Printed circuit board antenna for a completely soldered communication module
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2026-01-26
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-13
Smart Images
Figure EP2026051868_13082026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] 202500101
[0002] 1 / 27
[0003] PCB antenna for a fully soldered communication module
[0004] The invention relates to an antenna implemented on a printed circuit board for transmitting or receiving radio signals, in particular WiFi radio signals.
[0005] An electronic device designed to communicate over a wireless communication network typically includes at least one antenna for receiving and / or transmitting radio signals. The electronic device may be designed to receive or transmit radio signals over several different frequency bands, particularly two or three different frequency bands or ranges. For this purpose, the device may include a multi-band antenna, especially a dual-band antenna. Examples of dual-band antennas include those for the 2.2–2.7 GHz and 4.8–5.8 GHz or up to 7.0 GHz frequency bands, i.e., for WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) or WLAN 6E.
[0006] Antennas typically require a reference ground or reference plane to function. The size and shape of such a reference ground typically have a significant influence on the antenna's function and radiation pattern. Often, an antenna is intended to be integrated into printed circuit boards (PCBs) of varying sizes, either as a circuit board structure or as a mounted metal structure (e.g., a stamped and bent part). These different PCB sizes represent different reference grounds for the antenna. Furthermore, plastic materials in the antenna's vicinity (e.g., due to a housing) can also affect its characteristics. Consequently, a new antenna tuning is typically required for each PCB geometry and / or application. Such antenna tuning can be achieved by modifying the antenna structure and / or by using a matching circuit.
[0007] This document deals with the technical task of providing a (dual-band) antenna (for WLAN or WiFi 6E) for several different frequency bands, which can be used efficiently (in particular without the need for a dedicated antenna).
[0008] 2 / 27
[0009] Antenna tuning) can be integrated onto printed circuit boards of varying designs. In particular, an antenna suitable for full-solder-in applications is to be provided, where the antenna is specifically mounted, particularly soldered, on a main printed circuit board and is completely surrounded by the metallic surface of the main printed circuit board.
[0010] The problem is solved by the independent claim. Advantageous embodiments are described, among other things, in the dependent claims.
[0011] One aspect of this document describes a printed circuit board (PCB) antenna. The PCB antenna described in this document can be efficiently implemented on PCBs of varying dimensions and / or in different environments and applications. A PCB typically comprises an electrically conductive first (outer) layer (e.g., a front layer) and an electrically conductive second (outer) layer (e.g., a bottom layer). The one or more layers can be electrically insulated from each other by one or more dielectric layers. The layers can contain an electrically conductive material, particularly copper.In this process, the electrically conductive material can be removed from the respective layer, at least in some areas, in particular to form (on the first layer) an (electrically non-conductive) free space between an (electrically conductive) antenna structure and an (electrically conductive) reference area and / or an (electrically non-conductive) free area (between the reference area and the longitudinal edge of the printed circuit board).
[0012] The printed circuit board antenna comprises an electrically conductive antenna structure on the first layer of the printed circuit board. The antenna structure can have an elongated shape (e.g., like a dipole antenna). In particular, the antenna structure can form an inverted-F antenna. Furthermore, the antenna structure can have at least one first resonant frequency. In particular, the antenna structure can be configured to form a first antenna for a first frequency range around the first resonant frequency. The first frequency range can, in particular, encompass or correspond to 4.8–5.8 GHz, and especially up to 7.0 GHz.
[0013] 3 / 27
[0014] Furthermore, the printed circuit board antenna has an electrically conductive reference area on the first layer. This reference area can be electrically connected to a ground point on the circuit board. In particular, the reference area can be configured to form a reference ground for the antenna structure, so that the circuit board antenna is independent of the size of the reference ground.
[0015] Furthermore, the printed circuit board antenna typically has an electrically conductive feed line to the antenna structure. A radio signal received by the antenna, and in particular by the antenna structure, can be coupled out via the feed line. Conversely, a radio signal to be transmitted by the antenna, and in particular by the antenna structure, can be fed into the antenna structure via the feed line.
[0016] The electrically conductive reference area has a rectangular recess in which the antenna structure is arranged. In particular, the outer edge of the recess can be rectangular, with two opposing (parallel) longitudinal edges and two opposing (parallel) transverse edges, the longitudinal and transverse edges being perpendicular to each other. The longitudinal edges each run along a longitudinal axis (e.g., a y-axis) and / or the transverse edges each run along a transverse axis (e.g., an x-axis). The longitudinal axis and the transverse edge are preferably perpendicular to each other.
[0017] The antenna structure preferably has a rectangular basic shape (except for (possibly exactly) one corner), with two opposite (parallel to each other) longitudinal edges and two opposite (parallel to each other) transverse edges, wherein the longitudinal edges and the transverse edges are arranged perpendicular to each other.
[0018] The antenna structure can be arranged within the recess of the reference area in such a way that
[0019] • the first longitudinal edge of the reference area faces the first longitudinal edge of the antenna structure (and an electrically non-conductive free space is arranged between the two first longitudinal edges); 202500101
[0020] 4 / 27
[0021] • the second longitudinal edge of the reference area faces the second longitudinal edge of the antenna structure (and an electrically non-conductive free space is arranged between the two second longitudinal edges);
[0022] • the first transverse edge of the reference area faces the first transverse edge of the antenna structure (and an electrically non-conductive free space is arranged between the two first transverse edges); and / or
[0023] • the second transverse edge of the reference area faces the second longitudinal edge of the antenna structure (and an electrically non-conductive free space is arranged between the two second transverse edges).
