Rotatable mmWave Antenna Module in Laptop Hinge for Wider Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of mmWave antennas in electronic devices, such as laptops, poses challenges due to space constraints and the need for directional radiation coverage, which complicates mechanical, thermal, and RF performance, especially in thin form factors where additional space for mmWave modules is limited.
Innovation Solution
A modular hinge mechanism with a rotatable mmWave antenna integrated module (AiM) placed inside a barrel hinge cap, along with cable routing and clamps to secure cables, allows for wider radiation coverage and maintains performance across different laptop use cases, and a base station-assisted algorithm to optimize AiM module orientation for better signal reception.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If mmWave antenna integrated modules are integrated into thin form factor electronic devices, then space utilization is improved, but radiation coverage and signal reception are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a rotatable mmWave antenna integrated module within the barrel hinge cap, allowing the antenna orientation to dynamically adjust based on the laptop's usage state (open/closed) and signal requirements. This dynamic positioning capability enables the antenna to optimize its radiation coverage direction without increasing the device's form factor, resolving the contradiction between compact space utilization and effective radiation coverage.
2Reliability
If multiple mmWave AiM modules are used to improve radiation coverage, then signal reception is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single rotatable mmWave AiM module that can dynamically change its orientation to track and maintain optimal signal reception from base stations in different directions. This eliminates the need for multiple fixed antennas, thereby reducing device complexity, interconnect requirements, and cost while maintaining reliable signal reception through active orientation adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates a base station-assisted algorithm that automatically controls the rotation of the AiM module to optimize signal reception without requiring manual intervention. The module self-adjusts its orientation based on received signal information, reducing the need for complex manual configuration and multiple antennas while maintaining reliable communication.
3Reliability
If a rotatable AiM module is implemented in the barrel hinge, then radiation coverage is improved, but mechanical stability and cable routing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the mmWave AiM module into the barrel hinge cap, which serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the hinge mechanism, houses the rotatable antenna module, and manages cable routing through integrated cable clamps. This multi-functional integration improves radiation coverage through rotatability while minimizing the increase in mechanical complexity by utilizing the existing hinge structure for multiple purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable AiM module is nested within the barrel hinge cap structure, allowing the antenna module to be contained within the existing hinge assembly. This nesting approach enables the rotatable functionality and improved radiation coverage while minimizing additional mechanical complexity, as the AiM module utilizes the space and structural framework already provided by the barrel hinge design.
Data Source
AI summary
Antennas and electronic devices using antennas are described herein. A mmWave antenna integrated module (AiM) may be disposed in a barrel hinge between the display and base portions of a laptop. An AiM module on the chassis of the laptop uses base station location and laptop location and orientation to rotate to provide mmWave communication. The chassis-mounted AiM module may be able to be magnetically attached and make electrical connection via pogo pins. A flexible printed circuit (FPC) and metal box may surround the AiM module to form an electromagnetic interference shield and thermal spreader. An identification system may be used to determine whether an antenna is compatible with a modem of the electronic device based on analog or digital signaling between the antenna side and modem side. An FPC may be disposed between portions of a bisected speaker box.