Testing method of flexible microwave antenna / filter

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for testing a flexible microwave antenna / filter. According to the method, microwave characteristics of the flexible microwave antenna / filter are tested on line in stretching, bending, twisting and rubbing processes on the same testing device. During testing, one side of the flexible microwave antenna / filter is fixed, the other side of the flexible microwave antenna / filter is clamped on a clamp of an XYZ theta four-degree-of-freedom moving table, the movement of the four degrees of freedom of X, Y, Z and theta is independently adjustable, and the flexible microwave antenna / filter is stretched, bent, twisted and rubbed by controlling the movement of the four degrees of freedom of X, Y, Z and theta to be single or combined. The microwave test instrument is connected to the flexible microwave antenna / filter on line, so that the microwave characteristics of the flexible microwave antenna / filter can be tested on line in the stretching, bending, twisting and rubbing processes on the same test device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a testing method for a flexible microwave antenna / filter. Background Art

[0002] Flexible microwave antennas and filters are widely used in modern electronic devices due to their lightweight and bendable properties. With the rapid development of wearable devices, flexible display technology, and the Internet of Things, the demand for high-performance, deformable microwave components that can be integrated into these devices is increasing. These antennas and filters not only need to function in traditional communication devices, but also need to adapt to various extreme environmental conditions, such as maintaining stable performance when bent, folded, or stretched.

[0003] In wearable scenarios, flexible microwave antennas and filters may face various mechanical deformations, such as stretching, bending, twisting, and kneading. These deformations can have a significant impact on the microwave characteristics of antennas and filters, including impedance changes, resonant frequency shifts, and changes in radiation patterns. For example, when a flexible antenna works in a bent state, its electrical length and impedance change, which may lead to a decrease in signal transmission efficiency. In addition, twisting and kneading may introduce additional losses and affect signal integrity. Therefore, designing flexible microwave antennas and filters that can maintain stable performance under these complex mechanical deformations is the key to achieving high-performance wearable electronic devices.

[0004] At the same time, flexible microwave antennas and filters may be subject to various mechanical deformations such as stretching, bending, twisting and rubbing, which may cause the metal film layer to be strained due to stress, resulting in increased resistivity or even fracture, affecting the electrical functions of the flexible microwave antenna and filter. When designing flexible microwave antennas and filters, it is necessary to consider the mechanical deformations that they may encounter in actual applications, including stretching, bending, twisting and rubbing. The metal film layer is a key part of the antenna and filter. When it is subjected to mechanical deformation, it may suffer a variety of adverse effects due to stress: (1) Increased resistivity: When a metal film is subjected to tensile or compressive stress, its internal structure may undergo lattice distortion, resulting in a decrease in electron mobility and an increase in resistivity.

[0005] (2) Fracture: If the stress of the metal film layer exceeds the yield strength of its material, it may cause the metal film layer to fracture, especially under bending or twisting deformation, the edge or local area of ​​the film may fracture due to stress concentration.

[0006] (3) Fatigue damage: Even if the metal film layer does not break immediately, repeated mechanical deformation may cause fatigue damage. After a certain period of deformation, the metal film layer may suddenly break.

[0007] (4) Degradation of electrical functions: The fracture of the metal film layer or the increase in resistivity will lead to the degradation of the electrical functions of the antenna and filter, including increased signal transmission loss and changes in frequency response characteristics.

[0008] (5) Reduced reliability: When in a state of mechanical deformation for a long time, the reliability of the metal film layer will be reduced, and it may suddenly fail at an unknown time. This is unacceptable for application scenarios that require high reliability (such as medical equipment, safety monitoring, etc.).

[0009] Testing the changes in microwave properties of flexible microwave antennas and filters under different mechanical deformations is critical to ensuring their reliability and performance. These tests can help designers understand the behavior of materials under actual use conditions, thereby optimizing design and material selection. However, existing testing methods often only focus on performance changes under bending, ignoring the effects of other deformations such as stretching, twisting, and kneading. This limitation may cause the performance of antennas and filters in actual applications to deviate from expectations. Therefore, developing a comprehensive test method that can simulate and evaluate the changes in microwave properties of flexible microwave antennas and filters under various mechanical deformations is of great significance to promoting the development of flexible electronic technology.

[0010] At present, the testing methods for flexible microwave antennas and filters have some obvious shortcomings. First, these tests are usually only performed before and after deformation, without considering the real-time performance changes during the deformation process, which limits the understanding of the performance of antennas and filters in actual use. Secondly, the various mechanical deformation tests on flexible microwave antennas and filters currently only have bending tests, that is, manually bending the flexible microwave antennas and filters several times, and then testing their microwave characteristics. Third, different deformation tests require the use of different devices, which not only increases the complexity of the test, but also increases the cost. In addition, the existing testing methods are all conducted by manually bending the flexible microwave antennas and filters using cylinders of a specific radius for testing (such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown in the figure), the automation level is low and it cannot adapt to thousands of times of endurance tests, nor can it simulate microwave characteristic tests with different bending times at different bending radii.

