Multidirectional Flexible Antenna Structure for mmWave Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high directivity of mmWave signals in electronic devices limits the space available for communication devices, restricting the shape and location of internal components due to the need for multiple communication devices to radiate signals in multiple directions.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device design featuring a housing with a flexible antenna structure that includes multiple printed circuit boards and conductive patterns, allowing for multidirectional signal radiation by using patch antennas and dipole antennas, which increases the degree of freedom in mounting communication devices and enhances coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple communication devices are positioned in an electronic device to radiate signals in multiple directions, then coverage directions are improved, but space in housing and design flexibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple antenna types (patch antennas on first PCB, dipole antennas on second PCB) into a single integrated antenna structure. This merging allows the structure to radiate signals in multiple directions simultaneously without requiring separate communication devices, thereby improving coverage directions while optimizing space utilization in the housing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement by positioning the first PCB and second PCB at different orientations and locations within the housing. The first PCB is arranged to radiate signals in a first direction while the second PCB radiates in a second direction, effectively using vertical and angular dimensions to achieve multidirectional coverage without increasing horizontal footprint.
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 design increases the coverage directions of communication devices, providing greater flexibility in mounting locations and improving the ability to radiate signals effectively across a range of frequencies from 3 GHz to 100 GHz, thereby optimizing the use of space within the device.
Implementation Method 1
at least one first conductive pattern that is formed in the first PCB or on the first surface, at least one second conductive pattern that is formed in the second PCB or on the second surface... each comprise at least one patch antenna element
Data Source
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AI summary
An electronic device capable of radiating signals toward a plurality of planes is provided, and includes a housing including a first plate and a second plate facing away from the first plate, and an antenna structure positioned in the housing. The antenna structure includes a first printed circuit board (PCB) that includes a first surface facing a first direction, a second PCB that includes a second surface facing a second direction different from the first direction, a flexible PCB (FPCB) that is extended between a first periphery of the first PCB and a second periphery of the second PCB, a first conductive pattern that is formed in the first PCB or on the first surface, a second conductive pattern that is formed in the second PCB or on the second surface, and a wireless communication circuit that is mounted on the first PCB and/or the second PCB.