[0024] The antenna structure can thus be arranged within the recess of the reference area in such a way that an electrically non-conductive free space is arranged between each opposing edge.
[0025] The reference area may have an electrically non-conductive interruption (or an opening in the recess) on the second longitudinal edge, so that the second longitudinal edge and the second transverse edge of the reference area do not touch.
[0026] The reference area can, in particular, have a web-shaped transverse sub-area extending from the first longitudinal edge of the reference area, especially perpendicular to the first longitudinal edge of the reference area, through which the second transverse edge of the reference area is formed. Furthermore, the reference area can have a web-shaped longitudinal sub-area extending from the first transverse edge of the reference area, especially perpendicular to the first transverse edge of the reference area, through which the second longitudinal edge of the reference area is formed.
[0027] The end of the transverse sub-area facing away from the first longitudinal edge of the reference area and the end of the longitudinal sub-area facing away from the first transverse edge of the reference area preferably do not touch, so that an electrically non-conductive opening of the recess of the reference area is formed.
[0028] 5 / 27
[0029] The recess of the reference area can therefore have an electrically non-conductive opening. The opening of the recess of the reference area can face the longitudinal edge of the circuit board running along its longitudinal axis.
[0030] The printed circuit board antenna preferably has an electrically non-conductive free area (keep-out area) directly adjacent to the opening of the recess of the reference area. This free area can extend along the longitudinal axis from the first transverse edge to the opposite second transverse edge of the printed circuit board. Furthermore, the free area can have a specific width (e.g., 3 mm or more, approximately 4 mm (±10%)) along the transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, such that the electrically conductive reference area (or at least a portion thereof) is spaced from the longitudinal edge of the printed circuit board by a specific width.
[0031] As already explained, the reference area can have a rib-shaped longitudinal sub-section facing the longitudinal edge of the printed circuit board, extending along the transverse axis to the first transverse edge of the printed circuit board and to the opening of the recess in the reference area. This longitudinal sub-section can form a (second) longitudinal edge of the reference area facing the recess. The longitudinal sub-section of the reference area is then preferably spaced (exactly) apart from the longitudinal edge of the printed circuit board by a specified width.
[0032] Furthermore, the reference area can have a rib-shaped transverse section facing the first transverse edge of the printed circuit board (PCB) and extending along the transverse axis towards the longitudinal edge of the PCB and towards the opening of the recess in the reference area. The edge of the transverse section facing the longitudinal edge of the PCB can then be spaced (exactly) a specified width from the longitudinal edge of the PCB.
[0033] The opening of the recess in the reference area can be formed directly between the longitudinal and transverse sections. Through this opening, the electrically non-conductive area can transition directly, and in particular continuously, into the open space. 202500101
[0034] 6 / 27
[0035] The longitudinal sub-region of the reference area, in combination with the free space, can form a second antenna for a second frequency range around a second resonant frequency, where the second frequency range specifically encompasses 2.2–2.7 GHz. The width, sensitivity, and / or frequency selectivity of the second frequency range can be improved by the free space. Furthermore, the antenna's sensitivity to its immediate surroundings can be reduced by the described free space.
[0036] The antenna structure preferably has a shape that deviates from the rectangular basic shape at the corner formed by the first longitudinal edge and the first transverse edge of the antenna structure. This allows the width of the first frequency range to be increased efficiently and reliably in order to meet the requirements of a Wi-Fi 6E antenna.
[0037] At the corner formed by the first longitudinal edge and the first transverse edge, one or more, preferably exactly two, rectangular segments of the rectangular base shape may be missing, particularly such that one or more, preferably exactly two or three, steps are formed in the first longitudinal edge and / or in the first transverse edge. Starting from the corner formed by the first longitudinal edge and the first transverse edge, the first longitudinal edge of the antenna structure may approach the first longitudinal edge of the reference area in one or more, particularly exactly two or three, steps. Alternatively or additionally, starting from the corner formed by the first longitudinal edge and the first transverse edge, the first transverse edge of the antenna structure may approach the first transverse edge of the reference area in one or more, particularly exactly two or three, steps.
[0038] By removing a rectangular segment from the rectangular basic shape of the antenna structure, an additional step can be formed in the first longitudinal edge and / or in the first transverse edge of the antenna structure.
[0039] This allows for a step-like transition from the first longitudinal edge to the first transverse edge. In this way, the requirements of the extended Wi-Fi 6E frequency range can be met in a particularly efficient and reliable manner. 202500101
[0040] 7 / 27
[0041] The reference area may have a channel-shaped (non-conductive) recess extending from the first longitudinal edge of the reference area and / or from the first longitudinal edge of the antenna structure. The antenna feed line may extend from the first longitudinal edge of the antenna structure within the channel-shaped recess (perpendicularly) away from the first longitudinal edge of the antenna structure to the antenna feed point. The channel-shaped recess and the feed line may extend perpendicular to the first longitudinal edge of the reference area in a first section. Furthermore, the channel-shaped recess and the feed line may extend parallel to the first longitudinal edge of the reference area in a second section directly adjoining the first.Furthermore, the channel-shaped recess and the feed line can extend perpendicularly to and away from the first longitudinal edge of the reference area in a third section directly adjoining the second section. The channel-shaped recess and the feed line can have right-angled transitions between the individual sections.
[0042] The channel-shaped recess and the feed line can thus have a path with several straight sections, each perpendicular to the others. This allows the requirements for a Wi-Fi antenna, especially a Wi-Fi 6E antenna, to be met in a particularly efficient and reliable manner.
