the mode (TE for Transverse Electric or TM for Transverse Magnetic) that propagates in the filter.
  • the document US 7705694 discloses a bandwidth-tunable filter composed of a plurality of dielectric resonators coupled together, non-uniformly radially and uniformly shaped along an axis z perpendicular to the direction of propagation. Each resonator is able to rotate about the z-axis between two positions, which induces a change in the value of the width of the bandwidth, typically from 51Mz to 68Mz.
  • This device allows tunability on the value of the width of the bandwidth of the filter, but not on its central frequency.
  • the document EP1684374 and the document JPS61136302 describe dielectric resonators that change their resonant frequency by dielectric rotation or by an external screw.
  • the object of the present invention is to provide tunable filters in central frequency that do not have the aforementioned drawbacks.
  • the input dielectric element and the output dielectric element are respectively located substantially in the center of the input cavity and the output cavity.
  • the input and output dielectric elements are U-shaped.
  • the filter comprises coupling means adapted to couple the input and output resonators directly.
  • the filter further comprises at least one intermediate resonator arranged in series between the input resonator and the output resonator, comprising an intermediate metal cavity and an intermediate dielectric element disposed inside the cavity and capable of disturbing the resonance mode of the microwave wave in the cavity, each dielectric element having a flattened shape having a height of at least a factor of 3 to the smallest dimension in a plane perpendicular to the direction carrying the height and being able to rotate about an axis of intermediate rotation, the filter comprising coupling means adapted to couple the intermediate resonators in pairs in series.
  • the coupling means are slots.
  • the dielectric elements have an identical angular position corresponding to an identical rotation, a value of the angle of rotation corresponding to a central frequency value of the filter.
  • the axes of rotation are parallel to each other.
  • the axes of rotation are perpendicular to the Z axis.
  • the intermediate dielectric elements are substantially identical.
  • the dielectric elements are integral with respective dielectric rods capable of rotating along the corresponding axis of rotation.
  • the rotational angles are variable as a function of the temperature so as to maintain the values of the central frequencies constant during a temperature variation.
  • the invention also relates to a microwave circuit comprising at least one such filter.
  • the invention consists in producing a tunable band pass filter in central frequency by rotation of dielectric elements in metal cavities, the input and output dielectric elements having a specific shape.
  • the filter according to the invention operates in a disturbed cavity mode.
  • An empty metal cavity has, according to its geometry, one or more resonance modes characterized by a frequency f of the microwave wave present in the cavity and by a particular distribution of the electromagnetic field.
  • resonance modes TE for Transverse Electrique
  • TM for Transverse Magn
  • a cavity containing a dielectric element (called disturbing element) disturbing the electromagnetic field inside the cavity is also able to resonate.
  • the figure 4 discloses a frequency-tunable bandpass filter 100 according to one aspect of the invention.
  • the microwave wave propagates along a Z axis.
  • the filter 100 comprises an input resonator R1 comprising a metal inlet cavity C1 and an input dielectric element E1 disposed inside the cavity.
  • the dielectric element E1 is able to disturb the resonance mode of the microwave wave in the input cavity.
  • the intrinsic nature of the mode, corresponding to the resonance mode of the cavity without the dielectric element, is not modified, but the mode of the cavity is very disturbed by the addition of the dielectric element E1.
  • the element E1 adds a capacitive effect which disturbs the resonance mode of the microwave wave in the cavity, and modifies the resonant frequency of the initial resonator formed by the cavity without the dielectric element.
  • the filter 100 also includes an output resonator RN comprising a metallic CN output cavity and an output dielectric element EN disposed within the CN cavity.
  • the output dielectric element EN has the same properties as those of the input dielectric element E1.
  • a TM mode is chosen on which it is easier to obtain a capacitive effect.
  • a TM mode is chosen on which it is easier to obtain a capacitive effect.
  • a parallel association resistance-capacitance-inductance resonator RLC
  • This circuit has a resonance frequency function of the product L.C. When playing on the capacitive effect, the resonance frequency varies.
  • the filter 100 comprises an input excitation means S1 of elongate shape along the Z axis penetrating inside the input cavity C1 .
  • This excitation means is typically a probe, such as a coaxial probe, of elongate shape, such as a cable.
  • the filter 100 comprises an Z-shaped elongated output excitation means Z penetrating inside the output cavity CN.
  • This excitation means is typically a probe, such as a coaxial probe, of elongate shape, such as a cable.
  • the inlet and outlet cavities are coupled to each other and respectively coupled to the input and output excitation means, so that the microwave wave introduced by the input excitation means into the filter 100 , propagates in the resonators in a resonance mode, and comes out of the filter.
  • the input and output dielectric elements according to the invention have a specific shape which has a recess.
  • the input energizing means penetrates inside the recess 41 of the input dielectric element so that the input dielectric element disturbs the electromagnetic field in the vicinity of the excitation means. 'Entrance.
  • the output excitation means penetrates inside the recess 42 of the output dielectric element so that the output dielectric element disturbs the electromagnetic field in the vicinity of the output excitation means.
  • the input dielectric element is adapted to rotate about an input rotation axis X1, the recess being adapted to allow rotation of the dielectric element while maintaining the element of input excitation inside the recess.
  • the output dielectric element is adapted to rotate about an output rotation axis XN, the recess being adapted to allow rotation of the dielectric element while maintaining the excitation element of exit inside the recess.
  • the excitation element inside the recess makes it possible to maintain a strong disturbance of the electromagnetic field in the vicinity of the element while ensuring a controlled coupling between excitation and resonator. This is essential for controlling the bandwidth, and for adapting the filter.
  • the distance between the excitation elements S1, SN and the respective dielectric elements E1, EN inside the recess is chosen as a function of the desired filter.
  • a broad bandpass filter requires strong coupling and therefore a distance as small as possible, limited by mechanical manufacturing tolerances and costs, typically a hundred microns.
  • a narrow bandwidth filter requires a lower coupling and therefore a slightly larger distance, typically from 1 to a few mm.
  • the rotations of the dielectric elements modify the capacitive effect, disturbing the electric field differently depending on the angular position of the dielectric elements.
  • the filter operates for a TM mode.
  • TM mode the magnetic field is perpendicular to the propagation direction Z and the electric field E is collinear with Z.
  • the preferred TM mode is of the TM 010 type.
  • the maximum of the electric field E is concentrated in the center of the cavity of the resonator.
  • the cavities of the resonators of the filter according to the invention are aligned, and the Z direction corresponds to the axis passing through the center of the cavities. The maximum field E is concentrated near Z.
  • the capacitive effect induced by the presence of a disturbing dielectric is a function of the amount of dielectric material (dielectric permittivity) "seen" by the field E. Increasing the amount of dielectric "seen” by the electric field increases the capacitive effect of the resonator. the contrast obtained on the capacitive effect is maximized when this variation is localized on a maximum of electric field.
  • a plane Pe is defined for each dielectric element. This plane is perpendicular to the height h (smaller dimension) of the dielectric element.
  • h small dimension
  • the quantity of material traversed by the field E in the vicinity of Z is much smaller than when the planes Pe of the dielectric elements comprise the Z axis. A high contrast of effect capacitive between the two positions is obtained, which induces a central frequency variation of the larger filter.
  • the rotation of a dielectric element takes place at a teta angle with respect to a given reference point.
  • the value of the center frequency of the filter fc is a function of the teta angle that the element E1 makes and the tetab angle that the element E2 makes.
  • a center frequency corresponds to an angular position of the dielectric elements.
  • the dielectric element E1 has a flattened shape respectively having a height h1 smaller than the external dimensions in a plane Pe perpendicular to the direction carrying the height h1.
  • the outer dimensions are the largest dimensions (I1 and L1 in the example of the figure 4 ) dielectric elements not taking into account the recess.
  • the dielectric element EN has a flattened shape respectively having a height hN less than the external dimensions (IN and LN in the example of FIG. figure 4 ) in a plane Pe perpendicular to the direction carrying the height hN.
  • the height is at least a factor 3 smaller than the smallest dimension in the plane Pe perpendicular to the direction carrying the height.
  • the figure 7a describes an example of a filter according to the invention when E1 and EN make an identical angle teta0, and equal to 0 ° by convention, corresponding to a central frequency value fc0.
  • the figure 7b describes the filter according to the invention when E1 and E2 make an identical teta90 angle, and equal to 90 ° with respect to the first position of E1 and E2, corresponding to a central frequency value fc90.
  • the filter according to the invention is a band pass filter whose central frequency can be chosen in a frequency range depending on the angular orientation of the dielectric elements.
  • the center frequency can be chosen continuously in the range of variation.
  • a correction (readjustment of the central frequency) according to the temperature is possible.
  • the adjustment of the angular positions is effected by means of control means, such as a motor.
  • the input dielectric element E1 and the output dielectric element EN are respectively located substantially in the center of the input cavity and of the output cavity. A maximum concentration of the electric field is thus obtained in the vicinity of the input and output excitation means, which makes it possible to ensure the sufficient and controlled coupling of the excitations with the resonators 1 and N.
  • the input dielectric elements E1 and output EN are U-shaped.
  • the shape comprises a body and two branches so as to make the recess 41 or 42; the dielectric elements are thus easy to manufacture. There is no flatness constraint on the shape of the dielectric elements.
  • the input and output excitation means are coaxial probes arranged along the same axis Z.
  • the filter comprises only two resonators, the input resonator R1 and the output resonator RN.
  • the two resonators are coupled together by coupling means, such as one or more slots.
  • the input dielectrics E1 and output EN are substantially identical, in shape and in material.
  • the figure 5 describes a preferred embodiment of an aspect of the invention for which the filter 100 further comprises at least one intermediate resonator Ri, a resonator being indexed according to an index i ranging from 2 to N-1, depending on the number of resonators intermediate.
  • the figure 5a describes a perspective view of the filter.
  • Each intermediate resonator Ri comprises an intermediate metal cavity Ci and an intermediate dielectric element Ei disposed inside the cavity Ci and capable of disturbing the resonance mode of the microwave wave in the cavity, the dielectric element Ei being adapted to rotate around an intermediate axis of rotation Xi.
  • each intermediate dielectric element Ei also has a flattened shape having a height hi less than the dimensions Li and Li (with Ii ⁇ Li for the example of the figure 5 ) in a plane Pe perpendicular to the direction bearing hi.
  • the height hi is at least a factor of 3 smaller than the smallest dimension li in the plane Pe perpendicular to the direction carrying the height hi. .
  • the intermediate dielectric elements have a flattened solid shape which does not necessarily have a recess as they are coupled to each other and not to an elongated excitation element such as the input and output dielectric elements.
  • the resonators are coupled two to two i / i + 1 in series, by coupling means, such as slots. These slots make it possible to couple at the same time a part of the electric field E and a part of the magnetic field H.
  • a coupling by field E has a sign opposite to a coupling by field H. identical proportions, the two couplings cancel each other out.
  • the positions and the dimensions of the slots are determined by optimization so that the resulting bandwidth is substantially constant during the rotation of the dielectric elements.
  • the input means S1 is a coaxial probe.
  • the axes of rotation of X1, X2 .. X1 to XN are perpendicular to the Z axis.
  • the axes of rotation X1, X2 .. Xi to XN are concurrent with the Z axis.
  • the intermediate elements symmetrical with respect to the medium of the filter are identical in shape, size and material.
  • the intermediate elements Ei are substantially identical in shape, size and material.
  • the filter is easier to calculate and to manufacture.
  • the rectangular shape of the dielectric elements shown is purely schematic and does not correspond to a preferred form.
  • the figure 6a corresponds to an element Ei intermediate in a cavity Ci in top view, the figure 6b in profile view.
  • the dotted area 61 illustrates a configuration where the capacitive effect is low.
  • the Figure 6c corresponds to the input dielectric element E1 in the cavity C1 when viewed from above, the figure 6d in profile view.
  • Dotted area 62 illustrates a configuration where the capacitive effect is low.
  • the figure 7a corresponds to an element Ei intermediate in a cavity Ci in top view, the figure 7b in profile view.
  • Dotted area 71 illustrates a configuration where the capacitive effect is strong.
  • the Figure 7c corresponds to the input dielectric element E1 in the cavity C1 when viewed from above, the figure 7d in profile view.
  • the dashed area 72 illustrates a configuration where the capacitive effect is strong.
  • a gradual and synchronous rotation of the dielectric elements E1, E1, EN makes it possible to continuously vary the central frequency fc of the filter.
  • each dielectric element E1, Ei, EN varies the amount of material traversed by the electric field E in the center of the cavities of the resonators, which has the effect of varying the capacitive effect of the resonator.
  • the figures 8 and 9 illustrate an embodiment of a filter according to the invention and the filter characteristics obtained.
  • the filter comprises 3 resonators R1, R2, RN comprising cavities C1, C2, CN of substantially square shape.
  • the size of the cavities C1 and CN is 16 mm, the dimension of C2 is 17 mm.
  • the 3 cavities have a height of 4.5 mm.
  • the dielectric elements E1, E2, EN are made of zirconia.
  • the input dielectric elements E1 and output EN have a dimension of 3.8 mm ⁇ 6.1 mm ⁇ 1.2 mm.
  • the height h of 1.2 mm is small compared to other dimensions by about a factor of 3 with the smaller of the other two dimensions.
  • the intermediate dielectric element E2 has dimensions of 4 mm x 4.1 mm x 1.2 mm (height h of 1.2 mm).
  • Resonators R2 and RN are connected by two slots of dimension 7mm x 2.5 mm, 5.5 mm apart. Unrepresented screws (6 per cavity) allow fine tuning of TM mode resonance and couplings.
  • the figure 8a represents a profile view of the filter and the figure 8b a perspective view.
  • the figure 9a represents a profile view of the filter and the figure 9b a perspective view
  • the flattened shapes of the dielectric elements are optimized to maximize the difference in capacitive effect and thus the frequency shift.
  • the dielectric elements E1, E2, EN are integral with holding means, preferably respective rods T1, T2, TN also of dielectric material capable of rotating
  • a rod and the dielectric element which is integral therewith form a single block of the same dielectric material which is manufactured in one piece.
  • the rod is made of dielectric material, it contributes to the disruptive effect of the dielectric element.
  • the rods Ti pass right through the associated disturbing element Ei and the cavity Ci, which ensures a better mechanical retention of the dielectric element in the cavity than with a single point of maintenance.
  • the curve S21 (0 °) corresponds to the transmission of the filter and the curve S11 (0 °) to reflection.
  • the bandwidth at -20 dB is deltaf (0 °) and the center frequency fc (0 °) is equal to 11.5 GHz.
  • Curve S21 (90 °) corresponds to the transmission of the wire and curve S11 (90 °) to reflection.
  • the bandwidth at -20 dB is deltaf (90 °) and the center frequency fc (90 °) is equal to 9.65 GHz.
  • the center frequency has changed from 9.65 GHz to 11.5 GHz.
  • the figure 10 illustrates another embodiment of a filter according to the invention in the same spirit as the described filter figures 8 and 9 .
  • the figure 10a discloses a perspective view of the filter for dielectric elements generally parallel to the Z axis and the figure 10b discloses a perspective view of the filter for dielectric elements generally perpendicular to the Z axis.
  • the filter comprises 6 resonators.
  • the figure 10c describes the transmission of the filter S12 for different angular positions of the dielectric elements between 0 ° and 90 °.
  • the center frequency varies according to the angle of inclination of the dielectric elements, between 9.65 GHz and 11.5 GHz.
  • the adaptation is of the order of 15 dB and the losses of the filter between 0.3 and 0.5 dB whatever the value of the angle of rotation.
  • the input and the output play a symmetrical role.
  • the temperature variations (typically a few tens of degrees) in the filter induce fluctuations in the dimensions of the cavities and dielectric elements, which generates central frequency variations for the same filter geometry.
  • rotation angles of the dielectric elements have variable values as a function of the temperature so as to correct the effects of the temperature on the central frequencies and thus maintain the values of these central frequencies. constant during a temperature change.
  • each central frequency value corresponds to an identical rotation angle for all the dielectric elements of the filter according to the invention and the value of this angle is temperature-controlled so as to maintain the central frequency at a determined value independent of the temperature. .
  • the invention also relates to a microwave circuit comprising at least one filter according to the invention.

