Distributed Antenna Arrangement with Wireless RF Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing antenna arrangements on printed wiring boards (PWBs) occupy significant space due to the inclusion of both antenna elements and radio frequency components, limiting the placement of other components and affecting the functionality of radio communication apparatus.
Innovation Solution
A multi-part distributed antenna arrangement is introduced, featuring a semiconductor chip with integrated radio frequency circuitry and a coupling element that wirelessly couples with an off-chip antenna element, allowing for galvanic separation and increased design flexibility by using electromagnetic coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If antenna element and radio frequency components are mounted on the same PWB, then the antenna arrangement can be compact, but the volume occupied by these components affects the placement of other components and reduces design flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna arrangement is divided into two separate parts: the antenna element and the semiconductor chip containing radio frequency circuitry. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and positioned with greater flexibility on the PWB, resolving the contradiction between compactness and design freedom.
Solution Approach 2:
A coupling element is introduced as an intermediary between the antenna element and the semiconductor chip. This coupling element enables electromagnetic coupling while allowing galvanic separation, thus achieving both compact integration and design flexibility for component placement.
2Volume of moving object
If radio frequency components are integrated within the semiconductor chip, then space is saved and design freedom is enhanced, but wireless coupling with the antenna element requires additional coupling mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or galvanic connections with electromagnetic coupling. The coupling element enables wireless or contactless electromagnetic coupling between the semiconductor chip and antenna element, eliminating the need for physical connectors and reducing mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling element serves multiple functions: it enables electromagnetic coupling between the chip and antenna, provides galvanic isolation, and allows for flexible positioning. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, offsetting the added complexity with functional consolidation.
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 solution saves space by integrating radio frequency components within the semiconductor chip, enhancing the positioning freedom of components and significantly improving the efficiency of the antenna arrangement, particularly in terms of insertion loss and operational frequency bands.
Implementation Method 1
a coupling element for wirelessly coupling the integrated radio frequency circuitry with the antenna element
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
A multi-part, distributed antenna arrangement (10) including: an antenna element (2) as a first part;, and a semiconductor chip (4) as a second part, separated from the first part, wherein the semiconductor chip comprises integrated radio frequency circuitry (6) and a coupling element (8) for wirelessly coupling the. integrated radio frequency circuitry with the antenna element.