3D Integrated Antenna Module with Aperture Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current antenna technologies integrated on silicon for 60 GHz IEEE 802.15 signals lack compactness and efficiency, particularly in terms of size and power consumption, and struggle with adjusting antenna performance without complex and costly manufacturing steps.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional integrated antenna module with a support element, interface device, integrated circuit, and filler region, featuring a radiating element separated from an earth plane by an aperture for electromagnetic coupling, and adjustable second antenna substrate height via electrically conductive pillars, allowing for compactness and flexible performance adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional antenna integration methods are used on silicon, then antenna functionality is achieved, but the module size becomes large and power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from planar antenna integration to three-dimensional stacked architecture, placing the radiating element on one substrate and the excitation element on another substrate separated by an aperture. This vertical stacking enables compact antenna module design while maintaining electromagnetic coupling through the aperture, thereby reducing overall module size without proportionally increasing power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna system is segmented into distinct functional components located on separate substrates: the radiating element on the first substrate and the excitation element on the second substrate. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component and enables compact integration through the aperture coupling mechanism, reducing the overall power consumption while maintaining functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If antenna performance is adjusted using conventional manufacturing methods, then performance tuning is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables antenna performance adjustment by modifying the aperture dimensions and the distance between substrates, which are parameters that can be tuned during manufacturing. By changing the aperture size or the separation distance between the first and second substrates, the electromagnetic coupling and thus the antenna performance can be adjusted without requiring complex additional manufacturing steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The aperture serves multiple functions: it enables electromagnetic coupling between the radiating and excitation elements, acts as a tuning mechanism for antenna performance, and maintains structural integrity between substrates. This multi-functionality reduces manufacturing complexity by eliminating the need for separate tuning components or processes.
3Reliability
If direct connection between excitation element and radiating element is used, then electrical connection is achieved, but antenna compactness and performance are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The aperture acts as an intermediary that enables electromagnetic coupling between the excitation element and the radiating element without requiring direct physical contact. This intermediary approach maintains reliable signal transmission while allowing the elements to be positioned on separate substrates, thereby achieving compact antenna module design without compromising connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct mechanical/electrical connection with electromagnetic coupling through the aperture. Instead of using conductive traces or direct contact between elements, the system uses electromagnetic fields to transfer energy across the aperture, enabling compact integration while maintaining transmission reliability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables a compact, low-power consumption antenna module with adjustable performance, suitable for wireless communication devices, capable of transmitting signals over short distances with high bandwidth at 60 GHz frequencies.
Implementation Method 1
the said aperture is configured in such a way as to permit electromagnetic coupling between the excitation element and the radiating element
Data Source
AI summary
The three-dimensional integrated structure including a support element, an interface device connected to the support element by first electrically conductive connection, an integrated circuit arranged between the support element and the interface device and connected to the interface device by second electrically conductive connection, a filler region between the second electrically conductive connection and between the interface device and the integrated circuit, and an antenna, having a radiating element in electromagnetic coupling with an excitation element through the interconnection of a slot, the antenna being distributed over the interface device and the integrated circuit.