Hinge-Integrated Antenna for Foldable Device Signal Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in designing antennas for foldable wireless communication devices is to maintain or improve performance despite limited antenna clearance and increasing functionality, especially when the device is in a folded state.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a hinge-integrated antenna system in foldable user equipment (UE) that includes conductors in each panel and a hinge, allowing for selective coupling of radio frequency circuitry to optimize signal transduction across different modes and configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the device is made foldable to decrease form factor, then the device size when not in use is reduced, but antenna performance is hindered particularly when folded
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna is divided into multiple separate conductors (first conductor in first panel, second conductor in second panel, third conductor in hinge, and fourth conductor) that can be independently configured and connected. This segmentation allows the antenna system to adapt to different device configurations (folded vs. unfolded) while maintaining performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna configuration is made dynamic through the selection mechanism that can selectively connect different conductors based on the device's state. When the device is folded, the system can switch between different conductor combinations to optimize antenna performance for each configuration state.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple antennas are disposed in a single device to increase functionality, then communication capabilities are improved, but available volume for antennas is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The same set of conductors (first, second, third, and fourth conductors) serves multiple antenna functions and can be configured to support different communication protocols and frequency bands. The selection mechanism enables a single physical structure to provide multiple antenna elements, reducing the need for separate dedicated antennas for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple antenna functions are merged into a single integrated conductor system. Rather than placing separate physical antennas for different communication capabilities, the patent combines multiple antenna elements within the same conductor structure, allowing them to share the same physical space while maintaining distinct functional capabilities.
3Volume of moving object
If antenna clearance is limited to very small volumes to accommodate device size, then device portability is improved, but antenna performance maintenance becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna design transitions from a two-dimensional planar configuration to a three-dimensional folded structure that utilizes the hinge region. By extending the antenna conductors into the third dimension through the fold, the system achieves longer effective antenna length and better performance within the constrained footprint of a compact device.
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 solution enhances antenna bandwidth, efficiency, and resonant frequency tuning, while reducing signal blockage in the folded state, thereby supporting both standalone and non-standalone modes of operation.
Implementation Method 1
a signal transducer that is configured to transduce between guided signals and wireless signals
Data Source
AI summary
A method of configuring a signal transducer of a foldable UE includes: providing a first panel comprising a first conductor configured to provide a first portion of the signal transducer; providing a second panel comprising a second conductor configured to provide a second portion of the signal transducer; providing a hinge connected to the first panel and the second panel and configured to allow the first panel to rotate relative to the second panel about a pivot axis of the hinge, the hinge comprising a third conductor configured to provide a third portion of the signal transducer, the third conductor electrically coupling the first conductor to the second conductor; providing a fourth conductor that is physically separate from the first conductor, the second conductor, and the third conductor; and selectively causing the fourth conductor to provide a fourth portion of the signal transducer.