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Description

DOMAINE DE L'INVENTIONFIELD OF THE INVENTION

La présente invention concerne le domaine des filtres en fréquence dans le domaine des ondes hyperfréquences, typiquement de fréquences comprises entre 1GHz à 30GHz. Plus particulièrement la présente invention concerne les filtres passe bande accordables en fréquence.The present invention relates to the field of frequency filters in the field of microwave waves, typically frequencies between 1GHz to 30GHz. More particularly, the present invention relates to frequency tunable band pass filters.

ETAT DE LA TECHNIQUESTATE OF THE ART

Le traitement d'une onde hyperfréquence, par exemple reçue par un satellite, nécessite le développement de composants spécifiques, permettant la propagation, l'amplification, et le filtrage de cette onde.The processing of a microwave wave, for example received by a satellite, requires the development of specific components, allowing the propagation, amplification, and filtering of this wave.

Par exemple une onde hyperfréquence reçue par un satellite doit être amplifiée avant d'être renvoyée vers le sol. Cette amplification n'est possible qu'en séparant l'ensemble des fréquences reçues en canaux, correspondant chacun à une bande de fréquence donnée. L'amplification est alors réalisée canal par canal. La séparation des canaux nécessite le développement de filtres passe-bandes.For example, a microwave received by a satellite must be amplified before being sent back to the ground. This amplification is only possible by separating all the frequencies received into channels, each corresponding to a given frequency band. The amplification is then carried out channel by channel. Channel separation requires the development of bandpass filters.

Le développement des satellites et la complexité accrue du traitement du signal à effectuer, par exemple une reconfiguration des canaux en vol, a conduit à la nécessité de mettre en oeuvre de filtres passe bande accordables en fréquence, c'est-à-dire pour lesquels il est possible de régler la fréquence centrale de filtrage couramment dénommée fréquence d'accord du filtre.The development of satellites and the increased complexity of the signal processing to be performed, for example a reconfiguration of the channels in flight, has led to the need to implement frequency-tunable band pass filters, that is to say, for which it is possible to adjust the central filtering frequency commonly referred to as the tuning frequency of the filter.

Une des technologies connues de filtres passe-bande accordables dans le domaine des ondes hyperfréquence est l'utilisation de composants semiconducteurs passifs, tel que des diodes PIN, des capacités continûment variables ou des commutateurs capacitifs. Une autre technologie est l'utilisation de MEMS (pour micro systèmes électromécaniques) de type ohmiques ou capacitifs.One of the known technologies of tunable bandpass filters in the microwave domain is the use of passive semiconductor components, such as PIN diodes, continuously variable capacitors, or capacitive switches. Another technology is the use of MEMS (for micro electromechanical systems) of the ohmic or capacitive type.

Ces technologies sont complexes, consommatrices d'énergie électrique et peu fiables. Ces solutions sont également limitées au niveau de la puissance de signal traité. De plus l'accordabilité en fréquence a pour conséquence une dégradation significative des performances du filtre, tel que son facteur de qualité Q.These technologies are complex, power-consuming and unreliable. These solutions are also limited in the amount of signal power processed. In addition, the frequency tunability results in a significant degradation of the performance of the filter, such as its Q quality factor.

Par ailleurs, la technologie des filtres à base d'éléments diélectriques est connue. Elle permet de réaliser des filtres passe bande non accordables.In addition, the technology of the filters based on dielectric elements is known. It allows non-tunable band pass filters.

La figure 1 décrit un exemple de filtre à base d'éléments diélectriques pour onde hyperfréquence non accordable.The figure 1 describes an example of a filter based on dielectric elements for non-tunable microwave wave.

Un moyen d'excitation d'entrée 10 introduit l'onde dans la cavité, cet élément est typiquement un milieu conducteur tel un câble (ou sonde) coaxial.An input excitation means 10 introduces the wave into the cavity, this element is typically a conducting medium such as a coaxial cable (or probe).

La cavité 13 est une cavité fermée constituée de métal, typiquement de l'aluminium ou de l'invar.The cavity 13 is a closed cavity made of metal, typically aluminum or invar.

Un moyen d'excitation de sortie 11, typiquement un milieu conducteur tel un câble (ou sonde) coaxial, permet de faire sortir l'onde de la cavité.An output excitation means 11, typically a conducting medium such as a coaxial cable (or probe), makes it possible to cause the wave to exit the cavity.

L'élément diélectrique 12 est de forme ronde ou carrée et disposé à l'intérieur de la cavité métallique 13. Le matériau diélectrique est typiquement de la zircone, de l'alumine ou du BMT.The dielectric element 12 is round or square in shape and disposed inside the metal cavity 13. The dielectric material is typically zirconia, alumina or BMT.

Un filtre comprend typiquement au moins un résonateur comprenant une cavité métallique et un élément diélectrique. Un mode de résonance du filtre correspond à une distribution particulière du champ électromagnétique qui est excité à une fréquence particulière.A filter typically comprises at least one resonator comprising a metal cavity and a dielectric element. A resonance mode of the filter corresponds to a particular distribution of the electromagnetic field which is excited at a particular frequency.

