Integrated MEMS Microphone Housing as an Antenna Without EMI
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Solution Overview
Problem
In devices that send and receive audio signals, such as smartphones and smart watches, the proximity of microphones to antennas leads to reduced antenna efficiency and corrupted audio signals due to electromagnetic interference.
Innovation Solution
An integrated microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) microphone and antenna configuration where the antenna is formed by a conductive layer of the microphone housing, allowing them to be positioned close together without degrading signal quality, using a flexible mount and insulating layer for efficient signal routing and filtering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the microphone is positioned close to the antenna to save space, then the device size is reduced, but the antenna efficiency is reduced and audio signals are corrupted due to electromagnetic interference
Solution Approach 1:
A ground structure is introduced as an intermediary element positioned between the microphone and the antenna. This ground structure acts as a shield that blocks electromagnetic interference from the antenna from corrupting the audio signals generated by the microphone, while still allowing the components to be positioned close together for space efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure is segmented into multiple conductive layers including a first conductive layer forming part of the antenna and a second conductive layer forming a shield. These segmented conductive layers are positioned at different locations to perform different functions: one for antenna operation and another for electromagnetic shielding
2Reliability
If the microphone is positioned away from the antenna to prevent electromagnetic interference, then audio signal integrity is maintained, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The housing structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for the components, forms part of the antenna structure through its conductive layers, and provides electromagnetic shielding through strategically positioned conductive layers. This multi-functionality allows close component positioning without sacrificing signal integrity
3Reliability
If separate structures are used for microphone and antenna to ensure signal quality, then electromagnetic interference is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The housing structure is designed to merge multiple functions into a single integrated component. The same housing that encloses the microphone also contains conductive layers that form part of the antenna and provide electromagnetic shielding, eliminating the need for separate shielding structures and reducing overall device complexity
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 configuration maintains antenna transmission efficiency and prevents electromagnetic interference, making it suitable for space-constrained devices without compromising audio signal integrity.
Implementation Method 1
The antenna is at least partially integrated with the microphone and is structured to utilize the conductive layer of the housing as a radiating element
Implementation Method 2
using a flexible mount and insulating layer for efficient signal routing and filtering
Data Source
AI summary
Integrated microphone and antennas include a microphone and an antenna. The microphone includes a housing and an acoustic transducer. The housing defines a cavity and includes a conductive layer. The acoustic transducer is positioned within the cavity and structured to generate an acoustic signal. The antenna is at least partially integrated with the microphone and structured to transmit and receive radio frequency signals. The antenna is structured to utilize the conductive layer of the housing as a radiating element.