MEMS Reconfigurable Antenna Structure for Compact Multi-Band Tuning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Frequency reconfigurable antennas in existing technologies face issues with large size, limited frequency configuration range, and efficiency due to the use of semiconductor switches, variable capacitance diodes, or liquid crystals, which hinder miniaturization and array application.
Innovation Solution
An antenna design featuring a dielectric substrate with a first radiating element and an open-loop second radiating element, along with MEMS switching elements comprising a membrane bridge and signal electrode, allowing for frequency reconfiguration by controlling the capacitance between the elements, thereby adjusting the resonant frequency without increasing radiating elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the number of radiating elements is increased to improve antenna performance, then the antenna gain and coverage are improved, but the antenna size becomes too large and electromagnetic interference between elements increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the electrical parameters of the radiating element by introducing a groove that divides the element into two parts, and using a switching element to control connection between these parts. This allows the electrical length and impedance of the radiating element to be reconfigured without changing its physical size, thereby improving antenna performance while maintaining compact dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the antenna electrically dynamic by incorporating a switching element that can change the connection state of the radiating element. The switching element can connect or disconnect the two parts of the radiating element, dynamically adjusting the electrical characteristics to achieve different operating frequencies or impedance states without physical movement or size change.
2Adaptability or versatility
If semiconductor switches, variable capacitance diodes, or liquid crystals are used for frequency reconfiguration, then the resonant frequency can be adjusted, but the antenna size increases and manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the frequency reconfiguration function from complex electronic components (semiconductor switches, variable capacitance diodes, liquid crystals) and implements it using a simpler mechanical switching element. The switching element is a basic electrical component that can be integrated into the radiating element structure itself, removing the need for separate complex control components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the switching element directly with the radiating element structure. The switching element is integrated into the groove of the radiating element, combining the function of radiation and switching into a single unified structure. This eliminates the need for separate control circuits and reduces overall device complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional switching elements are used for frequency reconfiguration, then the resonant frequency can be changed, but microwave signal loss increases and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates an ideal switching behavior by designing the switching element to have minimal impact on the microwave signal. The switching element is designed to either fully connect or fully disconnect the radiating element parts, creating a near-ideal switch with very low insertion loss when connected and complete isolation when disconnected, thereby minimizing energy loss during frequency reconfiguration.
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 design achieves a smaller volume, simpler structure, and improved frequency reconfigurability with reduced microwave signal loss, enabling efficient multi-frequency switching and smaller antenna size.
Implementation Method 1
each switching element is arranged corresponding to one first groove and includes a membrane bridge and a signal electrode... allowing for frequency reconfiguration by controlling the capacitance between the elements
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides an antenna and a communication device, the antenna includes a dielectric substrate, a first radiating element, a second radiating element and a switching element, the second radiating element surrounds the first radiating element, the second radiating element is of an open-loop structure, at least one first groove is provided in the first radiating element, each switching element corresponds to one first groove, the switching element includes a membrane bridge and a signal electrode, the signal electrode is arranged on the dielectric substrate, coupled to the second radiating element, and insulated from the first radiating element, the membrane bridge is arranged on a side of the first radiating element away from the dielectric substrate, each membrane bridge crosses over one first groove, and at least part of the signal electrode is located in a space defined by the membrane bridge and the first groove.