[0011] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a simple and efficient testing method that can simultaneously test the effects of multiple mechanical deformations. Summary of the invention

[0012] The purpose of the present invention is to develop a new testing method for comprehensively evaluating the changes in microwave characteristics of flexible microwave antennas and filters under various mechanical deformations including stretching, bending, twisting and kneading. The radius, amplitude and angle of bending, twisting and kneading can be freely adjusted, and the test can be completed automatically, completely avoiding the trouble of manual operation.

[0013] This method aims to overcome the limitations of existing testing technologies and provide a solution that can monitor and analyze the performance of antennas and filters in real-time under actual use conditions. Through this testing method, the behavior of materials under complex mechanical stresses can be better understood, thereby optimizing the design and improving the performance and reliability of flexible microwave antennas and filters to meet the needs of wearable electronic devices and other flexible electronic applications.

[0014] The technical solution of the present invention can complete the microwave characteristic test of flexible microwave antennas / filters under various complex mechanical stresses by using a simple set of instruments and equipment, and realizes online microwave characteristic test during stretching, bending, twisting, kneading and the like.

[0015] The specific technical solution for achieving the purpose of the present invention is: A testing method for a flexible microwave antenna / filter, which completes online testing of microwave characteristics of the flexible microwave antenna / filter during stretching, bending, twisting and kneading on a same testing device.

[0016] During the test, one side of the flexible microwave antenna / filter is fixed, and the other side is clamped on the fixture of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile platform, wherein the movements of the four degrees of freedom X, Y, Z, and θ are independently adjustable, and the flexible microwave antenna / filter is stretched, bent, twisted, and kneaded by controlling the movement of the four degrees of freedom X, Y, Z, and θ alone or in combination, and the microwave testing instrument is connected online to the flexible microwave antenna / filter to realize online testing of the microwave characteristics of the flexible microwave antenna / filter during the stretching, bending, twisting, and kneading process. In the present invention, the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile platform is an existing mature device, and there are a variety of commercial models to choose from, so it is not described in detail here.

[0017] The microwave characteristics of flexible microwave antennas / filters can be tested online during stretching, bending, twisting and rubbing on the same test device, including: (1) Tensile test: By controlling the X-axis drive block of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage to apply periodically changing tension to simulate tensile deformation, the performance changes of the antenna and filter are monitored in real time using a microwave test instrument; (2) Bending test: By controlling the X-axis drive block of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage to perform periodic displacement changes, bending deformation is simulated, and the changes in microwave characteristics are recorded; (3) Distortion test: by controlling the Y-axis direction driving block to perform periodic displacement changes, the distortion deformation is simulated, and the microwave characteristics are tested; preferably, the X-axis or Z-axis direction driving block can also be controlled to perform periodic displacement changes at the same time to simulate the distortion deformation; (4) Rubbing test: By controlling the Y-axis and Z-axis directions to perform periodic displacement changes, the kneading deformation is simulated and the microwave characteristics test is performed.

[0018] The test method specifically includes the following steps: (1) Fix the two opposite sides of the manufactured flexible microwave antenna / filter on the left and right clamps respectively, wherein the left clamp is fixed on the vertical support plate on the left, and the right clamp is fixed on the vertical XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom moving platform on the right; in the initial state of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom moving platform, the left and right clamp fixing points face each other and the clamping surfaces are in the same plane; each degree of freedom movement of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom moving platform is driven by a motor; the left and right clamps also have gold fingers and a signal interface of a microwave test instrument electrically connected to the gold fingers, and the gold fingers are used to electrically connect the flexible microwave antenna / filter to the microwave test instrument; When the flexible microwave antenna / filter is clamped by the fixture, its signal input and output ends are pressed against the gold fingers; (2) driving the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage so that the flexible microwave antenna / filter is stretched, bent, twisted, and kneaded respectively. While being stretched, bent, twisted, and kneaded, the microwave testing instrument tests the microwave characteristics of the flexible microwave antenna / filter and records the data; (3) Based on the test data obtained in step (2), the stretching resistance, bending resistance, twisting resistance and rubbing resistance of the flexible microwave antenna / filter are evaluated.

