Switchable Patch Antenna With Impedance Balancing for Array Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Patch antennas in close proximity experience mutual coupling issues due to their close arrangement, which affects their performance and increases costs, particularly in high-gain array and holographic metasurface antenna applications.
Innovation Solution
A switchable patch antenna design with separate impedance components, where the impedance values of two components are compared to control radiation, allowing for the selective enablement or disablement of signal radiation and phase shifting by varying the impedance values using switches, varactors, or other impedance control elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple patch antennas are located closely together to shape and steer beams, then beam shaping and steering capability is improved, but mutual coupling between antennas increases
Solution Approach 1:
A feed network acts as an intermediary between the signal source and multiple patch antennas, enabling independent control of each antenna element. This intermediary structure allows beam shaping and steering while managing mutual coupling effects through controlled signal distribution and impedance matching.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs switchable impedance transformation networks that can dynamically adjust their characteristics based on operating conditions. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to optimize beam patterns while compensating for mutual coupling effects in real-time.
2Power
If patch antennas are arranged closely for high-gain array applications, then antenna gain is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system is segmented into identical, modular patch antenna elements that can be manufactured separately and then assembled into arrays. This segmentation allows for standardized manufacturing processes, reducing complexity and cost while maintaining high gain through proper array configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs universal feed network components and impedance transformation structures that can be used across different antenna elements and configurations. This universality reduces the number of unique parts needed, simplifying manufacturing and reducing overall system cost.
3Measurement precision
If impedance values of antenna components are varied to control radiation, then radiation control precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes switchable impedance transformation networks that change their electrical parameters (impedance values) based on switch states. By controlling the impedance parameters through simple switch configurations rather than complex continuous adjustment mechanisms, the system achieves precise radiation control with reduced overall complexity.
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 design effectively reduces mutual coupling between antennas, allowing for precise control of radiation patterns and phase shifting, thereby enhancing the performance and reducing costs in antenna arrays and holographic metasurface applications.
Implementation Method 1
Patch antennas can be configured to provide linear or circular polarization. Patch antennas are popular because of their simple design, low profile, light weight, and low cost.
Implementation Method 2
The flat metal sheet has a length and a width that can be optimized to provide a desired input impedance and frequency response.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~1D
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
A switchable patch antenna comprises a planar conductor having an aperture (hole) formed in the middle of the planar conductor. Radiation of a sinusoidal signal is controlled by comparison of separate impedance values for two components that have separate impedance values. Each of the two components have one end coupled together at the terminal positioned at a center of the aperture and their other ends separately coupled to opposing edges of the aperture. A sinusoidal signal source is also coupled to the terminal positioned at the aperture's center. Further, when the impedance values of both components are substantially equivalent, radiation by the antenna of the provided signal and/or mutual coupling of other signals is disabled. Also, when an impedance value of one of the two components is substantially greater than the other impedance value of the other component, the provided signal is radiated and/or mutual coupling is enabled.