[0043] The antenna structure can be electrically connected to the first longitudinal edge of the reference area at the corner formed by the first longitudinal edge and the second transverse edge via an antenna structure bridge (in particular to form an inverted-F antenna).
[0044] The printed circuit board antenna can include an electrically conductive second layer of the circuit board. Furthermore, the circuit board antenna can include an additional electrically conductive reference area on the second layer. The reference area (of the first layer) can be electrically connected to the additional reference area (of the second layer) via one or more vias.
[0045] 8 / 27
[0046] The printed circuit board antenna can include an additional electrically non-conductive free area on the second layer. The further reference area can be spaced from the longitudinal edge of the printed circuit board by this additional electrically non-conductive free area on the second layer (exactly by the specified width of the free area). The free area on the first layer and the additional free area on the second layer can be identically dimensioned and / or arranged directly above one another.
[0047] The reference area can have a U-shape without the rib-shaped longitudinal section and without the channel-shaped recess for the feed line. The antenna structure can be enclosed on three sides by the U-shape of the reference area. Furthermore, the longitudinal section can enclose at least part of the fourth side of the antenna structure (and run parallel to it).
[0048] The further reference area can also have a U-shape. In a preferred example, the U-shape of the further reference area and the U-shape of the reference area can be identically dimensioned and / or arranged directly above one another.
[0049] By providing an additional reference area and an additional open space on the second layer, a particularly flexible antenna can be provided.
[0050] As explained above, the first layer and / or the second layer of a printed circuit board are typically each formed by an electrically conductive layer, in particular a copper layer. Furthermore, the first layer and the second layer are typically insulated from each other by at least one dielectric layer.
[0051] According to another aspect, a printed circuit board assembly (e.g., a communication module) is described, comprising a main printed circuit board and a printed circuit board with a printed circuit board antenna, configured as described in this document. The printed circuit board with the printed circuit board antenna is mounted (e.g., soldered) on the main printed circuit board. The longitudinal edge of the printed circuit board with the free area of the printed circuit board antenna can be connected to an electrically conductive area of the main printed circuit board.
[0052] 9 / 27
[0053] Adjacent to the main circuit board (without affecting the sensitivity and / or frequency response of the circuit board antenna).
[0054] The circuit board with the integrated antenna can be completely soldered onto the main circuit board. In other words, the circuit board can be arranged on the main circuit board in a "full solder-in" configuration. In this configuration, the circuit board with the integrated antenna can be completely surrounded by the metallic surface of the main circuit board.
[0055] According to another aspect, a household appliance, in particular a domestic appliance, is described that includes a communication unit for wireless communication (especially via WLAN), wherein the communication unit has the printed circuit board antenna described in this document. Alternatively or additionally, the household appliance may have the printed circuit board arrangement described in this document.
[0056] It should be noted that the devices and systems described in this document can be used both alone and in combination with other devices and systems described in this document. Furthermore, any aspect of the devices and systems described in this document can be combined with one another in a variety of ways. In particular, the features of the claims can be combined with one another in a variety of ways.
[0057] The invention will now be described in more detail using exemplary embodiments.
[0058] Figure 1a shows the upper or first outer layer of a printed circuit board with an antenna; Figure 1b shows the lower layer or second or further outer layer of a printed circuit board; Figure 1c shows a cross-section through a printed circuit board with an antenna;
[0059] Figures 2a and 2b show exemplary dimensions of an antenna;
[0060] Figure 3a shows the first layer of a section of a printed circuit board antenna with a free area;
[0061] Figure 3b shows the second layer of a section of a printed circuit board antenna with a free area;
[0062] Figure 3c shows the first layer of the printed circuit board antenna from Figures 3a and 3b;
[0063] Figure 3d shows the second layer of the printed circuit board antenna from Figures 3a and 3b; 202500101
[0064] 10 / 27
[0065] Figure 3e shows a printed circuit board arrangement with the printed circuit board antenna from Figures 3c and 3d; and
[0066] Figure 4 shows an example frequency response of a printed circuit board antenna.
[0067] As stated at the outset, this document deals with the provision of a (dual-band) antenna for several different frequency bands, which can be efficiently integrated on differently dimensioned and / or designed printed circuit boards and / or into different environments. The (dual-band) antenna is specifically intended for WLAN or WiFi 6E radio communication in the frequency bands at 2.4 GHz (from 2.2 GHz to 2.7 GHz) and at 5-6 GHz (from 4.8 GHz to 5.8 GHz or up to 7.0 GHz).
[0068] Figures 1a and 1b show an exemplary antenna 100 integrated on a printed circuit board 101. In particular, Figure 1a shows the (electrically conductive) upper layer 110 of the printed circuit board 101 and Figure 1b shows the (electrically conductive) lower layer 120 of the printed circuit board 101. As shown in Figure 1c, one or more dielectric layers 130 and, optionally, one or more (electrically conductive) intermediate layers (not shown) are located between the upper layer 110 and the lower layer 120. The electrically conductive layers 110, 120 can each have a layer of metal, in particular copper. The metal may have been removed (e.g., etched away) in parts of the layers 110, 120 to form different electrically conductive sub-regions within a layer 110, 120. The individual sub-regions can be at least partially electrically insulated from one another.
[0069] The upper layer 110 has an electrically conductive antenna structure 113, which is electrically insulated from an electrically conductive reference region 141, 143, 144 by means of an (electrically non-conductive) free space 112 (optionally excluding an antenna structure web 116). The free space 112 can be formed by a substantially rectangular recess in the reference region 141, 143, 144. In particular, the outer boundary of the free space 112 can be formed by the edges 161, 162, 163, 164 of a rectangular recess in the reference region 141, 143, 144. On the other hand, the inner boundary of the free space 112 can be formed by the edges 171, 172, 173, 174 of the antenna structure 113.