[0019] In step (2), the specific implementation is as follows: (2-1) Tensile test: Input the control signal of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage to drive the X-axis direction drive block of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage to gradually increase the tensile force in the direction away from the right fixed fixture to a preset value and then gradually return to zero. The tensile force equation applied by the X-axis direction drive block is: , where F max is the preset maximum tensile force, t is the time, n is the parameter, and during the tensile test, X, Y, Z, and θ remain unchanged, so that the tested flexible microwave antenna / filter is gradually stretched to the preset value and then gradually returns to zero. During the stretching process, the microwave testing instrument continuously tests and records the data; repeat the operation for a preset number of times; the tensile force is obtained by testing the tensile sensor connected to the fixture; (2-2) Bending test: Input the control signal of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage to drive the X-axis driving block of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage. The motion equation of the X-axis driving block is: , where A is the preset maximum displacement in the X-axis direction, t is the time, n is the parameter, Y, Z, and θ remain unchanged, so that the tested flexible microwave antenna / filter is gradually bent to a preset arc and then gradually restored to a straight state. During the bending process, the microwave test instrument continuously tests and records data, and the operation is repeated for a preset number of times; (2-3) Distortion test: Input the control signal of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage to drive the Y-axis driving block of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage. The motion equation of the Y-axis driving block is: , where B is the preset maximum displacement in the Y-axis direction, t is the time, m is the parameter, X and Z remain unchanged, θ remains unchanged or changes at a preset fixed period, so that the tested flexible microwave antenna / filter is repeatedly twisted, and the microwave test instrument continuously tests and records data during the twisting process, and the operation is repeated for a preset number of times; (2-4) Rubbing test: Input the control signal of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage to drive the Y-axis driving block and the Z-axis driving block of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage. The motion equation of the Y-axis driving block is: , where B is the preset maximum displacement in the Y-axis direction, and the motion equation of the driving block in the Z-axis direction is , where C is the preset maximum displacement in the Z-axis direction, t is time, m and p are parameters, θ remains unchanged or changes at a preset fixed period; X is fixed to D, so that when the Y-axis driving block and the Z-axis driving block are in the initial position, the distance between the left fixture and the right fixture is less than half the length of the flexible microwave antenna / filter being tested; after the Y-axis driving block and the Z-axis driving block start to move, the flexible microwave antenna / filter is repeatedly kneaded, and during the kneading process, the microwave test instrument continuously tests and records data, and the operation is repeated for a preset number of times; In step (2-1), step (2-2), step (2-3), and step (2-4), as long as the flexible microwave antenna / filter shows any tearing, damage, or wear on the surface, or the microwave characteristic parameters obtained by the microwave testing instrument deviate from the preset tolerance value of the design value, the test is terminated immediately and proceeds to step (3).

[0020] The beneficial technical effects that the technical solution of the present invention can bring mainly include: (1) Comprehensive testing: It is possible to complete online testing during stretching, bending, twisting, and rubbing on the same test device, and comprehensively evaluate the changes in microwave characteristics of flexible microwave antennas and filters under various mechanical deformation conditions.

[0021] (2) Automated testing: The testing process can be completed automatically, avoiding the trouble of manual operation and improving the efficiency and accuracy of the test.

[0022] (3) Real-time performance monitoring: By connecting to microwave test instruments online, the performance of antennas and filters under actual usage conditions can be monitored and analyzed in real time, providing a deeper understanding of material behavior.

[0023] (4) Optimized design: Test data helps optimize design and material selection, improving the performance and reliability of flexible microwave antennas and filters.

[0024] (5) Improving reliability: By simulating the mechanical deformation in actual use, the long-term reliability of the product can be evaluated and improved, especially in application scenarios that require high reliability.

[0025] (6) Reduce costs: Use one set of equipment to complete multiple tests, reducing the cost of separate tests that require different devices.

[0026] (7) Enhanced durability: Through testing and analysis, we can better understand the behavior of materials under complex mechanical stresses, thereby designing more durable products.

[0027] (8) Improved adaptability: The test method can adapt to different bending radii, bending times and deformation types, which improves the flexibility and adaptability of the test method.

[0028] (9) Standardized testing process: A standardized testing process is provided to help ensure the consistency and comparability of product quality.

[0029] (10) Promoting the development of flexible electronic technology: This testing method helps promote the development of flexible electronic technology to meet the needs of wearable electronic devices and other flexible electronic applications.

[0030] This invention was supported by the Major Natural Science Research Project of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions (23KJA510006, 22KJA510005).

[0031] Statement: The technical contents not specially described in the present invention are all existing technologies in the field, and no specific and detailed description is required, nor does it affect the full disclosure of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] Figure 1 : Bending test diagram in the prior art (our prior application CN2022100007490), manual bending.

[0033] Figure 2 : Bending test diagram in the prior art (our prior application CN2022100007490), manually bending with the help of cylindrical foam.

[0034] Figure 3: A commercial XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage adopted by the present invention, in which the fixture and flexible microwave antenna / filter have not yet been installed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] To facilitate understanding of the present invention, the technical solution of the present invention is specifically described below in conjunction with examples.

[0036] The present invention can test the microwave characteristics of a flexible microwave antenna / filter online during stretching, bending, twisting and kneading on the same testing device; During the test, one side of the flexible microwave antenna / filter is fixed, and the other side is clamped on the fixture of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage, where the movement of the four degrees of freedom X, Y, Z, and θ are independently adjustable. By controlling the movement of the four degrees of freedom X, Y, Z, and θ alone or in combination, such as Figure 3 As shown, the flexible microwave antenna / filter is stretched, bent, twisted, and rubbed, and the microwave testing instrument is connected online to the flexible microwave antenna / filter, so that the microwave characteristics of the flexible microwave antenna / filter can be tested online during the stretching, bending, twisting, and rubbing processes on the same testing device.

[0037] In specific implementation, the method of completing the stretching, bending, twisting, and kneading process of the flexible microwave antenna / filter on the same test device can be achieved by the following steps: 1. Fixing and clamping: First, fix one side of the flexible microwave antenna / filter to one end of the test device to ensure that this end does not move during the test. The other side is clamped on the fixture of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage.

