Meta Platforms, Inc.
Beamforming using passive time-delay structures

Abstract:

Apparatuses, methods, and systems for beamforming to multiple users using switched passive time-delay structures are disclosed. One method includes an input switch that receives a plurality of input signals for transmission. Further, the apparatus includes a plurality of passive time-delay structures, wherein the input switch selectively connects the plurality of input signals to at least one of the plurality of passive time-delay structures, and wherein each of the passive time-delay structures is preconfigured to provide a plurality of delayed signals wherein each of the plurality of delayed signals is a delayed version of a one of the plurality of input signals. The apparatus further includes an antenna array, wherein the antenna array receives the plurality of delayed signals of the passive time-delay structures, and generates a beamforming pattern corresponding with a selected one of the passive time-delay structures.