PIFA Frame Ground Reduces RF Module Size
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional planar inverted-F antennas (PIFAs) require a solid ground plane, which occupies significant space and restricts the area for conductive routing, leading to larger multi-layer designs and restricted routing in two-layer designs.
Innovation Solution
The use of a frame-shaped radiation structure with a central opening allows for more compact RF modules by integrating conductive structures and electrical components within the opening, reducing the need for a solid ground plane and enabling routing on both sides of the substrate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a solid ground plane is used in conventional PIFAs, then antenna performance is achieved, but the ground plane occupies significant space and restricts routing area
Solution Approach 1:
The solid ground plane is segmented into a frame-shaped ground structure with a central opening. This segmentation maintains the essential grounding function for antenna performance while creating empty space in the center that can be utilized for routing and component placement, thereby reducing the effective area occupied by the ground structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The central portion of the solid ground plane is extracted/removed to create a frame-shaped structure with a central opening. This extraction eliminates the space-consuming solid center while retaining the perimeter grounding function, allowing routing and components to be placed in the extracted region.
2Reliability
If a solid ground plane is used, then antenna performance is maintained, but routing options are restricted and layer complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the ground plane into a frame structure, the patent enables routing to be placed in the central opening region, effectively creating additional routing space without adding metal layers. This reduces layer complexity compared to conventional designs that require multiple layers for routing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the central opening of the frame-shaped ground as an additional two-dimensional space for routing and component placement. This dimensional utilization allows routing to occur within the plane of the ground structure rather than requiring additional metal layers above or below.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a frame-shaped radiation structure with central opening is used, then routing capabilities are improved and layer complexity is reduced, but the ground plane area is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The frame-shaped ground structure serves multiple functions: it provides grounding for antenna performance through its perimeter structure, while simultaneously serving as a boundary that defines and protects the central opening space for routing and component placement. This multi-functionality achieves routing versatility without proportionally reducing ground plane area.
Solution Approach 2:
The ground structure has different properties in different regions: the perimeter frame portion provides grounding function, while the central opening region provides routing space. This local differentiation of function allows the structure to optimize both antenna performance and routing capabilities simultaneously.
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment of an antenna includes a radiation frame and a planar inverted-F antenna (PIFA). The radiation frame has a frame shape that defines a central opening. The PIFA includes an antenna arm, a feed arm, and a shorting arm. A distal end of the shorting arm is conductively coupled with the radiation frame. The antenna may be coupled to a substrate of an RF module. The RF module may be included in a system that also includes a non-RF component that produces a signal for transmission. In such a system, the RF module is configured to receive the signal, convert the signal to an RF signal, and radiate the RF signal over an air interface.