[0070] 11 / 27
[0071] The outer boundary of the free space 112 has a first longitudinal edge 161 and an opposite second longitudinal edge 162. Furthermore, the outer boundary of the free space 112 has a first transverse edge 163 and an opposite second transverse edge 164. The longitudinal edges 161 and 162 each have a specific length, which is typically greater than the length of the transverse edges 163 and 164. The longitudinal edges 161 and 162 each extend along (and parallel to) the y-axis of the Cartesian coordinate system shown in Figures 1a and 1b. The transverse edges 163 and 164 each extend along (and parallel to) the x-axis of the Cartesian coordinate system shown. The second longitudinal edge 162 can face a longitudinal edge of the circuit board 110, and the first longitudinal edge 161 can face away from the longitudinal edge of the circuit board 101. The first and second longitudinal edges 161, 162 can each run parallel to the longitudinal edge of the circuit board 101.Furthermore, the second transverse edge 164 can face a transverse edge of the circuit board 110, and the first transverse edge 163 can face away from the transverse edge of the circuit board 110. The first and second transverse edges 163, 164 can each run parallel to the transverse edge of the circuit board 101.
[0072] The reference area 141, 143, 144 has a main sub-area 141, which forms the first longitudinal edge 161 and the first transverse edge 163 of the outer boundary of the free space 112. Starting from the first transverse edge 163, a (web-shaped) longitudinal sub-area 143 can extend along (and parallel to) the y-axis, thus forming the second longitudinal edge 162 of the outer boundary of the free space 112. Furthermore, starting from the first longitudinal edge 161, a (web-shaped) transverse sub-area 144 can extend along (and parallel to) the x-axis, thus forming the second transverse edge 164. The transverse sub-area 144 can extend along the x-axis up to the level of the longitudinal sub-area 143 and / or up to the longitudinal edge of the printed circuit board 101.On the other hand, the longitudinal sub-region 143 preferably does not extend along the y-axis to the level of the transverse sub-region 144 and / or not to the transverse edge of the printed circuit board 101, so that an opening 142 is formed at the second longitudinal edge 162 of the outer boundary of the free space 112. In the region of the opening 142, the free space 112 is not bounded by the reference region 141, 143, 144. In other words, the outer boundary of the free space 112 is incomplete and / or interrupted in the region of the opening 142. The opening 142 can have a length along the 202500101.
[0073] 12 / 27
[0074] extend the y-axis by 20% or more and / or by 50% or less of the total length of the second longitudinal edge 162.
[0075] The main sub-area 141 of the reference area 141, 143, 144 can have a channel-shaped recess 117 extending from the first longitudinal edge 161 (along the x-axis) away from the outer boundary of the free space 112 and / or from the antenna structure 113. The channel-shaped recess 117 preferably has differently oriented sections, in particular
[0076] • a first section extending from the first longitudinal edge 161 along (and parallel to) the x-axis (away from the first longitudinal edge 161 of the outer boundary of the free space 112 and / or from the longitudinal edge of the circuit board 101);
[0077] • a subsequent second section extending along (and parallel to) the y-axis (towards the transverse edge of circuit board 101); and
[0078] • a subsequent third section extending along (and parallel to) the x-axis (away from the first longitudinal edge 161 of the outer boundary of the free space 112 and / or from the longitudinal edge of the circuit board 101).
[0079] Preferably, an electrically conductive feed line 115 runs within the channel-shaped recess 117 (corresponding to the course of the channel-shaped recess 117), which is electrically conductively connected to the antenna structure 113 at the first longitudinal edge 161 of the outer boundary of the free space 112, and which has a feed point 111 at the opposite end for coupling a signal into or out of the antenna 100.
[0080] The antenna structure 113 has a rectangular basic shape. The antenna structure 113 can have a first longitudinal edge 171 (which faces the first longitudinal edge 161 of the reference area 141, 143, 144 and preferably runs parallel to the first longitudinal edge 161 of the reference area 141, 143, 144) and an opposite second longitudinal edge 172 (which faces the second longitudinal edge 162 of the reference area 141, 143, 144 and preferably runs parallel to the second longitudinal edge 162 of the reference area 141, 143, 144), each of which runs along (and parallel to) the y-axis. Furthermore, the antenna structure 113 can have a first transverse edge 173 (which faces the first transverse edge 163 of the reference area 141, 143, 144) and a 202500101
[0081] 13 / 27
[0082] opposite second transverse edge 174 (which faces the second transverse edge 164 of the reference area 141, 143, 144), each running along (and parallel to) the x-axis.
[0083] The antenna structure 113 can be used for transmitting or receiving signals in a specific first frequency range (approximately 4.8–7.0 GHz). In particular, the antenna structure 113 can form an A / 4 radiator for a specific first frequency range by virtue of its overall length (along the y-axis).
[0084] On the other hand, the free space 112 between the antenna structure 113 and the longitudinal sub-section 143 of the reference range 141, 143, 144 and / or the rib-shaped longitudinal sub-section 143 itself can be used as a (slot) antenna for a further (second) frequency range (approximately 2.2 - 2.7 GHz). For this purpose, the free space 112 and, in particular, the longitudinal sub-section 143 can have a certain length (along the y-axis) such that the free space 112 and / or the longitudinal sub-section 143 form an abstractor for a further (second) frequency range.
