FOLDABLE ANTENNA SYSTEM AND WIRELESS COMMUNICATION DEVICE INCLUDING IT

Abstract

The invention relates to a foldable antenna system (100) and a wireless communication device (300) comprising the foldable antenna system (100). One of the objectives of this invention is to provide a simple and quick folding / unfolding mechanism for a foldable Yagi-Uda antenna (120). To this end, the inventor proposes an ergonomic system that allows the antenna elements of the Yagi-Uda antenna (120) to be held in place and released through the use of magnetic arrangements (e.g., magnets) cleverly positioned within the system. In particular, the system allows the unfolding of the Yagi-Uda antenna (120) to be triggered by the dynamic positioning of a single magnetic arrangement. Figure to be published with the abstract: Figure 9

Description

Title of the invention: SYSTEM FOLDABLE ANTENNA AND WIRELESS COMMUNICATION DEVICE INCLUDING IT technical field

[0001] The invention relates to the field of foldable or extendable antennas. In particular, it relates to a foldable antenna system and a wireless communication device comprising the foldable antenna system. Previous technique

[0002] It is known that a foldable antenna is generally composed of several sections of metal rods that fold one on top of the other to facilitate transport and storage. Each of these sections is connected to the next by a joint that allows it to fold in a specific direction.

[0003] In general, such a joint is composed of two main parts, an axle and a bushing, which work together to hold the sections in place.

[0004] In particular, the axis is a metal rod which fits into the two sections of the antenna and allows the joint to pivot.

[0005] Furthermore, the ring is a small metal piece that is fixed around the axis and that can be turned to tighten or loosen the joint.

[0006] Thus, when the ring is tightened, it holds the antenna sections in place, while when it is loosened, the sections can pivot around the axis.

[0007] In practice, the tension required to hold the antenna sections in place is provided by a friction force between the shaft and the ring, as well as by the rigidity of the antenna sections themselves.

[0008] Thus, when the ring is tightened, it exerts pressure on the shaft and creates enough friction to hold the sections in place.

[0009] However, this prior art mechanism is slow to set up and undo, which can be detrimental in situations that require quick action.

[0010] Furthermore, such a system appears very complex to implement for Yagi-Uda antennas which nevertheless have a very simple structure.

[0011] Thus, there is a need for a solution that avoids the situation described above. Summary of the invention

[0012] The invention aims to solve, at least partially, this need.

[0013] The invention relates in particular to a foldable antenna system comprising, - at least one support frame, - at least one Yagi-Uda antenna, the antenna elements of which are jointly coupled to the support frame or to a part integral with the support frame, and which are designed to be moved between a folded and a deployed position, the Yagi-Uda antenna comprising, - a single antenna element, called a radiator element, which is designed, - to produce or receive at least one radiated electromagnetic field, and - to support an initial magnetic arrangement, - at least one first antenna element, called the first parasitic element, which is arranged to produce a first induced current within the radiated electromagnetic field, the first parasitic element being designed to support a second magnetic arrangement, - at least one magnetic release block which is coupled to the support chassis and which includes a third magnetic arrangement, the magnetic release block being designed to be moved from a holding position to a release position, - in the holding position, the first magnetic arrangement, the second magnetic arrangement, and the third magnetic arrangement are oriented so as to produce a first magnetic force of attraction and a second magnetic force of attraction which hold the heating element and the first parasitic element in the folded position, the first magnetic force of attraction acting between the first magnetic arrangement and the second magnetic arrangement, and the second magnetic force of attraction acting between the first magnetic arrangement and the third magnetic arrangement, and, - in the release position, in response to an actuation of the magnetic release block, the third magnetic arrangement is oriented so as to produce a first magnetic repulsion force which moves the radiator element and the first parasitic element from the folded position to the deployed position, the first magnetic repulsion force being exerted between the first magnetic arrangement and the third magnetic arrangement.

[0014] In a first embodiment, the Yagi-Uda antenna further comprises at least one second unpowered antenna element, called a second parasitic element, which is arranged to produce a second induced current within the radiated electromagnetic field, the second parasitic element being designed to support a fourth magnetic arrangement.

[0015] Furthermore, - in the holding position, the first magnetic arrangement, the second magnetic arrangement, the third magnetic arrangement and the fourth magnetic arrangement are oriented so as to produce the first force magnetic attraction, a third magnetic attraction force and a fourth magnetic attraction force which hold the heating element, the first parasitic element and the second parasitic element in the folded position, the third magnetic attraction force acting between the first magnetic arrangement and the fourth magnetic arrangement, and the fourth magnetic attraction force acting between the third magnetic arrangement and the fourth magnetic arrangement, and - in the deployed position, in response to an actuation of the magnetic trigger block, the third magnetic arrangement is oriented so as to produce a second magnetic repulsion force which moves the radiator element, the first parasitic element and the second parasitic element from the folded position to the deployed position, the second magnetic repulsion force being exerted between the third magnetic arrangement and the fourth magnetic arrangement.

[0016] In a second embodiment, - the magnetic trigger block further includes an actuator which is designed to cooperate with the third magnetic arrangement, and - in response to an actuation of the actuator, the third magnetic arrangement is designed to be driven in a predetermined direction.

[0017] In a third embodiment, the support chassis further comprises at least one internal cavity and at least one telescopic end portion, the telescopic end portion being designed to move between a retracted telescopic position and an extended telescopic position, - in the retracted position, the telescopic end portion is mostly located inside the inner cavity, and - in the extended telescopic position, the telescopic end part is located mostly outside the inner cavity.

[0018] In a first example of the third embodiment, each of the first magnetic arrangement, the second magnetic arrangement, the third magnetic arrangement and the fourth magnetic arrangement, comprises a plurality of North and South pole permanent magnets, which is arranged so as to confer desired magnetic polarities in at least one desired direction.

[0019] In a second example of the third embodiment, each of the first magnetic arrangement, the second magnetic arrangement, the third magnetic arrangement and the fourth magnetic arrangement, comprises a plurality of electromagnets, and further comprising at least one first excitation switching means designed to magnetize the plurality of electromagnets so as to impart desired magnetic polarities in at least one desired direction.

