Embedded Dielectric Antenna Array for Dynamic Beam Steering

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional antenna arrays in mobile devices occupy significant space and fail to dynamically adjust signal reception and transmission directions, leading to decreased communication quality when the device is moved or rotated.

Innovation Solution

The integration of a dielectric substrate with an antenna array comprising antennas of different polarizations, embedded within the substrate, and a transceiver that can adjust the main beam direction, allowing for improved isolation and dynamic signal adjustment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If a traditional antenna array is used for wireless transmission, then signal transmission capability is provided, but the occupied space in the mobile device is significant

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoccupied spaceVSAvoidsignal transmission capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from traditional planar antenna arrays to a three-dimensional folded configuration. The antenna elements are arranged in multiple layers and folded structures that utilize the Z-direction (thickness dimension) of the mobile device, thereby reducing the footprint area while maintaining adequate element spacing for signal transmission.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The antenna array employs a nested or folded structure where antenna elements are arranged in multiple nested layers within the limited space of the mobile device. This allows multiple antenna elements to coexist in a compact volume without significant mutual interference.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a traditional fixed antenna array is used, then simple structure is maintained, but the device cannot dynamically receive and transmit signals at different directions when moved or rotated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedynamic signal reception capabilityVSAvoidantenna array structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a reconfigurable antenna array where the electrical characteristics can be dynamically adjusted. Phase shifters and switching networks allow the beam direction and polarization to be changed in real-time based on the device orientation and communication requirements, enabling adaptive performance without mechanical movement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The antenna array utilizes electronically controllable parameters such as phase difference, amplitude weighting, and polarization angle to adapt its radiation pattern. By changing these parameters through control circuits, the antenna system can dynamically steer beams and adjust to different transmission directions without physical reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If antennas with same polarization are used in the array, then manufacturing is simplified, but signal isolation between antennas is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal isolationVSAvoidantenna fabrication
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs antennas with different local polarizations at different positions within the array. Specifically, alternating antenna elements have orthogonal polarizations (e.g., horizontal and vertical), which creates spatial diversity and improves signal isolation. This localized variation in polarization characteristics enhances overall system performance while remaining manufacturable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 reduces the occupied space, enhances signal isolation, and maintains communication quality even when the device is moved or rotated, supporting efficient wireless transmission across a wide frequency band.

Implementation Method 1

an antenna array, at least comprising: a first antenna, embedded in the dielectric substrate; and a second antenna, embedded in the dielectric substrate, wherein the first antenna and the second antenna have different polarizations

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDielectric: Dielectric

Data Source

PatentUS9306291B2Mobile device and antenna array therein
Publication Date: 2016.04.05 HTC CORP
  • US9306291B2 patent drawing
  • US9306291B2 patent drawing
  • US9306291B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A mobile device at least includes a dielectric substrate, an antenna array, and a transceiver. The antenna array at least includes a first antenna and a second antenna. The first and second antennas are both embedded in the dielectric substrate. The first and second antennas have different polarizations. The transceiver is coupled to the antenna array so as to transmit or receive a signal. The polarization of the antenna array may be dynamically adjusted by controlling a phase difference between the first antenna and the second antenna.