[0038] Independent control: The XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage has independent control capabilities and can accurately control the translation in the X, Y, and Z directions and the rotation in the θ direction.

[0039] 2. Tensile test: By controlling the mobile stage in the X or Y direction, a tensile force can be applied to the antenna / filter to simulate the tensile deformation that may be encountered in actual use.

[0040] 3. Bending test: By controlling the moving stage in the Z direction, bending deformation can be simulated. At the same time, the angle and direction of bending can be controlled by adjusting the rotation in the θ direction.

[0041] 4. Distortion test: By combining the control of movement in the X, Y, and Z directions, you can simulate distortion. For example, you can first stretch in the X direction, then bend in the Y direction, and adjust the θ rotation at the same time to achieve a distortion effect.

[0042] 5. Rubbing test: Rubbing can be simulated by alternating stretching and compression in the X and Y directions. By precisely controlling the moving path and speed of the mobile stage, an effect similar to manual rubbing can be achieved.

[0043] Online testing: While performing the above deformation test, the microwave testing instrument is connected online to the flexible microwave antenna / filter to monitor the changes in its microwave characteristics in real time.

[0044] 6. Data recording and analysis: During the test, the changes in the microwave characteristics of the antenna / filter are recorded by the data acquisition system, and the data are analyzed by the analysis software to evaluate its performance.

[0045] Cyclic testing: In order to fully evaluate the performance of the antenna / filter, the above-mentioned stretching, bending, twisting and rubbing tests can be performed cyclically to simulate various possible situations in actual use.

[0046] Through the above steps, the microwave characteristics test of flexible microwave antennas / filters under different mechanical deformation states can be completed on one test device, providing a scientific basis for design and improvement.

[0047] It should be noted that in the description of the present invention, the three degrees of freedom X, Y, and Z of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile platform do not have a specific meaning, that is, the three degrees of freedom X, Y, and Z are independent and interchangeable. For example, the movement of the X-degree-of-freedom mobile block can be independently controlled, and the other degrees of freedom remain unchanged; the movement of the Y-degree-of-freedom mobile block can also be independently controlled, and the other degrees of freedom remain unchanged; or the movement of the Z-degree-of-freedom mobile block can be independently controlled, and the other degrees of freedom remain unchanged. It depends on the installation orientation of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile platform and the positional relationship between the flexible microwave antenna / filter.

[0048] More specifically, as an example, the following is described: The test method specifically includes the following steps: (1) Fix the two opposite edges of the manufactured flexible microwave antenna / filter on the left and right clamps respectively, wherein the left clamp is fixed on the vertical support plate on the left, and the right clamp is fixed on the vertical XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom moving platform on the right; in the initial state of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom moving platform, the left and right clamp fixing points face each other and the clamping surfaces are in the same plane; the motion of each degree of freedom of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom moving platform is driven by a motor; The left and right clamps also have gold fingers and a signal interface of a microwave test instrument electrically connected to the gold fingers, and the gold fingers are used to electrically connect the flexible microwave antenna / filter to the microwave test instrument; When the flexible microwave antenna / filter is clamped by the fixture, its signal input and output ends are pressed against the gold fingers; (2) driving the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage so that the flexible microwave antenna / filter is stretched, bent, twisted, and kneaded respectively. While being stretched, bent, twisted, and kneaded, the microwave testing instrument tests the microwave characteristics of the flexible microwave antenna / filter and records the data. The specific implementation is as follows: (2-1) Tensile test: Input the control signal of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage to drive the X-axis direction drive block of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage to gradually increase the tensile force in the direction away from the right fixed fixture to a preset value and then gradually return to zero. The tensile force equation applied by the X-axis direction drive block is: , where F max is the preset maximum tension value, t is the time, n is the parameter, X, Y, Z, θ remain unchanged, so that the tested flexible microwave antenna / filter is gradually stretched to the preset value and then gradually returns to zero. During the stretching process, the microwave test instrument continuously tests and records the data; the operation is repeated for the preset number of times; (2-2) Bending test: Input the control signal of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage to drive the X-axis driving block of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage. The motion equation of the X-axis driving block is: , where A is the preset maximum displacement in the X-axis direction, t is the time, n is the parameter, Y, Z, and θ remain unchanged, so that the tested flexible microwave antenna / filter is gradually bent to a preset arc and then gradually restored to a straight state. During the bending process, the microwave test instrument continuously tests and records data, and the operation is repeated for a preset number of times; (2-3) Distortion test: Input the control signal of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage to drive the Y-axis driving block of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage. The motion equation of the Y-axis driving block is: , where B is the preset maximum displacement in the Y-axis direction, t is the time, m is the parameter, X and Z remain unchanged, θ remains unchanged or changes at a preset fixed period, so that the tested flexible microwave antenna / filter is repeatedly twisted, and the microwave test instrument continuously tests and records data during the twisting process, and the operation is repeated for a preset number of times; (2-4) Rubbing test: Input the control signal of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage to drive the Y-axis driving block and the Z-axis driving block of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage. The motion equation of the Y-axis driving block is: , where B is the preset maximum displacement in the Y-axis direction, and the motion equation of the driving block in the Z-axis direction is , where C is the preset maximum displacement in the Z-axis direction, t is time, m and p are parameters, θ remains unchanged or changes at a preset fixed period; X is fixed to D, so that when the Y-axis driving block and the Z-axis driving block are in the initial position, the distance between the left fixture and the right fixture is less than half the length of the flexible microwave antenna / filter being tested; after the Y-axis driving block and the Z-axis driving block start to move, the flexible microwave antenna / filter is repeatedly kneaded, and during the kneading process, the microwave test instrument continuously tests and records data, and the operation is repeated for a preset number of times; Here, step (2-1), step (2-2), step (2-3), and step (2-4) are in no particular order; In step (2-1), step (2-2), step (2-3), and step (2-4), as long as the flexible microwave antenna / filter shows any tearing, damage, or wear on the surface, or the microwave characteristic parameters obtained by the microwave testing instrument deviate from the preset tolerance value of the design value, the test is terminated immediately and the process proceeds to step (3); (3) Based on the test data obtained in step (2), the stretching resistance, bending resistance, twisting resistance and rubbing resistance of the flexible microwave antenna / filter are evaluated.