Un filtre passe-bande permet la propagation d'une onde sur une certaine plage de fréquence et atténue cette onde pour les autres fréquences. On définit ainsi une bande passante et une fréquence centrale du filtre. Pour des fréquences autour de sa fréquence centrale, un filtre passe-bande présente une transmission élevée et une réflexion faible.A bandpass filter allows the propagation of a wave over a certain frequency range and attenuates this wave for the other frequencies. This defines a bandwidth and a central frequency of the filter. For frequencies around its center frequency, a bandpass filter has high transmission and low reflection.

Afin d'augmenter leur sélectivité, c'est-à-dire leur capacité à atténuer le signal hors de la bande passante, ces filtres peuvent être composés d'une pluralité de résonateurs couplés entre eux.In order to increase their selectivity, i.e. their ability to attenuate the signal out of the bandwidth, these filters may be composed of a plurality of resonators coupled together.

La fréquence centrale et la bande passante du filtre dépendent à la fois de la géométrie des cavités et des éléments diélectriques, ainsi que du couplage des résonateurs entre eux ainsi que des couplages aux moyens d'excitation d'entrée et de sortie du filtre.The center frequency and the filter bandwidth depend on both the geometry of the cavities and the dielectric elements, as well as the coupling resonators between them as well as couplings to the input and output excitation means of the filter.

Des moyens de couplages sont par exemple des ouvertures ou fentes dénommées iris, des sondes électriques ou magnétiques ou des lignes hyperfréquence.Coupling means are for example openings or slots called iris, electrical or magnetic probes or microwave lines.

La bande passante du filtre est caractérisée de différentes manières suivant la nature du filtre.The bandwidth of the filter is characterized in different ways depending on the nature of the filter.

Le paramètre S est un paramètre qui rend compte des performances du filtre en termes de réflexion et de transmission. S11, ou S22, correspond à une mesure de la réflexion et S12, ou S21, à une mesure de la transmission.Parameter S is a parameter that accounts for filter performance in terms of reflection and transmission. S11, or S22, corresponds to a measurement of the reflection and S12, or S21, to a measurement of the transmission.

Un filtre réalise une fonction de filtrage. Cette fonction peut généralement s'approximer via des modèles mathématiques (des fonctions itératives comme des fonctions Chebychev, Bessel, ...). Ces fonctions sont généralement fondées sur des rapports de polynômes.A filter performs a filtering function. This function can generally be approximated via mathematical models (iterative functions such as Chebychev, Bessel, etc. functions). These functions are usually based on polynomial relationships.

Pour un filtre réalisant une fonction de filtrage de type Chebychev ou Chebychev généralisé, la bande passante du filtre est déterminée à équi-ondulation du S11 (ou S22), par exemple à 15dB ou 20 dB de réduction de la réflexion par rapport à son niveau hors bande. Pour un filtre réalisant une fonction de type Bessel, on prend la bande à -3dB (lorsque S21 croise S11).For a filter performing a generalized Chebychev or Chebychev type filtering function, the filter bandwidth is determined at S11 (or S22) equi-ripple, for example at 15 dB or 20 dB of reflection reduction with respect to its level. out of band. For a filter performing a Bessel type function, the band is taken at -3dB (when S21 crosses S11).

Un exemple de caractéristique des paramètres S11 et S12 d'un filtre est illustré figure 2. La courbe 21 correspond à la réflexion S11 de l'onde sur le filtre en fonction de sa fréquence. La bande passante équi-ondulation à 20 dB de réflexion est notée 26. Le filtre présente une fréquence centrale correspondant à la fréquence du milieu de la bande passante. La courbe 22 de la figure 2 correspond à la transmission S12 du filtre en fonction de la fréquence. Le filtre laisse ainsi passer un signal dont la fréquence est située dans la bande passante, mais le signal est néanmoins atténué par les pertes du filtre.An example of a characteristic of the parameters S11 and S12 of a filter is illustrated figure 2 . The curve 21 corresponds to the reflection S11 of the wave on the filter as a function of its frequency. The bandwidth equi-ripple at 20 dB of reflection is noted 26. The filter has a center frequency corresponding to the frequency of the middle of the bandwidth. Curve 22 of the figure 2 corresponds to the transmission S12 of the filter as a function of the frequency. The filter thus passes a signal whose frequency is located in the bandwidth, but the signal is nevertheless attenuated by the losses of the filter.

L'accord du filtre permettant d'obtenir un maxima de transmission pour une bande de fréquence donnée est très délicat à réaliser et dépend de l'ensemble des paramètres du filtre. Il est de plus dépendant de la température.The tuning of the filter making it possible to obtain a transmission maximum for a given frequency band is very difficult to produce and depends on all the parameters of the filter. It is moreover dependent on the temperature.

Afin d'effectuer un réglage du filtre pour obtenir une fréquence centrale précise du filtre, les fréquences de résonance des résonateurs du filtre peuvent être très légèrement modifiée à l'aide de vis métalliques, mais ce procédé effectué de manière empirique, est très couteux en temps et ne permet qu'une très faible accordabilité en fréquence, typiquement de l'ordre de quelques %. Dans ce cas, l'objectif n'est pas l'accordabilité mais l'obtention d'une valeur précise de la fréquence centrale, et l'on souhaite obtenir une sensibilité réduite de la fréquence de chaque résonateur vis-à-vis de la profondeur de la vis.In order to adjust the filter to obtain a precise center frequency of the filter, the resonance frequencies of the filter resonators can be very slightly modified using metal screws, but this process carried out empirically, is very expensive in time and allows a very low frequency tunability, typically of the order of a few%. In this case, the objective is not the tunability but the obtaining of a precise value of the central frequency, and it is desired to obtain a reduced sensitivity of the frequency of each resonator with respect to the depth of the screw.

La symétrie circulaire ou carrée des résonateurs simplifie la conception du filtre et la sélection du mode (TE pour Transverse Electrique ou TM pour Transverse Magnétique) qui se propage dans le filtre.The circular or square symmetry of the resonators simplifies the design of the filter and the selection of the mode (TE for Transverse Electric or TM for Transverse Magnetic) that propagates in the filter.

Le document US 7705694 décrit un filtre accordable en bande passante composé d'une pluralité de résonateurs diélectriques couplés entre eux, de forme non uniforme radialement et uniforme selon un axe z perpendiculaire à la direction de propagation. Chaque résonateur est apte à effectuer une rotation autour de l'axe z entre deux positions, qui induit un changement de la valeur de la largeur de la bande passante, typiquement de 51Mz à 68 Mz.The document US 7705694 discloses a bandwidth-tunable filter composed of a plurality of dielectric resonators coupled together, non-uniformly radially and uniformly shaped along an axis z perpendicular to the direction of propagation. Each resonator is able to rotate about the z-axis between two positions, which induces a change in the value of the width of the bandwidth, typically from 51Mz to 68Mz.

Ce dispositif permet une accordabilité sur la valeur de la largeur de la bande passante du filtre, mais pas sur sa fréquence centrale.This device allows tunability on the value of the width of the bandwidth of the filter, but not on its central frequency.

Le document EP1684374 et le document JPS61136302 décrivent des résonateurs diélectriques qui changent leur fréquence de résonance par le biais d'une rotation du diélectrique ou par une vis extérieure.The document EP1684374 and the document JPS61136302 describe dielectric resonators that change their resonant frequency by dielectric rotation or by an external screw.

BUT DE L'INVENTIONPURPOSE OF THE INVENTION

La présente invention a pour but de réaliser des filtres accordables en fréquence centrale ne présentant pas les inconvénients précités.The object of the present invention is to provide tunable filters in central frequency that do not have the aforementioned drawbacks.

DESCRIPTION DE L'INVENTIONDESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

A cet effet l'invention a pour objet un filtre passe bande (100) pour onde hyperfréquence accordable en fréquence et présentant une fréquence centrale, l'onde hyperfréquence se propageant selon un axe Z, le filtrecomprenant :

  • un résonateur d'entrée comprenant une cavité d'entrée métallique et un élément diélectrique d'entrée, disposé à l'intérieur de la cavité d'entrée et apte à perturber le mode de résonance de l'onde hyperfréquence dans la cavité d'entrée,
  • un résonateur de sortie comprenant une cavité de sortie métallique et un élément diélectrique de sortie, disposé à l'intérieur de la cavité de sortie, et apte à perturber le mode de résonance de l'onde hyperfréquence dans la cavité de sortie, un moyen d'excitation d'entrée de forme allongée pénétrant dans la cavité d'entrée pour permettre à l'onde hyper fréquence de pénétrer dans la cavité d'entrée, un moyen d'excitation de sortie de forme allongée pénétrant dans la cavité de sortie pour permettre à l'onde hyper fréquence de sortir de la cavité de sortie, les résonateurs d'entré et de sortie étant couplés, caractérisé en ce que :
    • les éléments diélectriques d'entrée et de sortie présentent un évidement
    • le moyen d'excitation d'entrée de forme allongée selon l'axe Z pénètre à l'intérieur de l'évidement de l'élément diélectrique d'entrée de manière à ce que l'élément diélectrique d'entrée perturbe le champ électromagnétique à proximité du moyen d'excitation d'entrée,
    • le moyen d'excitation de sortie de forme allongée selon l'axe Z pénètre à l'intérieur de l'évidement de l'élément diélectrique de sortie de manière à ce que l'élément diélectrique de sortie perturbe le champ électromagnétique à proximité du moyen d'excitation de sortie,
    • l'élément diélectrique d'entrée est apte à effectuer une rotation autour d'un axe de rotation d'entrée, l'évidement étant adapté pour permettre la rotation de l'élément diélectrique tout en maintenant l'élément d'excitation d'entrée à l'intérieur de l'évidement,-l'élément diélectrique de sortie est apte à effectuer une rotation autour d'un axe de rotation de sortie, l'évidement étant adapté pour permettre la rotation de l'élément diélectrique tout en maintenant l'élément d'excitation de sortie à l'intérieur de l'évidement,
    • chaque élément diélectrique présente une forme aplatie présentant une hauteur inférieure d'au moins un facteur 3 à la plus petite dimension extérieure dans un plan perpendiculaire à la direction portant la hauteur,
    • les rotations des éléments diélectriques permettant la modification de la fréquence centrale du filtre.
For this purpose, the subject of the invention is a bandpass filter (100) for a frequency-tunable microwave frequency and having a central frequency, the microwave wave propagating along an axis Z, the filter comprising:
  • an input resonator comprising a metal input cavity and an input dielectric element disposed within the input cavity and capable of disturbing the resonance mode of the microwave wave in the input cavity,
  • an output resonator comprising a metal output cavity and an output dielectric element, disposed inside the output cavity, and capable of disturbing the resonance mode of the microwave wave in the output cavity; an elongate input excitation penetrating the input cavity to allow the microwave wave to enter the input cavity, an elongate output drive means penetrating the output cavity to enable the microwave wave output from the output cavity, the input and output resonators being coupled, characterized in that:
    • the input and output dielectric elements have a recess
    • the Z-axis elongated input excitation means penetrates into the recess of the input dielectric element so that the input dielectric element disturbs the electromagnetic field at proximity of the input excitation means,
    • the Z-axis elongated output excitation means engages within the recess of the output dielectric element so that the output dielectric element disturbs the electromagnetic field near the means. output excitation,
    • the input dielectric element is adapted to rotate about an input axis of rotation, the recess being adapted to allow rotation of the dielectric member while maintaining the input energizing element inside the recess, the output dielectric element is adapted to rotate about an output axis of rotation, the recess being adapted to allow rotation of the dielectric element while maintaining the output excitation element inside the recess,
    • each dielectric element has a flattened shape having a height at least a factor of 3 less than the smallest outer dimension in a plane perpendicular to the height-bearing direction,
    • the rotations of the dielectric elements allowing the modification of the central frequency of the filter.