[0085] Furthermore, the antenna structure 113 is preferably electrically connected to the main sub-area 141 of the reference area 141, 143, 144, particularly to the first longitudinal edge 161 of the main sub-area 141, via an electrically conductive antenna structure bridge (in particular via a short-circuit bridge) 116. The electrically conductive antenna structure bridge 116 can be aligned with the second transverse edge 174 of the antenna structure 113 and can extend along the x-axis from the first longitudinal edge 171 of the antenna structure 113 to the first longitudinal edge 161 of the reference area 141, 143, 144. The antenna structure 113 can, in particular, form a (planar) inverted-F antenna.
[0086] The impedance of the antenna structure 113 can be adjusted to a desired value (e.g., 50 ohms) by changing the distance (along the y-axis) between the antenna structure bridge 116 and the feed line 115. Furthermore, the antenna structure bridge 116 can shield electrostatic discharges from the transmit / receive electronics of the antenna 100 (not shown).
[0087] 14 / 27
[0088] The antenna structure 113 has a shape that deviates from a rectangular shape at the corner 150 formed by the first longitudinal edge 171 and the first transverse edge 173. In particular, the antenna structure 113 can have one or more steps at the corner 150. In particular, one or more rectangular segments 151, 152 may have been removed from the antenna structure 113, such that the first transverse edge 173 of the antenna structure 113 (starting from the corner 150 and along the x-axis) approaches the first transverse edge 163 of the reference area 141, 143, 144 in one or more steps, and / or such that the first longitudinal edge 171 of the antenna structure 113 (starting from the corner 150 and along the y-axis) approaches the first longitudinal edge 161 of the reference area 141, 143, 144 in one or more steps.By means of a stepped corner 150 of the antenna structure 113, the width of the first frequency range can be increased, so that the requirements for a Wifi 6E antenna can be met in an efficient and reliable manner.
[0089] Fig. 1b shows the lower layer 120 of the printed circuit board 101. The lower layer 120 is preferably at least partially identical in structure to the upper layer 110. In particular, in the illustrated example, the lower layer 120 has a reference area 121, 124, which has a main sub-area 121 that (apart from the channel-shaped recess 117 and the antenna structure ridge 116) is identical in structure to the main sub-area 141 of the reference area 141, 143, 144 of the upper layer 110. The reference area 121, 124 further has a transverse sub-area 124 that is preferably identical in structure to the transverse sub-area 144 of the upper layer 110. However, the reference area 121, 124 of the lower layer 120 preferably does not have a longitudinal sub-area corresponding to the longitudinal sub-area 143 of the upper layer 110. In the example shown, the reference area 121, 124 has a U-shape.
[0090] The reference area 141, 143, 144 of the upper layer 110 can be electrically connected to the reference area 121, 124 of the lower layer 120 via one or more vias or through-holes 114 (as shown by way of example in Fig. 1c).
[0091] Figures 2a and 2b show different dimensions of the antenna 100 from Figures 1a and 1b. In particular, Figure 2a (for the upper layer 110) shows the following dimensions along the y-axis: 202500101
[0092] 15 / 27
[0093] • the length 201 of the second section of the channel-shaped recess 117 (along the dery axis);
[0094] • the width 202 of the channel-shaped recess 117;
[0095] • the width 203 of the antenna structure bridge 116 (along the dery axis);
[0096] • the distance 204 (along the dery axis) between the antenna structure bridge 116 and the feed line 115;
[0097] • the distance 205 (along the y-axis) between the feed line 115 and the first transverse edge 161 of the reference area 141, 143, 144;
[0098] • the distance 206 (along the dery axis) between the second transverse edge 174 of the antenna structure 113 and the first stage of the first transverse edge 173 of the antenna structure 113;
[0099] • the distance 207 (along the dery axis) between the second transverse edge 174 of the antenna structure 113 and the second stage of the first transverse edge 173 of the antenna structure 113;
[0100] • the distance 208 (along the dery axis) between the second transverse edge 174 of the antenna structure 113 and the third (and last) stage of the first transverse edge 173 of the antenna structure 113;
[0101] • the distance 209 (along the y-axis) between the third (and last) stage of the first transverse edge 173 of the antenna structure 113 and the first transverse edge 163 of the reference area 141, 143, 144;
[0102] • the length 210 (along the dery axis) of the longitudinal sub-area 143 of the reference area 141, 143, 144 (starting from the first transverse edge 163 of the reference area 141, 143, 144);
[0103] • the distance 211 (along the dery axis) between the second transverse edge 174 of the antenna structure 113 and the second transverse edge 164 of the reference area 141, 143, 144 (which is formed by the transverse sub-area 144 of the reference area 141, 143, 144);
[0104] • the width 212 (along the dery axis) of the transverse sub-area 144 of the reference area 141, 143, 144.