[0049] Likewise, the above-mentioned X, Y, and Z degrees of freedom are interchangeable under certain conditions, depending on the mounting orientation of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile platform and the positional relationship between the flexible microwave antenna / filter, rather than being a limitation.

[0050] As a general description, another embodiment is as follows: (A)Test preparation: Fix the antenna / filter: Fix the two side edges of the flexible microwave antenna / filter on the left and right clamps respectively. The left clamp is fixed on the support plate, and the right clamp is fixed on the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom moving platform.

[0051] Connect the test instrument: Use the gold fingers and signal interface to electrically connect the antenna / filter to the microwave test instrument.

[0052] Clamp the antenna / filter: Make sure that the signal input and output ends of the antenna / filter are pressed and connected with the gold fingers when the fixture is clamped.

[0053] (B) Test steps: (B1) Tensile test (2-1) Control signal input: Input control signal to the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom moving stage.

[0054] Stretching motion: The X-axis direction drives the block according to the equation Stretchable flexible microwave filter / antenna, where F max is the preset maximum tension, t is the time, n is the parameter, and X, Y, Z, and θ remain unchanged.

[0055] Test records: The microwave testing instrument continuously tests and records data during the stretching process.

[0056] Repeat operation: Repeat the preset number of times.

[0057] (B2) Bending test: Control signal input: Input control signal to the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom moving stage.

[0058] Bending motion: The X-axis direction driving block follows the equation , where A is the preset maximum displacement in the X-axis direction, t is the time, n is the parameter, and Y, Z, and θ remain unchanged.

[0059] Test records: The microwave test instrument continuously tests and records data during the bending process.

[0060] Repeat operation: Repeat the preset number of times.

[0061] (B3) Twist test: Control signal input: Input control signal to the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom moving stage.

[0062] Twisting motion: The driving block in the Y-axis direction is twisted according to the equation Y=B|sin(mt)|.

[0063] Test records: The microwave test instrument continuously tests and records data during the distortion process.

[0064] Repeat operation: Repeat the preset number of times.

[0065] (B4) Rub test: Control signal input: Input control signal to the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom moving stage.

[0066] Kneading motion: The Y-axis and Z-axis driving blocks are respectively driven according to the equation , , kneading, where C is the preset maximum displacement in the Z-axis direction, t is the time, m and p are parameters, and θ remains unchanged or changes in a preset fixed period.

[0067] Test records: The microwave testing instrument continuously tests and records data during the kneading process.

[0068] Repeat operation: Repeat the preset number of times.

[0069] Test termination conditions Visual inspection: If the antenna / filter appears torn, broken or worn.

[0070] Performance check: If the microwave characteristic parameters deviate from the preset tolerance value of the design value.

[0071] (C) Performance evaluation Data analysis: Analyze the test data obtained in step (2).

[0072] Performance evaluation: Evaluate the tensile, bending, twisting and rubbing resistance of flexible microwave antennas / filters.

[0073] Note: Interchangeability of degrees of freedom: The X, Y, and Z degrees of freedom are interchangeable under certain conditions, depending on the installation orientation of the mobile station and the position of the antenna / filter.

[0074] Through the above steps, the microwave performance of the flexible microwave antenna / filter under mechanical stress can be comprehensively evaluated to ensure its reliability in practical applications.

[0075] Example 1: Standard test procedure 1. Preparation stage: Fix the flexible microwave antenna / filter to the left and right clamps of the test fixture.

[0076] Connect the microwave test instrument to ensure normal signal transmission.

[0077] 2. Tensile test: According to the preset maximum tension value, gradually increase the tension in the X-axis direction to the maximum value, maintain it for a period of time, and then gradually reduce it to zero.

[0078] The microwave testing instrument records the microwave characteristics during the entire stretching process.

[0079] 3. Bending test: Set the maximum displacement n in the X-axis direction to gradually bend the antenna / filter to a preset arc.

