Multi-Layer Patch Antenna for MIMO Bandwidth Expansion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional antennas face challenges in maximizing bandwidth within limited physical dimensions to accommodate smaller electronic devices and meet the requirements of multi-input multi-output (MIMO) applications, particularly in achieving efficient spatial multiplexing and spatial diversity.

Innovation Solution

The design incorporates a multi-layered structure with a ground metal plate, patch plates, and feed-in wires, fixed by an insulation unit to prevent electrical contact, allowing for increased resonance bandwidth and flexibility in antenna design, along with a switching circuit for MIMO systems to manage signal polarization and radiation patterns.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of moving object

If conventional single-layer antenna structures are used, then the physical dimensions can be minimized, but the resonance bandwidth is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveantenna physical dimensionsVSAvoidresonance bandwidth
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a conventional single-layer antenna structure to a multi-layer stacked configuration. The first and second patch plates are arranged in different spatial layers with corresponding feed-in wires, creating a three-dimensional antenna structure. This dimensional change allows the antenna to achieve broader resonance bandwidth while maintaining compact physical footprint, as the multiple layers provide additional resonant modes without significantly increasing the planar area.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The antenna is segmented into distinct functional layers: a first patch plate with first feed-in wire, a second patch plate with second feed-in wire, and insulating layers separating them. This segmentation allows each layer to contribute independently to the overall radiation pattern and resonance characteristics, enabling bandwidth expansion through constructive interference of multiple resonant modes while keeping the overall structure compact.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Productivity

If multiple antennas are used for MIMO applications, then spatial efficiency and channel capacity increase, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespatial efficiencyVSAvoidantenna system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple antenna functions into a single integrated antenna unit. The first and second patch plates with their respective feed-in wires are stacked and electrically connected through insulating layers, creating one antenna that can provide multiple spatial channels. This merging approach achieves MIMO capability without requiring separate antenna assemblies, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining spatial efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The multi-layer antenna structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides broadband operation through stacked resonant modes, generates diverse radiation patterns for spatial multiplexing, and enables MIMO applications. The insulating layers not only provide electrical isolation but also serve as mechanical support structures, demonstrating multi-functionality that reduces overall system complexity.

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

3Area of moving object

If patch plates are placed close together to reduce dimensions, then compactness is achieved, but electrical interference between layers increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveantenna compactnessVSAvoidelectrical interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of moving objectVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces insulating layers as intermediary structures between the first and second patch plates. These insulating layers provide electrical isolation that prevents unwanted coupling and interference between the closely spaced patch plates, while still allowing the antenna to maintain compact dimensions. The insulating material acts as a mediator that enables close proximity placement without sacrificing electrical performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 configuration enhances spatial efficiency, resonance bandwidth, and design flexibility, enabling the complex antenna to provide 16 optimal spatial channels with improved polarization isolation and radiation characteristics, effectively supporting MIMO applications.

Implementation Method 1

an insulation fixing unit, for fixing the ground metal plate, the first patch plate and the second patch plate, such that the ground metal plate, the first patch plate and the second patch plate do not come in electrical contact with each other

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical insulation: Dielectric

Implementation Method 2

a first feed-in wire, electrically connected to the first patch plate, for transmitting radio signals; a second feed-in wire, electrically connected to the second patch plate, for transmitting radio signals

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic wave transmission: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 3

an antenna for receiving/transmitting radio signals, including a ground metal plate; a first patch plate; a second patch plate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS8674882B2Antenna, complex antenna and radio-frequency transceiver system
Publication Date: 2014.03.18 WISTRON NEWEB CORP
  • US8674882B2 patent drawing
  • US8674882B2 patent drawing
  • US8674882B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An antenna for receiving and transmitting radio signals includes a ground metal plate, a first patch plate, a second patch plate, a first feed-in wire electrically connected to the first patch plate for transmitting radio signals, a second feed-in wire electrically connected to the second patch plate for transmitting radio signals, and an insulation fixing unit for fixing the ground metal plate, the first patch plate and the second patch plate, to ensure that the ground metal plate, the first patch plate and the second patch plate do not electrically contact to each other.