Antenna Module Dummy Cell Layout for Wider 6G Scan Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless communication systems, particularly for 6G, there is a need to enhance the scan range without altering the antenna structure, as existing technologies face challenges in maintaining performance and coverage due to increased path loss and atmospheric absorption in terahertz bands.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an antenna module with multiple antenna cells and surrounding dummy cells, where the dummy cells are configured with specific sizes, resonance lengths, and arrangements to improve the scan range, allowing for miniaturization and efficient signal transmission within a limited package structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the antenna structure is altered to improve scan range, then scan range is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dummy cells that are identical in structure to the antenna cells but non-operational. These dummy cells are arranged around the antenna cells to extend the scan range without requiring changes to the antenna cell structure itself. The dummy cells copy the physical form of antenna cells but serve a different function (extending coverage rather than radiating), thereby improving scan range while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna module is segmented into two distinct functional components: operational antenna cells for signal transmission and reception, and non-operational dummy cells for extending scan range. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - antenna cells for communication performance and dummy cells for coverage extension - without compromising the other, thus improving overall adaptability while managing complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dummy cells are added to improve scan range, then scan range is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different qualities to different parts of the antenna module: antenna cells have specific electromagnetic properties for signal transmission, while dummy cells have identical physical dimensions and arrangement patterns but different functional properties (non-operational). The dummy cells are positioned in specific locations around the antenna cells to create a symmetric pattern that extends scan range. This local differentiation allows the system to achieve improved scan range while using standardized, easily manufacturable components with relaxed precision tolerances.
3Adaptability or versatility
If antenna module size is increased to improve scan range, then scan range is improved, but device area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dummy cells that partially replicate the structure of antenna cells but do not perform full antenna functions. The dummy cells are positioned at the periphery of the antenna module, creating an extended pattern that improves scan range without requiring a proportional increase in the active antenna elements. This partial replication approach allows scan range extension with minimal additional area, as the dummy cells use the same footprint as antenna cells but serve a supplementary function.
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 configuration enhances the scan range while minimizing performance degradation, effectively addressing the limitations of existing antenna designs in terahertz bands by optimizing the placement and size of dummy cells to improve signal coverage and bandwidth.
Implementation Method 1
each of the first dummy cells may be configured to have a resonance length identical to that of the multiple first antenna cells
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a 5G or 6G communication system for supporting a higher data transmission rate than a 4G communication system such as LTE. An electronic device comprising an antenna module, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, comprises: a communication module for communicating with an external electronic device; a first antenna module including a plurality of first antenna cells and first dummy cells surrounding the plurality of first antenna cells; and a controller for controlling the communication module and the first antenna module. Each of the plurality of first antenna cells may be configured to have a first size, and each of the first dummy cells may be configured to have a second size smaller than the first size.