Orthogonal MIMO Antenna Module Layout for Compact DAS Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Designing and manufacturing remote antenna units for distributed antenna systems that support multiple wireless communication protocols and frequency bands is costly and complex, especially when incorporating MIMO-OFDM capabilities, which can increase the size and form factor due to antenna spacing requirements.
Innovation Solution
A modular remote antenna unit with a common baseband module and plug-and-play radio modules configured for MIMO-OFDM operation, where antennas are mounted on a substrate close together, reducing size and form factor, and allowing customization during installation without requiring multiple versions of the controller module.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If MIMO-OFDM antenna spacing requirements are met, then MIMO capability is achieved, but the size and form factor of the remote antenna unit increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions multiple antennas in the vertical dimension rather than spreading them horizontally, allowing MIMO-OFDM operation with reduced horizontal footprint. The antennas are mounted on a common substrate in a compact arrangement that satisfies spacing requirements while maintaining a small overall form factor.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple antennas are integrated onto a single common substrate, nesting multiple antenna elements within a compact housing. This allows the antenna array to be contained within a small volume while maintaining the necessary spacing for MIMO operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple versions of controller modules are designed for different protocols and frequency bands, then adaptability is improved, but design, manufacturing, and testing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single common controller module is designed to support multiple wireless communication protocols and frequency bands through software configuration rather than hardware variations. The controller can be programmed to operate in different modes, eliminating the need for multiple hardware versions and reducing manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller module employs dynamic reconfiguration capabilities, allowing it to adapt its operation based on the installed antenna module type. The controller can be remotely programmed or configured to match the specific protocol and frequency band requirements of the connected antenna module, providing versatility without requiring physical hardware changes.
3Reliability
If antennas are located remote from the main housing, then MIMO spacing requirements are met, but installation complexity increases and signal loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple antennas are combined and mounted on a single common substrate that is integrated into the main housing of the remote antenna unit. This eliminates the need for separate remote antenna installations and complex cabling, while the vertical or compact arrangement on the substrate maintains the necessary spacing for MIMO operation.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3~4
AI summary
An embodiment of an antenna module includes a substrate, a first antenna, and a second antenna. The first antenna is disposed on the substrate and is configured to radiate a first signal having a wavelength and a first polarization. And the second antenna is disposed on the substrate and is configured to radiate a second signal having the wavelength and a second polarization that is approximately orthogonal to the first polarization. For example, such an antenna module can include, as the first antenna, a T antenna configured to transmit and receive data that forms a first part of a MIMO-OFDM data symbol, and can include, as the second antenna, an F antenna configured to transmit and receive data that forms a second part of the MIMO-OFDM data symbol.