Multi-layer PCB Antenna with Extended Ground Plane

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional antennas in mobile devices are too large to fit within the chassis, require multiple connectors increasing cost and mechanical tolerance issues, and do not effectively utilize available space, especially with the need for multiple antennas for various communication capabilities.

Innovation Solution

An antenna arrangement using a multi-layer printed circuit board with an extended ground plane integrated with a second antenna, allowing for increased communication capabilities without additional components, and utilizing existing components for the second antenna to reduce costs and improve assembly tolerances.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If conventional microstrip patch and PIFA antennas are used, then the antennas can provide communication capabilities, but the antennas are too large to fit within the chassis of mobile telephones

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveantenna sizeVSAvoidcommunication capabilities

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple antenna functions into a single integrated antenna structure. The antenna is formed by printed traces on a PCB that can support multiple frequency bands and communication standards (GSM, DCS, PCS, GPS) simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate antennas for each function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The antenna design provides multi-functionality by being capable of operating across multiple frequency bands and supporting various communication standards. The same antenna structure can handle cellular communication, GPS reception, and other wireless functions, making a single antenna universal for multiple purposes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate antennas are provided for different communication capabilities, then communication versatility is improved, but the number of components and connectors increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication capabilitiesVSAvoidnumber of components

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple antenna functions into a single integrated antenna structure. The antenna is formed by printed traces on a PCB that can support multiple frequency bands and communication standards (GSM, DCS, PCS, GPS) simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate antennas for each function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If antennas are assembled with connectors, then assembly is possible, but mechanical tolerances affect antenna performance

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveassembly capabilityVSAvoidantenna position tolerance

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical connectors with printed conductive traces on the PCB. The electrical connection is achieved through the conductive material deposited on the PCB substrate during the printing process, eliminating the need for mechanical connector assemblies and their associated tolerance issues.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The antenna is integrated directly into the PCB as printed traces, eliminating the need for separate antenna components and connectors. This integration reduces the number of assembly steps and components while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through standard PCB fabrication processes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Productivity

If conventional antenna configurations are used, then the antennas can function, but the space between the antenna and the PCB is not utilized effectively

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespace utilizationVSAvoidavailable space

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes the third dimension (vertical space) by creating an elevated ground plane structure. The ground plane is raised above the PCB surface and connected through vertical vias, effectively using the space between the PCB and the elevated ground plane for antenna operation, thereby improving space utilization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS7808437B2Antenna arrangement

Publication Date: 2010.10.05 SNAPTRACK INC

AI summary

An antenna arrangement comprising a multi-layer PCB (10) with a ground plane (20) in a first layer and a first antenna (11) in a second layer, and an extended ground plane (20) connected to the ground plane of the PCB. A second antenna (110, 120, 130, 140, 150) is formed integral with the extended ground plane (20). The extended ground plane is positioned opposite the first antenna.