Cantilever Antenna Module Layout for Compact 4G/5G Array Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current antenna systems face challenges in integrating multiple frequency band arrays within a compact mechanical structure, particularly in 5G and 4G systems, due to physical space constraints and the complexity of replacing active and passive antenna modules, which affects efficiency and deployment.

Innovation Solution

The design incorporates a cantilever-type supporting element that allows the 4G antenna array to be arranged over a 5G antenna array, with a power distribution system and frequency selective surfaces, enabling flexible assembly and operation without direct electrical connections, thus optimizing space and simplifying module replacement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If multiple frequency band antenna arrays are integrated within a compact mechanical structure, then space utilization is improved, but the complexity of assembling and replacing antenna modules increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespace utilizationVSAvoidmodule assembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The antenna system is divided into separate functional modules: a 5G antenna array module and a 4G antenna array module. Each module can be independently assembled, tested, and replaced. The 4G antenna array is supported by cantilever-type supporting elements that allow it to be positioned over the 5G antenna array without direct mechanical connection to the same support structure, enabling modular replacement while maintaining compact integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The 4G antenna array is positioned over the 5G antenna array in a nested configuration, with both arrays sharing the same radial space around the radome. This nested arrangement maximizes space utilization by stacking antenna functions vertically rather than spreading them horizontally, while the separate support structures prevent mechanical interference during assembly and replacement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Area of stationary object

If antenna arrays are positioned close together to optimize space, then compactness is improved, but signal interference between frequency bands increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovecompactnessVSAvoidsignal interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Frequency selective surfaces (FSS) are introduced as intermediary structures between the 5G and 4G antenna arrays. These FSS layers are positioned at specific distances from each antenna array and are designed to be transparent to their respective frequency bands while blocking other frequencies. This intermediary structure enables close physical positioning of the antenna arrays for compactness while preventing harmful signal interference between the different frequency bands.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Stability of the object's composition

If direct electrical connections are made between support structures and antenna elements, then structural stability is improved, but replacement complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidreplacement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The electrical connection functions are extracted from the mechanical support structures. The cantilever-type supporting elements for the 4G antenna array provide only mechanical support and positioning, while electrical connections are established through separate pathways (coaxial cables or other transmission lines) that connect the antenna elements to the power distribution system. This separation allows the antenna array to be replaced without disturbing the support structure's electrical connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanical support structures are designed with universal, standardized interfaces that can accommodate different antenna array configurations. The cantilever-type supporting elements use standardized mounting mechanisms that work with various antenna element types and arrangements, allowing the same support structure to remain in place while different antenna arrays are swapped, thereby simplifying replacement procedures while maintaining structural stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP4246712A1Antenna module and manufacturing method thereof
Publication Date: 2023.09.20 NOKIA SOLUTIONS (SHANGHAI) CO LTD
  • EP4246712A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4246712A1 patent drawingFigure 2A~2C
  • EP4246712A1 patent drawingFigure 2D~2F

AI summary

According to an aspect, an antenna module is provided. The antenna module comprises a chassis which comprises an opening or cavity at least partially. The antenna module further comprises one or more cantilever-type supporting elements which are mechanically connected, at one or more first ends of the one or more cantilever-type supporting elements, to a mechanical fixation location. The antenna module also comprises a first antenna array comprising one or more first antenna elements connected to one or more second ends of the one or more cantilever-type supporting elements for arranging the first antenna array over the opening or cavity. The one or more first antenna elements are mechanically connected to one or more radiating part handers that are assembled on an inner surface of a radome over the chassis. The radome is configured to hold the first antenna array.