[0080] The microwave test instrument records the data during the bending process.

[0081] 4. Distortion test: Set the maximum displacement in the Y-axis direction to perform periodic twisting motion.

[0082] The microwave test instrument records the data during the twisting process.

[0083] 5. Rub test: Set the maximum displacement values ​​B and C in the Y-axis and Z-axis directions, as well as the parameters m and p, to perform kneading motion.

[0084] The microwave testing instrument records the data during the kneading process.

[0085] 6. Performance evaluation: Analyze test data and evaluate antenna / filter resistance to mechanical stress.

[0086] Example 2: Accelerated Life Test 1. High temperature environment test: Repeat the test process of Example 1 under high temperature environment to accelerate the material aging process.

[0087] 2. Humidity environment test: Repeat the test procedure of Example 1 in a high humidity environment to evaluate the performance of the antenna / filter under wet conditions.

[0088] 3. Combined test of mechanical stress and environmental factors: Testing combines high temperature, high humidity and mechanical stress (stretching, bending, twisting, rubbing) to simulate extreme use conditions.

[0089] Example 3: Comparative test of different materials 1. Material A test: The flexible microwave antenna / filter manufactured using material A was subjected to the test process of Example 1.

[0090] 2. Material B test: The same test process was performed using the flexible microwave antenna / filter made of material B.

[0091] 3. Performance comparison: Compare the performance differences between two materials under the same test conditions.

[0092] Example 4: Testing of different design structures 1. Design A test: The antenna / filter having a specific design structure A is subjected to the test process of Example 1.

[0093] 2. Design B test: The same test process is performed on antennas / filters with different design structures B.

[0094] 3. Structural optimization: Based on the test results, the impact of different designs on performance is evaluated and the structure is optimized.

[0095] Example 5: Practical application simulation test 1. Simulate usage scenario A: Simulate the use of antenna / filter in scenario A (e.g., a wearable device that is folded repeatedly).

[0096] 2. Simulate usage scenario B: Simulate the use of antenna / filter in scenario B (e.g., flexible display that is often twisted).

[0097] 3. Scenario adaptability assessment: Based on the test results, evaluate the adaptability of the antenna / filter to different usage scenarios.

[0098] When implementing the above methods, appropriate adjustments and optimizations should be made based on actual needs and conditions.

[0099] In the previous embodiment, in step (2-4), m≠p, so that the Y-axis direction driving block and the Z-axis direction driving block drive the right clamp to perform Lissajous curve motion in the vertical plane, so that the flexible microwave antenna / filter is repeatedly kneaded; Preferably, Between 3 and 10, or Between 3 and 10; Preferably, or The advantage of this setting is that in the motion plane, the Y-axis driving block and the Z-axis driving block drive the right fixture to perform Lissajous curve motion in the vertical plane, which is more complex and its motion trajectory can cover more planes, which means that the flexible microwave filter / antenna can withstand stress tests under more conditions (combinations of different bending radians and twisting angles).

[0100] In step (2-4), X is fixed to D, so that when the Y-axis driving block and the Z-axis driving block are in the initial position, the distance between the left fixture and the right fixture is less than 1 / 5 of the length of the flexible microwave antenna / filter being tested. This ensures that the flexible microwave antenna / filter being tested can better simulate the kneading action. When the distance between the left fixture and the right fixture is too large, the flexible microwave antenna / filter being tested can often only form a wavy line jitter, which is not enough to simulate the kneading action.

[0101] In step (2-2), A is half the length of the flexible microwave antenna / filter being tested.

[0102] In step (2-3), the variation period of θ is the same as the period of the Y-axis direction driving block.

[0103] In various embodiments of the present invention, the gold fingers of the left and right clamps are electrically connected to the interface of the microwave testing instrument using a flexible coaxial cable, and the coaxial cable remains in a relaxed state to ensure that the coaxial cable will not be stretched tight when the flexible microwave antenna / filter is stretched, bent, twisted, or rubbed.

[0104] In various embodiments of the present invention, for the flexible microwave filter, one or more of the following microwave characteristics are tested during stretching, bending, twisting, and kneading: Frequency response: Test the filter's response at different frequencies, including passband and stopband performance; Insertion loss: measures the attenuation of a signal as it passes through a filter; Return loss: indicates the loss of the reflected signal at the input end of the filter; Isolation: Tests the degree of isolation between different signal paths in the filter; Standing wave ratio: tests the impedance matching degree between the filter and other parts of the system; In various embodiments of the present invention, for the flexible microwave filter, one or more of the following microwave characteristics are tested during stretching, bending, twisting, and kneading: Working frequency: Test whether the working frequency range of the antenna meets the design requirements; Gain: Tests the radiation or receiving capability of an antenna; Radiation pattern: including the shape of the main lobe and side lobes, and their relative strengths; Impedance matching: Test whether the impedance at the antenna input matches the system; Polarization characteristics: Test the polarization mode and performance of the antenna; Directivity: Tests the directionality of the signal radiated or received by the antenna.

