Microstrip Antenna Array With Radiation Nulls for Panel Isolation

The patent changes the fundamental parameter of decoupling mechanism from physical barrier structures to electromagnetic field manipulation through asymmetric radiation patterns. By controlling the phase and amplitude of radiation from antenna elements, the system creates a radiation null in the direction of the receive panel, achieving decoupling without large physical structures. This parameter change from spatial separation to field control resolves the contradiction between isolation effectiveness and compact size.

The patent replaces the mechanical/physical decoupling structures (isolation walls and choke grooves) with an electromagnetic field-based solution. Instead of using physical barriers to block or guide electromagnetic waves, the system uses controlled asymmetric radiation patterns to create a radiation null, effectively substituting a mechanical system with an electromagnetic field control system that achieves the same decoupling function in a much more compact form.

The patent makes the antenna elements multi-functional by enabling them to simultaneously excite multiple modes (first-order and second-order modes) and control their radiation patterns. The same antenna structure that radiates signals also creates the radiation null for decoupling, eliminating the need for separate decoupling structures. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity despite the sophisticated mode control required.

The patent merges the functions of signal radiation and decoupling into a single antenna element. Instead of having separate transmit elements and separate decoupling structures, the same antenna elements perform both functions by controlling their radiation patterns to create nulls in specific directions. This merging eliminates additional components and simplifies the overall device architecture.