Multi-layered Antenna with Variable Dielectric Delay Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radio-transmission antennas lack the ability to efficiently control and steer directional characteristics across different frequency bands, limiting their versatility and bandwidth.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layered antenna design utilizing a variable dielectric constant to control delay lines, decoupling RF and DC potentials, and implementing dual-frequency band capabilities through orthogonal delay lines and capacitive coupling, allowing for independent control of transmission and reception signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional single-frequency antenna design is used, then the antenna structure is simple, but the bandwidth and frequency band versatility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dual-frequency band capabilities by integrating two independent patch antennas (first patch for first frequency band, second patch for second frequency band) into a single antenna structure. Each patch can be independently controlled through separate delay lines, enabling the antenna to operate across multiple frequency bands and perform both transmission and reception functions simultaneously, thereby achieving multi-functionality without requiring separate antenna systems
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna is divided into distinct functional segments: first patch, second patch, first delay line, second delay line, first feed line, and second feed line. Each segment operates independently and can be controlled separately, allowing the antenna to handle different frequency bands and signal types (transmission/reception) independently. This segmentation enables flexible configuration and control of each frequency band without interfering with the other
2Ease of operation
If RF and DC potentials are coupled in the delay lines, then the antenna can be manufactured with simpler processes, but the antenna cannot independently control transmission and reception signals
Solution Approach 1:
The delay lines are segmented into first and second delay lines, where the first delay line carries only DC potential for controlling the first patch, and the second delay line carries only RF signal for the second patch. This separation allows independent control of transmission and reception signals while maintaining manufacturability through standard multi-layer PCB fabrication processes that can handle separate signal paths
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces feed lines as intermediary elements that couple the delay lines to the respective patches. The first feed line couples the first delay line to the first patch, and the second feed line couples the second delay line to the second patch. These intermediaries enable independent signal control while maintaining a manageable manufacturing process through standardized coupling structures
3Adaptability or versatility
If orthogonal delay lines are used for dual-frequency bands, then transmission and reception can be independently controlled, but the antenna design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs orthogonal delay lines where the first delay line and second delay line are positioned at right angles to each other. This orthogonal arrangement in the spatial dimension allows both delay lines to coexist without electromagnetic interference, enabling independent control of transmission and reception signals while maintaining a compact planar structure that minimizes overall complexity
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
Enhances the antenna's ability to steer and scan across different frequency bands, increasing bandwidth and decoupling RF and DC potentials, resulting in improved spatial orientation and manufacturing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an array element includes a first delay line and a second delay line orthogonal to each other. A variable dielectric constant (VDC) plate is positioned below the first and second delay lines.
Implementation Method 2
a first end of the second delay line is capacitively coupled to a second end of the first delay line through a capacitive coupling arrangement
Data Source
AI summary
An array antenna is provided with a plurality of radiating patches, wherein each of the patches, operates in one frequency band along one direction and in a different frequency band along a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. The signals from each radiating patch are coupled to two delay lines, which traverse over a variable dielectric constant plate. A voltage potential is controllably applied to each delay line to change the dielectric constant of the VDC plate in the vicinity of that delay line, thereby introducing delay in signal travel. In order to isolate the voltage potential from the two orthogonal delay lines applied to each radiating patch, at least one of the delay lines is connected to a coupling patch, which capacitively couples the RF energy to the radiating patch.