[0020] In a third example of the third embodiment, the third magnetic arrangement includes at least one permanent magnet.

[0021] Furthermore, each of the first magnetic arrangement, the second magnetic arrangement and the fourth magnetic arrangement, comprises a plurality of layers of magnetically attractive material and magnetically repulsive material, which are arranged so as to confer desired magnetic polarities in at least one desired direction.

[0022] In a fourth example of the third embodiment, the third magnetic arrangement includes at least one electromagnet.

[0023] Furthermore, each of the first magnetic arrangement, the second magnetic arrangement and the fourth magnetic arrangement, comprises a plurality of layers of magnetically attractive material and magnetically repulsive material, which are arranged so as to impart desired magnetic polarities in at least one desired direction, the foldable antenna system further comprising at least one second excitation switching means which is designed to magnetize the electromagnet so as to impart at least one desired magnetic polarity.

[0024] The invention also relates to a wireless communication device comprising, - a housing, - at least one handle that protrudes from the casing and is designed to be gripped by at least one hand of a user, - at least one foldable antenna system according to the first aspect of the invention, - at least one first cavity-protrusion coupling part which is disposed at the level of the support frame of the foldable antenna system, and - at least one second cavity-protrusion coupling element located at the housing level, in which, the second cavity-protrusion coupling part is designed to be removably coupled, by cavity-protrusion coupling, to the first cavity-protrusion coupling part.

[0025] In one embodiment, the housing further comprises an open internal cavity designed to receive a radio unit, the wireless communication device further comprising - a radio unit, - at least a first cavity-protrusion coupling element which is located at the level of the open internal cavity, and - at least one second cavity-protrusion coupling part which is located at the level of the radio block.

[0026] Furthermore, the second cavity-protrusion coupling part is designed to be removably coupled, by cavity-protrusion coupling, to the first cavity-protrusion coupling part. Brief description of the drawings

[0027] Other features and advantages of the invention will be better understood from the following description and with reference to the accompanying drawings, given by way of illustration and not limitation.

[0028] [Fig.1] Fig.1 represents a first lateral perspective view of the foldable antenna system according to the invention.

[0029] [Fig.2] Fig.2 represents a second lateral perspective view of the system foldable antenna according to the invention.

[0030] [Fig. 3] [Fig. 3] represents a third lateral perspective view of the system foldable antenna according to the invention.

[0031] [Fig.4] The [Fig.4] represents a first zoomed view of part of the [Fig.3].

[0032] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] represents a second zoomed view of part of [Fig.3].

[0033] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] represents a variant of [Fig.5] without an arrangement magnetic.

[0034] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] represents a zoomed view of part of [Fig.1].

[0035] [Fig.8] Fig.8 represents a fourth lateral perspective view of the system foldable antenna according to the invention.

[0036] [Fig.9] The [Fig.9] represents a variant of the [Fig.8].

[0037] [Fig. 10] The [Fig. 10] represents a first lateral perspective view of the wireless communication device according to the invention.

[0038] [Fig. 11] The [Fig. 11] represents a second lateral perspective view of the wireless communication device according to the invention.

[0039] [Fig. 12] The [Fig. 12] represents a third lateral perspective view of the wireless communication device according to the invention.

[0040] The figures do not necessarily respect the scales, for illustrative purposes only.

[0041] In addition, some drawings are presented in color and / or transparency, as their representation in black and white is impossible. In particular, color is necessary in these drawings to discern details that would be lost if they were presented in black and white. Description of the implementation methods

[0042] Preliminary remarks

[0043] In order not to obscure the description and distract the reader from understanding the teachings of the invention, our explanations will not go beyond what is considered necessary for understanding and appreciating the underlying concepts of the invention. Indeed, the embodiments illustrated in the description are, for the most part, composed of elements known to a person skilled in the art.

[0044] In particular, in the description, the structure and operating principle of a Yagi-Uda antenna, as described, for example, in chapter 8.5 of the book "Antennas - Theory, design and applications" by PICON Odile, CIRIO Laurent, RIPOLL Christian, BAUDOIN Geneviève, BERCHER Jean-François and VILLEGAS Martine; Dunod; 3009.

[0045] Objective of the invention

[0046] One of the objectives of this invention is to provide a simple and quick folding / unfolding mechanism for a foldable Yagi-Uda antenna.

[0047] To this end, the inventor proposes an ergonomic system which allows the antenna elements of the Yagi-Uda antenna to be held in place and released, thanks to the use of magnetic arrangements which are cleverly positioned at the level of the system.

[0048] In particular, the system allows the unfolding of the Yagi-Uda antenna to be triggered by allowing the dynamic positioning of a single magnetic arrangement.

[0049] General structure of the invention

[0050] As illustrated in [Fig.1], [Fig.3], [Fig.7], [Fig.8], [Fig.9], [Fig.10], [Fig.11] and [Fig.12], the invention relates to a foldable antenna system 100 which includes at least one support frame 110, at least one Yagi-Uda antenna 120, and at least one magnetic trigger block 130.

[0051] Thus, the foldable antenna system 100 can include two or more of two support frames 110, two or more of two Yagi-Uda antennas 120 and two or more of two magnetic trigger blocks 130.

[0052] The term "system" means a set of elements which are linked together and which exert an influence on each other.

[0053] The support chassis

[0054] In the example of [Fig.1], [Fig.2], [Fig.3], [Fig.4], [Fig.8], [Fig.9], [Fig.10], [Fig.11] and [Fig.12], the support frame 110 extends upstream to downstream in the direction of arrow F, along a central longitudinal axis.

[0055] In the invention, as illustrated in [Fig.1], [Fig.2], [Fig.3], [Fig.4], [Fig.7], [Fig.8], [Fig.9], [Fig.10], [Fig.11] and [Fig.12], the support frame 110 is designed to support the antenna elements 121, 122, 123 of the Yagi-Uda antenna 120.

