PCB-Covered RF Filter Assembly for Compact Base Station Antennas
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cellular base station antennas face challenges in reducing size, weight, and cost while maintaining effective integration of RF filters with radiating elements and radios, particularly in massive MIMO systems.
Innovation Solution
The integration of an RF filter with a conductive housing covered by a printed circuit board (PCB) and a pogo pin connector, along with electromagnetic shielding provided by a conductive ring or built-in grounding pins, reduces the dimensions and weight of the antenna and eliminates the need for additional RF connectors, thereby decreasing the overall size and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If RF filters are mounted within or adjacent to base station antennas using traditional mounting methods, then RF signal filtering is achieved, but the size, weight, and cost of the antenna system increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the RF filter, resonator, and PCB into a single integrated assembly where the PCB is directly coupled to the resonator via a pogo pin connector. This merging eliminates the need for separate RF connectors and mounting hardware, reducing overall weight while maintaining filtering performance through the integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The resonator is positioned within a cavity formed by the conductive housing walls, and the PCB covers and couples to the resonator. This nested arrangement allows compact integration of multiple components (resonator inside housing, PCB covering resonator) reducing the overall footprint and weight of the antenna system while preserving RF filtering functionality.
2Device complexity
If traditional RF connectors and mounting hardware are used to integrate RF filters with antennas, then reliable RF signal transmission is achieved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pogo pin connector integrates the electrical connection function directly into the PCB assembly, eliminating the need for separate RF connectors, brackets, and mounting hardware. This reduces device complexity by consolidating multiple components into a single integrated structure while maintaining reliable RF signal transmission through the direct pogo pin coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The PCB serves multiple functions: it provides the circuit board structure, houses the pogo pin connector for electrical coupling, and acts as a cover for the resonator. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall device while ensuring reliable RF signal transmission through the integrated design.
3Volume of moving object
If additional RF connectors and mounting components are used for RF filter integration, then secure mechanical attachment is achieved, but the overall size and cost of the antenna system increase
Solution Approach 1:
The PCB is directly coupled to the resonator through the pogo pin connector, merging the electrical connection and mechanical attachment functions into a single integrated structure. This eliminates the need for separate mounting brackets, screws, and additional connectors, reducing the overall volume of the antenna system while maintaining secure mechanical attachment through the robust pogo pin connection.
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 configuration reduces the size, weight, and cost of cellular base station antennas while providing effective electromagnetic shielding and maintaining the performance of RF signals within the desired frequency bands.
Implementation Method 1
The RF connector may include a conductive pin that is coupled to the PTH and extends into the PTH and is soldered to the second surface
Implementation Method 2
In some embodiments, the RF connector may include a pogo pin connector
Implementation Method 3
The conductive pin may extend into the PTH and may be soldered to the second surface
Implementation Method 4
electromagnetic shielding provided by a conductive ring or built-in grounding pins
Data Source
AI summary
Radio frequency (RF) devices are provided. An RF device includes one or more resonators. The RF device includes an RF connector that is coupled to the resonator(s). Moreover, the RF device includes a printed circuit board that covers the resonator(s) and is coupled to the resonator(s) via the RF connector.