Housing-Integrated Antenna Layout for Compact AoA Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
The use of multiple patch antennas in electronic devices for measuring angle of arrival (AoA) reduces available space for other components, limiting design flexibility and functionality.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device utilizing a single patch antenna and conductive portions of the housing, combined with additional antennas, to measure AoA and transmit/receive polarized signals, reducing the need for multiple patch antennas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If three patch antennas are used to measure angle of arrival, then measurement capability is improved, but device volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the antenna function with the housing structure by making the housing itself conductive and serving as part of the antenna system. Specifically, the housing includes a first conductive portion and a second conductive portion that work together with a single patch antenna to achieve angle of arrival measurement, eliminating the need for three separate patch antennas and reducing device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical protection, structural support, and simultaneously acts as an antenna element for wireless communication and angle of arrival measurement. The conductive portions of the housing are designed to function as antenna elements, allowing the same structure to fulfill both structural and electromagnetic functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple patch antennas are arranged for signal reception, then communication functionality is improved, but arrangement space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the antenna elements with the housing structure, where the first and second conductive portions of the housing serve as antenna elements. This integration allows multiple antenna functions to be achieved within the existing housing footprint without requiring additional arrangement space for separate antenna components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a planar arrangement of multiple patch antennas to a three-dimensional structure where the housing itself provides the antenna elements. By utilizing the vertical and lateral dimensions of the housing structure, the design achieves multiple antenna functions without increasing the device's planar footprint.
3Measurement precision
If three patch antennas are used for AoA measurement, then measurement accuracy is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the antenna function with the housing structure, eliminating the need to manufacture and assemble three separate patch antennas. The housing is designed with integrated conductive portions that serve as antenna elements, simplifying the manufacturing process by reducing the number of components and assembly steps while maintaining AoA measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure is designed to serve multiple purposes simultaneously: structural support, protection, and antenna functionality. This multi-functionality reduces manufacturing complexity by eliminating the need to produce separate antenna components and their associated mounting structures, while still achieving the required measurement precision.
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
Accurate AoA measurement is achieved while preserving space for other components, enhancing design flexibility and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
receive a first phase signal from an external electronic device by using the first antenna and the third antenna
Implementation Method 2
receive a second phase signal from an external electronic device by using the first antenna and the second antenna
Implementation Method 3
measure the angle of arrival (AoA) of a signal output from an external electronic device
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a side member including a first side surface having formed thereon a first segment portion and a second side surface having formed thereon a second segment portion, a first antenna including a first conductive portion at least partially included on the first side surface, a second antenna including a second conductive portion at least partially included on the second side surface, a printed circuit board disposed inside the side member and including at least one processor and a wireless communication module, a third antenna disposed between the first antenna and the second antenna, and memory, including one or more storage media, storing instructions, wherein the at least one processor is communicatively coupled to the memory and the wireless communication module, wherein the first antenna and the second antenna are antennas of a first type and the third antenna is an antenna of a second type, and wherein the instructions when executed by the at least one processor individually or collectively, cause the electronic device to receive a first phase signal from an external electronic device by using the first antenna and the third antenna, receive a second phase signal from the external electronic device by using the first antenna and the second antenna, and, based on the first phase signal and the second phase signal, identify a position of the external electronic device.