Frequency down-conversion system using arrays of coupled non-linear elements
US8165557B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 17, 2009 |
| Grant date | Apr 24, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 13, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01R31/31708
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A system includes at least a first array connected to a second array. The first array includes an odd number, greater than one, of unidirectionally-coupled non-linear first array elements. The second array includes an odd number, greater than one, of unidirectionally-coupled non-linear second array elements. The second array elements are unidirectionally-coupled in a direction opposite the coupling direction of the second array elements. The first array is configured to receive an input signal and down-convert the input signal. The second array is configured to receive the down-converted input signal, further down-convert the down-converted input signal, and output a down-converted output signal. The down-converted output signal is down-converted to a multiple of the frequency of the input signal proportional to the number of arrays of the system. The system may operate at frequencies greater than 1 GHz and may be contained in a microchip or on a printed circuit board.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.