[0105] Furthermore, Figure 2a (for the upper layer 110) shows along the x-axis:
[0106] • the length 221 of the third section of the channel-shaped recess 117 (along the x-axis); 202500101
[0107] 16 / 27
[0108] • the length 222 of the first section of the channel-shaped recess 117 (along the x-axis);
[0109] • the length 223 (along the x-axis) of the transverse sub-area 144 of the reference area 141, 143, 144 (starting from the first longitudinal edge 161 of the reference area 141, 143, 144);
[0110] • the total length 224 (along the x-axis) of the second transverse edge 174 of the antenna structure 113 and of the antenna structure web 116 (starting from the first longitudinal edge 161 of the reference area 141, 143, 144);
[0111] • the width 225 (along the x-axis) of the longitudinal sub-area 143 of the reference area 141, 143, 144;
[0112] • the distance 226 between the first longitudinal edge 161 of the reference area 141 , 143, 144 and the first longitudinal edge 171 of the antenna structure 113 (before the first stage);
[0113] • the distance 227 between the first longitudinal edge 161 of the reference area 141 , 143, 144 and the first longitudinal edge 171 of the antenna structure 113 (after the first stage and before the second stage);
[0114] • the distance 228 between the first longitudinal edge 161 of the reference area 141 , 143, 144 and the first longitudinal edge 171 of the antenna structure 113 (after the second stage and before the third (last) stage);
[0115] • the distance 229 between the first longitudinal edge 161 of the reference area 141, 143, 144 and the second longitudinal edge 162 of the reference area 141, 143, 144; and • the distance 230 between the first longitudinal edge 171 of the antenna structure 113 (before the first stage) and the second longitudinal edge 172 of the antenna structure 113.
[0116] Furthermore, Figure 2b shows (for the lower layer 120):
[0117] • the distance 241 (along the dery axis) between the first transverse edge 163 of the reference area 121, 124 and the second transverse edge 164 of the reference area 121, 124;
[0118] • the width 242 (along the dery axis) of the transverse sub-area 124 of the reference area 121, 124; and
[0119] • the length 243 (along the x-axis) of the transverse sub-area 124 of the reference area 121, 124 (starting from the first longitudinal edge 161 of the reference area 121, 124).202500101
[0120] 17 / 27
[0121] It should be noted that the use of a channel-shaped recess 117, which has several sections, is optional. If necessary, the channel-shaped recess 117 can have only the first section (with a length of 222).
[0122] Preferred values for the above dimensions of the antenna 100 (especially for an antenna 100 for the frequency bands 2.2 - 2.7 GHz and 4.8 - 7.0 GHz) are (each in mm, and possibly with a possible deviation of up to ±10%):
[0123] • Dimension 201 : 6.7071 ; and / or
[0124] • Dimension 202: 0.9623; and / or
[0125] • Dimension 203: 0.2500; and / or
[0126] • Dimension 204: 4.6500; and / or
[0127] • Dimension 205: 7.2782; and / or
[0128] • Dimension 206: 9.3602; and / or
[0129] • Dimension 207: 11.7310; and / or
[0130] • Dimension 208: 11.9310; and / or
[0131] • Dimension 209: 0.7346; and / or
[0132] • Dimension 210: 11.3348; and / or
[0133] • Dimension 211: 9.2661; and / or
[0134] • Dimension 212: 1,650; and / or
[0135] • Dimension 221: 4.0175; and / or
[0136] • Dimension 222: 2.5395; and / or
[0137] • Dimension 223: 8.0284; and / or
[0138] • Dimension 224: 4.9466; and / or
[0139] • Dimension 225: 1.8300; and / or
[0140] • Dimension 226: 1.0679; and / or
[0141] • Dimension 227: 1.8022; and / or
[0142] • Dimension 228: 2.5651; and / or
[0143] • Dimension 229: 6.1984; and / or
[0144] • Dimension 230: 3.8786; and / or
[0145] • Dimension 241 : 21.9317; and / or
[0146] • Dimension 242: 1,650; and / or
[0147] • Dimension 243: 8.0284.202500101
[0148] 18 / 27
[0149] The printed circuit board 101 can, for example, have a thickness between 1 mm and 3 mm, particularly around 1.5 mm. The above values can each vary by up to ±10% (especially to fine-tune the resonant frequencies). Furthermore, the values can be scaled using a common factor F, if necessary.
[0150] The printed circuit board antenna 100 can be arranged on a printed circuit board 101 measuring 49 mm x 43 mm. Several of the described printed circuit board antennas 100 can be arranged on the printed circuit board 101, for example, one antenna 100 each on a long edge and a short edge of the printed circuit board 101. The individual antennas 100 can be adapted and / or optimized for their position within the printed circuit board 101 (e.g., by adjusting the aforementioned values of an antenna 100 within a range of ±10%).
[0151] The described antenna 100 can be an extended form of a planar inverted-F antenna (PIFA, short for Planar Inverted F-Shaped Antenna) (where the inverted-F antenna is formed by the antenna structure 113). The antenna 110 has an additional resonator (formed by the longitudinal subsection 143 of the reference section 141, 143, 144), which creates a second (relatively low) resonant frequency. The additional resonator can be capacitively excited by the inverted-F antenna 113 via the space (i.e., the free space 112) between the inverted-F antenna 113 and the longitudinal subsection 143. This capacitive coupling is preferably designed to be relatively weak, which makes the resonances of the inverted-F antenna 113 and the longitudinal sub-area 143 relatively broadband.
[0152] The frequency response of the antenna 100 described in connection with Figures 1a to 2b exhibits one or more resonant frequencies in the first frequency range and another resonant frequency in the second frequency range. The resonant frequencies, particularly the resonant frequency in the second frequency range, may be relatively weak and relatively narrow. Furthermore, the frequency response of the antenna 100 described in connection with Figures 1a to 2b may also exhibit a certain dependence on the environment in which the antenna 100 is integrated. Figures 3a to 3d depict the different layers 110, 120 of an antenna 100, which is designed like the antenna 100 from Figures 1a to 2b and which additionally includes a free area (on 202500101).
