Distributed mmWave Antenna Packaging With Flexible Cable Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radio frequency devices face challenges in accommodating multiple antenna arrays, leading to increased size and space constraints, particularly when supporting millimeter wave communication frequencies.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of distributed antenna array modules with flexible cables for board-to-board connectivity, eliminating the need for bulky connectors and enabling efficient space utilization through direct coupling and electromagnetic communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple antenna arrays are included to support millimeter wave communication frequencies, then wireless communication capability is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna array is divided into multiple distributed portions that can be positioned in different parts of the radio frequency device. Each portion can be independently packaged and connected via flexible cables, allowing the antenna functionality to be distributed throughout the device rather than concentrated in one location, thus maintaining communication capability while reducing overall device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from planar antenna arrangements to three-dimensional distributed positioning of antenna portions. By utilizing vertical stacking and spatial distribution in multiple dimensions, the antenna array achieves millimeter wave communication capability without proportionally increasing the device's footprint area.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple antenna arrays are positioned in different parts of the device for consistent coverage, then communication coverage is improved, but space utilization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple antenna portions are nested within the same package structure, with each antenna portion integrated into the system-in-package along with shared RF circuitry. This nested arrangement allows multiple antenna elements to occupy overlapping or adjacent spatial regions without requiring proportional increases in the overall device area.
Solution Approach 2:
The distributed antenna portions share common RF circuitry, power supply, and control mechanisms within the system-in-package. This multi-functional integration allows a single package to support multiple antenna arrays for different communication protocols and coverage requirements, maximizing space utilization while maintaining versatile communication capabilities.
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 approach conserves space within the system-in-package by distributing antenna arrays and using flexible cables, allowing for smaller package dimensions while supporting multiple wireless communication protocols and capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
The flexible cable communicates signals between the first distributed portion of the antenna array module and the second distributed portion of the antenna array module
Data Source
AI summary
A radio frequency package includes a first portion of an antenna array module, a second portion of the antenna array module, and a flexible cable. The first portion of the antenna array module provides a first wireless communication functionality and the second portion of the antenna array module provides a second wireless communication functionality. The flexible cable includes first surface directly coupled to the first portion of the antenna array module. The flexible cable also includes a second surface directly coupled to the second portion of the antenna array module. The flexible cable communicates signals between the first portion of the distributed antenna array module and the second portion of the antenna array module.