Foldable Terminal Antenna Coupling for Stable Multi-Mode Signals

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Solution Overview

Problem

Foldable terminal devices face challenges in maintaining stable antenna signal performance across different modes due to changes in antenna positions and operating frequency bands, leading to complex antenna arrangement and connection methods.

Innovation Solution

The solution involves coupling the second antenna element disposed in the second part with the first antenna element disposed in the first part for feeding, allowing them to operate in the same frequency band, thereby avoiding signal interference caused by distance changes and improving antenna performance without adding wiring complexity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple antennas with the same operating frequency band are disposed on the two relatively movable parts to ensure stable antenna use performance, then antenna signal stability is improved, but antenna arrangement and connection methods become complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveantenna signal stabilityVSAvoidantenna arrangement and connection methods
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines two antenna elements into a single integrated antenna structure that spans across the foldable terminal device. This merged antenna design eliminates the need for separate antennas on each movable part, simplifying the arrangement and connection methods while maintaining stable signal performance across different device modes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated antenna structure serves multiple functions simultaneously - it operates as a single antenna system across different frequency bands and maintains functionality in both folded and unfolded modes. This multi-functional design replaces the need for mode-specific antenna configurations, reducing complexity while ensuring reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the foldable terminal device transitions between folded and bar-type modes, then device adaptability is improved, but antenna signal stability deteriorates due to position changes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice mode transitionsVSAvoidantenna signal stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a dynamic antenna design where the integrated antenna structure automatically adapts its electrical characteristics based on the device's physical state. The antenna maintains optimal performance in both folded and unfolded configurations through its distributed capacitor structure, which inherently adjusts to the changing geometry without requiring active control or reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The antenna design utilizes parameter changes in its distributed capacitor structure to maintain signal stability. As the device transitions between modes, the physical distance between capacitor groups changes, which naturally adjusts the antenna's electrical parameters (such as capacitance and resonant frequency) to maintain stable operation across different configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 approach enhances the coupling feeding efficiency between the antenna elements, improves antenna performance, and simplifies the antenna arrangement by maintaining consistent signal quality across different modes of the foldable terminal device.

Implementation Method 1

a distributed capacitor, including a first antenna element disposed in a first part and a second antenna element disposed in a second part, is used for coupling the first antenna element and the second antenna element for feeding

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic coupling: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP3940884B1Foldable terminal device
Publication Date: 2025.05.21 HUAWEI TECH CO LTD
  • EP3940884B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3940884B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3940884B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

This application provides a foldable terminal device, including a first feed source, and a first part and a second part that are foldable. The first part is configured with a first antenna element that is fed by the first feed source. The second part is configured with a second antenna element that is coupled to the first antenna element for coupled feeding when the foldable terminal device is folded. An operating frequency band of the second antenna element includes an operating frequency band of the first antenna element. The foldable terminal device provided in this application aims to provide a foldable terminal device with a simple structure and high antenna performance.