Planar Antenna with Selectable Elements for Wireless Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing omnidirectional antennas in wireless communication systems face issues such as inefficient horizontal polarization, high manufacturing costs, susceptibility to breakage, and limited interference reduction due to vertical polarization and separate unit manufacturing, as well as the expense and maintenance challenges of phased array antennas.
Innovation Solution
A planar antenna apparatus with selectively coupled active antenna elements and a ground component, capable of forming directional radiation patterns to minimize interference by switching between different configurations, enhancing gain and reducing interference in 802.11 compliant wireless links.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If vertically polarized omnidirectional antennas are used, then omnidirectional coverage is achieved, but indoor signal transmission efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching between vertically polarized omnidirectional antennas and horizontally polarized directional antennas based on environmental conditions. The system transitions from static vertical polarization to dynamic polarization selection, allowing optimal performance in both omnidirectional and indoor scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the polarization parameter from fixed vertical to switchable between vertical and horizontal. By modifying the polarization state and radiation pattern parameters, the system achieves efficient indoor transmission while maintaining omnidirectional capability when needed
2Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple separate omnidirectional antennas are used for diversity, then interference reduction is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple antenna functions into a single integrated planar antenna structure. Instead of using separate omnidirectional antennas, the invention combines multiple radiating elements and directional patterns within one planar unit, reducing device complexity while maintaining interference reduction capability through element selection
Solution Approach 2:
The planar antenna is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate in omnidirectional mode using all elements, or switch to directional modes using subsets of elements. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized antennas while providing both coverage and interference reduction
3Object-affected harmful factors
If phased array antennas with electronic beam steering are used, then directional control and interference reduction are achieved, but manufacturing cost and maintenance complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive phased array technology with a simpler, more economical planar antenna structure. By using basic planar elements and simple switching mechanisms instead of complex phased array components, the system achieves comparable interference reduction at lower manufacturing cost
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the complex electronic beam steering mechanism of phased arrays with a simpler element selection and switching system. Instead of requiring multiple phase tuners and complex control electronics, the invention uses straightforward switching between pre-configured planar elements to achieve directional control
4Adaptability or versatility
If upright wand antennas are used, then omnidirectional radiation is achieved, but susceptibility to breakage and damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a three-dimensional upright wand structure to a two-dimensional planar configuration. This dimensional change maintains the omnidirectional radiation capability while eliminating the protruding wand that is susceptible to breakage, integrating the antenna flatly into the device housing
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 planar antenna apparatus effectively reduces interference and enhances signal transmission by selectively configuring antenna elements, improving indoor signal transmission with horizontal polarization and simplifying manufacturing and integration, while avoiding the complexity and cost of phased array antennas.
Implementation Method 1
Each antenna element provides gain and a directional radiation pattern substantially in the plane of the antenna elements
Implementation Method 2
Through the claimed method, an 802.11 compliant wireless communications link is generated utilizing a planar antenna apparatus... the second directional radiation pattern reduces interference in the wireless link
Implementation Method 3
The selective coupling of one or more of the active antenna elements to the radio frequency generating device forms a dipole with a corresponding portion of the ground component
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for a wireless link to a remote receiver includes a communication device for generating RF and a planar antenna apparatus for transmitting the RF. The planar antenna apparatus includes selectable antenna elements, each of which has gain and a directional radiation pattern. The directional radiation pattern is substantially in the plane of the antenna apparatus. Switching different antenna elements results in a configurable radiation pattern. Alternatively, selecting all or substantially all elements results in an omnidirectional radiation pattern. One or more directors and/or one or more reflectors may be included to constrict the directional radiation pattern. The antenna apparatus may be conformally mounted to a housing containing the communication device and the antenna apparatus.