Circular Polarized Antenna Assembly for Switchable Radiation Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing antenna systems are large, costly, and difficult to integrate with electronic circuits without performance degradation, lacking flexibility in radiation patterns for different applications.
Innovation Solution
A compact antenna assembly with equidistant antenna elements connected to a single feed port, capable of switching between omnidirectional and directional radiation patterns through phase shifts, and optionally using a reflector for conical patterns, utilizing planar inverted F antennas on a ground plane.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple antennas are provided for different types of communication, then communication capability is improved, but cost and occupied area increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single antenna system that can operate in multiple modes (omnidirectional mode and directional beamforming mode) to serve different communication needs. The antenna elements can be selectively activated and configured to provide both general coverage and targeted communication, eliminating the need for multiple separate antennas while maintaining versatile communication capability across different scenarios
2Adaptability or versatility
If omnidirectional circularly polarized antennas are used, then radiation coverage is improved, but profile height increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic antenna system where the radiation pattern can be switched between omnidirectional and directional modes based on communication requirements. By dynamically controlling which antenna elements are active and their phase relationships, the system achieves high coverage when needed while maintaining a low profile structure, rather than requiring a fixed high-profile omnidirectional antenna
3Adaptability or versatility
If higher-order-mode patch antennas are used, then radiation pattern control is improved, but electrical size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the antenna system into multiple discrete antenna elements arranged in an array. By segmenting the overall radiation function across multiple smaller elements, the system achieves precise control over radiation patterns through phase and amplitude control of individual elements, while each element remains electrically small. This segmentation allows beamforming and pattern control without requiring a single large electrically-sized antenna
4Area of stationary object
If antenna elements are placed close to electronic circuits, then space utilization is improved, but performance degradation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates grounding structures and shielding arrangements as intermediary elements between the antenna elements and electronic circuits. These intermediaries manage electromagnetic interference and coupling effects, allowing the antenna elements to be positioned in close proximity to electronic components while maintaining acceptable performance through controlled impedance and reduced interference
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
The antenna assembly provides efficient, low-profile, and cost-effective wireless communication with beam steering and polarization switching, supporting various applications without significant space occupation.
Implementation Method 1
Each antenna element is resonant at a frequency f and provides a right-hand circularly polarized (RHCP) generally omnidirectional radiation pattern
Implementation Method 2
The antenna elements provide a right-hand circularly polarized (RHCP) generally omnidirectional radiation pattern in a first operation mode
Implementation Method 3
The antenna assembly includes a reflector positioned below the antenna elements configured to tilt a maximum radiation of the antenna elements upward by a tilt angle to create a conical radiation pattern
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
An antenna assembly (100) includes a ground plane (120) having a periphery. The antenna assembly includes a plurality of antenna elements (200). Each antenna element resonant at a frequency f. The antenna elements are positioned generally equidistant from each other around the periphery (128). The antenna elements are electrically connected to a single antenna feed port (132). The antenna elements provide a generally omnidirectional radiation pattern in a first operation mode (500). The antenna elements provide a right-hand circularly polarized (RHCP) broadside radiation pattern in a second operation mode (502). The antenna elements provide a left-hand circularly polarized (LHCP) broadside radiation pattern in a third operation mode (504). The antenna assembly includes a reflector (150) positioned below the antenna elements. The reflector tilts a maximum radiation of the antenna elements upward by a tilt angle (170) in the first operation mode to create a conical radiation pattern.