Multiband Antenna Array With Nested Sparse MIMO Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current antenna technologies face challenges in integrating a Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) array with other antenna arrays on a single antenna without increasing size, while maintaining performance and adhering to strict height and width limitations, which is essential for 5G network deployment and site sharing scenarios.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a sparse MIMO array with other antenna arrays, where the sparse array configuration increases available space by reducing or varying the spacing between radiating elements, allowing for optimal integration without increasing the overall antenna size, while maintaining performance comparable to conventional non-sparse arrays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a mMIMO antenna array is integrated with other antenna arrays on a single antenna, then the number of antennas in-site is reduced and space is saved, but the antenna size (height and width) increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates a mMIMO antenna array with other antenna arrays by nesting them within a common antenna structure. The mMIMO array elements are positioned within the same spatial envelope as the other antenna arrays, allowing multiple antenna systems to coexist in a single integrated unit without increasing overall site footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent resolves the height constraint by transitioning to three-dimensional spatial arrangement. The mMIMO array and other antenna arrays are arranged in different spatial dimensions and orientations within the same structure, utilizing vertical and horizontal spacing to accommodate all elements without increasing the dominant height dimension beyond acceptable limits.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a mMIMO antenna array is integrated with other antenna arrays on a single antenna, then the number of antennas in-site is reduced and deployment is simplified, but the antenna width increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates a mMIMO antenna array with other antenna arrays by nesting them within a common antenna structure. The mMIMO array elements are positioned within the same spatial envelope as the other antenna arrays, allowing multiple antenna systems to coexist in a single integrated unit without increasing overall site footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent resolves the height constraint by transitioning to three-dimensional spatial arrangement. The mMIMO array and other antenna arrays are arranged in different spatial dimensions and orientations within the same structure, utilizing vertical and horizontal spacing to accommodate all elements without increasing the dominant height dimension beyond acceptable limits.
3Length of stationary object
If the spacing between radiating elements is reduced to increase available space, then the antenna size is reduced, but the performance may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different spacing configurations to different regions of the antenna array. The spacing between radiating elements is optimized locally for each region, allowing tighter spacing in areas where performance impact is minimal while maintaining adequate spacing in critical regions. This enables overall size reduction while preserving essential performance characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs non-uniform spacing variations among radiating elements, changing the spacing parameter across different positions in the array. This parameter variation allows the antenna to maintain performance in certain directions while reducing overall dimensions, achieving a compromise between size and performance through strategic spacing optimization.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides an antenna 100 suitable for multiband operation. The antenna 100 comprises a plurality of first radiating elements 101 configured to radiate in a first frequency band, wherein the first radiating elements 101 are arranged in a sparse mMIMO array 102. The antenna 100 further comprises a plurality of second radiating elements 103 configured to radiate in a second frequency band lower than the first frequency band, wherein the second radiating elements 103 are arranged in an array at least partially overlapping with the sparse array 102. Therefore, at least some of the second radiating elements 103 are disposed in an area covered by the sparse array 102.