Modular Multi-Band Antenna Reflector for Easier Base Station Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current multi-band antennas for mobile communication base stations are complex and costly to manufacture, requiring high integration of multiple frequency bands and specific solutions that are difficult to assemble efficiently.

Innovation Solution

A modular multi-band antenna design featuring a frame with a reflector surface and inserts, where the frame and insert reflector surfaces form a common reflector, allowing radiators for different frequency bands to be mounted on separate parts, simplifying assembly and reducing manufacturing costs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If highly integrated multi-band antenna solutions are used to cover multiple frequency bands, then the number of frequency bands covered is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of frequency bands coveredVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The antenna system is divided into separate modules: a frame assembly containing first radiators for lower frequency bands, and one or more insert assemblies containing second radiators for higher frequency bands. Each module can be manufactured independently and then assembled together, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining multi-band coverage capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If highly integrated multi-band antenna solutions are used to cover multiple frequency bands, then the number of frequency bands covered is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of frequency bands coveredVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the antenna into frame and insert modules that can be manufactured separately using standard processes, the invention avoids the need for complex integrated manufacturing. The modular approach allows for economies of scale in producing individual modules, thereby reducing overall manufacturing cost while supporting multiple frequency bands.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The frame assembly serves as a universal base structure that can accommodate different insert assemblies for various higher frequency bands. This multi-functional design allows a single frame module to work with multiple types of inserts, reducing the need for entirely different antenna designs for different band combinations, thus lowering manufacturing costs.

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

3Adaptability or versatility

If specific integrated solutions are used for multi-band antennas, then the frequency band coverage is improved, but the ease of assembly is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrequency band coverageVSAvoidease of assembly
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The antenna is segmented into a frame assembly and removable insert assemblies. The inserts are designed to be easily installed and removed from the frame without requiring complex assembly procedures. This modular segmentation maintains comprehensive frequency band coverage while significantly improving ease of assembly and field replacement.

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

The modular design enables easy integration of radiators for multiple frequency bands, improving radiation characteristics and reducing manufacturing complexity and costs while maintaining efficient operation.

Implementation Method 1

The frame reflector surface and the insert reflector surface together form a common reflector for the first radiators

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS20240380099A1Multi-band antenna and mobile communication base station
Publication Date: 2024.11.14 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • US20240380099A1 patent drawing
  • US20240380099A1 patent drawing
  • US20240380099A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A multi-band antenna has first radiators, second radiators, a frame and at least one insert. The frame comprises a frame reflector surface, the first radiators are mounted to the frame, and the frame defines at least one window for receiving the at least one insert. The insert comprises a base having an insert reflector surface, the second radiators are mounted to the insert, and the base is located in the at least one window. The frame reflector surface and the insert reflector surface together form a common reflector for the first radiators.Further, a mobile communication base station is shown.