Flexible-Film Antenna Array Element for Lightweight MIMO Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current antenna arrays used in wireless communication systems are heavy and expensive to manufacture, making them unsuitable for the increasing demand for lightweight and cost-effective solutions in MIMO systems.
Innovation Solution
The development of an antenna element and array where the transmission line and antenna are integrated on a single flexible film, such as Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), allowing for a lightweight and cost-effective manufacturing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional antenna arrays are used, then antenna performance is achieved, but weight increases and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by integrating the transmission line and antenna onto a single flexible film substrate, replacing traditional rigid PCB structures. This thin-film approach significantly reduces the weight of the antenna array while maintaining electrical performance, directly resolving the contradiction between achieving antenna performance and reducing weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the transmission line and antenna into a single integrated structure on one flexible film, eliminating separate components and interconnections. This consolidation reduces overall weight and simplifies manufacturing, addressing both the weight reduction goal and performance maintenance requirements.
2Reliability
If traditional antenna arrays are used, then antenna performance is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the transmission line and antenna onto a single flexible film substrate, the patent reduces the number of separate components, layers, and assembly steps required. This integration simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces material usage, and lowers production costs while maintaining antenna performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The use of a flexible film as the substrate enables simpler, more cost-effective manufacturing processes compared to traditional rigid PCBs. The flexible film can be manufactured using roll-to-roll or other flexible printing techniques, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining electrical performance.
3Weight of moving object
If transmission line is bent 90 degrees on flexible film, then weight is reduced and manufacturing is simplified, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the flexibility of the film to allow the transmission line to be bent into different configurations, including 90-degree angles. This dynamic approach enables the transmission line to adapt its shape for optimal electrical performance and compact layout without requiring complex rigid structural supports, thereby reducing weight while managing structural complexity through material flexibility rather than mechanical complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
According to an example aspect of the present invention, there is provided an antenna element for an antenna array, comprising, a transmission line and an antenna, wherein one end of the transmission line is coupled to a base board of the antenna array and another end of the transmission line is coupled to the antenna, and a first part of the transmission line is bent about 90 degrees compared to a second part of the transmission line, and the transmission line and the antenna are on, or in, a single flexible film.