Orthogonal PCB Antenna Structure for Wideband Polarization Diversity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current antenna technologies face challenges in supporting the wide frequency range required for mmWave 5G communications, particularly in achieving wideband polarization diversity and efficient radiation patterns across the 24 GHz to 43.5 GHz spectrum, which is essential for next-generation wireless communication systems.
Innovation Solution
A wideband polarization diverse antenna element is designed with two orthogonal radiating arms on a multi-layer printed circuit board substrate, utilizing parasitic posts to enhance radiation coverage and impedance bandwidth, and featuring a differential feeding mechanism to support both horizontal and vertical polarizations across the desired frequency range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional antenna designs are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but impedance bandwidth and radiation coverage are insufficient for mmWave 5G communications
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna is divided into two orthogonal radiating arms (first and second arms) with different lengths, each contributing to different frequency ranges. This segmentation allows the antenna to cover a wider impedance bandwidth (24 GHz to 43.5 GHz) by having multiple resonant elements operating simultaneously at different frequencies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a third dimension by positioning the radiating arms at different heights above the ground plane (first arm at first height, second arm at second height). This vertical dimensionality creates additional radiation paths and improves impedance bandwidth while maintaining a compact planar structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If single-polarization antenna designs are used, then device complexity is reduced, but polarization diversity and system capacity are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna employs asymmetric orthogonal arm structures with different lengths (first arm longer than second arm), creating two independent polarization directions. This asymmetry enables polarization diversity by supporting both horizontal and vertical polarizations simultaneously, increasing system capacity without requiring multiple separate antennas.
3Adaptability or versatility
If wideband frequency coverage is achieved through frequency multiplication, then system capacity increases, but beamwidth narrows and scanning capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Different portions of the antenna structure are optimized for different frequency ranges. The first radiating arm (longer) is optimized for lower frequencies (24-31.5 GHz) while the second radiating arm (shorter) handles higher frequencies (36-43.5 GHz). This local optimization maintains wide beamwidth across the entire bandwidth by ensuring each segment performs optimally in its designated frequency range.
4Volume of moving object
If compact antenna structures are used, then device size is reduced, but radiation efficiency and gain stability deteriorate at mmWave frequencies
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna embeds multiple functional elements within a compact substrate structure. The first and second radiating arms are integrated on the same substrate at different heights, with feeding structures nested within the substrate layers. This nesting achieves wideband performance and stable gain in a compact form factor suitable for mobile devices.
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna includes a first radiating arm comprising a first radiating element having a first outer edge, and a second radiating arm that is arranged orthogonally on the first radiating arm and separated from the first radiating arm in a first direction, the second radiating arm comprising a second radiating element having a second outer edge. The first outer edge of the first radiating element extends substantially parallel to the second outer edge of the second radiating element.