Dual-Polarized Dipole Feed Layout With Single-Plane PCB Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing dual polarized dipole radiator feed structures are costly and complex, requiring multiple parts and steps for manufacturing, which limits their integration and flexibility in multi-band antenna architectures.
Innovation Solution
A single-plane radiator feed structure is introduced, where each dipole arm is electrically coupled with a feed line that intersects at the crossing point, reducing the footprint and allowing for a single-piece configuration, thereby simplifying manufacturing and reducing costs by eliminating the need for orthogonal arrangements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If orthogonal arrangement of feed structures is used for dual polarized dipoles, then feed lines can be provided for both polarizations, but the footprint increases and manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional orthogonal arrangement to a three-dimensional configuration by routing feed lines through layers of the substrate. Feed lines for different polarizations are placed in different layers and connected to dipole arms via vias, allowing both polarizations to be served without increasing the planar footprint significantly.
Solution Approach 2:
The feed structure utilizes multiple layers of the substrate, nesting feed lines for different polarizations within the same vertical space. Each layer contains feed lines for specific polarizations, and they are interconnected through vias, effectively nesting the feed structures within each other vertically.
2Quantity of substance
If two PCB parts are used for orthogonal feed arrangement, then both polarizations can be fed, but manufacturing steps increase and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines feed lines for both polarizations into a single integrated PCB structure rather than using separate PCB parts. The single substrate contains all feed lines for horizontal and vertical polarizations, connected to respective dipole arms through vias, eliminating the need for multiple separate feed structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The single PCB substrate serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical support, contains feed lines for both horizontal and vertical polarizations, provides grounding planes, and enables electrical connections through vias. This multi-functional design replaces what would traditionally require multiple specialized components.
3Quantity of substance
If orthogonal feed arrangement is used, then both polarizations are covered, but integration of other radiator components is limited
Solution Approach 1:
By moving feed line routing to vertical dimensions through multiple layers and vias, the patent frees up planar space on the substrate surface. This additional vertical dimension allows other radiator components to be integrated more easily in the available planar area without interfering with feed line arrangements.
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna, in particular for a mobile communication cell site, comprises at least one radiator and a radiator feed being electrically coupled to the at least one radiator, the radiator being a dual polarized dipole radiator, wherein each dipole is formed of two dipole arms and the dipoles are in a crossed arrangement relative to each other, wherein the radiator feed comprises a respective feed line for each polarized dipole and extends within a single feed plane between the dipole arms intersecting the dipoles in the region of the crossing. Further, a cell site comprising such antenna is shown.