[0153] 19 / 27
[0154] The free area 302 (English keep-out area) is located between the longitudinal edge 301 of the printed circuit board 101 and the longitudinal sub-area 143 of the reference area 141, 143, 144. The free area 302 has a specific width 311 along the transverse axis (i.e., along the x-axis), with the width 311 extending from the edge of the transverse sub-area 144 to the longitudinal edge 301 of the printed circuit board 101. The width 311 of the free area 302 can, for example, be 4 mm (±10%).
[0155] Furthermore, the free area 302 has a specific length 312 along its longitudinal axis (i.e., along the dery-axis), with the length 312 extending from one transverse edge 303 of the printed circuit board 101 to the opposite transverse edge 304 of the printed circuit board 101. The length 312 of the free area 302 can thus correspond to the length of the printed circuit board 101 (e.g., 43 mm (±10%)).
[0156] Fig. 3b shows the second layer 120 of the antenna 100 from Fig. 3a. The layer 120 is designed accordingly to Fig. 1b. In addition, the antenna 100 also has a free area 322 on the second layer 120, which is designed accordingly to the free area 302 on the first layer 110.
[0157] By providing an additional free area 302, 322 (which does not contain any electrically conductive material), the sensitivity of the antenna 100 with respect to its surroundings can be further reduced. Furthermore, as can be seen from the frequency response 411 in Fig. 4, the width and strength of the resonance in the second frequency range 402 can be increased. Fig. 4 also shows the frequency response 411 of the antenna 100 in the first frequency range 401.
[0158] As shown in Fig. 3a, preferably one or more edges of the first layer 110 of the antenna 100 are electrically connected to the second layer 120 (in particular to corresponding edges of the antenna 100 of the second layer 120). This can be achieved via vias 114. The edges that have such an electrically conductive connection are indicated in Fig. 3a by the dashed lines 320.
[0159] Figures 3a and 3b each show only a section of the printed circuit board antenna 100. Figure 3c shows the entire first layer 110 of the printed circuit board antenna 100202500101.
[0160] 20 / 27
[0161] Figure 1 is shown, and Figure 3d shows the entire second layer 120 of the printed circuit board antenna 100. The antenna structure 113 and the free area 302 of the antenna 110 are arranged (directly and / or immediately) on a first longitudinal edge 301 of the printed circuit board 101. A printed circuit board area 330 extends along the transverse axis from the feed point 111 of the antenna 100 to the opposite second longitudinal edge 305 of the printed circuit board 101. One or more electronic components, such as a microprocessor and / or a communication unit (e.g., a WLAN transceiver), can be arranged in this printed circuit board area 330, which uses the antenna 100 to transmit and / or receive data.
[0162] Fig. 3e shows an exemplary printed circuit board assembly 350, which includes the printed circuit board 101 from Figures 3c and 3d. The printed circuit board assembly 350 further comprises a main printed circuit board 351, into which and / or on which the printed circuit board 101 with the printed circuit board antenna 100 is integrated. The printed circuit board 101 can, in particular, be soldered onto the main printed circuit board 351. The printed circuit board 101 with the printed circuit board antenna 100 can be arranged on the main printed circuit board 351 such that none of the edges 301, 302, 304, 305 of the printed circuit board 101 is (directly) located on an edge of the main printed circuit board 351. The printed circuit board 101 can, in particular, be arranged (essentially) centrally on the main printed circuit board 351. The main circuit board 351 can accommodate one or more electronic components in addition to the circuit board 101. The main circuit board 351 can be integrated into a household appliance.
[0163] The main circuit board 351 is typically significantly larger than the circuit board 101 with the antenna 100. In particular, the length 362 of the main circuit board 351 along the longitudinal axis can be greater, e.g., by 10% or more, or by 20% or more, than the length 312 of the circuit board 101. Furthermore, the width 361 of the main circuit board 351 along the transverse axis can be greater, e.g., by 10% or more, or by 20% or more, than the width of the circuit board 101. The length 362 of the main circuit board 351 can be, for example, 94.5 mm (±10%) and / or the width 361 of the main circuit board 351 can be, for example,
[0164] 240mm (±10%). 202500101
[0165] 21 / 27
[0166] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments shown. In particular, it should be noted that the description and the figures are intended only to illustrate the principle of the proposed devices and systems.