[0105] In various embodiments of the present invention, the microwave test instrument uses one or more combinations of the following devices to meet different test requirements and standards: (a) Vector network analyzer (VNA): used to measure network parameters such as standing wave ratio, return loss, and insertion loss; (b) Spectrum analyzer: used to measure the spectrum characteristics of the signal, such as frequency range and power distribution; (c) Microwave anechoic chamber: provides a non-reflective test environment for measuring antenna patterns and analyzing radiation characteristics; (d) Signal generator: used to generate test signals to simulate the signal environment under actual working conditions.

[0106] (e) Power meter: used to measure the power level of the signal; (f) Antenna test system: including turntable, polarizer, and RF amplifier, used for comprehensive testing of antenna performance, such as gain, polarization characteristics, and directivity; (g) RF microwave comprehensive tester: It integrates multiple functions such as vector network analysis, cable and antenna feeder line testing, vector voltage measurement, and spectrum analysis, providing powerful comprehensive testing capabilities.

Claims

1. A test method for flexible microwave antenna / filter, characterized in that: The method completes online testing of microwave characteristics of a flexible microwave antenna / filter during stretching, bending, twisting and kneading on the same testing device; During the test, one side of the flexible microwave antenna / filter is fixed, and the other side is clamped on the fixture of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage, where the movements of the four degrees of freedom X, Y, Z, and θ are independently adjustable. By controlling the movement of the four degrees of freedom X, Y, Z, and θ alone or in combination, the flexible microwave antenna / filter can be stretched, bent, twisted, and rubbed. The microwave test instrument is connected online to the flexible microwave antenna / filter, and the microwave characteristics of the flexible microwave antenna / filter can be tested online during the stretching, bending, twisting, and rubbing process on the same test device, including: (1) Tensile test: By controlling the X-axis drive block of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage to apply periodically changing tension to simulate tensile deformation, the performance changes of the antenna and filter are monitored in real time using a microwave test instrument; (2) Bending test: By controlling the X-axis drive block of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage to perform periodic displacement changes, bending deformation is simulated, and the changes in microwave characteristics are recorded; (3) Twist test: By controlling the Y-axis drive block to perform periodic displacement changes, the twist deformation is simulated, and the microwave characteristics are tested; preferably, the X-axis or Z-axis or θ-steering drive block can also be controlled to perform periodic displacement changes at the same time to simulate the twist deformation; (4) Rubbing test: By controlling the Y-axis and Z-axis directions to perform periodic displacement changes, the kneading deformation is simulated and the microwave characteristics test is performed.

2. The testing method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The test method specifically includes the following steps: (1) Fix the two opposite edges of the manufactured flexible microwave antenna / filter on the left and right clamps respectively, wherein the left clamp is fixed on the vertical support plate on the left, and the right clamp is fixed on the vertical XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom moving platform on the right; in the initial state of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom moving platform, the left and right clamp fixing points face each other and the clamping surfaces are in the same plane; the motion of each degree of freedom of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom moving platform is driven by a motor; The left and right clamps also have gold fingers and a signal interface of a microwave test instrument electrically connected to the gold fingers, and the gold fingers are used to electrically connect the flexible microwave antenna / filter to the microwave test instrument; When the flexible microwave antenna / filter is clamped by the fixture, its signal input and output ends are pressed against the gold fingers; (2) driving the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage so that the flexible microwave antenna / filter is stretched, bent, twisted, and kneaded respectively. While being stretched, bent, twisted, and kneaded, the microwave testing instrument tests the microwave characteristics of the flexible microwave antenna / filter and records the data. The specific implementation is as follows: (2-1) Tensile test: Input the control signal of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage to drive the X-axis direction drive block of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage to gradually increase the tensile force in the direction away from the right fixed fixture to a preset value and then gradually return to zero. The tensile force equation applied by the X-axis direction drive block is: , where F max is the preset maximum tension value, t is the time, n is the parameter, X, Y, Z, θ remain unchanged, so that the tested flexible microwave antenna / filter is gradually stretched to the preset value and then gradually restored to zero, and the microwave testing instrument continuously tests and records data during the stretching process; the operation is continuously repeated for a preset number of times, for example, 1000 times, or 2000 times, or 5000 times, or 10000 times; (2-2) Bending test: Input the control signal of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage to drive the X-axis driving block of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage. The motion equation of the X-axis driving block is: , where A is the preset maximum displacement in the X-axis direction, t is time, n is a parameter, Y, Z, and θ remain unchanged, so that the tested flexible microwave antenna / filter is gradually bent to a preset arc and then gradually restored to a straight state. During the bending process, the microwave test instrument continuously tests and records data, and the operation is continuously repeated for a preset number of times, such as 1000 times, or 2000 times, or 5000 times, or 10000 times; (2-3) Distortion test: Input the control signal of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage to drive the Y-axis driving block of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage. The motion equation of the Y-axis driving block is: , where B is the preset maximum displacement in the Y-axis direction, t is time, m is a parameter, X and Z remain unchanged, θ remains unchanged or changes at a preset fixed period, so that the tested flexible microwave antenna / filter is repeatedly twisted, and the microwave test instrument continuously tests and records data during the twisting process, and the operation is continuously repeated for a preset number of times, such as 1000 times, or 2000 times, or 5000 times, or 10000 times; (2-4) Rubbing test: Input the control signal of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage to drive the Y-axis driving block and the Z-axis driving block of the XYZθ four-degree-of-freedom mobile stage. The motion equation of the Y-axis driving block is: , where B is the preset maximum displacement in the Y-axis direction, and the motion equation of the driving block in the Z-axis direction is , where C is the preset maximum displacement in the Z-axis direction, t is time, m and p are parameters, θ remains unchanged or changes in a preset fixed period; X is fixed to D, so that when the Y-axis driving block and the Z-axis driving block are in the initial position, the distance between the left fixture and the right fixture is less than half the length of the flexible microwave antenna / filter being tested; after the Y-axis driving block and the Z-axis driving block start to move, the flexible microwave antenna / filter is repeatedly kneaded, and during the kneading process, the microwave testing instrument continuously tests and records data, and the operation is continuously repeated for a preset number of times, such as 1000 times, or 2000 times, or 5000 times, or 10000 times; Here, step (2-1), step (2-2), step (2-3), and step (2-4) are in no particular order; In step (2-1), step (2-2), step (2-3), and step (2-4), as long as the flexible microwave antenna / filter shows any tearing, damage, or wear on the surface, or the microwave characteristic parameters obtained by the microwave testing instrument deviate from the preset tolerance value of the design value, the test is terminated immediately and the process proceeds to step (3); (3) Based on the test data obtained in step (2), the stretching resistance, bending resistance, twisting resistance and rubbing resistance of the flexible microwave antenna / filter are evaluated.