[0056] As is known, the antenna elements 121, 122, 123 of the Yagi-Uda 120 antenna are conductive elements that are generally made of metallic conductive wire. Typically, a strand can have different lengths and shapes depending on its role in the Yagi-Uda 120 antenna.

[0057] In practice, the support chassis 110 may have a shape suitable for the desired application.

[0058] For example, the support chassis 110 may generally be elongated and in the shape of a parallelepiped or in the shape of a plate.

[0059] However, depending on the needs and resources available, other forms of the support chassis 110 may be considered, without requiring substantial modifications to the invention.

[0060] The telescopic part of the support chassis

[0061] In an embodiment of the support chassis 110, as illustrated in [Fig.2], [Fig.3], [Fig.4] and [Fig.12], it further comprises at least one internal cavity 111 and at least one telescopic end portion 112.

[0062] Thus, the support frame 110 can include two or more of two internal cavities 111 and two or more of two telescopic end parts 112.

[0063] In a first example of the internal cavity 111, as illustrated in [Fig.2], it has a rectangular or square cross-section and extends longitudinally.

[0064] In a second example of the internal cavity 111, it has a circular cross-section and extends longitudinally.

[0065] In a third example of the internal cavity 111, it has a polygonal section and extends longitudinally.

[0066] However, depending on the needs and resources available, other forms of the internal cavity 111 may be considered, without requiring substantial modifications to the invention.

[0067] In practice, the telescopic end part 112 is designed to support at least one antenna element 121,122,123 of the Yagi-Uda antenna 120.

[0068] Thus, the telescopic end part 112 can support two or more of two antenna elements 121,122,123 of the Yagi-Uda antenna 120.

[0069] In the example of [Fig.3], [Fig.4], [Fig.11] and [Fig.12], the telescopic end part 112 supports a single antenna element 122.

[0070] In the implementation of the support chassis 110, the telescopic end part 112 is also designed to move between a retracted telescopic position and an extended telescopic position.

[0071] In a first example of the telescopic end part 112, it moves between the retracted telescopic position and the extended telescopic position by translation.

[0072] In a second example of the telescopic end part 112, it moves between the retracted telescopic position and the extended telescopic position by rotation.

[0073] However, depending on the needs and resources available, other means may be considered for moving the telescopic end part 112 between the retracted telescopic position and the extended telescopic position, without requiring substantial modifications to the invention.

[0074] Fig. 1, Fig. 8, Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 illustrate the retracted telescopic position while Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 11 and Fig. 12 illustrate the extended telescopic position.

[0075] In practice, in the retracted telescopic position, the telescopic end part 112 is disposed mostly inside the internal cavity 111.

[0076] Furthermore, in the extended telescopic position, the telescopic end part 112 is disposed mostly outside the inner cavity 111.

[0077] Folding / unfolding of antenna elements

[0078] Also in the invention, the antenna elements 121, 122, 123 of the Yagi-Uda antenna 120 are designed to be moved, between a folded position and a deployed position, without being completely detached from the support frame 110.

[0079] In a first particular implementation of the antenna elements 121, 122, 123, these deploy in the direction of arrow F and fold back in the opposite direction to arrow F.

[0080] In a second particular embodiment of the antenna elements 121, 122, 123, these deploy in the opposite direction to arrow F and fold back in the direction of arrow F.

[0081] Fig. 1, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 illustrate the folded position while Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 11 and Fig. 12 illustrate the deployed position.

[0082] In a first implementation of the folded position, as illustrated in [Fig.1], [Fig.7], [Fig.8], [Fig.9] and [Fig.10], the antenna elements 121,122,123 are arranged so as to follow a general alignment with the support chassis 110.

[0083] In other words, in the first implementation of the folded position, when all or part of the support chassis 110 is substantially straight, then the antenna elements 121, 122, 123 are arranged so as to follow a straight or almost straight trajectory.

[0084] In a second implementation of the folded position, the antenna elements 121, 122, 123 are arranged so as to follow a general curvature with the support chassis 110.

[0085] In other words, in the second implementation of the folded position, when all or part of the support frame 110 is substantially curved, then the antenna elements 121, 122, 123 are arranged so as to follow a curved or quasi-curved trajectory.

[0086] Furthermore, in the deployed position, as illustrated in [Fig.2], [Fig.3], [Fig.4], [Fig.11] and [Fig.12], the antenna elements 121,122,123 are arranged transversely with respect to the support frame 110.

[0087] In other words, in the deployed position, the antenna elements 121, 122, 123 are arranged so as to cross perpendicularly or almost perpendicularly the support chassis 110.

[0088] The articulation of the antenna elements

[0089] In the invention, the antenna elements 121, 122, 123 of the Yagi-Uda antenna 120 are coupled in articulation to the support frame 110.

[0090] Alternatively, the antenna elements 121, 122, 123 of the Yagi-Uda antenna 120 are coupled in articulation to at least one part which is integral with the support chassis 110.

[0091] The term "articulation" means a mechanism which allows the antenna elements 121, 122, 123 of the Yagi-Uda antenna 120 to move relative to the support chassis 110, between the folded position and the deployed position, while maintaining their connection with the support chassis 110.

[0092] In a particular embodiment of an articulation according to the invention, as illustrated in [Fig.1], [Fig.2], [Fig.3], [Fig.4], [Fig.8], [Fig.9], [Fig.10], [Fig.11] and [Fig.12], at least one antenna element 121,122,123 of the Yagi-Uda antenna 120 is formed of a pair of strands, each strand of a pair being provided with a proximal end and an opposite distal end.

[0093] In practice, in this particular embodiment, the proximal end of each strand of a pair is coupled by at least one joint to the support frame 110.

[0094] Thus, the proximal end of each strand can be coupled by two or more of two joints to the support frame 110.

[0095] In a variant of the particular implementation of a joint, when several antenna elements 121,122,123 of the Yagi-Uda antenna 120 are formed from a pair of strands, then the pair of joints associated with each antenna element 121,122,123 is distinct from the pair of joints of the others.

[0096] In other words, in the variant of the particular implementation of a joint, no pair of strands has any joints in common.

