Multi-Band Antenna Array Element Selection for Beam Pattern Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing array antenna systems are unable to support multiple frequencies effectively, as the interval between radiating elements is often unsuitable across different frequency bands, leading to suboptimal beam pattern formation and performance.

Innovation Solution

An antenna module comprising multi-band antenna elements and an antenna drive unit that selects and operates specific combinations of these elements based on the chosen operation frequency, allowing for optimal spacing and frequency support.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the array antenna uses a fixed interval between radiating elements optimized for one frequency, then the beam pattern is suitable at that specific frequency, but the performance deteriorates at other frequencies due to unsuitable element spacing

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefrequency support capabilityVSAvoidbeam pattern quality

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the antenna element configuration changeable based on operating frequency. The antenna drive unit dynamically selects and activates specific antenna elements from the array, adjusting the effective element spacing to match the wavelength at the current operating frequency. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the antenna to maintain optimal beam patterns across multiple frequency bands

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the operational parameters of the antenna system by adjusting which elements are active and their effective spacing based on the operating frequency. The antenna drive unit modifies the electrical configuration to achieve frequency-appropriate element intervals, transforming the antenna from a fixed-geometry structure to a parameter-adjustable system that adapts to different frequency requirements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If multiple separate antenna systems are used to support different frequencies with optimal spacing, then each frequency band achieves good performance, but the device complexity and size increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefrequency-specific performanceVSAvoidantenna system structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements universality by designing a single antenna array that can serve multiple frequency bands. The same physical antenna elements are used across different frequency ranges, with the antenna drive unit intelligently selecting and configuring the appropriate subset of elements for each frequency. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate antenna systems for different frequencies, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining frequency-specific performance

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the antenna array into multiple independently controllable elements that can be selectively activated. By dividing the antenna system into discrete, addressable units, the drive unit can configure different subsets of elements for different frequency operations, allowing one physical system to perform the functions of multiple specialized antennas

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If all antenna elements operate at all frequencies, then frequency support is comprehensive, but power consumption increases due to unnecessary element operation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemulti-frequency operationVSAvoidpower consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial action by activating only the necessary subset of antenna elements for the current operating frequency rather than all elements. The antenna drive unit calculates which elements are needed to achieve optimal spacing for the current frequency and activates only those elements, leaving others in a low-power state. This partial operation maintains multi-frequency capability while significantly reducing power consumption compared to full-array operation at all frequencies

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS11777221B2Antenna module

Publication Date: 2023.10.03 MURATA MFG CO LTD

AI summary

A plurality of multi-band antenna elements operable at a plurality of frequencies constitutes an array antenna. An antenna drive unit selects at least some of the multi-band antenna elements from the plurality of multi-band antenna elements in accordance with one operation frequency selected from the plurality of operation frequencies, and causes the selected multi-band antenna elements to operate.