Multi-Mode Antenna With Internal Switch Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing near-field communication antennas are inefficient due to low quality factors and large sizes, leading to unreliable and inefficient wireless transfer of electrical energy and data, particularly when multiple operating frequencies are required, as they demand precise alignment and proximity between transmitting and receiving antennas.
Innovation Solution
A single structure multi-mode antenna with at least two inductor coils electrically connected in series, capable of operating across various frequency bands including Qi, Rezence, and PMA standards, featuring a dynamic adjustment of operating frequency and inductance through strategic electrical connections, and incorporating magnetic shielding materials to enhance performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If prior art antennas are used for near-field communication, then wireless power and data transfer can be achieved, but the transfer efficiency is significantly reduced due to low quality factor and large antenna size
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna is divided into multiple discrete inductor coils (first coil, second coil, third coil, fourth coil) with different inductance values, allowing selective activation of specific coils based on operating frequency requirements. This segmentation enables the antenna to achieve high efficiency at multiple frequency bands without requiring a large physical structure, as only the necessary coils are activated for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna incorporates a dynamic switching mechanism that selectively connects different inductor coils to the transmission line based on the desired operating frequency. The switch circuit dynamically reconfigures the antenna structure by connecting or disconnecting specific coils, enabling the system to adapt between different operating modes (e.g., Qi mode at 6.78 MHz, NFC mode at 13.56 MHz) without physical repositioning or size changes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If prior art antennas operate at multiple frequency bands, then versatility is improved, but antenna size and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna structure is designed to perform multiple functions using a single physical configuration. The same set of inductor coils can be selectively activated to support different wireless communication standards including Qi wireless charging (6.78 MHz), NFC (13.56 MHz), and other ISM band applications. This universal design eliminates the need for separate antennas for each frequency band, thereby maintaining compact size while achieving multi-mode operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple inductor coils with different inductance values are integrated into a single antenna structure that shares common terminals and switching circuitry. The coils are arranged such that they can be individually or collectively activated depending on the operating mode, merging multiple frequency-specific antenna elements into one unified structure that maintains small form factor while providing versatile operation across multiple standards.
3Ease of operation
If inductive charging systems use prior art antennas, then wireless power transfer is enabled, but reliable operation requires near perfect physical alignment between transmitting and receiving antennas
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system changes its electrical parameters (inductance value) based on the operating mode to optimize performance at different frequencies. By selecting appropriate inductor coils with specific inductance values, the antenna achieves resonant coupling at the desired frequency, which enhances the magnetic field coupling between transmitting and receiving antennas. This parameter optimization reduces the stringency of alignment requirements compared to fixed-frequency antennas.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna operates by generating oscillating magnetic fields at resonant frequencies through the selected inductor coils. The resonant oscillation creates a stronger and more stable magnetic field coupling between transmitting and receiving antennas, which improves the robustness of wireless power transfer and reduces sensitivity to misalignment. The resonant frequency matching enhances the magnetic coupling coefficient even when perfect physical alignment is not achieved.
4Length of stationary object
If prior art antennas are used for near-field communication, then data and power transfer can occur, but the transmission range is significantly reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system adjusts its inductance parameter by selecting different inductor coils based on the desired transmission range and operating frequency. Higher inductance coils are selected for lower frequency applications requiring longer transmission ranges, while lower inductance coils are used for higher frequency applications requiring shorter ranges with higher efficiency. This dynamic parameter adjustment optimizes the balance between transmission range and efficiency for different application scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna utilizes resonant oscillation at matched frequencies between transmitting and receiving antennas to extend the effective transmission range. By operating at resonant frequencies and maintaining frequency matching between the two antennas, the magnetic coupling is enhanced, allowing power and data transfer over longer distances compared to non-resonant systems. The resonant mode creates a stronger magnetic field that extends further while maintaining efficient energy transfer.
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
The antenna achieves improved wireless transfer efficiency and increased transmission range with reduced size, allowing for flexible orientation and increased performance across multiple frequency standards, enhancing user experience and compatibility with diverse wireless charging technologies.
Implementation Method 1
Near-field communication enables the transfer of electrical energy and/or data wirelessly through magnetic field induction between a transmitting antenna and a corresponding receiving antenna.
Implementation Method 2
incorporating magnetic shielding materials to enhance performance
Implementation Method 3
Resonant inductive coupling is defined herein as the near field wireless transmission of electrical energy between two magnetically coupled coils that are part of two spaced apart resonant circuits that are tuned to resonate at the same frequency.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of a single structure multiple mode antenna are described. The antenna is preferably constructed having a first inductor coil that is electrically connected in series with a second inductor coil. The antenna is constructed having a plurality of electrical connections positioned along the first and second inductor coils. A plurality of terminals facilitates connection of the electrical connections thereby providing numerous electrical connection configurations and enables the antenna to be selectively tuned to various frequencies and frequency bands. An internal switch circuit is provided that facilitates electrical connection of the various terminals and frequency tuning.