[0097] Furthermore, in the variant of the particular implementation of a joint, the joint of at least one antenna element 121, 122, 123 is mobile (e.g. by translation or rotation)

[0098] An example of the articulation of antenna elements

[0099] In an example of an articulation, as illustrated in [Fig.1], [Fig.2], [Fig.3], [Fig.4], [Fig.8] and [Fig.9], it includes at least one return element 143 which is placed between the support frame 110 and each antenna element 121,122,123.

[0100] Thus, when the antenna elements 121, 122, 123 are in the folded position, the restoring element 143 is compressed and stores potential energy. Then, when the antenna elements 121, 122, 123 are deployed, the restoring element 143 relaxes and provides a restoring force that helps move the element to its deployed position and hold it there.

[0101] Finally, to fold the antenna elements 121,122,123, sufficient force must be applied to compress the return element 143 and bring the antenna elements 121,122,123 back into the folded position.

[0102] A "returning element" is understood to be a device or material that is capable of undergoing temporary deformations under the effect of an external force and of returning to its original shape when that force is removed. Of course, the "deformation" undergone is not necessarily a mechanical deformation of the device or material. Indeed, the term "returning" in the expression "returning element" describes the ability of the element to return to its initial position after having been displaced from it by an external force, which may be a mechanical, magnetic, or electrical force. Thus, the element may undergo a change in shape due to a mechanical, magnetic, or electrical force acting upon it.

[0103] For example, the return element 143 is an elastic return element such as a mechanical spring or an elastomer return element.

[0104] However, depending on the needs and resources available, other return elements may be considered (e.g. a magnetic force return element such as a magnetic spring, or an electrical force return element such as an electric spring or electromagnet), without requiring substantial modifications to the invention.

[0105] Minimal structure of a Yagi-Uda antenna

[0106] In the invention, the Yagi-Uda antenna 120 comprises a single powered antenna element, called radiator element 121 (also called "radiating element") and at least one first unpowered antenna element, called first parasitic element 122.

[0107] Thus, the Yagi-Uda antenna 120 comprises a single radiator element 121 and may comprise two or more first two parasitic elements 122.

[0108] In a particular embodiment, the radiator element 121 is designed as a dipole, acting both as an emitter and receiver of a radiated electromagnetic field.

[0109] In a first embodiment, the radiator element 121 is designed to receive at least one electromagnetic field radiated by an electromagnetic wave source.

[0110] In a second embodiment, the radiator element 121 is designed to be powered by a power source (e.g. a current power source or a voltage power source) to produce at least one radiated electromagnetic field.

[0111] In an example of the second embodiment, as illustrated in [Fig. 1], [Fig. 2], [Fig. 3], [Fig. 8] and [Fig. 9], the radiator element 121 is connected to the power source via a power cable 200 (e.g. a coaxial power line) so as to supply a current or voltage to the radiator element 121 to produce the radiated electromagnetic field.

[0112] In general, to ensure the supply of the heating element 121, the power cable 200 is connected to the heating element 121 at a specific point in its middle (called the power supply point).

[0113] The heating element comprises a magnetic arrangement

[0114] In the invention, the heating element 121 is further designed to support a first magnetic arrangement 1210, as illustrated in [Fig.4], [Fig.5], [Fig.7], [Fig.8] and [Fig.9],

[0115] The term “magnetic arrangement” means the configuration or arrangement of several magnetic sources of desired magnetic polarities (e.g. magnets, electromagnets, layers of magnetically attractive / repulsive material) such that the magnetic sources interact with each other in such a way as to create at least one magnetic field in at least one desired direction.

[0116] In the example of [Fig. 5], the first magnetic arrangement 1210 comprises two rows of magnetic sources of alternating polarities. In particular, the first magnetic arrangement 1210 is arranged so that the polarities 1210a, 1210b of adjacent magnetic sources are opposite.

[0117] First variant of a magnetic arrangement

[0118] In a first implementation of the first magnetic arrangement 1210, this comprises a plurality of North and South pole permanent magnets, which are arranged to confer desired magnetic polarities in at least one desired direction.

[0119] Second variant of a magnetic arrangement

[0120] In a second implementation of the first magnetic arrangement 1210, the latter comprises a plurality of electromagnets.

[0121] Furthermore, in the second implementation of the first magnetic arrangement 1210, the foldable antenna system 100 further comprises at least one first means of excitation switching which is designed to magnetize the plurality of electromagnets in such a way as to impart desired magnetic polarities in at least one desired direction.

[0122] In a first example, the first excitation switching means is a relay.

[0123] In a second example, the first excitation switching means is a transistor.

[0124] In a third example, the first excitation switching means is a contactor.

[0125] However, depending on the needs and resources available, other means of excitation switching may be considered (e.g. thyristor, triac, magnetically controlled switch, mercury switch or optocoupler), without requiring substantial modifications to the invention.

[0126] In the invention, the first magnetic arrangement 1210 is coupled to the body of the radiator element 121.

[0127] In a first example, the body of the radiator element 121 includes at least one through hole which is designed to house the first magnetic arrangement 1210.

[0128] In the example of [Fig.6], two through holes 1211 are formed in the body of the radiator element 121, and are designed to house the first magnetic arrangement 1210.

[0129] In a second example, the first magnetic arrangement 1210 is coupled to the body of the radiator element 121 by bonding.

[0130] In a third example, the first magnetic arrangement 1210 is coupled to the body of the radiator element 121 by welding.

[0131] In a fourth example, the first magnetic arrangement 1210 is coupled to the body of the heating element 121 by means of a clip.

[0132] However, depending on the needs and resources available, other means may be considered for coupling the first magnetic arrangement 1210 to the body of the radiator element 121 (e.g., double-sided adhesive tape, wire, hose clamp), without requiring substantial modifications to the invention.

[0133] Operation of the magnetic arrangement

[0134] In the invention, the first parasitic element 122 is arranged to produce a first induced current inside the electromagnetic field radiated by the radiator element 121.

[0135] In practice, the first parasitic element 122 is designed not to be powered by a power source.

[0136] In a first implementation of the first parasitic element 122, as illustrated in [Fig.3], [Fig.4], [Fig. 11] and [Fig. 12], this is a guiding element.

