Frequency-Selective Reflector Using Dual-Thickness Dielectric Phase Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reflect arrays for mobile communication systems face challenges in customizing reflection properties to various installation scenarios, leading to increased production costs and time due to the need for photomasks in photolithographic processing, and limitations in controlling reflection phases at high frequencies.
Innovation Solution
A frequency selective reflector with a dielectric layer having two types of thicknesses, comprising first regions with thinner thickness and second regions with thicker thickness, to control electromagnetic wave reflection direction, eliminating the need for photomasks and allowing for faster, cost-effective production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If photolithographic processing with photomasks is used to customize reflection properties, then reflection direction control is achieved, but production cost increases and production time is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The dielectric layer is segmented into multiple regions with different thicknesses (first regions and second regions), where each region corresponds to different reflection phases. This segmentation enables control of electromagnetic wave reflection directions without requiring photomasks, thus reducing production time while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameter of dielectric layer thickness to control reflection properties. By varying the thickness parameter across different regions, the reflection phase is controlled, achieving different reflection directions without modifying the photomask, thereby reducing production cost and time
2Manufacturing precision
If photolithographic processing with photomasks is used to customize reflection properties, then reflection direction control is achieved, but production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dielectric layer is divided into first regions and second regions with different thicknesses, enabling reflection phase control through geometric segmentation rather than photomask customization. This approach eliminates the need for expensive photomask fabrication and customization for each application scenario
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces expensive photomasks with a cost-effective dielectric layer structure that can be manufactured using standard fabrication techniques. The dielectric layer with varying thicknesses serves as a permanent, reusable component that does not require disposable photomasks for each production run
3Ease of manufacture
If planar arrangement of reflective elements is used, then manufacturing is simplified, but reflection angle cannot be increased due to pitch limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from controlling reflection angle through in-plane pitch adjustment to controlling it through out-of-plane thickness variation. By adding the thickness dimension to the dielectric layer, larger reflection angles can be achieved without compromising manufacturing simplicity or requiring narrower in-plane pitches
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 reflector reduces production costs and time while enabling flexible control of reflection direction and phase, accommodating diverse installation scenarios with improved accuracy and reduced sensitivity to dimensional variations.
Implementation Method 1
a dielectric layer that is disposed at an incident side of the electromagnetic waves with respect to the reflecting member and transmits the electromagnetic waves
Implementation Method 2
a reflecting member reflecting the electromagnetic waves
Implementation Method 3
the dielectric layer has two types of thicknesses, and includes a plurality of first regions with thinner thickness and a plurality of second regions with thicker thickness
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a frequency selective reflector reflecting electromagnetic waves in a particular frequency band of 24 GHz or more in a direction different from a regular reflection direction, the frequency selective reflector comprising: a reflecting member reflecting the electromagnetic waves; and a dielectric layer that is disposed at an incident side of the electromagnetic waves with respect to the reflecting member and transmits the electromagnetic waves, the dielectric layer has two types of thicknesses, and includes a plurality of first regions with thinner thickness and a plurality of second regions with thicker thickness.