Shielded Antenna Module With PCB Contact Elements for Massive MIMO
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current antenna arrangements for massive MIMO systems require individual designs for each combination of frequency bands, duplex schema, and antenna size, leading to complex and costly shielding configurations, which limits their modularity and scalability.
Innovation Solution
The proposed antenna module features elongated contact elements that establish contact with a printed circuit board via movement, allowing for modular and customizable configurations, with a shielding frame and cover providing electromagnetic shielding while enabling flexible antenna arrangements and frequency combinations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If individual designs are used for each combination of frequency bands, duplex schema, and antenna size, then electromagnetic compatibility is ensured, but device complexity and design cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal shielding frame structure that can accommodate multiple antenna elements and support various frequency bands through configurable antenna contact elements. The shielding frame serves multiple functions: providing electromagnetic shielding, mechanical support, and a standardized interface for different antenna configurations, thereby reducing the need for individualized designs while maintaining electromagnetic compatibility
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna module is divided into modular components including the shielding frame, antenna elements, and contact elements that can be independently configured. This segmentation allows the same shielding structure to support different combinations of antenna elements for different frequency bands and duplex schemas, reducing overall design complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If modular antenna configurations are implemented, then design flexibility and scalability improve, but shielding complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the shielding function with the structural support function by integrating the shielding frame as both a protective enclosure and a mechanical support structure for antenna elements. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall shielding system while maintaining design flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The shielding frame is designed as a universal structure that provides electromagnetic shielding while simultaneously serving as a mechanical platform for mounting various antenna configurations. This multi-functionality reduces shielding complexity by eliminating the need for separate shielding structures for each antenna type
3Ease of manufacture
If antenna contact elements are made elongated for flexible contact establishment, then ease of assembly improves, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The elongated antenna contact elements are designed to be flexible and capable of establishing contact through relative movement between the antenna module and printed circuit board. This dynamic contact mechanism compensates for manufacturing tolerances and misalignments, reducing the stringency of precision requirements while maintaining reliable electrical connection
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna module (1) with a number of antennas (11). Each antenna (11) includes a number of antenna elements and a number of elongated antenna contact elements (112). The antenna contact elements (112) are each configured to establish contact with an associated conductive path of a printed circuit board (2) via a movement of the antennas (11) and the printed circuit board (2) towards each other. The antenna module further includes a shielding with a shielding frame (12) and a shielding cover (15). The shielding frame (12) has a proximal shielding frame end that is configured for mounting on the printed circuit board (2) under circumferential contact. The shielding cover is in circumferential contact with the shielding frame (12). The shielding carrying the number of antennas (11, 11′).