Shape-Memory Antenna Geometry for Multi-Band Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electromagnetic wave technologies are limited by the need for multiple dedicated antennas for different applications, which is not feasible for miniaturized and mobile technologies, and existing configurable solutions like phased arrays and software defined radios have limitations that require further advances.
Innovation Solution
A shape change antenna formed of conductive shape memory material that physically changes shape in response to non-geometric characteristics, allowing it to transition between different geometries to accommodate multiple applications without external actuators, using conductive materials like shape memory alloys or polymers and controlled by a stimulator to adjust electromagnetic characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple dedicated antennas are used for different applications, then electromagnetic performance for each application is optimized, but device size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single antenna structure capable of performing multiple electromagnetic functions by changing its physical geometry. The antenna can transform between different configurations (e.g., extended linear shape for broadband reception, folded or compact shapes for directional communication) to serve multiple applications including science-based detection and communications, eliminating the need for separate dedicated antennas for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic, reconfigurable antenna structure that can physically change its geometry in real-time. The antenna uses shape-changing mechanisms (such as deployable elements, movable joints, or reconfigurable metamaterial structures) to adapt its physical form according to the required electromagnetic function, transitioning between static configurations to optimize performance for different applications.
2Reliability
If multiple dedicated antennas are used for different applications, then electromagnetic performance for each application is optimized, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single antenna structure capable of performing multiple electromagnetic functions by changing its physical geometry. The antenna can transform between different configurations (e.g., extended linear shape for broadband reception, folded or compact shapes for directional communication) to serve multiple applications including science-based detection and communications, eliminating the need for separate dedicated antennas for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple antenna functions and configurations into a single integrated structure. Rather than having separate antennas for broadband detection, directional communication, and other electromagnetic functions, the invention merges these capabilities into one reconfigurable antenna system that can assume different operational geometries as needed.
3Volume of moving object
If antenna size is reduced for miniaturization, then device size decreases, but electromagnetic performance and frequency band coverage are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic, reconfigurable antenna structure that can physically change its geometry in real-time. The antenna uses shape-changing mechanisms (such as deployable elements, movable joints, or reconfigurable metamaterial structures) to adapt its physical form according to the required electromagnetic function, transitioning between static configurations to optimize performance for different applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes a nested or compact-folded antenna structure that can be stored in a minimized configuration within a small volume. When full performance is required, the antenna elements can be deployed or extended from the compact form to achieve the necessary electrical length and radiation characteristics for different frequency bands, effectively packing multiple operational geometries within a small footprint.
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
Enables a single antenna to operate across multiple frequency bands and adjust radiation patterns, reducing size and weight, and supporting diverse applications such as broadband sensing and narrow-band communications.
Implementation Method 1
The shape change antenna may be formed of a material including a conductive shape memory material that physically moves in response to changes in a non-geometric characteristic
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna assembly may include a shape change antenna configured to transmit an electromagnetic wave or receive an electromagnetic wave. The shape change antenna may have an antenna shape and may be formed of a conductive shape memory material that physically moves in response to changes in a non-geometric characteristic. The antenna assembly may also include a shape change stimulator configured to change the non-geometric characteristic of the shape change antenna to cause the antenna shape to physically change between a first geometry and a second geometry.