3D Feed Network Layout for Compact Antenna Arrays

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The current deployment of feed networks on circuit boards or metal plates within antenna devices is inadequate for miniaturization due to increasing complexity and the need for larger areas, which is not compatible with the miniaturization and integration requirements of modern antenna arrays.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a three-dimensional layout for the feed network using a support frame with interconnected functional units on multiple surfaces, including planes and curved surfaces, to enhance space utilization and facilitate compact design.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If the feed network is deployed on a circuit board or metal plate with planar layout, then the signal transmission performance can be maintained, but the area occupied increases and miniaturization cannot be achieved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefeed network sizeVSAvoiddeployment complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from traditional two-dimensional planar layout on circuit boards to three-dimensional spatial arrangement using support frames. Functional units are positioned at different heights and depths, utilizing vertical space to reduce the horizontal footprint while maintaining signal transmission capabilities. This dimensional transformation enables miniaturization without compromising manufacturing feasibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If more radiating elements are integrated in the antenna array to improve signal transmission performance, then the antenna array capability is enhanced, but the feed network area needs to be increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal transmission performanceVSAvoidcircuit board area
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

By arranging functional units in three-dimensional space on support frames rather than spreading them out on a two-dimensional circuit board, the patent accommodates increased numbers of radiating elements without proportionally increasing the overall area. The vertical stacking and spatial distribution of functional units enable higher integration density.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Reliability

If the feed network is designed with increased complexity to support more radiating elements, then the signal transmission performance improves, but the area required for deployment increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal transmission performanceVSAvoidfeed network volume
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The three-dimensional support frame structure allows complex feed network designs to be compacted into smaller volumes by utilizing vertical and depth dimensions. Functional units are positioned in space rather than only on a plane, reducing the horizontal spread while accommodating increased functional complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The support frame structure enables nested arrangement of functional units at different levels and depths. Smaller functional units are positioned within the three-dimensional envelope created by the support frame, creating a compact hierarchical structure that reduces overall volume while maintaining complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS20250372868A1Feed network and antenna device
Publication Date: 2025.12.04 HUAWEI TECH CO LTD
  • US20250372868A1 patent drawing
  • US20250372868A1 patent drawing
  • US20250372868A1 patent drawing

AI summary

This application discloses a feed network and an antenna device, and relates to the field of communication technologies, to implement a three-dimensional layout of the feed network, and facilitate miniaturization development of the feed network. The feed network includes a support frame and a signal transmission circuit deployed on the support frame. The signal transmission circuit includes a plurality of interconnected functional units, and the plurality of functional units are not located on a same plane.