Integrated Antenna Filter Unit Without RF Connectors
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing antenna filter units (AFUs) in base stations are large in size and weight, requiring numerous metal and plastic screws for assembly, and traditional RF connectors hinder size reduction, failing to meet the demands of miniaturization and high performance in 5G communication systems.
Innovation Solution
An integrated antenna filter unit (AFU) using a dielectric body with conducting slots and resonators, eliminating the need for traditional RF connectors and integrating filter and antenna functions, achieved through a ceramic monoblock structure with surface mounting technology.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional two-piece or three-piece RF connectors are used in AFU, then connection reliability is improved, but assembly space increases and miniaturization is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the filter unit and antenna unit into a single integrated AFU structure, eliminating the need for traditional RF connectors. The filter and antenna are directly coupled through integrated feeding networks, removing intermediate connection components and reducing overall assembly space while maintaining connection reliability through direct integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and eliminates traditional RF connectors from the AFU assembly, replacing them with integrated feeding networks that are directly formed as part of the AFU structure. This removal of unnecessary intermediate components reduces assembly space and simplifies the overall structure.
2Reliability
If multiple components are assembled with numerous metal and plastic screws, then assembly reliability is improved, but manufacturing complexity and production time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple discrete components (filter, antenna, feeding networks) into a single integrated AFU structure. This merging eliminates the need for numerous screws and complex assembly processes, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining assembly reliability through monolithic construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical fastening systems (screws, bolts) with integrated structural connections. The feeding networks and components are directly formed as part of the AFU structure, eliminating the need for mechanical fasteners and reducing assembly complexity.
3Stability of the object's composition
If traditional RF connectors are used, then connection stability is improved, but production efficiency decreases due to extensive soldering processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges all connection functions into the integrated AFU structure, eliminating the need for separate RF connectors and extensive soldering processes. The integrated feeding networks provide stable connections directly within the monolithic structure, improving production efficiency by reducing manufacturing steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional electrical connection methods (soldering, connector assembly) with integrated structural connections. The feeding networks are directly formed as part of the AFU, eliminating the need for separate connection processes and improving production efficiency.
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 AFU reduces size and weight, improves production efficiency, and enhances performance by eliminating the need for traditional connectors and reducing assembly complexity, while maintaining high RF performance.
Implementation Method 1
a dielectric body, which defines a plurality of single-mode resonators each including a tuning hole
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna filter unit and a base station having the antenna filter unit are disclosed. The antenna filter unit according to an embodiment comprises a dielectric body that defines a plurality of single-mode resonators each including a tuning hole. At least one slot is formed on a surface of the dielectric body to serve as an antenna radiator. The at least one slot is coupled to at least one of the resonators.