Omni-directional Coplanar Antenna Element with Augmentation Rods
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern wireless antennas face challenges in maintaining a broad frequency bandwidth while achieving a nearly uniform omni-directional radiation pattern over 360 degrees, which is essential for certain wireless applications.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a pair of planar dipole radiating elements on a dielectric support structure with parasitic radiating elements positioned equidistantly on either side, utilizing a balanced feed network and a broad band balun to convert between balanced and unbalanced feed networks, and includes radiation pattern augmentation rods to enhance the omni-directional beam pattern.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional antenna designs are used, then directional radiation pattern is achieved, but omni-directional coverage with uniform beamwidth cannot be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna is segmented into multiple dipole elements (first and second dipole radiating elements) arranged in specific orientations, with each element contributing to different aspects of the radiation pattern. This segmentation allows the antenna to achieve omni-directional coverage while maintaining beamwidth uniformity through coordinated operation of the segmented elements.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the antenna structure are assigned different functional qualities - the dipole elements provide primary radiation, the parasitic elements modify the radiation pattern locally, and the dielectric support structure provides localized impedance control. This local quality differentiation enables simultaneous achievement of omni-directional coverage and uniform beamwidth.
2Adaptability or versatility
If omni-directional radiation pattern is achieved, then uniform beamwidth is maintained, but frequency bandwidth is limited
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple dipole elements and parasitic elements are merged into a single integrated antenna structure, where the combined radiation patterns of all elements create both omni-directional coverage and uniform beamwidth across a broad frequency bandwidth. The merging of these elements' functions achieves multiple performance goals simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna structure is designed with multi-functionality - the dipole elements serve as primary radiators, the parasitic elements provide pattern modification and bandwidth extension, and the dielectric support structure provides mechanical support and electrical performance tuning. This universality allows the antenna to maintain uniform beamwidth across broad frequency bandwidth.
3Adaptability or versatility
If parasitic radiating elements are added, then radiation pattern is augmented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The parasitic radiating elements are positioned asymmetrically relative to the dipole elements, with specific spacing and orientations that optimize the radiation pattern augmentation. This asymmetric arrangement achieves effective pattern control while avoiding the complexity of symmetric configurations requiring multiple identical elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The parasitic radiating elements act as intermediaries between the dipole elements and the surrounding electromagnetic environment, modifying the radiation pattern without requiring direct complex feeding networks. These intermediary elements simplify the overall structure by passively achieving pattern augmentation through their strategic placement.
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 configuration expands the frequency bandwidth and maintains a consistent omni-directional radiation pattern, resulting in a lightweight and cost-effective antenna solution with improved performance and simplified feeding structure.
Implementation Method 1
first parasitic radiating element configured between the first, and second radiating elements and spaced apart therefrom in a first direction, and a second parasitic radiating element configured between the first and second radiating elements and spaced apart therefrom in a second direction generally opposite to the first direction
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an omni-directional antenna element configuration having a compensated radiation pattern. Broadband antenna elements are coplanarly disposed on a suitable planar dielectric material. A single element or antenna comprises a pair of balanced fed radiating microstrip elements symmetrically disposed about the centerline of a balanced signal feed network. Additionally, a pair of pattern augmentation rods positioned on each side of and proximate to the planar dielectric material running longitudinally to the centerline axis of a balanced feed network. Disposed proximate to each radiating element are partially coplanar, frequency bandwidth expanding microstrip lines. The combination of radiating elements together with pattern augmentation rods provides a broad bandwidth omni-directional radiating element suitable for use in multi-element antenna arrays.