[0137] As is known, the director element is located in front of the radiator element 121. The director element is designed to reduce electromagnetic waves produced in the lateral directions of the Yagi-Uda antenna 120, while increasing the power in the desired direction. Thus, when an electromagnetic wave reaches the director element, it is absorbed and the power is converted into heat. This reduces the power radiated in the direction of the director element and increases the forward directivity of the antenna.

[0138] In a second implementation of the first parasitic element 122, this is a reflector element.

[0139] As is known, the reflector element is located at the rear of the radiator element 121. The reflector element is designed to reflect electromagnetic waves towards the radiator element 121. Thus, when an electromagnetic wave arrives at the reflector element, it is reflected and combines with the electromagnetic field produced by the radiator element 121. This strengthens the electromagnetic field in the desired direction and creates a forward directivity of the Yagi-Uda antenna 120.

[0140] The first parasitic element comprises a magnetic arrangement

[0141] Furthermore, as illustrated in [Fig.7], [Fig.8] and [Fig.9], the first parasitic element 122 is designed to support a second magnetic arrangement 1220, of the same type or similar to the first magnetic arrangement 1210 described above.

[0142] In a first implementation of the second magnetic arrangement 1220, this comprises a plurality of North and South pole permanent magnets, which are arranged to confer desired magnetic polarities in at least one desired direction.

[0143] In a second implementation of the second magnetic arrangement 1220, the latter comprises a plurality of electromagnets.

[0144] Furthermore, in the second implementation of the second magnetic arrangement 1220, the foldable antenna system 100 further includes at least one second excitation switching means which is designed to magnetize the plurality of electromagnets so as to impart desired magnetic polarities in at least one desired direction.

[0145] In the invention, to couple the second magnetic arrangement 1220 to the body of the first parasitic element 122, known coupling means such as the coupling means described above for coupling the first magnetic arrangement 1210 to the body of the radiator element 121 can be used.

[0146] The magnetic release block

[0147] Still in the invention, the magnetic trigger block 130 is coupled to the support chassis 110.

[0148] In the expression "triggering block", "block" means a group of elements brought together which contribute to the execution of a task, namely, in this case, a triggering action.

[0149] In the example illustrated in [Fig.1], [Fig.3], [Fig.7], [Fig.8], [Fig.9], [Fig.10], [Fig.11] and [Fig.12], the magnetic release block 130 is located upstream of the support chassis 110, at one of its ends.

[0150] Of course, depending on the needs and resources available, it may be possible to consider positioning the magnetic trigger block 130 elsewhere in relation to the support chassis 110, without requiring substantial modifications to the invention.

[0151] The magnetic release block includes a magnetic arrangement

[0152] In the invention, as illustrated in [Fig.7], [Fig.8] and [Fig.9], the magnetic trigger block 130 comprises a third magnetic arrangement 1300, of the same type or similar to the first magnetic arrangement 1210 described above.

[0153] In a first implementation of the third magnetic arrangement 1300, this comprises a plurality of North and South pole permanent magnets, which are arranged to confer desired magnetic polarities in at least one desired direction.

[0154] In a second implementation of the third magnetic arrangement 1300, the latter comprises a plurality of electromagnets.

[0155] Furthermore, in the second implementation of the third magnetic arrangement 1300, the foldable antenna system 100 further includes at least one third excitation switching means which is designed to magnetize the plurality of electromagnets so as to impart desired magnetic polarities in at least one desired direction.

[0156] In the invention, to couple the third magnetic arrangement 1300 to the body of the magnetic trigger block 130, known coupling means such as the coupling means described above for coupling the first magnetic arrangement 1210 to the body of the radiator element 121 can be used.

[0157] Operation of the magnetic arrangement

[0158] Furthermore, in the invention, the magnetic release block 130 is designed to be moved from a holding position to a release position.

[0159] In the holding position, the first magnetic arrangement 1210, the second magnetic arrangement 1220 and the third magnetic arrangement 1300 are oriented so as to produce a first magnetic force of attraction and a second magnetic force of attraction which hold the radiator element 121 and the first parasitic element 122 in the folded position.

[0160] In particular, the first magnetic force of attraction is exerted between the first magnetic arrangement 1210 and the second magnetic arrangement 1220 while that the second magnetic force of attraction is exerted between the first magnetic arrangement 1210 and the third magnetic arrangement 1300.

[0161] In the release position, in response to an actuation of the magnetic release block 130, the third magnetic arrangement 1300 is oriented so as to produce a first magnetic repulsion force which moves the radiator element 121 and the first parasitic element 122 from the folded position to the deployed position.

[0162] In particular, the first magnetic repulsive force is exerted between the first magnetic arrangement 1210 and the third magnetic arrangement 1300.

[0163] In a particular implementation of the magnetic release block 130, as illustrated in [Fig.8], [Fig.9], [Fig.10], [Fig.11] and [Fig.12], it further comprises an actuator 131.

[0164] In practice, the actuator 131 is designed to cooperate with the third magnetic arrangement 1300.

[0165] In a conventional manner, "cooperate" means that, in operation, the actuator 131 and the third magnetic arrangement 1300 act in concert.

[0166] The magnetic release block includes an actuator

[0167] In a particular embodiment of the actuator 131, as illustrated in [Fig.8] and [Fig.9], the third magnetic arrangement 1300 is disposed at least partially inside the actuator 131.

[0168] Furthermore, in the particular implementation of the magnetic release block 130, in response to an actuation of the actuator 131, the third magnetic arrangement 1300 is designed to be driven in a predetermined direction.

[0169] In a first implementation of the actuator 131, it is a push button which drives the third magnetic arrangement 1300 in translation.

[0170] In the example of [Fig.8] and [Fig.9], the actuator 131 is driven in translation in the direction of arrow T to move the magnetic release block 130 from the holding position to the release position.

[0171] In a second implementation of the actuator 131, it is a rotary button (not shown) which drives the third magnetic arrangement 1300 to rotate around an axis.

