Compact Patch Antenna Array for Mobile Satellite Communication

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Solution Overview

Problem

Mobile satellite communication antennas face challenges with low power output, narrow bandwidth, and low gain due to their compact size, which limits their effectiveness and flexibility in shaping radiation patterns.

Innovation Solution

A compact patch antenna array design incorporating radio wave radiators, a ground plane, and a dielectric with a feeding network mounted on a flat dielectric to provide power, allowing for flexible radiation pattern shaping and improved signal output, including non-planar array configurations and multiple beamforming capabilities.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If the antenna size is reduced for mobile terminal applications, then portability and compactness are improved, but power output and signal strength deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveantenna volumeVSAvoidpower output
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The antenna is divided into multiple radiating elements (patches) arranged in an array configuration. Each element contributes to the overall radiation, and their combined effect provides higher power output and gain while maintaining a compact form factor suitable for mobile terminals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple radiating elements are merged into a single antenna array system that functions as one integrated radiating structure. The elements are fed by a common feeding network and work together to produce enhanced power output and improved signal strength compared to a single small antenna.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Volume of moving object

If the antenna size is reduced for mobile terminal applications, then portability and compactness are improved, but bandwidth deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveantenna volumeVSAvoidbandwidth
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The antenna is divided into multiple radiating elements (patches) arranged in an array configuration. Each element contributes to the overall radiation, and their combined effect provides higher power output and gain while maintaining a compact form factor suitable for mobile terminals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple radiating elements are merged into a single antenna array system that functions as one integrated radiating structure. The elements are fed by a common feeding network and work together to produce enhanced power output and improved signal strength compared to a single small antenna.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Volume of moving object

If the antenna size is reduced for mobile terminal applications, then portability and compactness are improved, but gain deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveantenna volumeVSAvoidgain
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The antenna is divided into multiple radiating elements (patches) arranged in an array configuration. Each element contributes to the overall radiation, and their combined effect provides higher power output and gain while maintaining a compact form factor suitable for mobile terminals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple radiating elements are merged into a single antenna array system that functions as one integrated radiating structure. The elements are fed by a common feeding network and work together to produce enhanced power output and improved signal strength compared to a single small antenna.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Device complexity

If a single patch antenna is used, then compactness and simplicity are improved, but radiation pattern flexibility deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveantenna structure complexityVSAvoidradiation pattern flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The antenna is divided into multiple radiating elements (patches) arranged in an array configuration. Each element contributes to the overall radiation, and their combined effect provides higher power output and gain while maintaining a compact form factor suitable for mobile terminals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The antenna array incorporates variable phase shifters and amplitude controllers that allow dynamic adjustment of the radiation pattern. This enables the antenna to adapt its beam direction and shape according to different communication requirements, providing flexibility without significant increases in structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 enhanced peak gain, narrower beam width, and adaptable radiation patterns, improving signal strength and mobility while maintaining compactness, suitable for various satellite communication applications including GPS and direct broadcasting.

Implementation Method 1

radio wave radiators, a ground plane, and a dielectric. The antenna design further comprises a feeding network mounted on a flat dielectric, serving as a device to provide power to the radiators

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS8643562B2Compact patch antenna array
Publication Date: 2014.02.04 SPATIAL DIGITAL SYST
  • US8643562B2 patent drawing
  • US8643562B2 patent drawing
  • US8643562B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A compact patch antenna array for mobile terminal applications comprising: a plurality of radiators mounted on one surface of a dielectric, with a ground plane being mounted on the other side of the dielectric. Beneath the ground plane, another dielectric with feeding network is placed. Other embodiments are described and shown in FIG. 2.