Millimeter-Wave Antenna Coverage Structure with Segmented Housing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Antenna radiation efficiency is reduced in electronic devices due to the shape of the housing and conductive members, which affect the radiation characteristics of millimeter wave antennas.
Innovation Solution
The electronic device incorporates a housing structure with a conductive member forming a notch in the shield layer and non-conductive members to reflect and transmit signals, allowing the antenna module to radiate signals effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional housing structure with conductive members is used, then the housing provides structural support and shielding, but the antenna radiation efficiency is reduced due to signal blockage and interference from conductive members
Solution Approach 1:
The housing structure is segmented into conductive and non-conductive portions. The side housing includes both conductive members (for structural support and EMI shielding) and non-conductive members (for signal transmission), allowing different regions to serve different functions. This segmentation enables the antenna module to radiate signals effectively while maintaining the protective housing structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the housing have different material properties tailored to local requirements. The front housing and rear housing are made of non-conductive material to allow signal transmission, while the side housing combines conductive and non-conductive portions. The conductive member is positioned specifically to provide shielding without blocking the antenna's radiation path, creating local quality variations that optimize both shielding and radiation efficiency.
2Reliability
If conductive members are disposed near the antenna module, then EMI shielding is improved, but signal transmission is blocked and radiation coverage is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
A non-conductive member is introduced as an intermediary between the conductive member and the antenna module. This non-conductive member allows the millimeter wave signal to pass through while the conductive member provides EMI shielding. The non-conductive member acts as a mediator that enables both shielding and signal transmission functions to coexist without interfering with each other.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement to resolve the conflict between shielding and signal transmission. The conductive member is positioned at specific angles (first acute angle and second acute angle with the virtual line crossing antenna centers) and depths within the housing, creating a spatial configuration where the conductive member shields from certain directions while leaving radiation paths open in other dimensions.
3Reliability
If the shield layer is made continuous for EMI protection, then shielding effectiveness is improved, but signal transmission to the antenna is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The shield layer is segmented into discrete conductive members rather than being continuous. The conductive members are positioned strategically within the housing to provide EMI shielding in critical areas while leaving gaps (non-conductive portions) that allow millimeter wave signals to pass through. This segmentation maintains shielding effectiveness while minimizing signal blockage.
Solution Approach 2:
The shielding structure has varying material properties in different locations. Areas requiring EMI protection have conductive members, while areas requiring signal transmission have non-conductive material. The conductive member's position and orientation are optimized to provide local shielding without creating a continuous barrier that would block antenna radiation.
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 enhances antenna radiation performance by reducing signal loss and ensuring wide coverage, maintaining sensitivity and improving signal transmission.
Implementation Method 1
a first signal component reflected toward the notch by the first surface or the second surface
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of non-conductive members comprising a non-conductive material disposed between the conductive member and the at least one antenna module
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
An electronic device is disclosed. An electronic device according to various embodiments includes: a housing having a front plate facing a first direction, a rear plate facing a second direction opposite the first direction, and a side housing surrounding a space between the front plate and the rear plate; a conductive member comprising a conductive material disposed between the front plate and the rear plate; a display viewable through the front plate; at least one antenna module including a plurality of antenna elements configured to form a beam in a third direction facing the conductive member, and disposed to be spaced apart from the conductive member in the space; and a wireless communication circuit electrically coupled to the antenna module and configured to transmit and/or receive at least one signal having a frequency in a range of 3GHz to 100GHz, wherein the conductive member has a first surface forming a first acute angle with a virtual line crossing centers of the antenna elements and facing in the third direction, and a second surface forming a second acute angle with the virtual line, wherein a joint of the first surface and the second surface is positioned on the virtual line.