[0172] The Yagi-Uda antenna includes a second parasitic element

[0173] In a first embodiment of the invention, as illustrated in [Fig. 1], [Fig. 2], [Fig. 3], [Fig. 7], [Fig. 8], [Fig. 9], [Fig. 10], [Fig. 11] and [Fig. 12], the Yagi-Uda antenna 120 further comprises at least one second unpowered antenna element, referred to as the second parasitic element 123.

[0174] Thus, in the first embodiment of the invention, the Yagi-Uda antenna 120 comprises a single radiator element 121 and may comprise two or more of two first parasitic elements 122 and two or more second parasitic elements 123.

[0175] In the first embodiment of the invention, the second parasitic element 123 is arranged to produce a second induced current within the electromagnetic field radiated by the radiator element 121.

[0176] In practice, the second parasitic element 123 is designed not to be powered by a power source.

[0177] In a first implementation of the second parasitic element 123, as illustrated in [Fig.2], [Fig.3], [Fig. 11] and [Fig. 12], this is a reflective element.

[0178] In a variant of the first implementation of the second parasitic element 123, the joint to which the second parasitic element 123 is coupled to the support frame 110 is mobile (e.g. in translation or rotation).

[0179] In the example of [Fig. 11] and [Fig. 12], this joint is mobile in translation in the direction of arrow S, upstream.

[0180] In a second implementation of the second parasitic element 123, this is a directing element.

[0181] The second parasitic element comprises a magnetic arrangement

[0182] Furthermore, in the first embodiment of the invention, as illustrated in [Fig.9], the second parasitic element 123 is designed to support a fourth magnetic arrangement 1230, of the same type or similar to the first magnetic arrangement 1210 described above.

[0183] In a first implementation of the fourth magnetic arrangement 1230, this comprises a plurality of North and South pole permanent magnets, which are arranged to impart desired magnetic polarities in at least one desired direction.

[0184] In a second implementation of the fourth magnetic arrangement 1230, this includes a plurality of electromagnets.

[0185] Furthermore, in the second implementation of the fourth magnetic arrangement 1230, the foldable antenna system 100 further includes at least one fourth excitation switching means which is designed to magnetize the plurality of electromagnets so as to impart desired magnetic polarities in at least one desired direction.

[0186] In the invention, to couple the fourth magnetic arrangement 1230 to the body of the second parasitic element 123, known coupling means such as the coupling means described above for coupling the first magnetic arrangement 1210 to the body of the radiator element 121 may be used.

[0187] Operation of the magnetic arrangement

[0188] Furthermore, in the first embodiment of the invention, when the magnetic trigger block 130 is in the holding position, the third magnetic arrangement 1300 and the fourth magnetic arrangement 1230 are oriented so as to produce the first magnetic attraction force, a third magnetic attraction force and a fourth magnetic attraction force which hold the radiator element 121, the first parasitic element 122 and the second parasitic element 123 in the folded position.

[0189] In particular, the third magnetic force of attraction is exerted between the first magnetic arrangement 1210 and the fourth magnetic arrangement 1230 while the fourth magnetic force of attraction is exerted between the third magnetic arrangement 1300 and the fourth magnetic arrangement 1230.

[0190] Then, in the first embodiment of the invention, when the magnetic trigger block 130 is in the deployed position, in response to an actuation of the magnetic trigger block 130, the third magnetic arrangement 1300 is oriented so as to produce a second magnetic repulsion force which moves the radiator element 121, the first parasitic element 122 and the second parasitic element 123 from the folded position to the deployed position.

[0191] In particular, the second magnetic repulsive force is exerted between the third magnetic arrangement 1300 and the fourth magnetic arrangement 1230.

[0192] The wireless communication device

[0193] As illustrated in [Fig.10], [Fig.11] and [Fig.12], the invention also relates to a 300 wireless communication device.

[0194] In practice, the wireless communication device 300 comprises a housing 310, at least one handle 320, at least one foldable antenna system 100 as described above, at least one first cavity-protrusion coupling part (not shown) and at least one second cavity-protrusion coupling part (not shown).

[0195] Thus, the wireless communication device 300 includes a housing 310 and may include two or more of two handles 320, two or more of two first cavity-protrusion coupling parts and two or more of two second cavity-protrusion coupling parts.

[0196] In practice, the housing 310 may have a shape suitable for the desired application.

[0197] In the example of [Fig.10] and [Fig.11], the housing 310 has a generally elongated and substantially frustoconical shape.

[0198] However, depending on the needs and resources available, other forms of the 310 housing may be considered (e.g. a generally elongated or parallelepiped or spherical shape), without requiring substantial modifications to the invention.

[0199] In the invention, the handle 320 protrudes from the housing 310.

[0200] In practice, the 320 handle is designed to be gripped by at least one hand of a user.

[0201] In the example of [Fig.10] and [Fig.11], the handle 320 protrudes from the underside of the housing 310 towards the ground when grasped by a user's hand.

[0202] However, depending on the needs and resources available, other positions of the handle 320 may be considered (e.g. projecting from the top of the housing 310 upwards or projecting from at least one lateral side of the housing 310 laterally), without requiring substantial modifications to the invention.

[0203] In the invention, the first cavity-protrusion coupling part is disposed at the level of the support frame 110 of the foldable antenna system 100 while the second cavity-protrusion coupling part is disposed at the level of the housing 310.

[0204] A "cavity-protrusion coupling" means a mechanical fastening device used to connect two parts together in a strong and stable manner. In practice, in a cavity-protrusion coupling, one of the parts has a cavity or notch, while the other part has a protrusion designed to fit into the cavity.

[0205] Of course, if it is desired to provide an even stronger and more stable fixing, it may be considered to combine the "cavity-protrusion coupling" means with other fixing methods (e.g. screws, rivets or welds).

[0206] In one example, the first cavity-protrusion coupling part is disposed on a lower surface of the support chassis 110 while the second cavity-protrusion coupling part is disposed on a higher surface of the housing 310.

[0207] In the invention, the second cavity-protrusion coupling part is designed to be removably coupled, by cavity-protrusion coupling, to the first cavity-protrusion coupling part.