Selon un mode de réalisation, l'élément diélectrique d'entrée et l'élément diélectrique de sortie sont disposés respectivement sensiblement au centre de la cavité d'entrée et de la cavité de sortie.According to one embodiment, the input dielectric element and the output dielectric element are respectively located substantially in the center of the input cavity and the output cavity.

Avantageusement, les éléments diélectrique d'entrée et de sortie sont en forme de U.Advantageously, the input and output dielectric elements are U-shaped.

Selon un mode de réalisation, le filtre comprend des moyens de couplage adaptés pour coupler les résonateurs d'entrée et de sortie directement.According to one embodiment, the filter comprises coupling means adapted to couple the input and output resonators directly.

Selon un mode de réalisation, le filtre comprend en outre au moins un résonateur intermédiaire disposé en série entre le résonateur d'entrée et le résonateur de sortie, comprenant une cavité métallique intermédiaire et un élément diélectrique intermédiaire disposé à l'intérieur de la cavité et apte à perturber le mode de résonance de l'onde hyperfréquence dans la cavité, chaque élément diélectrique présentant une forme aplatie présentant une hauteur inférieure d'au moins un facteur 3 à la plus petite dimension dans un plan perpendiculaire à la direction portant la hauteur et étant apte à effectuer une rotation autour d'un axe de rotation intermédiaire, le filtre comprenant des moyens de couplage adaptés pour coupler les résonateurs intermédiaires deux à deux en série.According to one embodiment, the filter further comprises at least one intermediate resonator arranged in series between the input resonator and the output resonator, comprising an intermediate metal cavity and an intermediate dielectric element disposed inside the cavity and capable of disturbing the resonance mode of the microwave wave in the cavity, each dielectric element having a flattened shape having a height of at least a factor of 3 to the smallest dimension in a plane perpendicular to the direction carrying the height and being able to rotate about an axis of intermediate rotation, the filter comprising coupling means adapted to couple the intermediate resonators in pairs in series.

Avantageusement, les moyens de couplage sont des fentes.Advantageously, the coupling means are slots.

Avantageusement, les éléments diélectriques présentent une position angulaire identique correspondant à une rotation identique, une valeur de l'angle de rotation correspondant à une valeur de fréquence centrale du filtre.Advantageously, the dielectric elements have an identical angular position corresponding to an identical rotation, a value of the angle of rotation corresponding to a central frequency value of the filter.

Avantageusement, les axes de rotation sont parallèles entre eux.Advantageously, the axes of rotation are parallel to each other.

Avantageusement, les axes de rotation sont perpendiculaires à l'axe Z.Advantageously, the axes of rotation are perpendicular to the Z axis.

Avantageusement, les éléments diélectriques intermédiaires sont sensiblement identiques.Advantageously, the intermediate dielectric elements are substantially identical.

Selon un mode de réalisation les éléments diélectriques sont solidaires de tiges diélectriques respectives aptes à effectuer une rotation selon l'axe de rotation correspondant.According to one embodiment, the dielectric elements are integral with respective dielectric rods capable of rotating along the corresponding axis of rotation.

Selon un mode de réalisation, les angles de rotations sont variables en fonction de la température de manière à maintenir les valeurs des fréquences centrales constantes lors d'une variation de température.According to one embodiment, the rotational angles are variable as a function of the temperature so as to maintain the values of the central frequencies constant during a temperature variation.

L'invention a également pour objet un circuit hyperfréquence comprenant au moins un tel filtre.The invention also relates to a microwave circuit comprising at least one such filter.

D'autres caractéristiques, buts et avantages de la présente invention apparaîtront à la lecture de la description détaillée qui va suivre et en regard des dessins annexés donnés à titre d'exemples non limitatifs et sur lesquels :

  • La figure 1 illustre un exemple de filtre à résonateur diélectrique selon l'état de la technique comprenant un résonateur.
  • La figure 2 décrit la courbe de transmission et de réflexion d'un filtre passe bande.
  • La figure 3 illustre les modes de résonnance d'une cavité circulaire vide.
  • La figure 4 décrit un filtre selon un aspect de l'invention.
  • La figure 5 décrit un filtre selon un aspect de l'invention vu en perspective.
  • La figure 6 décrit la position des éléments diélectriques du filtre décrit figure 5 pour une valeur déterminée d'angle de rotation
  • La figure 7 décrit la position des éléments diélectriques du filtre décrit figure 5 pour une autre valeur déterminée d'angle de rotation
  • La figure 8 illustre un exemple de réalisation d'un filtre selon un aspect de l'invention comprenant trois résonateurs, pour une valeur déterminée d'angle de rotation, ainsi que la courbe fréquentielle correspondante.
  • La figure 9 illustre l'exemple de réalisation d'un filtre décrit figure 8 pour une autre valeur déterminée d'angle de rotation, ainsi que la courbe fréquentielle correspondante.
  • La figure 10 illustre un exemple de réalisation d'un filtre selon un aspect de l'invention comprenant six résonateurs, pour une valeur déterminée d'angle de rotation, ainsi que la courbe fréquentielle correspondante.
Other features, objects and advantages of the present invention will appear on reading the detailed description which follows and with reference to the appended drawings given by way of non-limiting examples and in which:
  • The figure 1 illustrates an example of a dielectric resonator filter according to the state of the art comprising a resonator.
  • The figure 2 describes the transmission and reflection curve of a bandpass filter.
  • The figure 3 illustrates the resonance modes of an empty circular cavity.
  • The figure 4 describes a filter according to one aspect of the invention.
  • The figure 5 describes a filter according to one aspect of the invention seen in perspective.
  • The figure 6 describes the position of the dielectric elements of the described filter figure 5 for a determined value of rotation angle
  • The figure 7 describes the position of the dielectric elements of the described filter figure 5 for another determined value of rotation angle
  • The figure 8 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a filter according to one aspect of the invention comprising three resonators, for a determined value of angle of rotation, and the corresponding frequency curve.
  • The figure 9 illustrates the exemplary embodiment of a filter described figure 8 for another determined value of angle of rotation, as well as the corresponding frequency curve.
  • The figure 10 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a filter according to one aspect of the invention comprising six resonators, for a determined value of rotation angle, and the corresponding frequency curve.

DESCRIPTION DETAILLEE DE L'INVENTIONDETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

L'invention consiste à réaliser un filtre passe bande accordable en fréquence centrale par rotation d'éléments diélectriques dans des cavités métalliques, les éléments diélectriques d'entrée et de sortie présentant une forme spécifique.The invention consists in producing a tunable band pass filter in central frequency by rotation of dielectric elements in metal cavities, the input and output dielectric elements having a specific shape.

Le filtre selon l'invention fonctionne selon un mode de cavité perturbée.The filter according to the invention operates in a disturbed cavity mode.

Une cavité métallique vide présente selon sa géométrie un ou plusieurs modes de résonance caractérisés par une fréquence f de l'onde hyperfréquence présente dans la cavité et par une distribution particulière du champ électromagnétique. Par exemple des modes de résonance TE (pour Transverse Electrique) ou TM (pour Transverse Magnétiques) présentant un certains nombres de maximas d'énergie repérés par des indices, peuvent être excités dans une cavité métallique vide. La figure 3 décrit à titre d'exemple les différents modes de résonance pour une cavité circulaire vide en fonction des dimensions de la cavité (diamètre D et hauteur H), et de la fréquence f.An empty metal cavity has, according to its geometry, one or more resonance modes characterized by a frequency f of the microwave wave present in the cavity and by a particular distribution of the electromagnetic field. For example, resonance modes TE (for Transverse Electrique) or TM (for Transverse Magnétiques) having a certain number of energy maxima identified by indices, can be excited in an empty metal cavity. The figure 3 describes by way of example the different resonance modes for an empty circular cavity as a function of the dimensions of the cavity (diameter D and height H), and the frequency f.

Une cavité contenant un élément diélectrique (dénommé élément perturbateur) perturbant le champ électromagnétique à l'intérieur de la cavité est également apte à résonner.A cavity containing a dielectric element (called disturbing element) disturbing the electromagnetic field inside the cavity is also able to resonate.

La figure 4 décrit un filtre passe bande 100 accordable en fréquence selon un aspect de l'invention. L'onde hyperfréquence se propage selon un axe Z.The figure 4 discloses a frequency-tunable bandpass filter 100 according to one aspect of the invention. The microwave wave propagates along a Z axis.

Le filtre 100 comprend un résonateur d'entrée R1 comprenant une cavité d'entrée C1 métallique et un élément diélectrique d'entrée E1, disposé à l'intérieur de la cavité. L'élément diélectrique E1 est apte à perturber le mode de résonance de l'onde hyperfréquence dans la cavité d'entrée. La nature intrinsèque du mode, correspondant au mode de résonnance de la cavité sans l'élément diélectrique, n'est pas modifiée, mais le mode de la cavité est très perturbé par l'ajout de l'élément diélectrique E1. L'élément E1 ajoute un effet capacitif qui perturbe le mode de résonance de l'onde hyperfréquence dans la cavité, et modifie la fréquence de résonance du résonateur initial constitué par la cavité sans l'élément diélectrique.The filter 100 comprises an input resonator R1 comprising a metal inlet cavity C1 and an input dielectric element E1 disposed inside the cavity. The dielectric element E1 is able to disturb the resonance mode of the microwave wave in the input cavity. The intrinsic nature of the mode, corresponding to the resonance mode of the cavity without the dielectric element, is not modified, but the mode of the cavity is very disturbed by the addition of the dielectric element E1. The element E1 adds a capacitive effect which disturbs the resonance mode of the microwave wave in the cavity, and modifies the resonant frequency of the initial resonator formed by the cavity without the dielectric element.

Le filtre 100 comprend également un résonateur de sortie RN comprenant une cavité de sortie CN métallique et un élément diélectrique de sortie EN disposé à l'intérieur de la cavité CN. L'élément diélectrique de sortie EN a les mêmes propriétés que celles de l'élément diélectrique d'entrée E1.The filter 100 also includes an output resonator RN comprising a metallic CN output cavity and an output dielectric element EN disposed within the CN cavity. The output dielectric element EN has the same properties as those of the input dielectric element E1.

