Compact Dual-Frequency Patch Antenna with Nested Radiators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dual-frequency patch antennas for GNSS applications face challenges in achieving a compact size, wide operational bandwidth, and optimal directional patterns to effectively receive signals from multiple frequency bands while minimizing multipath reception.
Innovation Solution
A dual-frequency patch antenna design featuring a ground plane and two radiators with specific protrusions and grooves configurations on a dielectric substrate, allowing for capacitive coupling and independent resonance modes to enhance bandwidth and directional patterns, while maintaining a compact size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a dual-frequency patch antenna is designed to operate in multiple frequency bands (L1 and L2), then the bandwidth is improved, but the antenna size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting by placing the first radiator (for L1 band) and the second radiator (for L2 band) in concentric configurations where one radiator is positioned within the area defined by the other. The first radiator has an outer periphery and inner periphery, and the second radiator is disposed within the first radiator's area, allowing both frequency bands to be supported within a compact overall footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes vertical dimensionality by stacking the first and second radiators at different heights above the ground plane, separated by dielectric spacers. This three-dimensional arrangement allows both radiators to operate independently at their respective frequencies while maintaining a compact horizontal footprint, effectively transitioning from a two-dimensional planar design to a three-dimensional spatial configuration.
2Area of stationary object
If the antenna structure is made compact, then the size is reduced, but the bandwidth becomes narrower
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the antenna system into two independent radiator structures, each optimized for a specific frequency band. The first radiator is designed with specific dimensional parameters for L1 band operation, while the second radiator is designed with different parameters for L2 band operation. This segmentation allows each radiator to maintain optimal performance for its designated frequency while the overall compact structure is achieved through their nested arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by adjusting the dimensional parameters of each radiator independently - the first radiator has outer and inner periphery dimensions optimized for L1 band, while the second radiator has dimensions optimized for L2 band. The dielectric spacer thickness and material properties are also adjusted to achieve the desired resonant frequencies and bandwidth characteristics for each band within the compact structure.
3Area of stationary object
If the radiators are placed close together to reduce size, then the compactness is improved, but mutual interference between frequency bands increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dielectric spacers as intermediary elements positioned between the first and second radiators. These spacers provide electrical isolation and control the coupling between the two radiators, reducing mutual interference while maintaining the compact nested structure. The spacers act as mediators that allow close proximity for size reduction while preventing harmful electromagnetic coupling between the different frequency bands.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional dual-frequency antenna designs are used, then multi-frequency operation is achieved, but the directional pattern performance deteriorates with increased multipath reception
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by designing each radiator with specific geometric characteristics optimized for its frequency band. The first radiator has an outer periphery and inner periphery with dimensions tailored for L1 band directional performance, while the second radiator has dimensions optimized for L2 band. This localized optimization of each radiator's geometry ensures that each frequency band achieves optimal directional patterns and multipath rejection characteristics appropriate to its operating frequency.
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 design achieves expanded operational bandwidth and reduced multipath reception, maintaining a compact size and optimal directional patterns for improved GNSS signal reception across multiple frequency bands.
Implementation Method 1
A set of conducting elements electrically connect locations within the second protrusions, or locations within the second region adjacent to the second protrusions, with the ground plane
Implementation Method 2
The first radiator and the second radiator are configured to support resonant modes at different frequencies
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C
AI summary
A dual-frequency patch antenna (200) includes a ground plane (202), an inside radiator (204), and an outside radiator (206). The inside radiator is configured as a region with a periphery, along which is a series of first protrusions separated by first grooves. The outside radiator is configured as a ring with an outer periphery, along which is a set of capacitive elements, and an inner periphery, along which is a series of second protrusions separated by second grooves. A set of conducting elements (208) electrically connect the series of second protrusions with the ground plane. The inside radiator and the outside radiator can be fabricated on a dielectric substrate (210) separated from the ground plane by a dielectric solid or air. The inside radiator and the outside radiator can be disposed on the same surface or on different surfaces of the dielectric substrate.