[0208] In one embodiment of the wireless communication device 300, it further includes a radio block (not shown).

[0209] In the invention, the radio block is an electronic device used to process the radiated electromagnetic field that is received or produced by the radiator element 121.

[0210] In reception, the radio block is in particular designed to convert the radiated electromagnetic field received by the radiator element 121 into audio signals or data signals that can be used by a user.

[0211] In transmission, the radio block is specifically designed to convert audio signals or data signals into a radiated electromagnetic field which can be transmitted by the radiator element 121.

[0212] The radio block can be used to process a variety of signals, such as AM / FM radio broadcast signals, VHF signals, mobile radio communication signals, satellite navigation signals or digital broadcast signals.

[0213] In the expression "radio block", "block" means a group of assembled electronic elements which work together to perform a task, namely, in this case, the processing of radio signals, in reception and / or transmission.

[0214] Furthermore, in the embodiment of the wireless communication device 300, the housing 310 further includes an open internal cavity 311.

[0215] In practice, the open internal cavity 311 is designed to receive the radio block.

[0216] In the example of [Fig.10] and [Fig.11], the open internal cavity 311 is arranged upstream of the housing 310.

[0217] However, depending on the needs and resources available, other positions of the open internal cavity 311 (e.g. at the level of a lateral side of the housing 310) may be considered, without requiring substantial modifications to the invention.

[0218] Furthermore, in the embodiment of the wireless communication device 300, the first cavity-protrusion coupling part is disposed at the level of the open internal cavity 311, while the second cavity-protrusion coupling part is disposed at the level of the radio block.

[0219] In one example, the first cavity-protrusion coupling part is disposed on an internal surface of the open internal cavity 311 while the second cavity-protrusion coupling part is disposed on an external surface of the radio block.

[0220] We have described and illustrated the invention. However, the invention is not limited to the embodiments we have presented. Indeed, numerous combinations of variants, alternatives, embodiments, and implementations can be envisaged without requiring substantial modifications to the invention. Thus, an expert in the field can deduce other variants, alternatives, embodiments, and implementations by reading the description and the accompanying figures, and taking into account the economic, ergonomic, and dimensional constraints to be respected.

[0221] In particular, when an element is "designed" to perform a particular function, this means that the element is created specifically for the purpose of performing that particular function.

[0222] However, depending on the needs and resources available, consideration may be given to using an existing element, which will be modified or adapted to fulfill this particular function, without requiring substantial modifications to the invention.

[0223] The invention is eligible for numerous variations and applications other than those described above. In particular, unless otherwise indicated, the different The structural and functional characteristics of each particular implementation described above should not be considered as combined and / or closely and / or inextricably linked to one another, but rather as mere juxtapositions. Furthermore, the structural and / or functional characteristics of the various embodiments described above may be juxtaposed or combined, in whole or in part, in any different manner.

[0224] In a first variant of the invention, the third magnetic arrangement 1300 comprises at least one permanent magnet.

[0225] Thus, in the first variant of the invention, the third magnetic arrangement 1300 can comprise two or more of two permanent magnets.

[0226] In addition, each of the first magnetic arrangement 1210, the second magnetic arrangement 1220 and the fourth magnetic arrangement 1230, comprises a plurality of layers of magnetically attractive material and magnetically repulsive material, which are arranged so as to impart desired magnetic polarities in at least one desired direction.

[0227] In a second embodiment of the invention, the third magnetic arrangement 1300 comprises at least one electromagnet.

[0228] Thus, in the second variant of the invention, the third magnetic arrangement 1300 can comprise two or more of two electromagnets.

[0229] In addition, each of the first magnetic arrangement 1210, the second magnetic arrangement 1220 and the fourth magnetic arrangement 1230, comprises a plurality of layers of magnetically attractive material and magnetically repulsive material, which are arranged so as to impart desired magnetic polarities in at least one desired direction.

[0230] Finally, in the second variant of the invention further includes at least one fifth excitation switching means which is designed to magnetize the electromagnet so as to impart at least one desired magnetic polarity.

[0231] Thus, the second variant of the invention may include two or more of two fifths of excitation switching means which are designed to magnetize the electromagnet so as to impart two or more of two desired magnetic polarities in at least one desired direction.

[0232] In a third embodiment of the invention, the antenna elements 121, 122, 123 of the Yagi-Uda antenna 120 are designed to be moved synchronously (i.e. substantially at the same time) between a folded position and a deployed position, without being completely detached from the support frame 110.

[0233] In a fourth embodiment of the invention, the antenna elements 121, 122, 123 of the Yagi-Uda antenna 120 are designed to be moved, in a substantially asynchronous, between a folded position and a deployed position, without being completely detached from the support chassis 110.

Claims

1. Demands Foldable antenna system (100) comprising, - at least one support frame (110), - at least one Yagi-Uda antenna (120), whose antenna elements (121, 122, 123) are jointly coupled to the support frame (110) or to a part integral with the support frame (110), and which are designed to be moved between a folded position and a deployed position, the Yagi-Uda antenna (120) comprising, - a single antenna element (121,122,123), called a radiator element (121), which supports a first magnetic arrangement (1210) and which is designed to produce or receive at least one radiated electromagnetic field, - at least one first unpowered antenna element (121,122,123), called the first parasitic element (122), which supports a second magnetic arrangement (1220) and which is arranged so as to produce a first induced current within the radiated electromagnetic field, - at least one magnetic release block (130) which is coupled to the support chassis (110) and which includes a third magnetic arrangement (1300), the magnetic release block (130) being designed to be moved from a holding position to a release position, - in the holding position, the first magnetic arrangement (1210), the second magnetic arrangement (1220) and the third magnetic arrangement (1300) are oriented so as to produce a first magnetic force of attraction and a second magnetic force of attraction which hold the heating element (121) and the first parasitic element (122) in the folded position, the first magnetic force of attraction acting between the first magnetic arrangement (1210) and the second magnetic arrangement (1220), and the second magnetic force of attraction acting between the first magnetic arrangement (1210) and the third magnetic arrangement (1300), and, - in the release position, in response to an actuation of the magnetic release block (130), the third magnetic arrangement (1300) is oriented so as to produce a first magnetic repulsive force which moves the radiator element

