Antenna Embedding in Composite Panels via Conductive Ply Nesting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Composite members with embedded antennas face challenges in maintaining structural performance while integrating conductive elements without compromising their structural integrity.
Innovation Solution
A method of forming an antenna within a composite member by sequentially laying up composite plies, embedding conductive plies between them, and using a pin connected to the conductive ply to create a receptacle, ensuring the conductive elements are spaced and embedded within the composite structure to prevent exposure and maintain structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conductive plies are embedded within composite plies to form an antenna, then the antenna functionality is integrated into the composite member, but the structural integrity and performance of the composite member may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive plies are nested within the composite plies by placing them between specific composite plies during the stacking sequence. This nesting approach integrates the antenna functionality within the composite structure without compromising the overall structural integrity, as the conductive plies are embedded in a controlled manner that maintains the composite's load-bearing capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive plies are positioned at specific locations within the composite structure where antenna functionality is needed, rather than throughout the entire structure. This localized placement allows the composite member to maintain its structural performance in critical areas while providing antenna functionality where required.
2Reliability
If multiple conductive plies are spaced apart and embedded within composite plies, then the antenna performance is optimized, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna is segmented into multiple conductive plies that are spaced apart and embedded within different composite plies. This segmentation allows for optimized antenna performance through multiple radiating elements while the modular stacking sequence makes the manufacturing process manageable by breaking it down into sequential steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The positions and orientations of the conductive plies are predetermined in the stacking sequence design, allowing for preliminary planning of the antenna configuration. This preliminary action ensures optimal antenna performance is achieved while the structured approach to laying up the plies simplifies the manufacturing process.
3Strength
If the conductive ply is fully embedded within composite plies, then the structural performance is maintained, but the accessibility for connection and assembly becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
While the conductive plies are embedded within the composite plies to maintain structural performance, connection points or access features are extracted or provided at the surfaces of the composite member. This allows for electrical connections and assembly operations to be performed on the exterior while the bulk of the conductive elements remain embedded for structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
A composite member that includes plies of composite material and an integral antenna. The integral antenna includes one or more plies of conductive material. A pin is connected to and extends outward from one of the conductive plies. The pin extends through openings in one or more of the composite plies that are positioned between and/or around the one or more plies of conductive material.