Metal Frame Antenna Layout for Distance and Angle Sensing

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic devices face challenges in accurately determining the distance and angle of another device due to the need for multiple antennas, which can be difficult to integrate in limited spaces and impose strict layout requirements, especially in small mobile terminals.

Innovation Solution

The use of a frame antenna made of metal as part of the electronic device's frame body, which allows for radiation signals to be transmitted and received on both sides of the frame, enabling distance and angle determination without the need for multiple patch antennas, and incorporating a processing chip to process these signals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple patch antennas are used for distance and angle determination, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedistance and angle determination accuracyVSAvoidantenna system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the frame structure with antenna functionality, where the frame itself serves as the antenna element. This integration eliminates the need for separate patch antennas while maintaining the capability for distance and angle determination through signal transmission and reception between devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The frame antenna serves multiple functions: it provides structural support as part of the device frame while simultaneously functioning as the antenna for wireless communication and positioning. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If multiple patch antennas are used for distance and angle determination, then measurement precision is improved, but the area occupied by antennas increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedistance and angle determination accuracyVSAvoidantenna layout area
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The frame structure is merged with the antenna element, allowing the antenna to be formed by the frame itself rather than requiring separate patch antenna components. This integration significantly reduces the area occupied by antenna elements while maintaining positioning functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Measurement precision

If strict antenna layout requirements are imposed, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedistance and angle determination accuracyVSAvoidantenna integration difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The frame and antenna are merged into a single integrated structure, eliminating the need for separate antenna components and complex layout arrangements. This integration simplifies the manufacturing process while maintaining the capability for accurate distance and angle determination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Measurement precision

If multiple antennas are used for positioning, then measurement precision is improved, but the device becomes less adaptable to different postures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning accuracyVSAvoiddevice posture flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The frame antenna provides omnidirectional signal transmission and reception capabilities, allowing the device to maintain positioning functionality regardless of its posture or orientation. This universal functionality enhances adaptability to different device postures while maintaining positioning accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 allows for accurate distance and angle measurement with reduced antenna requirements, minimizing space constraints and enabling flexible device posture during positioning, thus facilitating miniaturization and improved signal coverage.

Implementation Method 1

A target member of the frame body is made of metal and used as a frame antenna. The frame antenna is at least capable of transmitting and receiving radiation signals of a target frequency band.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20260066522A1Electronic device and control method
Publication Date: 2026.03.05 LENOVO (BEIJING) LTD
  • US20260066522A1 patent drawing
  • US20260066522A1 patent drawing
  • US20260066522A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic device includes a frame body and a processing chip. A target member of the frame body is made of metal and used as a frame antenna. The frame antenna is at least capable of transmitting and receiving radiation signals of a target frequency band. A radiation space of the radiation signals transmitted by the frame antenna at least includes a first radiation space located on one side of a first surface of the frame body and a second radiation space located on one side of a second surface of the frame body. The first surface and the second surface are non-intersecting. The target member connects the first surface and the second surface. The processing chip is configured to determine a distance between the target device and the electronic device based on the radiation signals transmitted by the target device received by the frame antenna.