2. (121) and the first parasitic element (122) from the folded position to the deployed position, the first magnetic repulsive force being exerted between the first magnetic arrangement (1210) and the third magnetic arrangement (1300). Foldable antenna system (100) comprising, - at least one support frame (110), - at least one Yagi-Uda antenna (120), whose antenna elements (121, 122, 123) are jointly coupled to the support frame (110) or to a part integral with the support frame (110), and which are designed to be moved between a folded position and a deployed position, the Yagi-Uda antenna (120) comprising, - a single antenna element (121,122,123), called a radiator element (121), which supports a first magnetic arrangement (1210) and which is designed to produce or receive at least one radiated electromagnetic field, - at least one first unpowered antenna element (121,122,123), called the first parasitic element (122), which supports a second magnetic arrangement (1220) and which is arranged so as to produce a first induced current within the radiated electromagnetic field, - at least one second unpowered antenna element (121, 122, 123), called the second parasitic element (123), which is arranged to produce a second induced current within the radiated electromagnetic field, the second parasitic element (123) being designed to support a fourth magnetic arrangement (1230), - at least one magnetic trigger block (130) which is coupled to the support frame (110) and which includes a third magnetic arrangement (1300), the magnetic trigger block (130) being designed to be moved from a holding position to a release position, - in the holding position, the first magnetic arrangement (1210), the second magnetic arrangement (1220), the third magnetic arrangement (1300) and the fourth magnetic arrangement (1230) are oriented so as to produce a first magnetic attraction force, a third magnetic attraction force and a fourth magnetic attraction force which hold the heating element (121), the first parasitic element (122) and the second parasitic element (123) in the folded position, the first magnetic force of attraction exerted between the first magnetic arrangement (1210) and the second magnetic arrangement (1220), the third magnetic force of attraction exerted between the first magnetic arrangement (1210) and the fourth magnetic arrangement (1230), and the fourth magnetic force of attraction exerted between the third magnetic arrangement (1300) and the fourth magnetic arrangement (1230), and - in the release position, in response to an actuation of the magnetic release block (130), the third magnetic arrangement (1300) is oriented so as to produce a second magnetic repulsive force which moves the radiator element (121), the first parasitic element (122) and the second parasitic element (123) from the folded position to the deployed position, the second magnetic repulsive force being exerted between the third magnetic arrangement (1300) and the fourth magnetic arrangement (1230).

3. Foldable antenna system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein - the magnetic trigger block (130) further comprises an actuator (131) which is designed to cooperate with the third magnetic arrangement (1300), and - in response to an actuation of the actuator (131), the third magnetic arrangement (1300) is designed to be driven in a predetermined direction.

4. A foldable antenna system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the support frame (110) further comprises at least one inner cavity (111) and at least one telescopic end portion (112), the telescopic end portion (112) being designed to move between a retracted telescopic position and an extended telescopic position, - in the retracted position, the telescopic end portion (112) is disposed mostly inside the inner cavity (111), and - in the extended telescopic position, the telescopic end portion (112) is disposed mostly outside the inner cavity (111).

5. A foldable antenna system (100) according to claim 2 in combination with any one of claims 3 to 4, wherein each of the first magnetic arrangement (1210), the second magnetic arrangement (1220), the third magnetic arrangement (1300) and the fourth magnetic arrangement (1230), comprises a plurality of North and South pole permanent magnets, which is arranged to confer desired magnetic polarities in at least one desired direction.

6. A foldable antenna system (100) according to claim 2 in combination with any one of claims 3 to 4, wherein each of the first magnetic arrangement (1210), the second magnetic arrangement (1220), the third magnetic arrangement (1300) and the fourth magnetic arrangement (1230), comprises a plurality of electromagnets, and further comprising at least one first excitation switching means which is designed to magnetize the plurality of electromagnets so as to impart desired magnetic polarities in at least one desired direction.

7. A foldable antenna system (100) according to claim 2 in combination with any one of claims 3 to 4, wherein the third magnetic arrangement (1300) comprises at least one permanent magnet, and wherein each of the first magnetic arrangement (1210), the second magnetic arrangement (1220) and the fourth magnetic arrangement (1230) comprises a plurality of layers of magnetically attractive material and magnetically repulsive material, which are arranged to impart desired magnetic polarities in at least one desired direction.

8. A foldable antenna system (100) according to claim 2 in combination with any one of claims 3 to 4, wherein the third magnetic arrangement (1300) comprises at least one electromagnet, and wherein each of the first magnetic arrangement (1210), the second magnetic arrangement (1220) and the fourth magnetic arrangement (1230) comprises a plurality of layers of magnetically attractive material and magnetically repulsive material, which are arranged to impart desired magnetic polarities in at least one desired direction, the foldable antenna system (100) further comprising at least one second excitation switching means which is designed to magnetize the electromagnet so as to impart at least one desired magnetic polarity.

9. Wireless communication device (300) comprising, - a case (310), - at least one handle (320) protruding from the housing (310) and designed to be gripped by at least one hand of a user, - at least one foldable antenna system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, - at least one first cavity-protrusion coupling section which is disposed at the level of the support frame (110) of the foldable antenna system (100), and - at least one second cavity-protrusion coupling part which is disposed at the housing (310), in which the second cavity-protrusion coupling part is designed to be removably coupled, by cavity-protrusion coupling, to the first cavity-protrusion coupling part.

10. Wireless communication device (300) according to claim 9, wherein the housing (310) further comprises an open internal cavity (311) designed to receive a radio unit, the wireless communication device (300) comprising, in addition, - a radio unit, - at least one third cavity-protrusion coupling part which is disposed at the level of the open internal cavity (311), and - at least one fourth cavity-protrusion coupling part which is disposed at the radio block, in which the fourth cavity-protrusion coupling part is designed to be removably coupled, by cavity-protrusion coupling, to the third cavity-protrusion coupling part.

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