Claims
202500101 22 / 27 PATENT CLAIMS 1) Printed circuit board antenna (100), wherein - the printed circuit board antenna (100) comprises an electrically conductive antenna structure (113) and an electrically conductive reference area (141, 143, 144) on a first layer (110) of a printed circuit board (101); - the reference area (141, 143, 144) has a rectangular recess in which the antenna structure (113) is arranged; - the recess of the reference area (141, 143, 144) has an electrically non-conductive opening (142) which faces a longitudinal edge (301) of the circuit board (101) extending along a longitudinal axis; - the circuit board antenna (100) has an electrically non-conductive free area (302) directly adjoining the opening (142) of the recess of the reference area (141, 143, 144); - the free area (302) extends along the longitudinal axis from a first transverse edge (303) to an opposite second transverse edge (304) of the printed circuit board (101); and - the free area (302) has a certain width (311) along a transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, so that the electrically conductive reference area (141, 143, 144) is spaced apart from the longitudinal edge (301) of the circuit board (101) by the certain width (311). 2) Printed circuit board antenna (100) according to claim 1 , wherein - the reference area (141 , 143, 144) has a web-shaped longitudinal sub-area (143) facing the longitudinal edge (301) of the printed circuit board (101), which extends along the transverse axis to the first transverse edge (303) of the printed circuit board (101) and to the opening (142) of the recess of the reference area (141, 143, 144); - a longitudinal edge (162) of the reference area (141, 143, 144) facing the recess is formed by the longitudinal sub-area (143); and202500101 23 / 27 - the longitudinal sub-area (143) with the specified width (311) is spaced away from the longitudinal edge (301) of the printed circuit board (101). 3) Printed circuit board antenna (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein - the reference area (141, 143, 144) has a web-shaped transverse sub-area (144) which faces the first transverse edge (303) of the printed circuit board (101) and which extends along the transverse axis to the longitudinal edge (301) of the printed circuit board (101) and to the opening (142) of the recess of the reference area (141, 143, 144); and - an edge of the transverse section (144) facing the longitudinal edge (301) of the printed circuit board (101) with a determined width (311) is spaced away from the longitudinal edge (301) of the printed circuit board (101). 4) Printed circuit board antenna (100) according to claim 3 with reference back to claim 2, wherein the opening (142) of the recess of the reference area (141, 143, 144) is formed directly between the longitudinal part area (143) and the transverse part area (144). 5) Printed circuit board antenna (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the antenna structure (113) is arranged in the rectangular recess of the reference area (141, 143, 144) such that - a first longitudinal edge (161) of the reference area (141, 143, 144) is facing a first longitudinal edge (171) of the antenna structure (113); - a second longitudinal edge (162) of the reference area (141, 143, 144) faces a second longitudinal edge (172) of the antenna structure (113); - a first transverse edge (163) of the reference area (141, 143, 144) faces a first transverse edge (173) of the antenna structure (113); and - a second transverse edge (164) of the reference area (141, 143, 144) faces a second longitudinal edge (174) of the antenna structure (113). 6) Printed circuit board antenna (100) according to claim 5, wherein the reference area (141, 143, 144)202500101 24 / 27 - has a web-shaped transverse sub-area (144) extending from the first longitudinal edge (161) of the reference area (141, 143, 144), in particular perpendicular to the first longitudinal edge (161) of the reference area (141, 143, 144), through which the second transverse edge (164) of the reference area (141, 143, 144) is formed; and - has a web-shaped longitudinal sub-area (143) extending from the first transverse edge (163) of the reference area (141, 143, 144), in particular perpendicular to the first transverse edge (163) of the reference area (141, 143, 144), through which the second longitudinal edge (162) of the reference area (141, 143, 144) is formed;wherein the end of the transverse sub-area (144) facing away from the first longitudinal edge (161) of the reference area (141, 143, 144) and the end of the longitudinal sub-area (143) facing away from the first transverse edge (163) of the reference area (141, 143, 144) do not touch, so that an electrically non-conductive opening (142) of the recess of the reference area (141, 143, 144) is formed. 7) Printed circuit board antenna (100) according to claim 6, wherein - the antenna structure (113) forms a first antenna for a first frequency range around a first resonant frequency; - the longitudinal section (143) together with the free area (302) forms a second antenna for a second frequency range around a second resonant frequency; and - the first frequency range includes in particular 4.8 - 7.0 GHz and the second frequency range includes in particular 2.2 - 2.7 GHz. 8) Printed circuit board antenna (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein - the printed circuit board antenna (100) comprises an electrically conductive second layer (120) of the printed circuit board (101); - the printed circuit board antenna (100) includes an electrically conductive further reference area (121, 123, 124) on the second layer (120);202500101 25 / 27 - the further reference area (121, 123, 124) is spaced from the longitudinal edge (301) of the printed circuit board (101) by a further electrically non-conductive free area (322) on the second layer (120); and - the reference area (141 , 143, 144) is electrically connected to the further reference area (121, 123, 124) via one or more vias (114). 9) Printed circuit board antenna (100) according to claim 8, wherein the free area (302) on the first layer (110) and the further free area (322) on the second layer (120) are identically dimensioned and arranged directly on top of each other. 10) Printed circuit board antenna (100) according to one of claims 5 to 9, wherein the antenna structure (113) has a rectangular basic shape apart from a corner (150) formed by the first longitudinal edge (171) and the first transverse edge (173). 11) Printed circuit board antenna (100) according to claim 10, wherein at the corner (150) formed by the first longitudinal edge (171) and the first transverse edge (173) one or more rectangular segments (151, 152) of the rectangular basic shape are missing, in particular such that one or more steps are formed in the first longitudinal edge (171) and / or in the first transverse edge (173). 12) Printed circuit board antenna (100) according to one of claims 10 to 11, wherein the first longitudinal edge (171) of the antenna structure (113) approaches the first longitudinal edge (161) of the reference area (141, 143, 144) in one or more steps, starting from the corner (150) formed by the first longitudinal edge (171) and the first transverse edge (173). 13) Printed circuit board antenna (100) according to one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the first transverse edge (173) of the antenna structure (113) approaches the first transverse edge (163) of the reference area (141, 143, 144) in one or more steps, starting from the corner (150) formed by the first longitudinal edge (171) and the first transverse edge (173). 26 / 27 14) Printed circuit board arrangement (350) comprising, - a main circuit board (351); and - a printed circuit board (101) with a printed circuit board antenna (100) configured according to one of the preceding claims; wherein the printed circuit board (101) with the printed circuit board antenna (100) is arranged on the main printed circuit board (351), in particular such that the longitudinal edge (301) of the printed circuit board (101) with the free area (302) of the printed circuit board antenna (100) adjoins an electrically conductive area of the main printed circuit board (351). 15) Household appliance comprising a communication unit with a printed circuit board antenna (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13 and / or a printed circuit board arrangement according to claim 14.