Theory of Doubly-Shielded Coupled Lines for Directional Couplers of Various Directivity Types With Impedance Transformation

Asymmetric coupled lines (CLs) with double shielding in an inhomogeneous dielectric medium are studied. They have specific properties that allow the creation of impedance-transforming directional couplers with a given directivity type. The proposed models and synthesis techniques take into account both electric asymmetry and dielectric inhomogeneity. Numerical simulations and measurements prove the correctness of the general theory, and the possibility of creating co-, contra-, and trans-directional couplers with impedance-transforming and phase-shifting properties. The results will be useful for finding new design solutions for next-generation microwave circuits.