Antenna Array Selection for Beamforming in Articulated Chassis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional portable information handling systems with articulated chassis face challenges in establishing effective beamforming wireless communication, particularly at distances greater than 10 meters due to the limited range of the 60 GHz frequency band, which is necessary for high-speed WiGig communications.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that select the appropriate antenna array based on the articulated configuration of the information handling system's chassis to optimize beamforming, using either mechanical or electronic means to ensure line-of-sight alignment with the target antenna, thereby facilitating rapid and robust wireless communication in the 60 GHz band.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single antenna array is used for wireless communication, then the device complexity is reduced, but the beamforming effectiveness and communication reliability deteriorate when the chassis is in different articulated configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system is segmented into multiple antenna arrays (first antenna array and second antenna array) positioned at different locations within the chassis. Each antenna array can be independently selected based on the chassis configuration, allowing the system to divide the communication task across multiple specialized components rather than relying on a single general-purpose antenna.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects which antenna array to use based on the real-time articulated configuration of the chassis. The antenna selection changes dynamically as the lid rotates between closed, open, and tablet positions, ensuring that the most appropriate antenna is always active for optimal beamforming performance.
2Ease of operation
If the lid is free to rotate relative to the main chassis portion, then the ease of operation is improved, but the beamforming alignment and communication effectiveness worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates a lid position sensor that provides feedback about the current articulated configuration of the chassis. This feedback mechanism allows the system to detect when the lid is in closed, open, or tablet position and automatically adjust the antenna selection accordingly, maintaining beamforming alignment despite the flexible articulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary antenna selection based on the detected lid position before initiating wireless communication. By pre-determining which antenna array should be used based on the current chassis configuration, the system ensures proper beamforming alignment is established before communication begins, rather than attempting to adjust during active communication.
3Speed
If 60 GHz frequency band is used for high-speed wireless communication, then the data transfer rate is improved, but the effective communication range deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs different antenna arrays with potentially different characteristics optimized for specific chassis positions. By selecting the appropriate antenna array based on lid position, the system locally optimizes the transmission quality for each configuration, maximizing the effective range and reliability of 60 GHz communication in each specific operational state.
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 approach enables more rapid and strong beamforming wireless communications by ensuring the selected antenna has the least physical obstruction, improving communication reliability and speed in the 60 GHz band or similar frequencies.
Implementation Method 1
WiGig supports beamforming in the 60 GHz band, which moves beams of radio communication within the coverage area through modification of the transmission phase of individual antenna elements, known generally as phase array antenna beamforming.
Data Source
AI summary
First and second antenna disposed in an information handling system selectively support communication through a wireless frequency using beamforming. The first or second antenna is selected for initiating communication based upon alignment with a beamforming axis for establishing beamforming with a distal wireless device. For example, the first antenna is selected if the information handling system articulates to a tablet configuration and the second antenna is selected if the information handling system articulates to a clamshell open configuration.