Antenna Array Directivity Optimization via Modal Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing antenna arrays face limitations in achieving high directivity while maintaining compactness, as conventional methods increase size and are constrained by the directivity of ideal Huygens sources.

Innovation Solution

A method involving a matrix calculation-based approach to determine an antenna array's excitation vector and load parameters, using spherical modes and loads with distinct components like resistance and capacitance or inductance, to optimize electromagnetic wave generation and radiation patterns.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Illumination intensity

If reflectors such as parabolas are used to increase directivity, then directivity is improved, but the size of the antenna array greatly increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovedirectivityVSAvoidsize of antenna array
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the fundamental operating parameters by jointly exciting both TE and TM radiation modes within the same antenna array structure, enabling directivity enhancement through modal control rather than physical size expansion. This parameter-based approach allows achieving high directivity in a compact configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The antenna array is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it supports both TE and TM mode excitations, enabling it to achieve high directivity while maintaining compact dimensions. This multi-functional capability replaces the need for separate reflector structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Illumination intensity

If the directivity of an antenna array is increased using conventional methods, then directivity is improved, but the complexity of the antenna structure increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovedirectivityVSAvoidantenna structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the TE and TM mode excitations within a single antenna array structure, eliminating the need for separate antenna systems or complex reflector networks. This consolidation reduces structural complexity while achieving enhanced directivity through coordinated modal operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Area of stationary object

If an ideal Huygens source structure is used, then the antenna size is reduced, but the maximum directivity is limited to 4.7 dBi

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveantenna sizeVSAvoiddirectivity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces dynamic control over the radiation characteristics by independently adjusting the excitation levels of TE and TM modes. This dynamic modal control enables the antenna to adapt its radiation pattern and achieve directivity beyond the static 4.7 dBi limit of ideal Huygens sources, while maintaining compact size.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

This method enables the creation of an antenna array with improved directivity and compactness, allowing for directional radiation patterns and flexible impedance adjustments, enhancing performance in various applications such as cellular telephony and radiocommunications.

Implementation Method 1

Each circuit antenna of the array antenna is capable of generating an electromagnetic wave

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP2840654B1Method for determining an antenna array
Publication Date: 2020.06.17 COMMISSARIAT A LENERGIE ATOMIQUE ET AUX ENERGIES ALTERNATIVES
  • EP2840654B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP2840654B1 patent drawingFigure 4
  • EP2840654B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a method for determining an antenna array (10) suitable for generating an electromagnetic wave comprising: - at least one antenna (14, 16, 18), - at least one circuit (19) having parameters (Z) influencing the electromagnetic wave generated by the antenna array (10) and connected to at least one antenna (16, 18), the method comprising the steps of: - choosing a criterion to be verified, - determining desired decomposition coefficients of a wave in a basis allowing the chosen criterion to be met, - calculating the parameters (Z) for each circuit (19) of the antenna array (10) so that the difference between the decomposition coefficients on the basis of the wave generated by the antenna array (10) and the desired decomposition coefficients is minimal.