Antenna Interface for Dual-Band Radio Receivers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Dual-band radio frequency stations require two separate antenna interfaces, which are cumbersome and prevent miniaturization, and often result in signal interference between antennas.

Innovation Solution

A single antenna interface with two hot spots for cable cores and a ground reference for braids, allowing simultaneous operation on two frequency bands without interference, and suitable for use in humid environments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If two separate antenna interfaces are used for dual-band radio, then each frequency band can operate independently, but the device becomes bulky and expensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedual-band operation capabilityVSAvoidinterface bulk
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines two separate antenna interfaces into a single integrated interface that supports dual-band operation. The base and plug structure integrates two hot spots (contactors) and a ground reference into one unified connector, eliminating the need for two separate interfaces while maintaining dual-band functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single interface is designed to be universal and multi-functional, supporting both frequency bands through its dual hot spot configuration. The interface can connect to antennas for different frequency bands (e.g., VHF and UHF) simultaneously, making it a multi-functional connector that replaces two specialized interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If two separate antenna interfaces are used for dual-band radio, then each frequency band has dedicated connection, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedual-band operation capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges two separate interface assemblies into one, reducing the total number of components that need to be manufactured, inventoried, and assembled. This consolidation reduces manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining dual-band operational capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If two separate antennas are used for dual-band operation, then each antenna operates on its frequency band, but signal interference occurs between antennas

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimultaneous dual-band transmission and receptionVSAvoidsignal crosstalk
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and isolates the two frequency band connections into separate hot spots within the same interface structure. Each hot spot is electrically isolated from the other, allowing simultaneous operation on both frequency bands without mutual interference or signal crosstalk.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

4Ease of operation

If conventional antenna interface is used in humid environments, then connection is established, but moisture damages the connectors and cables

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection capabilityVSAvoidmoisture damage
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a membrane sealing the interface between the base and plug, creating a protective barrier against moisture ingress. This sealing mechanism protects the internal connectors and cable connections from humidity and environmental damage while maintaining electrical connectivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Data Source

PatentEP2572406B1Antenna interface for a radio receiver
Publication Date: 2019.08.14 THALES SA
  • EP2572406B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2572406B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP2572406B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5

AI summary

The invention relates to an interface (8) which comprises a socket (10) and a plug (12). The socket (10) comprises a body (11) and two coaxial cables (22), each comprising a core (22A), a braid (22C) coaxial to the core (22A), and an electric insulator (22B) between the core (22A) and the braid (22C). Each coaxial cable (22) extends between a first end connected to a printed circuit board of the receiver and a second end at which the braid (22C) is electrically connected to the body (11), and at which the core (22A) can be accessed through an opening (21B) made in the body. The plug (12) comprises a body (27) and at least two contactors (36), such that, when the plug (12) and the socket (10) are connected, each contactor (36) is arranged opposite an opening (21B) such that the core (22A) of a respective cable (22) is electrically connected to said contactor (36), and the braid (22C) of each cable (22) is electrically connected to the body (27) of the plug via the body (11).