Multi-Antenna Module Beam Forming Fine-Tuning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-antenna modules for fifth-generation mobile communication systems face challenges in fine-tuning beam forming, particularly when concurrently using fifth-generation and fourth-generation mobile communication systems, due to the difficulty in adjusting the beam forming in multiband antennas.
Innovation Solution
A multi-antenna module is designed with a dielectric substrate, including a high-frequency band antenna and a low-frequency band antenna, along with a switch element that allows for fine-tuning of beam forming by switching between different states of the low-frequency band antenna, such as connection to the ground plane, floating state, or short-circuit condition, to affect the directional characteristics of the high-frequency band antenna.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a multiband antenna is used to support both fifth-generation and fourth-generation mobile communication systems, then the device can concurrently use multiple communication systems, but it becomes difficult to fine-tune the beam forming for fifth-generation systems
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system is segmented into a first radiation element for fifth-generation communication and a second radiation element for fourth-generation communication. This segmentation allows independent control and optimization of each antenna element, enabling beam forming fine-tuning for fifth-generation systems while maintaining multiband functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a switch element that can dynamically change the connection state of the second radiation element between different states (connected to feed line, connected to ground plane, floating, or short-circuited). This dynamic switching capability allows the system to fine-tune beam forming characteristics by adjusting the electrical state of the second radiation element relative to the first radiation element.
2Reliability
If the second radiation element is always connected to the second feed line for fourth-generation communication, then fourth-generation communication functionality is maintained, but the beam forming of the first radiation element cannot be fine-tuned
Solution Approach 1:
The switch element enables dynamic reconfiguration of the second radiation element's connection state. It can switch between being connected to the second feed line (maintaining fourth-generation communication) and being connected to the ground plane, floating, or short-circuited (enabling beam forming fine-tuning for the first radiation element). This dynamic switching resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The second radiation element serves multiple functions: it can operate as a fourth-generation communication antenna when connected to the second feed line, and it can serve as a parasitic element or ground reference when connected to the ground plane or switched to floating/short-circuit states. This multi-functionality allows the same component to support both fourth-generation communication and fifth-generation beam forming fine-tuning.
3Ease of operation
If the second radiation element is connected to the ground plane with terminal impedance interposed therebetween, then beam forming fine-tuning is enabled, but fourth-generation communication signal transmission is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The switch element provides dynamic control, allowing the system to transition between different operational modes. When fourth-generation communication is needed, the switch connects the second radiation element to the second feed line. When fifth-generation beam forming fine-tuning is needed, the switch connects the second radiation element to the ground plane with terminal impedance. This dynamic switching enables the system to prioritize one function over the other based on operational requirements.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple switch states are provided for the second radiation element, then the degree of freedom in beam forming is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switch element is segmented into multiple independent switching units, each capable of controlling the connection state of the second radiation element. This segmentation allows for granular control of different connection states (feed line connection, ground plane connection, floating, short-circuit) while maintaining modular architecture that simplifies the overall control logic and reduces complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-antenna module includes, on or in the dielectric substrate, a first radiation element, a second radiation element that operates at a frequency band lower than that of the first radiation element, and a ground plane. A first feed line and a second feed line are provided on or in the dielectric substrate. A first switch element switches between a first state in which a signal is supplied to the second radiation element and a second state including at least one of a state in which the second radiation element is connected to the ground plane with terminal impedance interposed therebetween, a state in which the second radiation element is in a floating state with respect to the second feed line and the ground plane, and a state in which the second radiation element is short-circuited to the ground plane.