Multi-band Antenna Using Folded Patches for Compact Footprint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Miniaturization of multi-mode mobile station antennas is hindered by the need for different antenna sizes for disparate frequency bands, with existing solutions like PIFA exhibiting narrow bandwidths and increased dimensions when enhanced, and introducing EMI.
Innovation Solution
A compact tri-dimensional antenna configuration using L-shaped and folded patches with tunable resonant frequencies, allowing operation across multiple frequency bands while reducing spatial requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the antenna is designed for disparate frequency bands, then the antenna can operate across multiple frequency bands, but the spatial requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from planar two-dimensional antenna patches to a three-dimensional configuration by folding one patch vertically. This dimensional change allows the antenna to achieve multiple resonant frequencies (different bands) within a compact footprint, resolving the contradiction between multi-band operation and spatial requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna is divided into multiple discrete patches (first patch and second patch) with different geometries and orientations. The first patch operates at higher frequencies while the folded second patch operates at lower frequencies, allowing independent optimization of each segment for its specific frequency band
2Volume of moving object
If PIFA is used to transduce signal energy, then the antenna is compact and low profile, but the bandwidth is narrow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple antenna patches with different resonant characteristics into a single integrated structure. The first patch and folded second patch are electrically connected through a feed structure, merging their individual bandwidths to create a broader overall operating bandwidth while maintaining compact dimensions
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna structure is designed to perform multiple functions: the first patch handles higher frequency bands while the folded second patch handles lower frequency bands. This multi-functional design allows a single compact antenna to serve multiple frequency requirements that would traditionally require separate antenna elements
3Adaptability or versatility
If PIFA is enhanced with parasitic elements to improve bandwidth, then the bandwidth is enhanced, but the dimensions increase and EMI is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a carefully designed feed structure as an intermediary element that electrically connects the first and second patches. This feed structure enables broadband operation and reduces EMI by providing a controlled impedance path between patches, avoiding the need for parasitic elements that would otherwise be required to achieve similar bandwidth enhancement
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 antenna achieves efficient signal transduction across a wide range of frequencies, facilitating increased miniaturization of mobile stations and reducing EMI, while maintaining compact dimensions.
Implementation Method 1
The first patch is resonant at least at a first higher frequency band... The second patch is resonant at a lower frequency band and a second higher frequency band
Data Source
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AI summary
An antenna, and an associated methodology, for a portable radio device, such as a mobile station capable of operation at a plurality of frequency bands spread across a wide range of frequencies. The antenna includes a first antenna patch and a second antenna patch. The first antenna patch comprises an L-shapcd patch disposed upon a substrate. A second antenna patch forms a folded patch formed of three contiguous portions, folded about fold lines in a manner to cause the second antenna patch to include a first contiguous portion that extends upwardly beyond the first antenna patch at an angle perpendicular thereto. Second and third contiguous portions are formed by folding additional portions of the second antenna patch about additional fold lines.