Extendable Patch Antenna Structure for Compact Satellite Communication

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional portable communication devices face challenges in integrating satellite communication antennas due to size constraints and the need for a large footprint, especially with thick ceramic substrates being unsuitable for such devices.

Innovation Solution

The integration of a low-profile satellite patch antenna with a flexible display support structure that can extend or retract, allowing the antenna to be uncovered when needed, and utilizing a low dielectric constant plastic substrate to reduce thickness and enhance performance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional thick ceramic substrate antennas are used for satellite communication, then antenna gain and performance are improved, but device thickness and size increase making them unsuitable for portable devices

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveantenna gainVSAvoidsubstrate thickness

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the substrate material parameter from conventional thick ceramic to thin flexible plastic material, reducing thickness from several millimeters to less than 1mm while maintaining antenna functionality through parameter optimization

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses composite material structure combining flexible plastic substrate with conductive elements to create a thin yet functional antenna system that maintains performance while reducing thickness

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If patch antennas for satellite communication are positioned on the device, then satellite communication capability is improved, but the large footprint required conflicts with the small size of portable devices

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesatellite communication capabilityVSAvoidantenna footprint

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions the antenna from a planar 2D configuration to a 3D conformal structure that wraps around device edges and surfaces, utilizing three-dimensional space to achieve sufficient antenna area within compact device boundaries

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent integrates the antenna structure within the device housing and display assembly, nesting the antenna between internal components and utilizing the device's three-dimensional structure to accommodate the antenna footprint

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Reliability

If the antenna is always exposed, then satellite communication performance is improved, but the antenna is vulnerable to damage and interference when not in use

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication performanceVSAvoidantenna vulnerability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic antenna system that can change its state between exposed and covered based on operational needs, allowing the antenna to be protected during storage and transport while accessible during satellite communication operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 enables efficient satellite communication by providing a higher antenna gain and reduced reliance on precise antenna alignment, while also being compact and cost-effective for portable devices.

Implementation Method 1

A patch antenna of the communication device is positioned on the antenna surface... configured to support satellite communication

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The patch antenna includes: (i) a ground plane; (ii) a substrate of a low dielectric constant and low loss material and positioned on the ground plane; and (iii) a conductive radiator patch positioned on the substrate

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDielectric property: Dielectric

Data Source

PatentUS20250112367A1Extendable user communication device with low profile patch antenna for satellite communications

Publication Date: 2025.04.03 MOTOROLA MOBILITY LLC

AI summary

A communication device, method and computer program product enable satellite communication via a patch antenna incorporated into an extendable display device. A flexible display support structure moveably attached to and positionable on a base housing between retracted and extended positions. One of the flexible display support structure and the base housing has an antenna surface that is covered by the other one while the flexible display support structure is retracted and uncovered while extended. A flexible display is coupled across a front side of the base housing and the flexible display support structure to present a larger portion while extended and a smaller portion while retracted. A patch antenna is positioned on the antenna surface. The patch antenna includes a ground plane, a substrate comprising a low dielectric constant and low loss material and positioned on the ground plane, and a conductive radiator patch positioned on the substrate.