3D Array Antenna Element Layout for Low-Coupling MIMO Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing two-dimensional array antennas face limitations in efficiency due to scan loss, antenna coupling, and interference, especially in three-dimensional setups, which restricts their capacity and throughput, particularly in high-frequency 5G communication systems.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a three-dimensional array antenna system with non-uniformly distributed antenna elements arranged over a synthesized surface, using polynomial regression and iterative reduction methods to minimize spatial correlation and optimize subarray distribution based on channel state information and environmental parameters, ensuring maximum slope differences and element spacing constraints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If antenna elements are densely packed in a two-dimensional array to increase capacity, then the number of elements increases, but scan loss and antenna coupling increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional two-dimensional planar arrays to three-dimensional volumetric arrays, allowing antenna elements to be distributed in 3D space rather than confined to a flat surface. This dimensional expansion enables increased element capacity while maintaining adequate spacing to reduce coupling and scan loss through spatial separation in the vertical dimension
2Reliability
If antenna elements are arranged in a three-dimensional configuration to reduce coupling, then element spacing increases, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The three-dimensional antenna array is segmented into multiple two-dimensional subarrays positioned at different heights and orientations. Each subarray can be independently configured and manufactured, then combined to form the complete 3D structure. This segmentation reduces manufacturing complexity while maintaining the spacing benefits of 3D configuration
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple two-dimensional subarrays are nested within a three-dimensional volumetric structure, with subarrays positioned at different spatial levels. This nested arrangement allows the complex 3D configuration to be built from simpler 2D components, reducing manufacturing difficulty while achieving the desired element spacing for reduced coupling
3Use of energy by moving object
If the number of active antenna elements is reduced to improve power efficiency, then power consumption decreases, but capacity and throughput decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna array implements dynamic element activation where individual antenna elements or subarrays are selectively activated or deactivated based on real-time channel conditions, user distribution, and traffic demands. This dynamic control allows the system to maintain high capacity and throughput when needed while reducing power consumption during low-traffic periods or when fewer elements are sufficient
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided an array antenna and a system and a method for element configuration in an array antenna. The antenna elements are determined to be active based on meeting constraints, including at least one of: for concave portions of the surface, a maximum slope difference between active antenna elements is less than a predetermined value; a maximum element spacing between active antenna elements is greater than or equal to half a wavelength of a signal propagating or received at the respective antenna elements; and for antenna elements grouped into subarrays that each transmit a unique data stream, the number of subarrays being between two and a maximum number of subarrays, the maximum number of subarrays comprising a total number of antenna elements that provide multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO) operation for multiple locations.