Segmented Microstrip Antenna Layout for Higher RF Conversion Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
The efficiency of energy conversion from electrical signals to radio waves by microstrip antennas used in image forming devices with wireless tags is not optimal.
Innovation Solution
A microstrip antenna design with a radiating element comprising first and second radiation areas, where the second major axis is longer than the first and the second minor axis is shorter than the first, improving energy conversion efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a conventional microstrip antenna with uniform radiating elements is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the energy conversion efficiency from electrical signals to radio waves is not optimal
Solution Approach 1:
The radiating element is divided into multiple segments with different lengths along the major axis direction. Each segment has a specific length that is optimized for energy radiation, creating a segmented structure that improves energy conversion efficiency while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through modular construction
Solution Approach 2:
Different segments of the radiating element are designed with locally optimized properties - each segment has a specific length tailored to its position and function. This local quality optimization ensures that each part contributes maximally to energy conversion, resolving the contradiction between efficiency and complexity
2Loss of energy
If the radiating element dimensions are increased to improve radiation area, then the energy conversion efficiency improves, but the antenna size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The radiating element utilizes both major axis and minor axis dimensions strategically. By optimizing the minor axis length to be shorter while creating multiple segments along the major axis, the design achieves effective radiation area without proportionally increasing overall antenna footprint, thus improving efficiency without excessive size growth
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
Enhances the efficiency of energy conversion from electrical signals to radio waves, facilitating effective communication with wireless tags in image forming and sheet processing devices.
Implementation Method 1
the efficiency of energy conversion from electrical signals to radio waves by microstrip antennas
Data Source
AI summary
According to an embodiment, a microstrip antenna includes a radiating element. The radiating element includes a first radiation area including a first major axis which is a major axis parallel to a first direction and a first minor axis which is a minor axis perpendicular to the first major axis, and a second radiation area including a second major axis which is a major axis parallel to the first direction and longer than the first major axis and a second minor axis which is a minor axis perpendicular to the second major axis. A length of the second minor axis is shorter than a length of the first minor axis.