Dielectric-Loaded Antenna Assembly for Easier Element Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing antenna devices with dielectric-loaded array antennas face challenges in aligning dielectric equivalents to the substrate, requiring precise positioning which is not efficiently addressed by existing methods.
Innovation Solution
The antenna device includes a substrate, a feed element, a first parasitic element, a dielectric member, and a conductive pattern, where the dielectric member is supported by the substrate through electrical connection to the parasitic element, allowing for easy alignment and increased operating band.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If dielectric equivalents are bonded to the substrate with an adhesive, then the dielectric member can be fixed to the substrate, but alignment is required to adjust the position of the dielectric equivalent to the associated feed element which complicates the manufacturing process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the fixing function and the electromagnetic coupling function into a single conductive pattern. The conductive pattern serves dual purposes: it electrically connects the dielectric member to the parasitic element (fixing the dielectric member) and provides electromagnetic coupling. This eliminates the need for separate alignment procedures between the dielectric member and feed element, as the conductive pattern is automatically positioned through the electrical connection to the parasitic element.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive pattern performs multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as an electrical connection path between the dielectric member and parasitic element, serves as part of the electromagnetic coupling structure, and provides positional reference for alignment. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated fixing lands or separate alignment features, simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining fixing stability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If dedicated fixing lands are added to support the dielectric member, then the dielectric member can be securely fixed, but the antenna performance may be degraded due to additional structures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the fixing structure with the existing parasitic element and conductive pattern. Instead of adding dedicated fixing lands that could interfere with antenna performance, the conductive pattern that already exists for electromagnetic coupling is used to provide both electrical connection and positional support. This integration ensures that no additional structures are introduced that could degrade antenna performance while still achieving secure fixing of the dielectric member.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive pattern serves as both the electromagnetic coupling element and the fixing mechanism. By making the conductive pattern multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for separate fixing lands. The same conductive structure that is necessary for antenna operation also provides the mechanical support and positioning for the dielectric member, thus maintaining antenna performance while achieving fixing stability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the dielectric member covers both the feed element and parasitic element, then the operating band can be increased, but the alignment precision between multiple components becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the alignment reference function with the electrical connection function. The conductive pattern that provides electrical connection between the dielectric member and parasitic element also serves as the alignment reference. This means that aligning the conductive pattern to the parasitic element automatically positions the dielectric member correctly relative to both the feed element and parasitic element, simplifying the alignment process while maintaining the broad operating band coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive pattern performs self-alignment through its electrical connection to the parasitic element. By designing the conductive pattern to match the parasitic element geometry and connection points, the system achieves automatic alignment during assembly. The electrical connection itself serves as the alignment mechanism, eliminating the need for separate alignment procedures and reducing manufacturing precision requirements while maintaining the dielectric member's coverage over both feed and parasitic elements for broad operating band.
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 easy alignment of the dielectric member to the feed element, enhancing the operating band and heat dissipation characteristics while preventing performance degradation from dedicated fixing lands.
Implementation Method 1
The first parasitic element is disposed on the substrate at a position different from a position of the feed element as viewed from a plan view and is electromagnetically coupled with the feed element
Data Source
AI summary
A feed element for feeding power is disposed on a substrate. A first parasitic element is disposed at a position different from a position of the feed element as viewed from above and is electromagnetically coupled with the feed element. A dielectric member is disposed at a position at which the dielectric member at least partially covers the feed element and the first parasitic element as viewed from above. A conductive pattern is disposed on a surface of the dielectric member which faces the feed element at a position at which the conductive pattern matches the first parasitic element as viewed from above. The dielectric member is supported by the substrate as a result of the conductive pattern being electrically connected to the first parasitic element.