Combined GNSS and Radio Antenna Structure for Cross-Coupling Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices used for utility location and mapping face interference issues due to cross-coupling of different radio signals, particularly in devices that need to sense electromagnetic signals, leading to inaccurate utility line location and communication failures.
Innovation Solution
A combined satellite navigation radio transceiver antenna device with a cylindrical GNSS antenna element positioned atop a cylindrical radio transceiver antenna element, featuring a waveguide to control signal radiation patterns and spacing elements to prevent interference, along with shielding and modular connectors for separate signal communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If separate antennas are used for GPS and radio transceivers, then signal cross-coupling is reduced, but device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple antenna functions (GPS L-band, UHF radio transceiver, and VHF radio transceiver) into a single integrated antenna structure. The antenna device includes multiple antenna elements with different radiation patterns that can simultaneously handle multiple frequency bands and signal types, eliminating the need for separate antennas while reducing device complexity and preventing signal cross-coupling through proper element isolation and positioning.
2Volume of moving object
If radios are positioned close to sensing antennas, then device size is reduced, but signal interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by designing different antenna elements with specific radiation patterns tailored to their functions. The GPS antenna elements are oriented to receive signals from above with minimal ground interaction, while the radio transceiver elements are positioned and oriented to transmit/receive in horizontal planes. This spatial and functional differentiation allows close positioning while maintaining signal integrity through localized optimization of each antenna element's characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses ferrite beads and shielding structures as intermediary elements between the antenna elements and radio circuits. These intermediaries provide magnetic shielding and signal filtering that prevent cross-coupling and interference even when components are positioned in close proximity, allowing compact device design without sacrificing signal quality.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If shielding and signal filtering are added, then cross-coupling prevention is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates shielding and filtering functions directly into the antenna structure itself rather than adding separate components. The ground plane configuration, element positioning, and ferrite bead integration are built into the antenna assembly during manufacturing, providing cross-coupling prevention without requiring additional discrete shielding components or complex assembly steps.
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 effectively reduces signal interference, enhancing the accuracy of utility line location and communication in utility locator systems by isolating navigation and communication signals, thereby improving device performance and safety.
Implementation Method 1
A waveguide may be disposed on the radio transceiver antenna element and/or PCB to control a radiation pattern of signals transmitted therefrom
Implementation Method 2
A spacing element or elements may be disposed between the radio transceiver antenna element and GNSS antenna element
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to combined antenna apparatus for receiving GNSS signals and other radio signals to mitigate cross-coupling.