Coupled Patch Antenna Diplexing for Multi-Band 5G RF Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current RF communication systems face challenges in efficiently handling and diplexing radio frequency signals across different frequency bands, particularly in 5G communication standards where carrier aggregation and beamforming are critical but pose technical complexities.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a mobile device with a front-end system that includes signal conditioning circuits for conditioning RF signals of different frequencies and an antenna structure that diplexes these signals using electromagnetically coupled patch antennas, specifically a rectangular-shaped first patch antenna and an L-shaped second patch antenna, tuned with radial stubs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional separate antenna systems are used for different frequency bands, then signal handling for each band is simple, but device complexity and space occupation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple antenna functions into a single integrated antenna structure that can handle multiple frequency bands (24 GHz and 71 GHz) simultaneously. The antenna structure includes a first antenna element for the first frequency band and a second antenna element for the second frequency band, merged into one physical structure with shared grounding and feeding mechanisms, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining multi-band adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna structure is designed with universal functionality to operate across multiple frequency bands. The same antenna structure can be configured to handle both 24 GHz and 71 GHz signals through adjustable matching networks and configurable antenna element activations, allowing one antenna system to serve multiple purposes rather than requiring separate dedicated antennas for each band.
2Reliability
If diplexing is achieved through circuit components, then frequency separation is effective, but insertion loss increases and signal quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional circuit-based diplexing components (such as filters, switches, and couplers) with an electromagnetic field-based solution. The diplexing function is achieved through the inherent electromagnetic coupling and spatial separation of antenna elements, along with frequency-selective surfaces and grounding structures that naturally route different frequency bands to appropriate ports without requiring active circuit components, thereby minimizing insertion loss and maintaining signal quality.
3Productivity
If carrier aggregation is implemented across multiple frequency bands, then data rates increase, but interference between bands increases
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna structure is segmented into distinct antenna elements and radiation patterns for different frequency bands. The first antenna element is optimized for 24 GHz operation while the second antenna element is optimized for 71 GHz operation, with physical and electromagnetic segmentation between them. This segmentation reduces mutual interference while enabling carrier aggregation across bands, as each segment can be independently tuned and controlled to minimize cross-band 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
This configuration enables efficient handling and diplexing of RF signals across the 24 GHz to 71 GHz frequency range, enhancing the performance of 5G communication systems by improving signal conditioning, reducing interference, and increasing data rates through effective carrier aggregation and beamforming.
Implementation Method 1
a second antenna electromagnetically coupled to the first antenna and configured to handle the second radio frequency signal
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and methods for diplexing by antenna structure are provided. In certain embodiments, a mobile device includes a front end system and an antenna structure. The front end system includes a first signal conditioning circuit configured to condition a first radio frequency signal of a first frequency, and a second signal conditioning circuit configured to condition a second radio frequency signal of a second frequency that is lower than the first frequency. The antenna structure is configured to diplex the first radio frequency signal and the second radio frequency signal, and includes a first antenna configured to handle the first radio frequency signal and a second antenna electromagnetically coupled to the first antenna and configured to handle the second radio frequency signal.