Avantageusement, on choisi un mode TM sur lequel il est plus aisé d'obtenir un effet capacitif. En effet il est possible d'approximer le comportement fréquentiel d'un résonateur par un circuit électrique équivalent : une association parallèle résistance-capacité-inductance (résonateur RLC). Ce circuit possède une fréquence de résonance fonction du produit L.C. Lorsqu'on joue sur l'effet capacitif, la fréquence de résonance varie.Advantageously, a TM mode is chosen on which it is easier to obtain a capacitive effect. Indeed it is possible to approximate the frequency behavior of a resonator by an equivalent electrical circuit: a parallel association resistance-capacitance-inductance (resonator RLC). This circuit has a resonance frequency function of the product L.C. When playing on the capacitive effect, the resonance frequency varies.

Pour le mode TM choisi il est aisé d'ajouter un effet capacitif en augmentant la permittivité au centre du résonateur (lieu des lignes de champ E les plus fortes) comme décrit plus loin.For the chosen TM mode, it is easy to add a capacitive effect by increasing the permittivity in the center of the resonator (place of the strongest E field lines) as described below.

Pour permettre à l'onde hyperfréquence de pénétrer dans la cavité d'entrée C1, le filtre 100 comprend un moyen d'excitation d'entrée S1 de forme allongée selon l'axe Z pénétrant à l'intérieur de la cavité d'entrée C1. Ce moyen d'excitation est typiquement une sonde, telle une sonde coaxiale, de forme allongée, tel un câble.To allow the microwave to enter the input cavity C1, the filter 100 comprises an input excitation means S1 of elongate shape along the Z axis penetrating inside the input cavity C1 . This excitation means is typically a probe, such as a coaxial probe, of elongate shape, such as a cable.

Pour permettre à l'onde hyperfréquence de sortir de la cavité de sortie CN, le filtre 100 comprend un moyen d'excitation de sortie SN de forme allongée selon l'axe Z pénétrant à l'intérieur de la cavité de sortie CN. Ce moyen d'excitation est typiquement une sonde, telle une sonde coaxiale, de forme allongée, tel un câble.To allow the microwave to exit from the NC output cavity, the filter 100 comprises an Z-shaped elongated output excitation means Z penetrating inside the output cavity CN. This excitation means is typically a probe, such as a coaxial probe, of elongate shape, such as a cable.

Les cavités d'entrée et de sortie sont couplées entre elles et couplées respectivement aux moyens d'excitation d'entrée et de sortie, de manière à ce que l'onde hyperfréquence introduite par le moyen d'excitation d'entrée dans le filtre 100, se propage dans les résonateurs selon un mode de résonance, et ressorte du filtre.The inlet and outlet cavities are coupled to each other and respectively coupled to the input and output excitation means, so that the microwave wave introduced by the input excitation means into the filter 100 , propagates in the resonators in a resonance mode, and comes out of the filter.

Les éléments diélectriques d'entrée et de sortie selon l'invention ont une forme spécifique qui présente un évidement.The input and output dielectric elements according to the invention have a specific shape which has a recess.

Le moyen d'excitation d'entrée pénètre à l'intérieur de l'évidement 41 de l'élément diélectrique d'entrée de manière à ce que l'élément diélectrique d'entrée perturbe le champ électromagnétique à proximité du moyen d'excitation d'entrée.The input energizing means penetrates inside the recess 41 of the input dielectric element so that the input dielectric element disturbs the electromagnetic field in the vicinity of the excitation means. 'Entrance.

Le moyen d'excitation de sortie pénètre à l'intérieur de l'évidement 42 de l'élément diélectrique de sortie de manière à ce que l'élément diélectrique de sortie perturbe le champ électromagnétique à proximité du moyen d'excitation de sortie.The output excitation means penetrates inside the recess 42 of the output dielectric element so that the output dielectric element disturbs the electromagnetic field in the vicinity of the output excitation means.

Du fait de l'existence de cette perturbation, la fréquence centrale du filtre est modifiée.Due to the existence of this disturbance, the central frequency of the filter is changed.

De plus, l'élément diélectrique d'entrée est apte à effectuer une rotation autour d'un axe de rotation d'entrée X1, l'évidement étant adapté pour permettre la rotation de l'élément diélectrique tout en maintenant l'élément d'excitation d'entrée à l'intérieur de l'évidement. De même, l'élément diélectrique de sortie est apte à effectuer une rotation autour d'un axe de rotation de sortie XN, l'évidement étant adapté pour permettre la rotation de l'élément diélectrique tout en maintenant l'élément d'excitation de sortie à l'intérieur de l'évidement.In addition, the input dielectric element is adapted to rotate about an input rotation axis X1, the recess being adapted to allow rotation of the dielectric element while maintaining the element of input excitation inside the recess. Similarly, the output dielectric element is adapted to rotate about an output rotation axis XN, the recess being adapted to allow rotation of the dielectric element while maintaining the excitation element of exit inside the recess.

Maintenir l'élément d'excitation à l'intérieur de l'évidement permet de maintenir une perturbation forte du champ électromagnétique au voisinage de l'élément tout en assurant un couplage maîtrisé entre excitation et résonateur. Ceci est indispensable à la maîtrise de la bande passante, et pour l'adaptation du filtre.Keeping the excitation element inside the recess makes it possible to maintain a strong disturbance of the electromagnetic field in the vicinity of the element while ensuring a controlled coupling between excitation and resonator. This is essential for controlling the bandwidth, and for adapting the filter.

La distance entre les éléments d'excitation S1, SN et les éléments diélectriques respectifs E1, EN à l'intérieur de l'évidement est choisie en fonction du filtre souhaité. Un filtre à large bande passante nécessite un couplage fort et donc une distance aussi faible que possible, limitée par les tolérances mécaniques de fabrication et les coûts, typiquement une centaine de µm. Un filtre à bande passante étroite nécessite un couplage plus faible et donc une distance un peu plus grande, typiquement de 1 à quelques mm. Les rotations des éléments diélectriques modifient l'effet capacitif, perturbant le champ électrique de manière différente en fonction de la position angulaire des éléments diélectriques.The distance between the excitation elements S1, SN and the respective dielectric elements E1, EN inside the recess is chosen as a function of the desired filter. A broad bandpass filter requires strong coupling and therefore a distance as small as possible, limited by mechanical manufacturing tolerances and costs, typically a hundred microns. A narrow bandwidth filter requires a lower coupling and therefore a slightly larger distance, typically from 1 to a few mm. The rotations of the dielectric elements modify the capacitive effect, disturbing the electric field differently depending on the angular position of the dielectric elements.

Selon un mode préféré le filtre fonctionne pour un mode TM. Pour un mode TM, le champ magnétique est perpendiculaire à la direction de propagation Z et le champ électrique E est colinéaire à Z. Le mode TM préféré est du type TM010. Dans un mode de ce type, le maximum du champ électrique E est concentré au centre de la cavité du résonateur. Selon un mode préféré, les cavités des résonateurs du filtre selon l'invention sont alignées, et la direction Z correspond à l'axe passant par le centre des cavités. Le maximum de champ E est concentré au voisinage de Z. L'effet capacitif induit par la présence d'un diélectrique perturbateur est fonction de la quantité de matière diélectrique (permittivité diélectrique) « vue » par le champ E. Une augmentation de la quantité de diélectrique « vue » par le champ électrique augmente l'effet capacitif du résonateur. le contraste obtenu sur l'effet capacitif est maximisé lorsque cette variation est localisée sur un maxima de champ électrique.According to a preferred mode, the filter operates for a TM mode. For a TM mode, the magnetic field is perpendicular to the propagation direction Z and the electric field E is collinear with Z. The preferred TM mode is of the TM 010 type. In a mode of this type, the maximum of the electric field E is concentrated in the center of the cavity of the resonator. According to a preferred embodiment, the cavities of the resonators of the filter according to the invention are aligned, and the Z direction corresponds to the axis passing through the center of the cavities. The maximum field E is concentrated near Z. The capacitive effect induced by the presence of a disturbing dielectric is a function of the amount of dielectric material (dielectric permittivity) "seen" by the field E. Increasing the amount of dielectric "seen" by the electric field increases the capacitive effect of the resonator. the contrast obtained on the capacitive effect is maximized when this variation is localized on a maximum of electric field.

Pour chaque élément diélectrique, un plan Pe est défini. Ce plan est perpendiculaire à la hauteur h (plus petite dimension) de l'élément diélectrique. Lorsque chaque plan Pe des éléments diélectriques est globalement perpendiculaire à Z, la quantité de matière traversée par le champ E au voisinage de Z est beaucoup plus faible que lorsque les plans Pe des éléments diélectrique comprennent l'axe Z. Un contraste élevé d'effet capacitif entre les deux positions est obtenu, ce qui induit une variation de fréquence centrale du filtre plus importante.For each dielectric element, a plane Pe is defined. This plane is perpendicular to the height h (smaller dimension) of the dielectric element. When each plane Pe of the dielectric elements is generally perpendicular to Z, the quantity of material traversed by the field E in the vicinity of Z is much smaller than when the planes Pe of the dielectric elements comprise the Z axis. A high contrast of effect capacitive between the two positions is obtained, which induces a central frequency variation of the larger filter.

La rotation d'un élément diélectrique s'effectue selon un angle teta par rapport à un repère donné. Ainsi la valeur de la fréquence centrale du filtre fc est une fonction de l'angle tetaa que fait l'élément E1 et de l'angle tetab que fait l'élément E2.The rotation of a dielectric element takes place at a teta angle with respect to a given reference point. Thus the value of the center frequency of the filter fc is a function of the teta angle that the element E1 makes and the tetab angle that the element E2 makes.

Ainsi, une fréquence centrale correspond à une position angulaire des éléments diélectriques.Thus, a center frequency corresponds to an angular position of the dielectric elements.

L'élément diélectrique E1 présente une forme aplatie présentant respectivement une hauteur h1 inférieure aux dimensions extérieures dans un plan Pe perpendiculaire à la direction portant la hauteur h1. On entend par dimensions extérieures les plus grandes dimensions (I1 et L1 dans l'exemple de la figure 4) des éléments diélectriques ne tenant pas compte de l'évidement.The dielectric element E1 has a flattened shape respectively having a height h1 smaller than the external dimensions in a plane Pe perpendicular to the direction carrying the height h1. The outer dimensions are the largest dimensions (I1 and L1 in the example of the figure 4 ) dielectric elements not taking into account the recess.

