Antenna Parasitic Element Integrating Proximity Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrating proximity sensors into devices poses challenges such as volume constraints, increased cost, and optimal positioning, especially when combined with antenna systems, as existing solutions require separate components and complex configurations.
Innovation Solution
Designing an antenna with integrated proximity sensing capabilities, utilizing parasitic elements coupled to filter circuits and proximity sensing circuits to detect capacitive loading, allowing for reconfiguration of the antenna's beam steering and frequency shifting based on user loading, thereby optimizing antenna performance and reducing component count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate proximity sensors are integrated into the device, then proximity sensing capability is improved, but device volume and component count increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the proximity sensor functionality with the antenna structure by integrating a parasitic element into the antenna assembly. The parasitic element serves dual purposes: as part of the antenna system for wireless communication and as a capacitive sensor for proximity detection. This merging eliminates the need for separate proximity sensor components, thereby reducing device volume while maintaining proximity sensing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The parasitic element is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both an antenna component for signal transmission/reception and as a capacitive sensor for proximity detection. This multi-functionality allows the same structural element to provide both communication and sensing capabilities, reducing the overall component count and device volume.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple proximity sensors are integrated into the device, then environmental sensing capability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the proximity sensor functionality with the existing antenna structure, utilizing the parasitic element as both an antenna component and a sensing element. This approach eliminates the need for additional separate sensor components, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining enhanced environmental sensing capability through the antenna-integrated sensor.
3Measurement precision
If proximity sensors are positioned close to the antenna system, then sensing accuracy is improved, but antenna performance may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by merging the sensor and antenna functions into a single integrated structure. The parasitic element is positioned as part of the antenna system, ensuring optimal sensing accuracy near the antenna while maintaining proper antenna performance through coordinated design of the parasitic element's electrical and physical characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the parasitic element's design (such as its capacitance, position, and dimensional characteristics) to optimize both sensing accuracy and antenna performance. By carefully adjusting these parameters, the system achieves high sensing precision while maintaining reliable antenna operation without interference.
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 integrated solution enhances environmental sensing capabilities, reduces device size and cost, and maintains antenna impedance optimization by incorporating proximity sensors directly into the antenna structure, eliminating the need for additional sensors and minimizing energy consumption.
Implementation Method 1
A proximity sensor is a capacitive sensor, and is effectively a parallel plate capacitor. Two conductors are used to connect the two plates to a circuit that monitors capacitance. As objects are placed in proximity to the capacitor the objects interact with the fringing electric field emanating from the region between and external to the plates. This interference with the fringing fields of the capacitor translates into a change in capacitance.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure concerns an antenna with proximity sensor function. The antenna and proximity sensors can be implemented in a laptop computer, and proximity sensor loading states are surveyed and used to determine when and to what degree to alter the reactance at the junction of or along the parasitic element to optimize the frequency response and/or the impedance properties of the antenna system. An algorithm or look-up table is configured to relate proximity sensor loading states to reactance required to alter antenna characteristics.