Low-Profile Circularly Polarized Antenna With Air-Gap Bandwidth Boost
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional antennas for communication systems face challenges in low-profile designs, particularly in systems with constrained internal space, where the size of antennas is dependent on the operating frequency band, and there is a need for non-invasive solutions that protect the antenna elements from environmental factors like temperature and corrosion.
Innovation Solution
The development of low-profile, circularly-polarized antenna devices that incorporate a radome for protection, parasitic patches for improved bandwidth, microstrip feed lines, a power divider with approximately ±90-degree phase lines, and an air gap below the patch antenna element, along with an electrical ground plane, to simplify fabrication and enhance performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional antenna designs are used, then the antenna can transmit/receive signals effectively, but the antenna size becomes large and invasive to payload volume in systems with constrained internal space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the conventional three-dimensional antenna structure into a two-dimensional planar configuration, fundamentally changing the geometric parameters. This dimensional reduction allows the antenna to maintain functional performance while dramatically decreasing volume occupancy, making it suitable for constrained internal spaces without compromising signal transmission reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a volumetric 3D antenna structure to a planar 2D structure by flattening the antenna elements onto a single plane. This dimensionality change reduces the antenna's profile height and volume while preserving its electromagnetic radiation characteristics, effectively resolving the conflict between compact size and transmission reliability
2Length of stationary object
If antenna size is reduced for low-profile design, then the antenna fits in constrained spaces, but the bandwidth and gain performance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-layered planar structure where parasitic patches are positioned above and below the main radiating element, creating a nested configuration. This nesting approach effectively increases the electrical length and resonant frequency range within a compact physical footprint, thereby expanding bandwidth and maintaining gain performance in a low-profile design
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs a composite structure combining the driven patch element with multiple parasitic patches made of conductive materials, separated by dielectric substrates. This composite configuration creates multiple resonant modes and enhances the overall radiation efficiency, achieving improved bandwidth and gain without increasing the antenna's physical length
3Device complexity
If the antenna elements are exposed to the environment, then the structure remains simple, but the antenna elements suffer from temperature and corrosion damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a radome constructed from dielectric material that encapsulates the antenna elements. This thin-film shell provides environmental protection against temperature extremes and corrosion while maintaining electromagnetic transparency, allowing the antenna to operate reliably in harsh conditions without significantly increasing structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The radome acts as an intermediary protective layer between the antenna elements and the external environment. It mediates the interaction by blocking harmful environmental factors (moisture, corrosion, temperature extremes) while permitting electromagnetic signals to pass through, thus protecting the antenna without requiring complex sealing or shielding mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein is an apparatus and a method for a low-profile, circularly polarized antenna. The antenna comprises a first substrate having a first side and a second side; an antenna element on the first side of the first substrate; a first conductor on the second side of the first substrate proximity coupled to the antenna element; a second conductor on the second side of the first substrate proximity coupled to the antenna element and ±90 degrees out of phase with the first conductor; a second substrate under the first substrate having a least one air gap therein under the antenna element; a third substrate under the second substrate having a first side and a second side; and an electrical ground plane on the second side of the third substrate.