Antenna Array Compact Design Using 3D Stacked Units
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge is to reduce the size of an antenna array while maintaining its performance, as existing arrays occupy significant space and are constrained by their shape, making them difficult to implement in various forms within electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves an antenna array design where multiple antenna units are arranged between the side housing and the PCB, utilizing a nonconductive layer, ground layer, and conductive members with radiators and feed parts to enhance signal transmission and reception, allowing for a more compact form factor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a plurality of antennas are arranged in a regular shape to form an antenna array, then the effective isotropically radiated power (EIRP) is increased and data transmission/reception effectiveness is improved, but the area occupied by the antenna array becomes large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a planar arrangement of antenna elements to a three-dimensional configuration by introducing vertical stacking of antenna units. Multiple antenna elements are arranged not only in the horizontal plane but also in the vertical dimension, creating a volumetric antenna array structure that achieves higher EIRP without proportionally increasing the footprint area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where multiple antenna units are stacked vertically, with each unit containing antenna elements that are integrated into a compact housing structure. This nesting approach allows multiple antenna functions to be contained within a reduced spatial envelope, effectively decreasing the overall area requirement while maintaining the plurality of antennas needed for high EIRP.
2Power
If a plurality of antennas are arranged in a regular shape to form an antenna array, then the effective isotropically radiated power (EIRP) is increased and data transmission/reception effectiveness is improved, but the electronic device may not have enough space for mounting the antenna array
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the vertical dimension to accommodate multiple antenna units, transforming the traditional two-dimensional planar array into a three-dimensional stacked configuration. This dimensional transition allows the antenna array to achieve high EIRP through multiple elements while minimizing the horizontal footprint and overall volume occupied within the electronic device housing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a compact housing structure that integrates antenna units in a space-efficient manner, utilizing thin structural elements and optimized spacing to accommodate the three-dimensional antenna array within limited device volume while maintaining electrical performance and mechanical integrity.
3Reliability
If the antenna array is arranged in a specific shape, then the antenna array can be formed with proper signal distribution, but the antenna array cannot be implemented in various forms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a modular antenna unit structure that can be configured in multiple arrangements while maintaining proper signal distribution characteristics. The universal housing and feeding structure allow the same basic antenna unit to be implemented in various forms and configurations, providing both reliability through consistent performance and adaptability through design flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the antenna array into discrete, independent antenna units that can be individually configured and arranged. This segmentation allows each unit to maintain its own signal distribution properties while enabling the overall array to be implemented in various forms by changing the arrangement and number of modular units without compromising individual unit performance.
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 design effectively reduces the size of the antenna array while improving its performance by optimizing the arrangement of antenna units and signal distribution, enabling better signal transmission and reception rates.
Implementation Method 1
a radiating element which has a spiral shape... configured to radiate electromagnetic waves
Implementation Method 2
a passive element which is installed side by side with, the radiating element and has a spiral shape
Implementation Method 3
an earth ground disposed in opposing relation to the radiating element and the passive element
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
An electronic device according to an embodiment of the disclosure may include housing including a rear cover and a cover glass facing away from the rear cover, an antenna array interposed between the rear cover and the cover glass and including at least one or more antenna units, a printed circuit board (PCB) interposed between the antenna array and the cover glass, and a communication circuit disposed on the PCB and feeding the antenna array. Other various embodiments as understood from the specification are also possible.