Omni-directional Space-fed Antenna with Loop Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Non-traditional loop or folded dipole antennas suffer from low efficiency and undesirable radiation patterns due to uneven current distribution and strong coupling between feed points, especially when fed at multiple points less than a wavelength apart, leading to cardioid patterns that neglect significant portions of the radiation plane.
Innovation Solution
The antenna design switches the radiation patterns of electrical and magnetic fields, featuring two gaps in a cylindrical or rectangular conductor structure with feed points separated by a quarter wavelength, using high-impedance balanced transmission lines to achieve even current distribution and omnidirectional radiation, effectively operating as two back-to-back folded dipoles with increased efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple feed points are placed less than a wavelength apart in a loop antenna, then the radiation surface area is increased, but strong coupling between feed points occurs causing cardioid radiation patterns and uneven current distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The loop antenna is divided into multiple feed sections with gaps, creating distinct feed points separated by specific distances. This segmentation allows multiple feeds to operate independently without strong coupling, maintaining uniform current distribution while increasing radiation surface area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent specifies precise parameter values: feed points are placed at quarter-wavelength intervals, gap dimensions are controlled at approximately 0.1 wavelength, and conductor dimensions are optimized. These parameter changes transform the antenna from producing cardioid patterns to achieving omnidirectional radiation with uniform current distribution.
2Adaptability or versatility
If non-traditional antenna shapes are used, then design flexibility is increased, but manufacturing and analysis complexity increases leading to low efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The complex non-traditional loop shape is segmented into manageable sections with standardized gap and feed point configurations. This allows the sophisticated geometry to be manufactured using conventional techniques while maintaining design flexibility for various applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent provides specific parameter guidelines (gap sizes, feed point positions, conductor dimensions) that simplify the manufacturing of non-traditional shapes. By standardizing these parameters, the complexity of manufacturing and analyzing irregular geometries is reduced while preserving design versatility.
3Volume of moving object
If feed points are placed close together to increase radiation surface area, then antenna size is reduced, but coupling between feeds eliminates the benefits of multiple feeds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes that feed points should be separated by quarter-wavelength distances and gaps should be approximately 0.1 wavelength. These parameter specifications ensure that even in compact antenna designs, feed points remain sufficiently separated to minimize coupling losses while maintaining a reduced overall antenna size.
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 antenna efficiency by at least five percent, providing omnidirectional radiation and matching gain with directivity, while reducing size and improving signal radiation surface area, overcoming the limitations of prior art antennas.
Implementation Method 1
The invention antenna provides for two gaps in a cylindrical or rectangular conductor wall structure... The invention antenna radiates essentially as a magnetic dipole device
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention antenna preserves the general size and form factor of the prior art loop antennas while providing the benefits of multiple point feeds at less than one wavelength in separation of feed points. The invention antenna obtains omnidirectional radiation and improved efficiency over the prior art by way of dual slotted, open ended cylindrical or rectangular box structures fed with high impedance feed lines.