Antenna Radiation Pattern Control via Radiator Overlap Tuning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Array antennas with sharp radiation patterns are large and difficult to adjust for omni-directional signal reception, as they require multiple antennas to steer beam directions effectively.
Innovation Solution
An antenna design featuring a first and second radiator on opposing surfaces of a substrate, with a tuning part using sub-radiators and switches (such as PIN diodes) to adjust the overlapping area between the radiators, allowing for external control of the radiation pattern.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If array antennas are used to achieve sharp radiation patterns, then radiation direction control is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna is divided into multiple radiating elements (first radiator, second radiator, third radiator, fourth radiator) arranged in a specific geometric configuration. Each element contributes to the overall radiation pattern, allowing directional control through individual element activation rather than requiring a large array of elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional array configuration to a three-dimensional tetrahedral structure with radiators positioned at vertices. This spatial arrangement enables radiation direction control by activating specific combinations of radiators in 3D space, achieving beam steering without increasing planar footprint.
2Manufacturing precision
If array antennas are used to steer beam directions, then radiation pattern sharpness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric activation of radiating elements to control radiation direction. By selectively activating specific radiators (e.g., first and second radiators for one direction, third and fourth for another), the system achieves sharp radiation patterns without requiring symmetric array configurations, simplifying the overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna system dynamically controls radiation direction by selectively activating different combinations of radiating elements based on the desired beam direction. This dynamic element activation allows the radiation pattern to be steered electronically without mechanical movement or complex phased array phase shifters.
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
Enables easy control of beam radiation direction without the need for array antennas, allowing for miniaturization while maintaining or improving signal reception efficiency across various directions.
Implementation Method 1
Antennas convert electrical signals into electromagnetic waves and radiate them into a free space
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of switches which adjust the area of the first radiator by connecting or disconnecting the sub-radiators and connecting or disconnecting one of the sub-radiators to and from the first radiator according to the external control signal
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna for controlling a radiation pattern includes a first substrate; a first radiator formed in one surface of the first substrate; a second radiator formed in other surface of the first substrate; and a tuning part which controls a radiation pattern by changing a size of an overlapping region of the first radiator and the second radiator disposed with the first substrate interposed therebetween according to an external control signal. The tuning part includes a plurality of sub-radiators arranged by at least one side of the first radiator or the second radiator, and a plurality of switches. Accordingly, the beam radiation pattern can be easily controlled through the switch control.