Fluid-Filled Patch Antenna for Wideband Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional water monopole and water dielectric resonator antennas face limitations in wideband applications, frequency tuning, and radiation efficiency, requiring an improved antenna design for wireless communication systems.
Innovation Solution
A patch antenna design incorporating a substrate layer with a hollow thermoplastic structure, a dielectric layer filled with a fluid such as water or methanol, and a conductive ground plane, which allows for enhanced electromagnetic wave reflection and radiation efficiency, and can be integrated with solar cells for dual-function devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional water monopole or water dielectric resonator antennas are used, then the antenna can be implemented for certain applications, but the radiation efficiency and impedance bandwidth are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite structure combining a dielectric resonator made of low-loss material (such as PTFE or Rogers substrate) with a water-filled cavity. This composite design leverages the low dielectric loss of the solid material while utilizing the high permittivity of water to enhance radiation efficiency and broaden impedance bandwidth, resolving the contradiction between energy loss and bandwidth limitations of conventional water antennas.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies different material properties to different regions: the dielectric resonator provides structural support and low-loss transmission, while the water-filled region provides high permittivity for enhanced radiation. This local differentiation of material qualities allows the antenna to simultaneously achieve high radiation efficiency and wide impedance bandwidth.
2Adaptability or versatility
If water is used as the dielectric material, then frequency tuning capability is achieved, but the antenna profile becomes higher and radiation characteristics deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the variable permittivity parameter of water (which changes with temperature and composition) to achieve frequency tuning. By adjusting the water temperature or adding salts to change its permittivity, the resonant frequency can be tuned without increasing the antenna profile, as the compact dielectric resonator structure maintains a low profile while the water's parameter changes enable frequency adjustment.
3Strength
If a solid dielectric structure is used, then structural support is provided, but the transparency and integration with solar cells is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a thin dielectric resonator structure that provides necessary structural support while maintaining transparency. The thin-film design allows light to pass through to the solar cells beneath, enabling dual functionality. The dielectric resonator acts as a flexible structural element that supports the antenna function while permitting optical transmission for photovoltaic integration.
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
The patch antenna achieves higher radiation efficiency, wider impedance bandwidth, and improved transparency compared to conventional antennas, with a lower profile and improved radiation characteristics, enabling effective wireless communication.
Implementation Method 1
allows for enhanced electromagnetic wave reflection and radiation efficiency
Implementation Method 2
The dielectric layer includes a thermoplastic structure filled with a fluid
Data Source
AI summary
A patch antenna is presented herein. The patch antenna can include a substrate layer, a dielectric layer and a conductive layer. The substrate layer can include a hollow thermoplastic structure. The dielectric layer can be attached to a surface of the substrate layer. Furthermore, the dielectric layer can include a thermoplastic structure filled with a fluid. The conductive layer can be associated with another surface of the substrate layer.