Single-feed Multi-frequency Antenna with LC Resonant Traces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing single-feed multi-frequency multi-polarization antennas are difficult to manufacture and tune accurately, and their frequency bands cannot be tuned independently, due to inconsistencies in the gap between antenna elements and limitations in current screening and printing processes.
Innovation Solution
The antenna employs inductive coupling between coplanar inner and outer patches using relatively long, thin traces that function as inductors, allowing for improved manufacturability and independent tuning of frequency bands by forming a parallel resonant LC circuit, which prevents signal coupling and enhances performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If coplanar inner and outer patches are used with a single feed, then multi-frequency multi-polarization signal reception is achieved, but manufacturing accuracy and gap consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediate coupling structure consisting of vertical traces connecting the inner and outer patches. These traces act as inductors that provide controlled coupling between patches, replacing the reliance on precise gap spacing. The coupling is achieved through these intermediary elements rather than direct capacitive coupling across the gap, thereby decoupling the antenna's functional performance from manufacturing tolerances of the gap distance.
2Adaptability or versatility
If coplanar inner and outer patches are used with a single feed, then multi-frequency multi-polarization signal reception is achieved, but independent tuning of frequency bands becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the coupling mechanism into independent controllable elements - the vertical traces connecting inner and outer patches. By making the traces relatively long and thin to function as inductors, and arranging them in parallel resonant LC circuits, each frequency band can be independently tuned by adjusting the trace dimensions and positioning. This segmentation allows independent optimization of GPS and satellite radio frequency bands without mutual interference.
3Ease of manufacture
If current screening and printing processes are used, then manufacturing is simplified, but manufacturing precision and gap accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/geometric coupling mechanism (relying on precise physical gap spacing) with an electrical coupling mechanism (using inductor traces forming LC resonant circuits). This substitution allows the use of standard screening and printing processes while achieving precise coupling control through electrical parameters (trace length, width, position) rather than mechanical dimensions (gap width), thereby maintaining manufacturing simplicity while improving precision.
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
This design simplifies manufacturing, reduces costs, and provides enhanced performance by allowing independent tuning of frequency bands and improved signal isolation, resulting in consistent and accurate output of multiple signals with different frequencies and polarizations.
Implementation Method 1
The inner and outer patches are connected to each other by a plurality of relatively long, relatively thin traces. Each trace functions as an inductor. The individual traces or inductors are resonant and in parallel.
Implementation Method 2
The individual traces or inductors are resonant and in parallel. The inductors couple the outer patch signals to the outer patch and prevent the inner patch signals from coupling to the outer patch.
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna capable of receiving both left-hand circularly polarized (LHCP) signals and right-hand circularly polarized (RHCP) signals, and outputting both signals on a single feed. The antenna includes two coplanar concentric patches. The inner patch is substantially square. The outer patch surrounds the inner patch to define a gap therebetween. A resonant parallel inductive/LC circuit interconnects the two patches. The circuit includes a plurality of printed traces within the gap and interconnecting the concentric patches. The gap and each trace function as an LC circuit.