MIMO Antenna Device with Multiplexer for Independent RF Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional smart array antenna systems are unable to operate independently, limiting their ability to achieve maximum data rates and conform to 802.11a/b/g/n standards, thus preventing the utilization of MIMO technique for increased throughput in wireless access points or routers.
Innovation Solution
A Multiple-Input-Multiple-Output (MIMO) antenna device with a circuit board, antenna units arranged in a loop formation, and multiplexer units that allow for independent operation of antenna units, enabling high data rate and antenna radiation beamforming by connecting selected antenna units to an RF circuit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional smart array antenna systems use a single RF port with transmission cables and phase shifters, then the system structure is simplified, but the antenna units cannot operate independently and maximum data rates cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the antenna system into multiple independent antenna units (at least 2), each with its own RF port and feed network. This segmentation allows each antenna unit to operate independently, enabling MIMO techniques to be implemented and achieving higher data rates (450-600 Mbps) while maintaining a manageable system structure through modular design.
2Reliability
If printed dipole antenna units are large in dimensions, then the antenna radiation performance is improved, but the antenna units cannot be installed inside wireless access points or routers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional large printed dipole antennas to compact planar inverted-F antenna (PIFA) units or microstrip patch antennas. These antenna designs achieve satisfactory radiation performance through optimized ground plane configurations, substrate material selection, and dimensional scaling, enabling installation within the limited space of wireless access points and routers while maintaining functional effectiveness.
3Productivity
If a single RF port is used with a network comprising transmission cables and phase shifters, then the system is easier to manufacture, but the MIMO technique cannot be utilized for increased throughput
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multiple independent RF ports (at least 2), each connected to separate antenna units through simplified feed networks. This segmentation enables MIMO techniques to be utilized, achieving increased throughput (450-600 Mbps) while maintaining ease of manufacture through modular assembly processes and standardized connector interfaces.
4Reliability
If antenna units are arranged in a smart array configuration, then the directivity is improved, but the antenna units cannot operate independently to achieve beamforming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent configures multiple antenna units (at least 2) in spatial arrangements such as linear arrays, planar arrays, or circular arrays, with each unit equipped with independent RF ports and feed networks. This segmentation enables each antenna unit to operate independently while maintaining their spatial configuration, allowing digital beamforming and directional control through software-based signal processing rather than hardware-based phase shifters.
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
The MIMO antenna device achieves high directivity, high throughput, and multi-operation bands, enabling wireless broadband access points to utilize the MIMO technique for increased transmission rates and coverage.
Implementation Method 1
The (1×M)-multiplexer unit is operable to select one of the (M) corresponding ones of the antenna units for connecting electrically the selected one of the antenna units to the RF circuit
Implementation Method 2
The MIMO antenna device is adapted for connecting electrically to a radio frequency (RF) circuit so as to transmit and receive RF signals
Data Source
AI summary
A Multiple-Input-Multiple-Output (MIMO) antenna device is adapted for connecting electrically to a radio frequency (RF) circuit for transmitting and receiving RF signals. The MIMO antenna device includes a circuit board, a plurality of antenna units, and a plurality of multiplexer units. The antenna units are disposed on the circuit board proximate to a peripheral edge thereof, are arranged in a loop formation, and are divided into a plurality of groups of the antenna units. Each of the multiplexer units is connected electrically to a respective one of the groups of the antenna units for selecting one of the corresponding antenna units and for connecting electrically the selected one of the corresponding antenna units to the RF circuit, thereby achieving the MIMO technique with the independently and simultaneously operating antenna units.