Beam Steering Antenna Structure for Full-Coverage mmWave Displays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mmWave antenna arrays in mobile electronic devices face challenges in achieving full spherical beam coverage due to space constraints from large displays and user-hand interference, leading to reduced performance and limited beam steering capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A beam steering antenna structure comprising a printed circuit board and conductive components with dual polarization antenna arrays, where the second surface of the conductive component extends at an angle, forming a groove that allows for dual polarization radiation beams to be steered in the same direction, enabling constructive interference and efficient communication in all directions, even with large displays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional mmWave antenna array is arranged next to the display, then the display does not interfere with the beam coverage, but the space available for the antenna array becomes very limited, forcing either the size of the antenna array to be significantly reduced and its performance impaired, or a large part of the display to be inactive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a conventional planar antenna array arrangement to a three-dimensional configuration where the antenna array is integrated within the display structure itself. The antenna elements are positioned at different depths and angles within the display thickness, enabling full spherical beam coverage without sacrificing display area. This dimensional transition allows the antenna system to operate in the Z-axis (thickness direction) while the display occupies the X-Y plane, resolving the spatial conflict between antenna coverage and display size.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna array is nested within the display structure, with antenna elements embedded in the display layers. The conductive components and antenna elements are integrated into the display's internal architecture, allowing the antenna system to occupy the display's thickness rather than requiring additional lateral space. This nesting approach enables both the display and antenna array to coexist in the same physical footprint without compromising either function.
2Area of stationary object
If the size of the antenna array is reduced to accommodate large displays, then the display area increases, but the antenna performance is impaired
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of reducing antenna array size in the planar dimensions, the patent exploits the third dimension (thickness) to maintain antenna performance. By positioning antenna elements at different depths and orientations within the display structure, the system achieves equivalent or superior radiation patterns without compromising display area. The vertical stacking and angular arrangement of elements compensate for the reduced lateral footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes key parameters of the antenna system by introducing angular orientations and depth variations that were not present in conventional planar arrays. Elements are positioned at different angles relative to the display surface and at different distances from the front and back surfaces, creating a three-dimensional radiation pattern that maintains performance despite reduced lateral dimensions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If dual polarization antenna arrays are used to achieve full spherical beam coverage, then beam steering capabilities improve, but the complexity of the antenna structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The display structure serves multiple functions: it acts as both the visual display medium and the structural housing for the antenna array. The same physical layers that constitute the display also contain and support the antenna elements, eliminating the need for separate antenna housings and reducing overall system complexity. This multi-functionality allows dual-polarization beam steering capabilities to be achieved without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna array and display structure are merged into a single integrated assembly. The conductive components of the antenna system are combined with the display's internal structure, sharing common mechanical support and spatial envelope. This merging reduces the number of separate components and interfaces, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite the advanced beam steering capabilities.
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 provides increased antenna performance, stable communication, and supports large displays by reducing the occupied device surface area to λ/20, facilitating dual layer polarization MIMO/diversity and maintaining high efficiency with minimal additional components.
Implementation Method 1
the first antenna array transmitting a first radiation beam having a first polarization in a direction towards the second surface, or receiving the first radiation beam in a direction from the second surface
Implementation Method 2
the second antenna array transmitting a second radiation beam having a second polarization, orthogonal to the first polarization, in the direction towards the second surface, or receiving the second radiation beam in the direction from the second surface
Implementation Method 3
the second surface steering at least one of the first radiation beam and the second radiation beam in a direction away from or towards the connecting surface
Data Source
AI summary
A beam steering antenna structure comprising a printed circuit board and a conductive component, a first wall and a second wall of the printed circuit board being juxtaposed with a first surface of the conductive component, the second wall abutting and being galvanically connected to the first surface. A second surface of the conductive component extends at an angle from the first surface. A connecting surface extends between the first wall and the second wall such that a groove is formed, the groove being partially juxtaposed to the first surface. The groove comprises a first antenna array and a second antenna array transmitting or receiving, respectively, a first radiation beam and a second radiation beam having orthogonal polarizations. The second surface steers at least one of the first or second radiation beam in a direction away from or towards the connecting surface.