Foldable Passive Antenna Array for Multi-Band Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional passive antenna arrays are limited to single band operation and lack the ability to reconfigure their frequency response, making them less versatile for multi-functional applications such as radar systems and satellite communications.
Innovation Solution
A foldable passive antenna array with a dielectric substrate and predefined folding lines or hinges, allowing the antenna elements to be rearranged into different configurations, enabling dual band or multi-band operation by changing the array's shape through origami-style folding patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional passive antenna arrays are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the array is limited to single band operation and lacks frequency reconfiguration capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the antenna array structure movable and reconfigurable through folding mechanisms. The array transitions from a fixed planar configuration to a folded three-dimensional structure, enabling frequency reconfiguration capability. This dynamic structural change allows the same physical array to operate at different frequency bands without requiring multiple separate arrays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes dimensionality change by transforming the antenna array from a two-dimensional planar layout to a three-dimensional folded structure. This spatial transformation alters the electrical characteristics and resonant frequencies of the array, enabling multi-band operation. The folding introduces new spatial dimensions that affect the electromagnetic wave interaction with the antenna elements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the antenna array is made foldable with predefined folding lines, then the array can reconfigure its shape for multi-band operation, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the continuous antenna array substrate into multiple segments separated by predefined folding lines. These segments can be independently manufactured using standard PCB fabrication techniques, and then assembled by folding along the predetermined lines. This segmentation approach simplifies the overall manufacturing process while enabling the reconfigurable folded structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses preliminary action by pre-defining the folding lines and hinge locations during the substrate manufacturing process. The folding geometry and antenna element positions are predetermined in the design stage, allowing the structure to be manufactured as an integrated unit with built-in reconfiguration capability. This eliminates the need for complex post-assembly operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the antenna elements are separated into different antenna portions by folding lines, then dual band or multi-band operation is achieved, but the structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by using a flexible dielectric substrate that can be folded along predefined lines without compromising structural integrity. The substrate material is selected to provide both flexibility for folding and sufficient mechanical strength to maintain the antenna element positions and electrical connections. The flexible nature allows the substrate to be folded into different configurations while remaining intact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses hinges as intermediary elements at the folding lines to connect the separated antenna portions. These hinges provide a controlled mechanism for folding while maintaining structural integrity and electrical continuity. The hinges act as mediators that allow relative motion between segments while preserving the overall structural strength and functionality of the antenna array.
Data Source
AI summary
Passive antenna arrays and methods of using and fabricating the same are provided. A passive antenna array can include a substrate that is capable of being folded and a plurality of antenna elements disposed on the substrate. The substrate can have predefined folding lines such that the substrate can be folded into different positions. The antenna elements can be separated from each other by the folding lines in the substrate. The passive antenna array can exhibit dual band operation and can change its frequency by changing its shape.