Foldable Antenna Phase Alignment for Folded-State Radiation Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
The efficiency of antennas in foldable electronic devices is compromised due to mutual interference and varying operating environments caused by folding, leading to decreased radiation performance.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a power distribution circuit with adjustable phase elements on separate paths connecting first and second antennas, allowing them to operate in an array antenna mode even when folded, thereby maintaining optimal performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the device is folded to improve portability, then compactness is improved, but antenna efficiency deteriorates due to mutual interference between first and second antennas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the phase shift adjustable based on the device's folding state. The phase shifting element dynamically changes the phase of RF signals depending on whether the device is in unfolded or folded state, allowing the antenna system to adapt to different spatial configurations and maintain optimal performance in both states
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the phase parameter of RF signals using a phase shifting element. By adjusting the phase parameter dynamically based on the folding state, the system resolves mutual interference between antennas in the folded state while maintaining proper operation in the unfolded state
2Length of moving object
If the distance between first antenna and second antenna decreases to improve compactness, then portability is improved, but antenna efficiency deteriorates due to mutual interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful mutual interference between closely spaced antennas into a beneficial arrangement by using phase shifting to coordinate their operation. The close proximity that causes interference is transformed into an advantageous compact design, with the phase shifting element compensating for the interference to maintain high antenna efficiency
3Strength
If the ground plane is used to improve device structure, then structural integrity is improved, but antenna performance deteriorates due to transmission line mode operation in folded state
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the current distribution on the ground plane adjustable through phase control. The phase shifting element dynamically changes the phase relationship between antennas based on the folding state, transforming the ground plane's static structure into a dynamically controllable system that can operate in antenna mode rather than transmission line mode
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the phase parameter of RF signals to control the current distribution on the ground plane. By adjusting the phase parameter, the system changes the operating mode from transmission line mode (harmful in folded state) to antenna mode (beneficial for radiation efficiency), while maintaining structural integrity
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 configuration suppresses antenna performance deterioration in folded states by ensuring synchronized phase alignment of signals across antennas, enhancing radiation efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
at least one element disposed on at least one of the first path and the second path and configured to adjust a phase of an RF signal provided from the wireless communication circuit
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a housing, a first antenna including a first portion of a first part, a second antenna including a second portion of a second part, a power distribution circuit electrically connected to the first antenna through a first path and electrically connected to the second antenna through a second path longer than the first path, a wireless communication circuit. The housing comprises the first part, the second part, and a connecting part disposed between the first part and the second part, wherein the first part is coupled to the connecting part so as to be rotatable with respect to the second part, and in a state where the housing is folded, a first point of the first antenna may correspond to a second point of the second antenna.