L'élément diélectrique EN présente une forme aplatie présentant respectivement une hauteur hN inférieure aux dimensions extérieures (IN et LN dans l'exemple de la figure 4) dans un plan Pe perpendiculaire à la direction portant la hauteur hN.The dielectric element EN has a flattened shape respectively having a height hN less than the external dimensions (IN and LN in the example of FIG. figure 4 ) in a plane Pe perpendicular to the direction carrying the height hN.

Cette forme aplatie permet d'obtenir une forte amplitude de la variation de l'effet capacitif entre les positons angulaires extrêmes des éléments diélectriques, comme décrit plus haut. Pour l'obtention d'une amplitude de variation d'effet capacitif suffisante pour les applications visées, la hauteur est inférieure d'au moins un facteur 3 à la plus petite dimension dans le plan Pe perpendiculaire à la direction portant la hauteur.This flattened shape makes it possible to obtain a high amplitude of the variation of the capacitive effect between the extreme angular positions of the dielectric elements, as described above. In order to obtain a sufficient capacitive effect variation amplitude for the targeted applications, the height is at least a factor 3 smaller than the smallest dimension in the plane Pe perpendicular to the direction carrying the height.

Selon une variante préférée, les éléments E1 et EN effectuent une rotation identique, soit tetaa = tetab. La figure 7a décrit un exemple de filtre selon l'invention lorsque E1et EN font un angle teta0 identique, et égal à 0° par convention, correspondant à une valeur de fréquence centrale fc0. La figure 7b décrit le filtre selon l'invention lorsque E1 et E2 font un angle teta90 identique, et égal à 90° par rapport à la première position de E1 et E2, correspondant à une valeur de fréquence centrale fc90.According to a preferred variant, the elements E1 and EN perform identical rotation, ie tetaa = tetab. The figure 7a describes an example of a filter according to the invention when E1 and EN make an identical angle teta0, and equal to 0 ° by convention, corresponding to a central frequency value fc0. The figure 7b describes the filter according to the invention when E1 and E2 make an identical teta90 angle, and equal to 90 ° with respect to the first position of E1 and E2, corresponding to a central frequency value fc90.

Ainsi lorsque les éléments diélectriques E1 et EN ont leur plan Pe sensiblement perpendiculaires à l'axe Z (hauteurs h1 hN selon l'axe Z correspondant à teta = 0°), la hauteur de diélectrique vue par le champ E (au centre, où il est le plus fort) est plus faible que lorsque les éléments diélectriques ont leur plan Pe comprenant sensiblement l'axe Z (hauteurs h1, hN perpendiculaires à Z correspondant à teta = 90°). Ainsi l'effet capacitif est plus faible pour la position de éléments diélectriques selon teta=0° que pour la position teta = 90°.Thus, when the dielectric elements E1 and EN have their plane Pe substantially perpendicular to the axis Z (heights h1 hN along the Z axis corresponding to teta = 0 °), the dielectric height seen by the field E (in the center, where it is the strongest) is weaker than when the dielectric elements have their plane Pe substantially comprising the Z axis (heights h1, hN perpendicular to Z corresponding to teta = 90 °). Thus the capacitive effect is lower for the position of dielectric elements according to teta = 0 ° than for the position teta = 90 °.

Ainsi, le filtre selon l'invention est un filtre passe bande dont la fréquence centrale peut être choisie dans une plage de fréquence fonction de l'orientation angulaire des éléments diélectriques. De plus, la fréquence centrale peut être choisie continument dans l'intervalle de variation.Thus, the filter according to the invention is a band pass filter whose central frequency can be chosen in a frequency range depending on the angular orientation of the dielectric elements. In addition, the center frequency can be chosen continuously in the range of variation.

Une correction (réajustement de la fréquence centrale) en fonction de la température est possible.A correction (readjustment of the central frequency) according to the temperature is possible.

Selon un mode de réalisation, le réglage des positions angulaires s'effectue à l'aide de moyens de commande, tel qu'un moteur.According to one embodiment, the adjustment of the angular positions is effected by means of control means, such as a motor.

Selon une variante préférée, l'élément diélectrique d'entrée E1 et l'élément diélectrique de sortie EN sont disposés respectivement sensiblement au centre de la cavité d'entrée et de la cavité de sortie. On obtient alors une concentration maximale du champ électrique au voisinage des moyens d'excitation d'entrée et de sortie, ce qui permet d'assurer le couplage suffisant et maîtrisé des excitations avec les résonateurs 1 et N.According to one preferred variant, the input dielectric element E1 and the output dielectric element EN are respectively located substantially in the center of the input cavity and of the output cavity. A maximum concentration of the electric field is thus obtained in the vicinity of the input and output excitation means, which makes it possible to ensure the sufficient and controlled coupling of the excitations with the resonators 1 and N.

Selon une variante préférée, les éléments diélectriques d'entrée E1 et de sortie EN sont en forme de U. La forme comprend un corps et deux branches de manière à réaliser l'évidement 41 ou 42; les éléments diélectriques sont ainsi faciles à fabriquer. Il n'y a aucune contrainte de planéité sur la forme des éléments diélectriques.According to a preferred variant, the input dielectric elements E1 and output EN are U-shaped. The shape comprises a body and two branches so as to make the recess 41 or 42; the dielectric elements are thus easy to manufacture. There is no flatness constraint on the shape of the dielectric elements.

Selon un mode de réalisation, les moyens d'excitation d'entrée et de sortie sont des sondes coaxiales disposées le long d'un même axe Z.According to one embodiment, the input and output excitation means are coaxial probes arranged along the same axis Z.

Selon un aspect de l'invention, le filtre ne comprend que deux résonateurs, le résonateur d'entrée R1 et le résonateur de sortie RN. Les deux résonateurs sont couplés entre eux par des moyens de couplage, tel qu'une ou plusieurs fentes. Selon une variante préférée, les diélectriques d'entrée E1 et de sortie EN sont sensiblement identiques, en forme et en matériau.According to one aspect of the invention, the filter comprises only two resonators, the input resonator R1 and the output resonator RN. The two resonators are coupled together by coupling means, such as one or more slots. According to a preferred variant, the input dielectrics E1 and output EN are substantially identical, in shape and in material.

La figure 5 décrit un mode de réalisation préféré d'un aspect de l'invention pour lequel le filtre 100 comprend entre outre au moins un résonateur intermédiaire Ri, un résonateur étant indicé selon un indice i variant de 2 à N-1, fonction du nombre de résonateurs intermédiaires. La figure 5a décrit une vue en perspective du filtre.The figure 5 describes a preferred embodiment of an aspect of the invention for which the filter 100 further comprises at least one intermediate resonator Ri, a resonator being indexed according to an index i ranging from 2 to N-1, depending on the number of resonators intermediate. The figure 5a describes a perspective view of the filter.

Chaque résonateur intermédiaire Ri comprend une cavité métallique intermédiaire Ci et un élément diélectrique intermédiaire Ei disposé à l'intérieur de la cavité Ci et apte à perturber le mode de résonance de l'onde hyperfréquence dans la cavité, l'élément diélectrique Ei étant apte à effectuer une rotation autour d'un axe de rotation intermédiaire Xi.Each intermediate resonator Ri comprises an intermediate metal cavity Ci and an intermediate dielectric element Ei disposed inside the cavity Ci and capable of disturbing the resonance mode of the microwave wave in the cavity, the dielectric element Ei being adapted to rotate around an intermediate axis of rotation Xi.

Selon une variante préférée, chaque élément diélectrique intermédiaire Ei présente également une forme aplatie présentant une hauteur hi inférieure aux dimensions Li et li (avec Ii<Li pour l'exemple de la figure 5) dans un plan Pe perpendiculaire à la direction portant hi. Pour l'obtention d'une amplitude de variation d'effet capacitif suffisante pour les applications visées, la hauteur hi est inférieure d'au moins un facteur 3 à la plus petite dimension li dans le plan Pe perpendiculaire à la direction portant la hauteur hi.According to a preferred variant, each intermediate dielectric element Ei also has a flattened shape having a height hi less than the dimensions Li and Li (with Ii <Li for the example of the figure 5 ) in a plane Pe perpendicular to the direction bearing hi. In order to obtain a sufficient capacitive effect variation amplitude for the targeted applications, the height hi is at least a factor of 3 smaller than the smallest dimension li in the plane Pe perpendicular to the direction carrying the height hi. .

Les éléments diélectriques intermédiaires présentent une forme aplatie pleine qui présente pas nécessairement d'évidement car ils sont couplés entre eux et non pas à un élément d'excitation de forme allongée comme les éléments diélectriques d'entrée et de sortie.The intermediate dielectric elements have a flattened solid shape which does not necessarily have a recess as they are coupled to each other and not to an elongated excitation element such as the input and output dielectric elements.

Les résonateurs sont couplés deux à deux i/i+1 en série, par des moyens de couplage, tel que des fentes. Ces fentes permettent de coupler à la fois une partie du champ électrique E et une partie du champ magnétique H. Un couplage par champ E a un signe opposé à un couplage par champ H. En proportions identiques, les deux couplages s'annulent. Lors de la rotation des éléments diélectriques voisins Ei/Ei+1, pour une position et une dimension de fente donnée, le couplage par champ E (ou H) varie.The resonators are coupled two to two i / i + 1 in series, by coupling means, such as slots. These slots make it possible to couple at the same time a part of the electric field E and a part of the magnetic field H. A coupling by field E has a sign opposite to a coupling by field H. identical proportions, the two couplings cancel each other out. When rotating the adjacent dielectric elements Ei / Ei + 1, for a given slot position and dimension, the field coupling E (or H) varies.

Selon une variante, on détermine par optimisation les positions et les dimensions des fentes de telle sorte que la bande passante résultante soit sensiblement constante lors de la rotation des éléments diélectriques.According to one variant, the positions and the dimensions of the slots are determined by optimization so that the resulting bandwidth is substantially constant during the rotation of the dielectric elements.

Le moyen d'entrée S1 est une sonde coaxiale.The input means S1 is a coaxial probe.

Les figures 6 et 7 décrivent un exemple de deux positions angulaires des éléments diélectriques du mode de réalisation préféré de l'invention décrit figure 5.The Figures 6 and 7 describe an example of two angular positions of the dielectric elements of the preferred embodiment of the invention described figure 5 .

Selon une variante préférée représentée figures 6 et 7 les axes de rotation de X1, X2 .. Xi à XN sont parallèles entre eux.According to a preferred variant represented Figures 6 and 7 the axes of rotation of X1, X2 .. Xi to XN are parallel to each other.

Selon une autre variante également représentée figures 6 et 7 les axes de rotation de X1, X2 .. Xi à XN sont perpendiculaires à l'axe Z. Avantageusement, les axes de rotations X1, X2 .. Xi à XN sont concourants avec l'axe Z.According to another variant also represented Figures 6 and 7 the axes of rotation of X1, X2 .. X1 to XN are perpendicular to the Z axis. Advantageously, the axes of rotation X1, X2 .. Xi to XN are concurrent with the Z axis.

