3D Injection-Molded Microwave Contacts for Dense Radar Routing

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Solution Overview

Problem

The increasing complexity and packing density of modern microwave apparatus, particularly in radar systems, pose challenges in signal routing due to the need to combine different material layers and technologies, leading to difficulties in achieving low-loss, compact, and versatile signal distribution networks while maintaining cost-effectiveness and angular resolution.

Innovation Solution

A hybrid apparatus using a 3-dimensional injection molded layer with deformable microstructures and an electrically isolating bonding agent to establish a robust and flexible connection between metal and injection molded layers, allowing for efficient signal distribution and routing in radar systems.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If different material layers (microstrip and waveguide) are combined in hybrid solutions, then signal distribution versatility is improved, but device complexity and routing difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal distribution versatilityVSAvoidrouting complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines microstrip and waveguide technologies into a single hybrid apparatus, integrating different signal transmission media to achieve versatile signal distribution while reducing the number of separate components needed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The hybrid apparatus is designed to handle multiple signal routing functions within a single structure, supporting both microstrip and waveguide signal paths, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite the multi-functional capability

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

2Volume of moving object

If packing density of antenna elements and signal lines is increased, then apparatus size is reduced, but signal routing difficulty and collision avoidance become more challenging

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapparatus sizeVSAvoidsignal routing difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes three-dimensional integration with injection molded layers to route signals in multiple spatial dimensions, allowing high-density packing of antenna elements and signal lines while maintaining collision-free routing through vertical and lateral path planning

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Measurement precision

If channel count is increased for higher angular resolution, then measurement precision is improved, but signal routing complexity and collision-free path finding increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveangular resolutionVSAvoidsignal routing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the signal routing into multiple independent layers (PCB layer, injection molded layer, metal layer), allowing each layer to handle specific signal paths without interference, thereby supporting high channel counts for improved angular resolution while maintaining manageable routing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 enables a reliable, low-loss, and compact signal distribution network with reduced part count, facilitating accurate alignment and robust fixation, thereby addressing the challenges of signal routing and cost in high-density microwave systems.

Implementation Method 1

a plurality of deformable microstructures serving as electric pressure contacts when assembling said first contact partner and said second contact partner

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical deformation: Deformation

Implementation Method 2

deformable microstructures serving as electric pressure contacts

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure contact: Pressure Increase

Implementation Method 3

an electrically isolating bonding agent being situated between said first contact partner and said second contact partner

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesive bonding: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentUS12142806B2Apparatus radiating and receiving microwaves, radar apparatus comprising such an apparatus, and method for assembling such an apparatus
Publication Date: 2024.11.12 GOEBEL UHLAND
  • US12142806B2 patent drawing
  • US12142806B2 patent drawing
  • US12142806B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An apparatus at least comprising a first contact partner which has a first metal contact surface, a 3-dimensional injection molded layer serving as second contact partner which has a second metal contact surface, and which comprises a synthetic injection-moldable material, and a plurality of deformable microstructures being situated between said first contact partner and said second contact partner. Said deformable microstructures are serving as electric pressure contacts which electrically connect said first metal contact surface and said second metal contact surface after having assembled said first contact partner and said second contact partner. Said apparatus comprises an electrically isolating bonding agent, preferably an electrically isolating bonding agent comprising a polymeric material or a polymeric-based compound material. Said bonding agent being situated between said first contact partner and said second contact partner.