LC Phase-Shift Antenna Array for High-Frequency Beamforming
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Solution Overview
Problem
As wireless communications networks transition to higher frequencies above 5 GHz, they face challenges in providing uniform coverage, especially in areas without line of sight, due to increased signal attenuation by atmospheric gases and weather effects, as well as difficulties in penetrating structures like buildings and stadiums.
Innovation Solution
A radio system incorporating a liquid crystal phase shift layer with individually addressable LC pixels, integrated with planar antennas and an active matrix transistor array, allows for beamforming of radio signals by controlling the path length of each LC pixel, enabling efficient signal transmission and reception through the LC phase shift layer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If wireless communications networks operate at higher frequencies above 5 GHz to improve data rates, then data transmission speed is improved, but signal attenuation increases due to atmospheric gases and weather effects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the antenna system into multiple individually addressable antenna elements arranged in an array. Each element can be independently controlled with different phase and amplitude settings, allowing the system to segment the signal transmission path and steer beams electronically without mechanical movement, thereby maintaining high data rates while reducing overall signal loss through directional focusing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical parameters (phase and amplitude) of signals fed to each antenna element to create constructive interference in desired directions and destructive interference in unwanted directions. This parameter control allows the system to adapt to varying atmospheric conditions and weather effects by dynamically adjusting beam patterns to minimize attenuation.
2Speed
If wireless communications networks operate at higher frequencies above 5 GHz, then data rate is improved, but signal penetration through structures deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different phase and amplitude settings to different spatial locations (antenna elements) within the array. This local quality control allows the system to create focused beam patterns that can penetrate structures more effectively by concentrating energy in specific directions, thereby maintaining high data rates while improving signal penetration reliability through localized energy focusing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of individually addressable antenna elements are used for beamforming, then beamforming capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the antenna elements and their associated phase shifters and amplifiers to be identical or similar standardized components. This universality allows the same basic building block to be replicated across the entire array, simplifying design, manufacturing, and maintenance. The system achieves high beamforming capability through the coordinated operation of these universal elements rather than through complex unique components for each element.
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 signal penetration and coverage in non-line-of-sight environments and structures by effectively managing signal phase shifts, reducing attenuation, and allowing for compact, low-profile transceivers that can be integrated into building structures, such as window glass, to improve range and reduce blind spots.
Implementation Method 1
The LC phase shift layer includes a number of individually addressable LC pixels. A path length of each LC pixel varies as a function of a voltage applied across that LC pixel.
Data Source
AI summary
A radio includes a liquid crystal (LC) phase shift layer including LC pixels. A path length of each LC pixel varies as a function of a voltage applied across the LC pixel. The radio further includes one or more planar antennae. Each of the one or more planar antennae is arranged to at least one of receive or transmit radio signals through the LC phase shift layer. The radio further includes an active matrix transistor array. Each transistor of the active matrix transistor array is configured to control a corresponding voltage across a storage capacitor. Each storage capacitor is connected across a respective LC pixel. The radio further includes a radio frequency transceiver circuit connected to the one or more planar antennae and a controller to perform beamforming of radio signals by controlling the active matrix transistor array to set the path length for each of the LC pixels.