Leaky Wave Antenna Modules for Wireless Communication Inside Metal Cabinets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical cabinets face challenges in intra- and inter-enclosure electromagnetic wave communication due to metallic surfaces inhibiting wave propagation, leading to reduced communication range and increased complexity with the use of gateways.
Innovation Solution
A leaky wave antenna system comprising adjustable leaky waveguide units with movable reclosers and apertures to control electromagnetic wave radiation within and across electrical cabinets, allowing flexible power adjustment and modular expansion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If gateways are added to boost communication wave strength, then communication range is improved, but device complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The metallic enclosure itself is transformed into an active communication component through the leaky waveguide system. The enclosure's inner surface serves as the waveguide structure, and communication devices utilize this existing structure for wave propagation, eliminating the need for separate gateway infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The metallic enclosure performs dual functions: its traditional protective/structural role and its new role as a leaky waveguide for electromagnetic wave propagation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated gateway devices by making the enclosure itself capable of wave boosting and distribution.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If wave emission power is limited to avoid electromagnetic compatibility problems, then electromagnetic compatibility is improved, but communication range is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The leaky waveguide system creates localized wave propagation zones along the enclosure's inner surface. By confining wave energy to specific paths defined by the waveguide structure, the system achieves effective communication in targeted areas while limiting omnidirectional radiation that causes electromagnetic compatibility issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The leaky waveguide acts as an intermediary structure between the communication device and the external environment. It controls wave release from the enclosure, allowing regulated wave propagation that maintains internal communication while reducing uncontrolled electromagnetic emissions to the outside environment.
3Reliability
If traditional antennas are used inside metallic enclosures, then communication capability is provided, but wave propagation is inhibited by metallic surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The metallic enclosure, which traditionally reflects and blocks electromagnetic waves causing communication problems, is transformed into a beneficial leaky waveguide structure. The same metallic surfaces that cause wave inhibition are configured to enable controlled wave leakage and propagation along the enclosure's inner surface, converting the harmful reflective property into a useful waveguiding mechanism.
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
Enhances electromagnetic wave communication efficiency and flexibility within and between cabinets, reducing power loss and complexity while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
a leaky waveguide unit (10) which extends along a reference axis (X), running substantially horizontally across the electrical cabinet (100), and which is configured to radiate electromagnetic waves inside the enclosure of the associated electrical cabinet (100)
Implementation Method 2
a recloser (16, 26) which is adapted to be applied at the upper wall (14) of the metallic body and which is movable relative thereto for adjusting the power of electromagnetic waves radiated inside the enclosure
Data Source
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AI summary
An antenna module (1) for wireless electromagnetic wave communication inside at least one associated electrical cabinet (100) which comprises an enclosure comprising a plurality of metallic walls (101) and at least one electrical device (102) located inside the enclosure and adapted for wireless communication with at least another correspondingly adapted communication device (102) via the antenna module (1). The antenna module (1) comprises at least one leaky waveguide unit (10) which extends along a reference axis (X) and is configured to be installed in and radiate electromagnetic waves inside the enclosure of said at least one associated electrical cabinet (100), and wherein the at least one leaky waveguide unit (10) comprises one or more electromagnet wave through-openings each selectively modifiable in location and/or dimensions to adjust the power of electromagnetic waves radiated inside the enclosure. The present invention encompasses also a leaky wave antenna (200) comprising at least one antenna module (1), and an electrical switchgear installation comprising such a leaky wave antenna (200).