Avantageusement, les éléments intermédiaires symétriques par rapport au milieu du filtre sont identiques en forme, en dimension et en matériau. Avantageusement, les éléments intermédiaires Ei sont sensiblement identiques en forme, dimension et en matériau.Advantageously, the intermediate elements symmetrical with respect to the medium of the filter are identical in shape, size and material. Advantageously, the intermediate elements Ei are substantially identical in shape, size and material.

Dans cette géométrie, le filtre est plus aisé à calculer et à fabriquer.In this geometry, the filter is easier to calculate and to manufacture.

La forme rectangulaire des éléments diélectriques représentée est purement schématique et ne correspond pas à une forme préférée.The rectangular shape of the dielectric elements shown is purely schematic and does not correspond to a preferred form.

La figure 6 décrit la structure des éléments diélectriques pour une valeur de teta = 0°. La figure 6a correspond à un élément Ei intermédiaire dans une cavité Ci en vue de dessus, la figure 6b en vue de profil. La zone en pointillé 61 illustre une configuration où l'effet capacitif est faible. La figure 6c correspond à l'élément diélectrique d'entrée E1 dans la cavité C1 en vue de dessus, la figure 6d en vue de profil. La zone en pointillé 62 illustre une configuration où l'effet capacitif est faible. Sur la figure 6c l'évidement 41 et la forme en U de E1 sont visibles. A cette position teta=0°, correspondant aux éléments diélectriques positionnés perpendiculairement à l'axe Z, est associée une fréquence centrale du filtre fc0.The figure 6 describes the structure of the dielectric elements for a value of teta = 0 °. The figure 6a corresponds to an element Ei intermediate in a cavity Ci in top view, the figure 6b in profile view. The dotted area 61 illustrates a configuration where the capacitive effect is low. The Figure 6c corresponds to the input dielectric element E1 in the cavity C1 when viewed from above, the figure 6d in profile view. Dotted area 62 illustrates a configuration where the capacitive effect is low. On the Figure 6c the recess 41 and the U-shape of E1 are visible. At this position teta = 0 °, corresponding to dielectric elements positioned perpendicularly to the Z axis is associated with a central frequency of the filter fc0.

La figure 7 décrit la structure des éléments diélectriques pour une valeur de teta = 90°. La figure 7a correspond à un élément Ei intermédiaire dans une cavité Ci en vue de dessus, la figure 7b en vue de profil. La zone en pointillé 71 illustre une configuration où l'effet capacitif est fort. La figure 7c correspond à l'élément diélectrique d'entrée E1 dans la cavité C1 en vue de dessus, la figure 7d en vue de profil. La zone en pointillé 72 illustre une configuration où l'effet capacitif est fort. Sur la figure 7c l'évidement 41 et la forme en U de E1 sont visibles. A cette position teta=90° est associée une fréquence centrale du filtre fc90.The figure 7 describes the structure of the dielectric elements for a value of teta = 90 °. The figure 7a corresponds to an element Ei intermediate in a cavity Ci in top view, the figure 7b in profile view. Dotted area 71 illustrates a configuration where the capacitive effect is strong. The Figure 7c corresponds to the input dielectric element E1 in the cavity C1 when viewed from above, the figure 7d in profile view. The dashed area 72 illustrates a configuration where the capacitive effect is strong. On the Figure 7c the recess 41 and the U-shape of E1 are visible. At this position teta = 90 ° is associated a central frequency of the filter fc90.

Des fréquences centrales intermédiaires sont obtenue pour des valeurs de teta comprises en 0° et 90°.Intermediate center frequencies are obtained for teta values in 0 ° and 90 °.

Préférentiellement, tous les éléments diélectriques E1, Ei, EN présentent une position angulaire identique correspondant à une rotation identique, une valeur de l'angle de rotation teta correspondant à une valeur de fréquence centrale : fc = f teta

Figure imgb0001
Preferably, all the dielectric elements E1, Ei, EN have an identical angular position corresponding to an identical rotation, a value of the teta rotation angle corresponding to a central frequency value: fc = f teta
Figure imgb0001

Une rotation progressive et synchrone des éléments diélectriques E1, Ei, EN permet de faire varier continûment la fréquence centrale fc du filtre.A gradual and synchronous rotation of the dielectric elements E1, E1, EN makes it possible to continuously vary the central frequency fc of the filter.

Pour obtenir un changement de fréquence centrale lors de la rotation des éléments perturbateurs E1, Ei, EN, aucun de ces éléments ne présente de symétrie de révolution autour de son axe de rotation respectif.To obtain a central frequency change during the rotation of the disturbing elements E1, Ei, EN, none of these elements has symmetry of revolution about its respective axis of rotation.

Ainsi la rotation effectuée par chaque élément diélectrique E1, Ei, EN fait varier la quantité de matière traversée par le champ électrique E au centre des cavités des résonateurs, ce qui a pour effet de faire varier effet capacitif du résonateur.Thus the rotation performed by each dielectric element E1, Ei, EN varies the amount of material traversed by the electric field E in the center of the cavities of the resonators, which has the effect of varying the capacitive effect of the resonator.

Les figures 8 et 9 illustrent un exemple de réalisation d'un filtre selon l'invention et les caractéristiques de filtre obtenues.The figures 8 and 9 illustrate an embodiment of a filter according to the invention and the filter characteristics obtained.

Le filtre comprend 3 résonateurs R1, R2, RN comprenant des cavités C1, C2, CN de forme sensiblement carrées.The filter comprises 3 resonators R1, R2, RN comprising cavities C1, C2, CN of substantially square shape.

La dimension des cavités C1 et CN est de 16 mm, la dimension de C2 est de 17 mm. Les 3 cavités ont une hauteur de 4.5 mm.The size of the cavities C1 and CN is 16 mm, the dimension of C2 is 17 mm. The 3 cavities have a height of 4.5 mm.

Les éléments diélectriques E1, E2, EN sont en zircone. Les éléments diélectriques d'entrée E1 et de sortie EN ont une dimension de 3.8 mm x 6.1 mm x 1.2 mm. La hauteur h de 1.2 mm est faible par rapport aux autres dimensions d'environ un facteur 3 avec la plus petite des deux autres dimensions.The dielectric elements E1, E2, EN are made of zirconia. The input dielectric elements E1 and output EN have a dimension of 3.8 mm × 6.1 mm × 1.2 mm. The height h of 1.2 mm is small compared to other dimensions by about a factor of 3 with the smaller of the other two dimensions.

L'élément diélectrique intermédiaire E2 a pour dimensions 4mm x 4.1 mm x 1.2 mm (hauteur h de 1.2 mm).The intermediate dielectric element E2 has dimensions of 4 mm x 4.1 mm x 1.2 mm (height h of 1.2 mm).

Les résonateurs R2 et RN sont reliés par deux fentes de dimension 7mm x 2.5 mm, distantes de 5.5 mm. Des vis non représentées (6 par cavités) permettent un réglage fin de la résonance du mode TM et des couplages.Resonators R2 and RN are connected by two slots of dimension 7mm x 2.5 mm, 5.5 mm apart. Unrepresented screws (6 per cavity) allow fine tuning of TM mode resonance and couplings.

La figure 8 correspond à une valeur d'angle teta = 0°, les éléments sont globalement perpendiculaires à l'axe Z (hauteur h selon Z, plan Pe perpendiculaire à Z), correspondant à un effet capacitif faible. La figure 8a représente une vue de profil du filtre et la figure 8b une vue en perspective.The figure 8 corresponds to a value of angle teta = 0 °, the elements are generally perpendicular to the Z axis (height h according to Z, plane Pe perpendicular to Z), corresponding to a weak capacitive effect. The figure 8a represents a profile view of the filter and the figure 8b a perspective view.

La figure 9 correspond à une valeur d'angle teta = 90° d'angle de rotation des éléments diélectriques, les éléments sont globalement parallèles à l'axe Z (hauteur h perpendiculaire à Z, plan Pe comprenant l'axe Z), correspondant à un effet capacitif fort. La figure 9a représente une vue de profil du filtre et la figure 9b une vue en perspectiveThe figure 9 corresponds to an angle value teta = 90 ° of rotation angle of the dielectric elements, the elements are generally parallel to the axis Z (height h perpendicular to Z, plane Pe comprising the axis Z), corresponding to an effect strong capacitive. The figure 9a represents a profile view of the filter and the figure 9b a perspective view

Dans cet exemple, les formes aplaties des éléments diélectriques sont optimisées pour maximiser la différence d'effet capacitif et donc le décalage en fréquence.In this example, the flattened shapes of the dielectric elements are optimized to maximize the difference in capacitive effect and thus the frequency shift.

Selon une variante préférée représentée sur les figures 8 et 9, les éléments diélectriques E1, E2, EN sont solidaires de moyens de maintient, préférentiellement de tiges respectives T1, T2, TN également en matériau diélectrique aptes à effectuer une rotationAccording to a preferred variant represented on the figures 8 and 9 , the dielectric elements E1, E2, EN are integral with holding means, preferably respective rods T1, T2, TN also of dielectric material capable of rotating

Avantageusement une tige et l'élément diélectrique qui lui est solidaire forment un bloc unique d'un même matériau diélectrique qui est fabriqué d'une pièce. Dans ce cas , et plus généralement lorsque la tige est en matériau diélectrique, elle contribue à l'effet perturbateur de l'élément diélectrique. Préférentiellement les tiges Ti traversent de part en part l'élément pertubateur associé Ei ainsi que la cavité Ci, ce qui assure un meilleur maintien mécanique de l'élément diélectrique dans la cavité qu'avec un seul point de maintient.Advantageously a rod and the dielectric element which is integral therewith form a single block of the same dielectric material which is manufactured in one piece. In this case, and more generally when the rod is made of dielectric material, it contributes to the disruptive effect of the dielectric element. Preferably the rods Ti pass right through the associated disturbing element Ei and the cavity Ci, which ensures a better mechanical retention of the dielectric element in the cavity than with a single point of maintenance.

Ces tiges peuvent effectuer une rotation selon l'axe de rotation correspondant X1, X2, XN à l'aide d'une liaison pivot avec les parois de la cavité C1, C2, CN dans laquelle elles se trouvent. Il y a ainsi moins d'étapes technologiques pour la fabrication du filtre.These rods can rotate along the corresponding axis of rotation X1, X2, XN by means of a pivot connection with the walls of the cavity C1, C2, CN in which they are located. There are thus fewer technological steps for the manufacture of the filter.