3. The testing method according to claim 2, characterized in that: In step (2-4), m≠p, so the Y-axis driving block and the Z-axis driving block drive the right clamp to perform Lissajous curve motion in the vertical plane, so that the flexible microwave antenna / filter is repeatedly kneaded; Preferably, Between 3 and 10, or Between 3 and 10; Preferably, or Both are decimals, that is, m and p are not in an integer ratio.

4. The testing method according to any one of claims 2 or 3, characterized in that: In step (2-4), X is fixed to D, so that when the Y-axis driving block and the Z-axis driving block are in the initial position, the distance between the left fixture and the right fixture is less than 1 / 5 of the length of the flexible microwave antenna / filter being tested.

5. The testing method according to claim 2, characterized in that: In step (2-1), if the flexible microwave antenna / filter is pulled, torn or damaged, the test is stopped immediately and the test data before the flexible microwave antenna / filter is pulled, torn or damaged is recorded.

6. The testing method according to claim 2, characterized in that: In step (2-2), A is half the length of the flexible microwave antenna / filter being tested.

7. The testing method according to claim 2, characterized in that: In step (2-3), the variation period of θ is the same as the period of the Y-axis direction driving block.

8. The testing method according to any one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that: The gold fingers of the left and right clamps are electrically connected to the interface of the microwave testing instrument using a flexible coaxial cable, and the coaxial cable remains in a relaxed state to ensure that the coaxial cable will not be stretched tight when the flexible microwave antenna / filter is stretched, bent, twisted, or rubbed.

9. The testing method according to any one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that: For flexible microwave filters, one or more of the following microwave characteristics are tested during stretching, bending, twisting, and kneading: Frequency response: Test the filter's response at different frequencies, including passband and stopband performance; Insertion loss: measures the attenuation of a signal as it passes through a filter; Return loss: indicates the loss of the reflected signal at the input end of the filter; Isolation: Tests the degree of isolation between different signal paths in the filter; Standing wave ratio: tests the impedance matching degree between the filter and other parts of the system; For flexible microwave antennas, one or more of the following microwave characteristics are tested during stretching, bending, twisting, and rubbing: Working frequency: Test whether the working frequency range of the antenna meets the design requirements; Gain: Tests the radiation or receiving capability of an antenna; Radiation pattern: including the shape of the main lobe and side lobes, and their relative strengths; Impedance matching: Test whether the impedance at the antenna input matches the system; Polarization characteristics: Test the polarization mode and performance of the antenna; Directivity: Tests the directionality of the signal radiated or received by the antenna.

10. The testing method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: Microwave test instruments use one or more of the following equipment in combination to meet different test requirements and standards: (a) Vector network analyzer (VNA): used to measure network parameters such as standing wave ratio, return loss, and insertion loss; (b) Spectrum analyzer: used to measure the spectrum characteristics of the signal, such as frequency range and power distribution; (c) Microwave anechoic chamber: provides a non-reflective test environment for measuring antenna patterns and analyzing radiation characteristics; (d) Signal generator: used to generate test signals to simulate the signal environment under actual working conditions; (e) Power meter: used to measure the power level of the signal; (f) Antenna test system: including turntable, polarizer, and RF amplifier, used for comprehensive testing of antenna performance, such as gain, polarization characteristics, and directivity; (g) RF microwave comprehensive tester: It integrates multiple functions such as vector network analysis, cable and antenna feeder line testing, vector voltage measurement, and spectrum analysis, providing powerful comprehensive testing capabilities.

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