Trw Limited

James R Hayes

Albert J Grote

George J Purden

Paul J Johnson

Steve R Kasten

A thermally compensating microwave cavity is provided. An active device that generates microwaves is disposed within this microwave cavity such that microwaves are emitted within the cavity. A first portion of these microwaves travels in one direction from the active device and forms a broad bandwidth signal. A section portion of the microwaves travels toward a reflecting member and is reflected. Once reflected, this second portion combines with and compensates the first portion. A temperature dependent bellows is utilized to displace the active device and the reflecting member relative to one another. Accordingly, as the signal emitted by the active device changes with temperature, the reflecting member is displaced by the bellows to properly reflect the second portion of the microwaves such that it combines with and properly compensates the signal.

Thermally compensating microwave cavity

A W-band waveguide variable controlled oscillator incorporating a capacitively coupled Gunn diode and varactor diode arranged in such a manner that adverse environmental conditions do not deleteriously effect the stability of the output of the oscillator. The Gunn diode is electrically connected to a waveguide chamber within the oscillator and includes a resonator electrically connected to its end cap. The resonator is electrically connected to a DC bias source by means of a DC bias filter and a wire inductor. Opposite and above the Gunn diode is a varactor assembly including a varactor diode, which is also electrically connected to a DC bias source through a DC bias filter. A variable coupling spacer within the varactor assembly adjusts the distance between the varactor diode and the Gunn diode such that the capacitive coupling between the two can be adjusted. In addition, an adjustable back-short is incorporated within the waveguide channel to adjust the power output of the oscillator. Also, a fine tuning screw is threadably engaged to the waveguide channel to adjust the capacitance of the resonator. This configuration enables the oscillator to have a stable output and low power losses under adverse environmental conditions.

Growing community of inventors

Torrance, CA, United States of America

James R Hayes