Antenna Module Self-Inspection Through Dual Feed Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for checking electrical conductivity in antenna modules are cumbersome, especially when dealing with a large number of communication devices or those with numerous antenna conductors, as they require direct contact with each terminal, making it difficult to perform efficient inspections.
Innovation Solution
An antenna module with a base member, radiating elements, first and second feed lines connected to a control circuit that includes a signal processing circuit and an antenna inspection circuit, allowing for electrical conductivity checks without the need for direct contact, using the first and second feed lines for both communication and inspection modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a probe is brought into contact with each antenna terminal for electrical conductivity check, then the electrical conductivity can be inspected, but the inspection process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming especially when dealing with a large number of communication devices or numerous antenna conductors
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna module performs self-inspection by using its own internal antenna inspection circuit to check the electrical conductivity of its feed lines and radiating elements. The control circuit activates the inspection circuit to apply a test signal and detect abnormalities without requiring external probe contact, enabling the device to inspect itself automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The feed lines serve dual functions: they act as signal transmission paths for communication signals during normal operation, and simultaneously serve as inspection paths for electrical conductivity checks. The same physical structures used for signal transmission are reused for inspection purposes, eliminating the need for separate inspection terminals or wiring.
2Ease of operation
If additional terminals or wiring are added for inspection purposes, then electrical conductivity checks can be performed more easily, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The feed lines serve dual functions: they act as signal transmission paths for communication signals during normal operation, and simultaneously serve as inspection paths for electrical conductivity checks. The same physical structures used for signal transmission are reused for inspection purposes, eliminating the need for separate inspection terminals or wiring.
Solution Approach 2:
The inspection function is merged with the existing communication function by using the same feed lines and radiating elements for both purposes. The control circuit integrates both signal processing and inspection operations, combining multiple functions into a single unified system rather than adding separate dedicated inspection infrastructure.
3Ease of operation
If the antenna structure is modified to facilitate inspection, then electrical conductivity checks become easier, but the antenna performance in signal transmission and reception may be altered
Solution Approach 1:
The feed lines serve dual functions: they act as signal transmission paths for communication signals during normal operation, and simultaneously serve as inspection paths for electrical conductivity checks. The same physical structures used for signal transmission are reused for inspection purposes, eliminating the need for separate inspection terminals or wiring.
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna module includes a base member, an antenna that includes a radiating element disposed in or on the base member, first and second feed lines each of which is connected to the radiating element, and a control circuit that is connected to the radiating element via the first feed line and the second feed line. The control circuit includes a signal processing circuit that is connected to the antenna via the first feed line and the second feed line and an antenna inspection circuit that checks an electrical conductivity of an electrical conduction path connecting the first feed line, the radiating element, and the second feed line to one another.