Accordion Antenna Structure for Multi-Function Mobile Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies fail to combine multiple functions such as remote wake-up, communications, reader detection, variable bit rate, variable power transmission, energy harvesting, and battery recharging in a single, compact antenna suitable for smart phones and mobile devices, particularly for supporting magnetic stripe and RF-based close-proximity communications.
Innovation Solution
A miniature, multi-purpose antenna structure integrated with a microprocessor and antenna module that generates alternating magnetic fields for data transmission, supports multiple frequency bands, and includes features like varactor diodes for tuning, enabling wireless magnetic stripe transmission and energy harvesting within the constraints of ISO card dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple functions (wake-up, communications, energy harvesting) are integrated into a single antenna, then device functionality and versatility are improved, but antenna structure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single antenna structure that performs multiple functions including wake-up, communications, and energy harvesting by integrating different functional elements (conductive traces, capacitive structures, inductive loops) into one unified antenna design, eliminating the need for separate antennas for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines previously separate antenna functions into a single integrated structure where conductive traces serve both as RF communication elements and as energy harvesting components, merging multiple functional requirements into one consolidated antenna system
2Volume of moving object
If antenna size is reduced to fit mobile devices, then device compactness is improved, but bandwidth and frequency support capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from planar antenna designs to three-dimensional folded structures, utilizing vertical spacing and multiple layers to achieve longer electrical length within a compact volume, thereby maintaining bandwidth and frequency support in smaller form factors
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs nested or folded antenna structures where conductive elements are arranged in multiple tiers or layers, effectively packing more antenna length into a smaller physical footprint while maintaining resonant frequency characteristics and bandwidth
3Adaptability or versatility
If variable capacitors and inductive elements are added for frequency tuning, then frequency adaptability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves frequency tuning by varying geometric parameters of the antenna structure itself (trace width, spacing, length of conductive elements) rather than adding external tuning components, allowing frequency adaptation through design variations that are compatible with standard PCB manufacturing processes
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
Enables low-power, compact, and cost-effective performance of multiple functions including wake-up, communication, and energy transfer, enhancing compatibility with various RF and magnetic card readers while reducing power consumption and size.
Implementation Method 1
generates alternating magnetic fields for data transmission
Implementation Method 2
energy harvesting
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna for generating an electromagnetic field. The antenna has a substrate and a contiguous core disposed on the substrate. A continuous winding encircles the core and the substrate extending in a longitudinal direction; a first gap is defined between adjacent turns of the winding. The turns segregated into a plurality of winding segments, each winding segment comprising a plurality of turns. A second gap is defined between adjacent winding segments, wherein the second gap is larger than the first gap. Numerical values for the various parameters of the antenna (e.g., number of turns, number of winding segments, length of the first gap, length of the second gap) are selected to create and propagate a signal having desired parameters.