Antenna Array Embedding in Casting Compound for Vandalism Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filling level measuring devices face issues with antenna protection against vandalism and interference from horn antennas, which can impede electromagnetic wave propagation.
Innovation Solution
An antenna array comprising a Bluetooth antenna, a horn antenna, a plastic housing, and a casting compound, where the antenna and horn antenna are partially or fully embedded in the casting compound within the plastic housing, providing protection against vandalism and enhancing circular radiation characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the antenna is provided for wireless communication with external devices, then the device can transmit and receive data, but the antenna becomes vulnerable to vandalism
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary structure (the housing with integrated antenna design) that mediates between the need for wireless communication and the need for protection. The antenna is incorporated into the housing structure itself rather than being a separate exposed component, allowing it to maintain functionality while being protected from vandalism.
2Reliability
If a horn antenna is used for signal transmission, then directional signal transmission is achieved, but the horn antenna impedes the propagation of electromagnetic waves from the communication antenna
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the nesting principle by placing the horn antenna inside a housing structure that contains the communication antenna. The horn antenna is positioned within the housing in such a way that it does not interfere with the electromagnetic wave propagation of the communication antenna, allowing both antennas to function simultaneously without mutual interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses local quality by designing the housing structure with specific properties in different regions. The housing material and structure are optimized to allow electromagnetic wave transmission in the regions where the communication antenna operates, while providing protection and proper positioning for the horn antenna in other regions.
3Ease of operation
If the antenna is exposed for easy access, then connection and maintenance are simplified, but the antenna is more susceptible to damage and interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the antenna with the housing structure, combining the protective function of the housing with the functional requirements of the antenna. This integration allows the antenna to be protected while maintaining its communication capabilities, eliminating the need for separate exposed antenna components.
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 effectively protects the antenna from vandalism and ensures good circular radiation characteristics by embedding the antenna and horn antenna in a casting compound, guiding electromagnetic radiation around the metal obstacle and maintaining proper function even with partial housing casting, thus enhancing the device's performance and durability.
Implementation Method 1
The casting material is adapted to guide electromagnetic radiation of the antenna around the metal obstacle and to radiate the electromagnetic radiation on a side, which is in the shadow of the metal obstacle
Implementation Method 2
The antenna comprises an outlet opening for a directed transmitting of microwave radiation
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to an antenna array for a filling level measuring device. The antenna array comprises an antenna, a horn antenna, a plastic housing, a printed circuit board and a casting compound. The antenna is adapted to communicatively connect the printed circuit board to an external device, the horn antenna comprises the form of a hollow truncated cone, and at least an inner side of the horn antenna is provided with a metallic material. Furthermore, the antenna, the horn antenna, the printed circuit board and the casting compound are arranged within the plastic housing, and the antenna and the horn antenna are at least partially surrounded by the casting compound.