Multi-Beam Antenna Coupling via Planar Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-beam antennas face reliability issues due to high tolerances and the presence of multiple cables, which complicates size and shape optimization, necessitating a more integrated and cost-effective solution with improved radio frequency performance.
Innovation Solution
A coupling arrangement featuring an electrically steerable beam former with diode switches and a multi-layered printed board structure, allowing for low-profile, high-reliability antenna design with integrated beam steering and reduced mechanical complexity, utilizing a beam former and feed network structure to direct radio frequency signals efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple printed wiring boards with several signal paths, a plurality of cables, and multiple milled mechanical parts are used, then the multi-beam antenna functionality is achieved, but the reliability is reduced due to high tolerances and mechanical complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate components (printed wiring boards, cables, mechanical parts) into a single integrated planar structure. The feed network, beam forming network, and antenna elements are combined into one monolithic planar configuration, eliminating the need for multiple discrete components and their associated mechanical assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical beam steering mechanisms with an electrical/planar system. Instead of using rotational mechanics and three-dimensional mechanical structures to achieve beam switching, the invention uses a planar feed network with electrical paths that can be selectively activated to steer beams electronically.
2Shape
If a rotational mechanics and three-dimensional structure are used, then the directivity is achieved, but the total volume of the structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a three-dimensional mechanical structure to a two-dimensional planar structure. By arranging the feed network, beam forming elements, and antenna radiators in a planar configuration, the invention achieves beam directivity through spatial arrangement in the plane rather than through three-dimensional mechanical positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the functions of beam steering, signal distribution, and radiation into a single planar structure. The feed network and beam forming network are integrated into the same plane as the antenna elements, eliminating the need for separate three-dimensional mechanical assemblies.
3Ease of manufacture
If multiple cables and mechanical parts are used, then the signal paths are established, but the manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple signal paths, feed networks, and mechanical support structures into a single integrated planar component. This consolidation reduces the number of discrete parts that need to be manufactured, assembled, and tested, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The planar structure is designed with distinct functional zones (feed network region, beam forming region, radiation region) that can be independently optimized and manufactured as a single integrated component, reducing assembly complexity while maintaining functional separation.
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
The solution enables a highly integrated, low-profile, and reliable multi-beam antenna with reduced size and weight, achieving high gain, low loss, and wide bandwidth while simplifying manufacturing and minimizing electromagnetic interference.
Implementation Method 1
a beam former (100) of a first layer structure (202), wherein the beam former (100) is electrically steerable
Implementation Method 2
the radio frequency signal in the steered beam form is conveyed by a feed network structure (148) of a second layer structure (206) between the beam former (100) and feed structure-specific radiators (302)
Implementation Method 3
The radio frequency signal is coupled capacitively between capacitive feed structures (166) of the feed network structure (148) and feed structure-specific radiators (302)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A coupling arrangement for a radio frequency multi-beam antenna comprises a multi-layered printed board (200) which comprises a first layer structure (202), at least one ground layer structure (204) and a second layer structure (206). The first layer structure (202) comprises a beam former (100), which is electrically steerable, and the beam former (100) performs a steered beam forming operation to a radio frequency signal passing through the beam former (100). The second layer structure (206) comprises a feed network structure (148) and a plurality of capacitive feed structures (166). The feed network structure (148) has a plurality of network terminals (150 to 164) each of which is coupled with one beam former terminal (130 to 144). The feed network structure (148) has capacitive feed structures (166) for capacitively coupling the radio frequency signal to or from feed structure-specific radiators (302) in order to transmit or receive the radio frequency signal.