Antenna Resonance Control via Switched Electrical Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
When external connectors are connected to electronic devices with wireless communication capabilities, they can electrically contact metal components, leading to a decrease in antenna radiation performance due to changes in resonance frequency and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The electronic device incorporates a ground plane, multiple antenna radiators, and switches controlled by a circuit to adjust the electrical path and resonance frequency in response to external connector insertion, ensuring optimal signal reception across desired frequency bands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If external connectors are connected to the electronic device, then data transmission and charging functions are enabled, but antenna radiation performance deteriorates due to electrical contact with metal components
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system is divided into multiple independent radiating elements (first antenna element, second antenna element, third antenna element) with distinct functions. Each element can be independently controlled through switching mechanisms, allowing the system to segment the antenna functionality and activate only the necessary elements based on connector insertion state, thereby preventing performance degradation from unwanted electrical contacts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic switching mechanisms that automatically adjust antenna configuration in response to connector insertion events. Control circuits detect connector presence and dynamically reconfigure the antenna system by activating/deactivating specific antenna elements and adjusting impedance matching networks, enabling the system to adapt its electrical characteristics in real-time to maintain optimal radiation performance despite changing connection states.
2Loss of energy
If metal components are used for antenna elements, then radiation efficiency is improved, but resonance frequency shifts occur when connectors are inserted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs impedance matching networks with variable components that can dynamically adjust electrical parameters (impedance, capacitance, inductance) in response to connector insertion. By changing these electrical parameters, the system compensates for frequency shifts caused by metal-to-metal contact, maintaining stable resonance frequency and optimal radiation efficiency across different operational states.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces impedance matching networks and control circuits as intermediary elements between the antenna elements and the connector interface. These intermediaries buffer and isolate the antenna system from direct electrical contact effects, mediating the interaction between metal components and connectors to prevent harmful frequency shifts while preserving radiation efficiency.
3Reliability
If multiple antenna elements are added to maintain performance, then radiation coverage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a multi-functional antenna system where a single integrated structure serves multiple purposes: different portions of the antenna element can function as resonant elements, parasitic elements, or impedance matching components depending on the operational mode. This universal design allows the system to maintain reliable wireless communication across various connector states without requiring entirely separate antenna systems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple antenna elements and impedance matching networks into an integrated antenna system with unified control. Rather than implementing separate independent antenna systems for different frequency bands or modes, the patent merges these functions into a single coordinated structure with shared control circuits, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive wireless communication capability.
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 solution effectively prevents shifts in resonance frequency and maintains or improves antenna efficiency even when external connectors are connected, ensuring reliable wireless communication.
Implementation Method 1
the control circuit is configured to short-circuit the first switch and the third switch, and to connect the second switch to the first end of the second antenna radiator
Implementation Method 2
the electronic device may radiate electromagnetic waves through a metal antenna radiator provided in the housing of the electronic device
Data Source
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Figure 1c
AI summary
An electronic device including an antenna is provided. The electronic device includes, a ground plane, an antenna element that is electrically connected to the ground plane through a first electrical path, a receptacle that accommodates an external connector that is electrically connected to the ground plane and comprises a conductive line, and a control circuit that is configured to: detect whether the external connector is inserted into the receptacle, and change the first electrical path to a second electrical path or add the second electrical path to the first electrical path between the antenna element and the ground plane, when the external connector is inserted into the receptacle.