Multilayer Compact Antenna Design for Volume Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional radio-frequency antennas for portable telecommunications devices are bulkier due to their metal patterns, which are typically fractions of the operating wavelength, making them inefficient in terms of size, volume, and weight.
Innovation Solution
A compact multi-level antenna design featuring a radiating element with multiple portions extending in parallel planes, connected by sections, and an adjustable excitation probe, allowing for a compact structure and adjustable performance, with a metal wire radiating element and various planar patterns such as meanders or spirals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional metal pattern antennas are used, then antenna performance is achieved, but antenna volume and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from conventional two-dimensional planar antenna patterns to a three-dimensional multi-level structure. The radiating element is configured across multiple levels (at least three) with different z-coordinates, creating a spatially distributed antenna architecture that reduces volume while maintaining performance. This dimensional expansion allows the antenna to achieve the required electrical length and radiation characteristics in a more compact overall volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The radiating element is divided into multiple discrete portions located at different levels and positions in space. Each portion contributes to the overall radiation pattern, and the segmented structure allows for optimized current distribution and impedance matching. The segmentation enables the antenna to achieve resonant frequencies and radiation efficiency without requiring a single large continuous metal pattern.
2Volume of moving object
If metal pattern dimensions are reduced for compactness, then antenna volume decreases, but operating frequency range becomes limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates adjustable elements including variable capacitor values and reconfigurable switch arrangements that allow dynamic tuning of the antenna's resonant frequency and impedance characteristics. This dynamic capability enables the antenna to adapt its operating frequency range without changing its physical dimensions, thereby maintaining compact volume while achieving frequency versatility through electronic reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna design utilizes variable electrical parameters such as adjustable capacitance values, inductance tuning, and reconfigurable transmission line lengths to modify the operating characteristics. By changing these electrical parameters rather than physical dimensions, the antenna can operate across different frequency ranges while maintaining its compact three-dimensional structure.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a compact multi-level antenna including: a ground plane; a radiating element including n≥2 portions extending in n≥2 parallel planes in a planar pattern, the planes defining a volume above the ground plane, the radiating element including a first end connected to the ground plane and a second end ending with an open circuit.