Overlaid Orthogonal Antenna Elements for Beamforming and MIMO

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Solution Overview

Problem

In high-density areas, installing multiple separate antenna systems for different wireless transmission modes on a single tower structure is challenging due to RF interference and insufficient spatial separation, leading to poor wireless transmissions and limited versatility.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that utilize pairs of overlaid orthogonal antenna elements, driven by a remote radio unit to generate RF signals for both beamforming and MIMO modes, with specific signal direction based on control data, allowing for efficient operation of multiple transmission modes on a single antenna system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate antenna systems are employed for different transmission modes, then transmission versatility is improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransmission mode versatilityVSAvoidantenna system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple antenna systems into a single integrated antenna structure that supports both beamforming and MIMO transmission modes. The antenna system includes multiple antenna elements arranged in specific configurations that can be selectively activated based on the required transmission mode, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The antenna system is designed with universal functionality to support multiple transmission modes simultaneously. The same antenna structure can operate in beamforming mode for directional transmission and in MIMO mode for spatial multiplexing, eliminating the need for separate dedicated antenna systems for each mode.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate antenna systems are installed on the same tower structure, then transmission versatility is improved, but installation difficulty and spatial separation requirements worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransmission mode versatilityVSAvoidinstallation ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

By merging multiple antenna systems into a single integrated structure, the patent eliminates the need for multiple separate installations on tower structures. The unified antenna design reduces spatial separation requirements and simplifies installation procedures while maintaining the capability to support multiple transmission modes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Area of stationary object

If antenna elements are placed in arrayed configuration with close spacing, then antenna compactness is improved, but RF interference between elements increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveantenna system footprintVSAvoidRF interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different spatial arrangements and polarization characteristics to different antenna elements within the system. By optimizing the local properties of each antenna element and its surrounding environment, the design achieves compact overall footprint while minimizing RF interference through strategic element placement and polarization diversity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 approach enables effective operation of both beamforming and MIMO modes on a single antenna system, improving wireless transmission quality and versatility by optimizing antenna element spacing and polarization, thus enhancing communication services in high-density areas.

Implementation Method 1

generating a first plurality of RF signals directed to at least one of the pairs of overlaid orthogonal antenna elements for target wireless communication devices

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS9106284B1Antenna system driven in beamforming and MIMO transmission modes
Publication Date: 2015.08.11 T MOBILE INNOVATIONS LLC
  • US9106284B1 patent drawing
  • US9106284B1 patent drawing
  • US9106284B1 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems, equipment, and methods for driving antenna systems with pairs of overlaid orthogonal antenna elements are provided herein. In one example, a method of operating a remote radio unit that drives an antenna system is provided. The method includes receiving user communications and control data transferred by a baseband unit. If the control data indicates a beamforming mode, then the method includes generating a first plurality of radio frequency (RF) signals directed to at least one of the pairs of overlaid orthogonal antenna elements for target wireless communication devices. If the control data indicates a multiple input multiple output (MIMO) mode, then the method includes generating a second plurality of RF signals for the plurality of antenna elements, wherein the second plurality of RF signals are directed to non-adjacent ones of the pairs of the overlaid orthogonal antenna elements for the target wireless communication devices.