Reconfigurable Low-Profile Antenna Element for Multi-Band Mobile Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile communication devices face challenges in designing multi-function antennas that are both slim and efficient, as they need to cover multiple bands while occupying limited space, and existing antennas struggle to achieve the required performance.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable low-profile antenna element that can operate in multiple bands by forming either a loop or inverted-F antenna structure, utilizing a first and second metal portion, switches, and a capacitive element to adjust frequency bands without increasing the overall size, and employing matching circuits for improved impedance matching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a multi-function antenna is designed to cover multiple bands, then the antenna's versatility is improved, but the antenna's size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single antenna structure that can operate across multiple frequency bands (GSM, UMTS, LTE) by incorporating switching mechanisms that reconfigure the antenna's electrical characteristics. The antenna element combined with switching components allows one physical structure to serve multiple communication functions, eliminating the need for separate antennas for each band.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs switching mechanisms (SPST switches or PIN diodes) that dynamically reconfigure the antenna's electrical length and impedance characteristics based on the desired operating band. By changing the switch states, the antenna transitions between different resonant frequencies, enabling adaptive multi-band operation from a fixed physical structure.
2Length of stationary object
If the antenna profile is reduced for slim device design, then the device's thickness is improved, but the antenna's radiation efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves low-profile operation by changing the antenna's electrical parameters through switching configurations. By adjusting the effective electrical length and impedance matching parameters via switch states, the antenna maintains efficient radiation performance despite having a physically reduced profile height suitable for slim devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent compensates for the reduced vertical dimension by optimizing the antenna's planar dimensions and utilizing the ground plane structure. The antenna element is configured with specific length and width ratios, and the ground plane dimensions are carefully designed to provide the necessary electrical performance in a low-profile configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components are added for multi-band operation, then the antenna's functionality is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the switching components directly with the antenna element structure, merging the RF switching function with the antenna's radiating structure. The switches are positioned at strategic locations along the antenna element, allowing reconfiguration without requiring separate, discrete components. This integration reduces overall complexity compared to using independent switching modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the antenna element into multiple segments or sections that can be independently controlled by switching mechanisms. By segmenting the antenna structure and controlling different portions via switches, the system achieves multi-band operation through modular reconfiguration, simplifying the overall design compared to a fully integrated complex structure.
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 allows for efficient operation across various frequency bands, including GSM, UMTS, and LTE, with good antenna efficiency and a low profile, facilitating the development of slim-type communication devices without compromising radiation efficiency or increasing size.
Implementation Method 1
The first feeding point is electrically connected to a communication module through a capacitive element
Implementation Method 2
the first metal portion, the second metal portion, the shorting metal portion and the first switch form a loop antenna with the ground element, such that power is fed to the loop antenna through the first feeding point
Data Source
AI summary
A communication device including a ground element and an antenna element is provided. The antenna element is disposed adjacent to an edge of the ground element, and a loop structure is formed by the antenna element and the edge of the ground element. The antenna element includes a first and a second metal portions, and a first and second switches. When the first switch is turned on and the second switch is turned off, the first metal portion, the second metal portion, a shorting metal portion and the first switch form a loop antenna with the ground element. When the second switch is turned on and the first switch is turned off, an inverted-F antenna is formed by the second metal portion.