Antenna Module Filter Layout Between Array Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
In array antennas, the arrangement of filters between radiation elements is limited by the need to prevent interference from feeder lines, making it challenging to accommodate filters without increasing the size of the antenna module, especially when filters cannot be placed at a distance of λ/4 from the antenna elements.
Innovation Solution
The filters are arranged between adjacent radiation elements in a configuration where they cross a virtual line equidistant from the elements, allowing them to be placed side by side in a direction orthogonal to the array direction, thereby optimizing space usage without increasing the module's size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If filters are arranged at a distance of λ/4 from radiation elements to prevent feeder line interference, then feeder line interference is prevented, but the antenna module size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from arranging filters only in the radial direction (at distance λ/4 from radiation elements) to utilizing the inter-element space in a different spatial dimension. Filters are positioned between adjacent radiation elements and arranged to cross the virtual equidistant line, effectively using the lateral space between elements rather than only the radial space from each element, thereby preventing interference while maintaining compact size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the filtering functions for multiple radiation elements into a shared spatial region between adjacent elements. Instead of dedicating separate λ/4 distance zones for each element's filter, the filters for multiple elements are combined in the inter-element space, with their resonant lines crossing the virtual equidistant line, achieving space utilization efficiency while maintaining individual filtering functionality.
2Volume of moving object
If filters are arranged between adjacent radiation elements to save space, then antenna module size is reduced, but feeder line interference may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces asymmetry in the filter arrangement by positioning filters to cross the virtual equidistant line between radiation elements rather than placing them symmetrically at equal distances from each element. This asymmetric positioning, where resonant lines extend across the midline, creates an electromagnetic field distribution that prevents interference with feeder lines connected to adjacent elements while maintaining compact spacing.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual equidistant line serves as an intermediary reference that mediates the spatial relationship between filters and adjacent radiation elements. By arranging filters to cross this virtual line, the patent creates a controlled electromagnetic boundary that prevents harmful interactions between feeder lines and filters while allowing compact integration in the inter-element region.
3Device complexity
If multiple filters are arranged in the same substrate for array antennas, then integration is improved, but it becomes difficult to accommodate all filters without increasing size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the integration challenge by transitioning from a radial arrangement (filters positioned at λ/4 distance from each element) to an inter-element arrangement where filters are positioned between adjacent elements and extend across the virtual equidistant line. This dimensional reconfiguration allows multiple filters to be packed more efficiently in the lateral dimension without increasing the overall module footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested arrangement where filters for multiple radiation elements are embedded within the inter-element regions. The resonant lines of filters are arranged to cross the virtual equidistant line, allowing filters to be nested in the space between elements rather than requiring separate external zones, achieving high integration density within the compact array structure.
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 enables the appropriate arrangement of filters within the antenna module, suppressing the increase in size and allowing for efficient filtering without interfering with the radiation elements or feeder lines.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the first filter and the second filter includes a plurality of resonant lines that is not connected to each other
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna module includes feeding elements arranged adjacent to each other and filters connected to the respective feeding elements. Each of the filters includes a plurality of resonant lines that is not connected to each other. The filters are arranged between the feeding elements so as to cross a virtual line equidistant from the feeding elements when the antenna module is viewed in plan from the normal direction.