La figure 8c illustre le comportement fréquentiel du filtre passe bande obtenu pour teta = 0°. La courbe S21(0°) correspond à la transmission du filtre et la courbe S11(0°) à la réflexion. La bande passante à -20 dB est deltaf(0°) et la fréquence centrale fc(0°) est égale à 11.5 GHz.The figure 8c illustrates the frequency behavior of the band pass filter obtained for teta = 0 °. The curve S21 (0 °) corresponds to the transmission of the filter and the curve S11 (0 °) to reflection. The bandwidth at -20 dB is deltaf (0 °) and the center frequency fc (0 °) is equal to 11.5 GHz.

La figure 9c illustre le comportement fréquentiel du filtre passe bande obtenu pour teta = 90°. La courbe S21(90°) correspond à la transmission du fil et la courbe S11(90°) à la réflexion. La bande passante à -20 dB est deltaf(90°) et la fréquence centrale fc(90°) est égale à 9.65 GHz.The Figure 9c illustrates the frequency behavior of the band pass filter obtained for teta = 90 °. Curve S21 (90 °) corresponds to the transmission of the wire and curve S11 (90 °) to reflection. The bandwidth at -20 dB is deltaf (90 °) and the center frequency fc (90 °) is equal to 9.65 GHz.

Ainsi par rotation d'un angle de 90°, la fréquence centrale s'est modifiée de 9.65 GHz à 11.5 GHz.Thus by rotating an angle of 90 °, the center frequency has changed from 9.65 GHz to 11.5 GHz.

La figure 10 illustre un autre mode de réalisation d'un filtre selon l'invention dans le même esprit que le filtre décrit figures 8 et 9. La figure 10a décrit une vue en perspective du filtre pour des éléments diélectriques globalement parallèles à l'axe Z et la figure 10b décrit une vue en perspective du filtre pour des éléments diélectriques globalement perpendiculaires à l'axe Z. le filtre comprend 6 résonateurs. La figure 10c décrit la transmission du filtre S12 pour différentes postions angulaires des éléments diélectriques entre 0° et 90°. La fréquence centrale varie en fonction de l'angle d'inclinaison des éléments diélectriques, entre 9.65 GHz et 11.5 GHz.The figure 10 illustrates another embodiment of a filter according to the invention in the same spirit as the described filter figures 8 and 9 . The figure 10a discloses a perspective view of the filter for dielectric elements generally parallel to the Z axis and the figure 10b discloses a perspective view of the filter for dielectric elements generally perpendicular to the Z axis. the filter comprises 6 resonators. The figure 10c describes the transmission of the filter S12 for different angular positions of the dielectric elements between 0 ° and 90 °. The center frequency varies according to the angle of inclination of the dielectric elements, between 9.65 GHz and 11.5 GHz.

L'adaptation est de l'ordre de 15 dB et les pertes du filtre comprises entre 0.3 et 0.5 dB quel que soit la valeur de l'angle de rotation.The adaptation is of the order of 15 dB and the losses of the filter between 0.3 and 0.5 dB whatever the value of the angle of rotation.

Pour les filtres selon l'invention, l'entrée et la sortie jouent un rôle symétrique.For the filters according to the invention, the input and the output play a symmetrical role.

Les variations de température (typiquement quelques dizaines de degrés) dans le filtre induisent des fluctuations dans les dimensions des cavités et des éléments diélectriques, ce qui génère des variations de fréquence centrale pour une même géométrie de filtre.The temperature variations (typically a few tens of degrees) in the filter induce fluctuations in the dimensions of the cavities and dielectric elements, which generates central frequency variations for the same filter geometry.

Selon un mode de réalisation du filtre selon l'invention, des angles de rotations des éléments diélectriques présentent des valeurs variables en fonction de la température de manière à corriger les effets de la température sur les fréquences centrales et donc maintenir les valeurs de ces fréquences centrales constantes lors d'une variation de température.According to one embodiment of the filter according to the invention, rotation angles of the dielectric elements have variable values as a function of the temperature so as to correct the effects of the temperature on the central frequencies and thus maintain the values of these central frequencies. constant during a temperature change.

Préférentiellement, chaque valeur de fréquence centrale correspond à un angle de rotation identique pour tous les éléments diélectriques du filtre selon l'invention et la valeur de cet angle est asservie en température de manière à maintenir la fréquence centrale à une valeur déterminée indépendante de la température.Preferably, each central frequency value corresponds to an identical rotation angle for all the dielectric elements of the filter according to the invention and the value of this angle is temperature-controlled so as to maintain the central frequency at a determined value independent of the temperature. .

Selon un autre aspect, l'invention porte également sur un circuit hyperfréquence comprenant au moins un filtre selon l'invention.According to another aspect, the invention also relates to a microwave circuit comprising at least one filter according to the invention.

Claims (13)

  1. Band-pass filter (100) for a microwave which can be frequency-tuned and which has a central frequency (fc), the microwave being propagated along an axis Z, the filter comprising
    - an input resonator (R1) comprising a metal input cavity (C1) and a dielectric input element (E1), placed inside the input cavity and capable of disrupting the resonance mode of the microwave in the input cavity,
    - an output resonator (RN) comprising a metal output cavity (CN) and a dielectric output element (EN), placed inside the output cavity and capable of disrupting the resonance mode of the microwave in the output cavity,
    - an input excitation means (S1) which has an elongate shape along the axis Z and which penetrates the input cavity (C1) in order to allow the microwave to penetrate the input cavity,
    - an output excitation means (SN) which has an elongate shape on the axis Z and which penetrates the output cavity (CN) in order to allow the microwave to exit the output cavity,
    - the input resonator (R1) and the output resonator (RN) being coupled, and
    - the dielectric input element (E1) and the dielectric output element (EN) have a recess (41, 42),
    - the input excitation means (S1) penetrates inside the recess (41) of the dielectric input element (E1) so that the dielectric input element (E1) disrupts the electromagnetic field close to the input excitation means (S1),
    - the output excitation means (SN) penetrates inside the recess (42) of the dielectric output element (EN) so that the dielectric output element (EN) disrupts the electromagnetic field close to the output excitation means,
    - the dielectric input element (E1) is capable of carrying out a rotation about an input rotation axis (XI), the recess (41) being suitable for allowing the rotation of the dielectric element (E1) while keeping the input excitation element (S1) inside the recess (41),
    - the dielectric output element (EN) is capable of carrying out a rotation about an output rotation axis (XN), the recess (42) being suitable for allowing the rotation of the dielectric element (E2) while keeping the output excitation element (SN) inside the recess (42),
    - each dielectric element (E1, EN) has a flat shape having a height less by at least a factor of 3 than the smallest external dimension in a plane perpendicular to the direction supporting the height,
    - the rotations of the dielectric elements (E1, EN) allowing the modification of the central frequency of the filter.
  2. Filter according to the preceding claim, in which the dielectric input element (E1) and the dielectric output element (EN) are placed substantially at the centre of the input cavity (C1) and of the output cavity (CN), respectively.
  3. Filter according to either of the preceding claims, in which the dielectric input element (E1) and dielectric output element (EN) are U-shaped.
  4. Filter according to any one of the preceding claims comprising coupling means suitable for coupling the input resonator (R1) and output resonator (RN) directly.
  5. Filter according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising at least one intermediate resonator (Ri) placed in series between the input resonator (R1) and the output resonator (RN), comprising an intermediate metal cavity (Ci) and an intermediate dielectric element (Ei) placed inside the cavity (Ci) and capable of disrupting the resonance mode of the microwave in the cavity, each dielectric element (Ei) having a flat shape having a height less by at least a factor of 3 than the smallest dimension in a plane perpendicular to the direction supporting the height and being capable of carrying out a rotation about an intermediate rotation axis (Xi), the filter comprising coupling means suitable for coupling the intermediate resonators two by two in series.
  6. Filter according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the coupling means are slots.
  7. Filters according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the dielectric elements (R1, RN, Ri) have an identical angular position corresponding to an identical rotation, a value of the angle of rotation corresponding to a value of the central frequency of the filter.
  8. Filter according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the rotation axes (X1, XN, Xi) are parallel with one another.
  9. Filter according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the rotation axes (X1, XN, Xi) are perpendicular to the axis Z.
  10. Filter according to any one of claims 5 to 9, in which the intermediate dielectric elements (Ei) are substantially identical.
  11. Filter according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the dielectric elements (E1, EN, Ei) are fixedly joined to respective dielectric rods (T1, TN, Ti) capable of carrying out a rotation about the corresponding rotation axis (X1, XN, Xi).
  12. Filter according to any one of the preceding claims, in which values of the angles of rotation are a function of the temperature so as to keep the central frequency values constant when there is a variation in temperature.
  13. Microwave circuit comprising at least one filter according to any one of the preceding claims.
EP13177704.7A 2012-07-27 2013-07-23 Frequency tunable bandpass filter for hyperfrequency waves Active EP2690703B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1202127A FR2994028B1 (en) 2012-07-27 2012-07-27 FREQUENCY TUNING BAND FILTER FOR MICROWAVE WAVE

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EP2690703B1 true EP2690703B1 (en) 2018-10-10

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CN106558747A (en) * 2015-09-28 2017-04-05 中兴通讯股份有限公司 A kind of wave filter of resonator cavity and its composition
CN108574130B (en) * 2017-03-13 2019-08-02 电子科技大学 Micro-strip filter circuit, micro-strip duplexer and related electronic devices
EP3788673A1 (en) * 2018-05-04 2021-03-10 Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson (publ) A tunable waveguide resonator
FR3083015B1 (en) 2018-06-21 2021-12-17 Thales Sa TUNABLE HYPERFREQUENCY SYSTEM
US10957960B2 (en) 2018-12-14 2021-03-23 Gowrish Basavarajappa Tunable filter with minimum variations in absolute bandwidth and insertion loss using a single tuning element
CN111384560A (en) * 2018-12-31 2020-07-07 深圳市大富科技股份有限公司 Dielectric filter, communication equipment, method for preparing dielectric block and dielectric filter

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JPS61136302A (en) * 1984-12-06 1986-06-24 Murata Mfg Co Ltd Dielectric resonator
US6147577A (en) * 1998-01-15 2000-11-14 K&L Microwave, Inc. Tunable ceramic filters
IT1320543B1 (en) * 2000-07-20 2003-12-10 Cselt Centro Studi Lab Telecom DIELECTRICALLY CHARGED CAVITY FOR HIGH FREQUENCY FILTERS.
US20050200437A1 (en) * 2004-03-12 2005-09-15 M/A-Com, Inc. Method and mechanism for tuning dielectric resonator circuits
US7388457B2 (en) * 2005-01-20 2008-06-17 M/A-Com, Inc. Dielectric resonator with variable diameter through hole and filter with such dielectric resonators
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EP2690703A1 (en) 2014-01-29
FR2994028A1 (en) 2014-01-31
FR2994028B1 (en) 2015-06-19
CA2822129A1 (en) 2014-01-27
CA2822129C (en) 2020-12-22
US20140028415A1 (en) 2014-01-30
US9343792B2 (en) 2016-05-17

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