Multi-band Antenna Array with Tuned Feed Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Steerable radar systems and over-the-air content capture systems face challenges with size, weight, and power consumption limitations, particularly in metropolitan areas, where cost and redundancy are concerns, and existing antennas often fail to efficiently receive signals across multiple frequency bands.
Innovation Solution
The development of multi-band antennas using electrically small loop antenna elements with tuning feed networks comprising resistors, capacitors, varactors, and ferrite beads, allowing for wider frequency reception and higher antenna density, with each antenna being multiply resonant to filter adjacent signals and avoid interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional antennas are used to receive radio waves across multiple frequency bands, then reception coverage is improved, but antenna size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system divides the reception function into multiple small antenna elements (e.g., 16x16 array) that can be independently tuned. Each element is electrically small but collectively they cover multiple frequency bands through individual tuning feed networks, allowing frequency versatility without increasing individual element weight
Solution Approach 2:
Each antenna element is designed with a tuning feed network that enables it to operate across multiple frequency bands. The same physical antenna structure can be tuned to different frequencies by adjusting the tuning elements (varactors, capacitors, inductors), making each element multi-functional rather than requiring separate antennas for each band
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional antennas are used to receive radio waves across multiple frequency bands, then reception coverage is improved, but antenna physical dimensions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses many small antenna elements arranged in an array (e.g., 16x16 = 256 elements) where each element is electrically small (dimensions much less than wavelength). The collective array provides wide frequency coverage through individual tuning of each element, avoiding the need for large single-antenna dimensions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single large antennas to a two-dimensional array of small elements. By adding spatial dimensions (creating an array grid), the system achieves wide frequency coverage through the number of elements and their individual tuning capabilities rather than through increased individual element dimensions
3Quantity of substance
If more antennas are installed to maximize reception density, then signal capture capability is improved, but installation cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple antenna elements are combined onto single antenna array cards that can be installed as modular units. Each card contains multiple tuned elements sharing common support structures and tuning control, reducing installation complexity compared to installing individual antennas separately while maintaining high antenna density
Solution Approach 2:
The tuning feed networks use standardized components (varactors, capacitors, inductors, ferrite beads) that can be adjusted to tune different antenna elements to different frequencies. This universal tuning mechanism simplifies the complexity of managing multiple antennas across frequency bands, as the same tuning approach applies to all elements
4Volume of moving object
If antenna size is reduced to meet installation constraints, then installation flexibility is improved, but signal reception capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system compensates for small individual element size by using a large number of elements in an array (e.g., 16x16 = 256 elements). The collective reception capability of all elements provides sufficient signal capture despite each element being electrically small, maintaining reliability while meeting volume constraints
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves adequate reception capability not through large individual element volume but through a two-dimensional array of many small elements. The spatial distribution and collective effect of numerous elements compensate for the small volume of each individual element, maintaining signal reception reliability
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 solution enables a more compact, cost-effective, and redundant antenna system capable of efficient signal reception across multiple frequency bands, reducing deployment and maintenance costs while ensuring continuous service even if individual antennas fail.
Implementation Method 1
each antenna is multiply resonant. This enables each antenna to have optimal performance and provide filtering of adjacent signals
Implementation Method 2
The present invention is directed to antennas for the reception of radio waves
Implementation Method 3
A tuning feed network is implemented with resistors, capacitors, varactors, inductors, or ferrite beads to control the tuning frequency of each antenna element
Implementation Method 4
A tuning feed network is implemented with resistors, capacitors, varactors, inductors, or ferrite beads to control the tuning frequency of each antenna element
Data Source
AI summary
Multi-band antennae used for television reception of at least two different frequency bands enable multi-band reception with an electrically small antenna. The designs are applicable to individual antenna elements, two dimensional arrays, three dimensional arrays, and arrays constructed for high volumetric efficiency. By using the multi-band element, greater frequency reception is achieved with greater density possible in the antenna arrays.