RF Radiation Redirection via Coupling Elements
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Portable communication devices face challenges in reducing RF radiation directed towards the user while maintaining or increasing RF signal power, due to space constraints and growing health concerns, as well as stricter FCC regulations on Specific Absorption Rate (SAR).
Innovation Solution
The use of external coupling antennas and re-directional elements, such as metallic loops, directors, and corrugated shields, to redirect RF radiation away from the user's head by electromagnetic induction and scattering, without requiring a physical connection to the internal antenna, utilizing high conductivity materials and dielectrics to optimize placement and spacing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the antenna power output is increased to improve data transfer rates and communication function, then the RF signal strength is improved, but the SAR (Specific Absorption Rate) increases and violates FCC regulations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the antenna system into an internal antenna element and separate re-directional elements (metallic loops, directors, corrugated shields) that can independently control RF radiation patterns. This allows the internal antenna to maintain high power output while external elements redirect radiation away from the user's head, decoupling power output from SAR exposure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces re-directional elements (metallic loops, directors, and corrugated shields) as intermediary components between the internal antenna and the user's head. These intermediaries capture and redirect RF radiation through electromagnetic induction and scattering, allowing full power transmission while protecting the user from excessive SAR exposure
2Object-affected harmful factors
If additional space is allocated for antenna elements to redirect RF radiation away from the user, then the SAR is reduced, but the available device space is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting by placing re-directional elements (metallic loops, directors, corrugated shields) on the external surfaces of the device, utilizing the device's own structural space. The elements are positioned on the back surface and edges of the phone, effectively using the device envelope as mounting space without requiring additional internal volume
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional internal antenna placement to three-dimensional external element arrangement. By positioning re-directional elements on the back surface, edges, and corners of the device, the system utilizes spatial dimensions outside the main device body, effectively increasing radiation control capability without consuming internal device space
3Length of moving object
If the antenna is placed close to the back surface to save space, then the device thickness is reduced, but the RF radiation cannot be effectively redirected away from the user
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces re-directional elements as intermediary components positioned between the internal antenna and the external environment. These elements (metallic loops, directors, corrugated shields) are placed on the back surface at optimized distances from the antenna, enabling effective RF radiation redirection even when the antenna is positioned close to the back surface for space efficiency
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
Significantly reduces RF radiation exposure to the user while maintaining or enhancing the total radiated power, adhering to SAR limits and ensuring effective communication, as demonstrated through laboratory testing and computer modeling on various devices like the iPhone and Blackberry.
Implementation Method 1
The use of external coupling antennas and re-directional elements, such as metallic loops, directors, and corrugated shields, to redirect RF radiation away from the user's head by electromagnetic induction and scattering
Implementation Method 2
The use of external coupling antennas and re-directional elements, such as metallic loops, directors, and corrugated shields, to redirect RF radiation away from the user's head by electromagnetic induction and scattering
Implementation Method 3
utilizing high conductivity materials and dielectrics to optimize placement and spacing
Data Source
AI summary
A case for a wireless device includes a number of RF coupling elements mounted in the case and configured such that RF radiation is coupled from an internal antenna of the wireless device out of the device to a first RF coupling element, and from the first RF coupling element to a RF redirector coupling element that redirects the RF radiation in a direction outward from said wireless device that is opposite to a user side of the wireless device. A corrugated metallic shield is optionally provided on an opposite side of the case, facing a user of the device.