SIW Slot Array Antenna Fixing Structure for PCB Vibration Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Slot array antennae created using printed circuit board (PCB) technology face limitations in size and mechanical reliability, particularly under mechanical stress such as vibration and temperature changes, due to the size constraints of multi-layer PCBs and the challenge of maintaining a solid mechanical connection between PCBs and support structures.
Innovation Solution
The use of mechanical fasteners passing through existing vias to securely connect multiple PCBs and attach them to a support structure, such as a feeding waveguide, enhances the mechanical reliability and strength of the antenna, ensuring stability under mechanical stress without compromising RF performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If multiple PCBs are used to create a larger slot array antenna, then the antenna size increases, but the mechanical reliability deteriorates due to connection weaknesses between PCBs
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna is divided into multiple PCB segments that can be manufactured separately and then assembled together. Each PCB contains a portion of the slot array elements, and these segments are connected using mechanical fasteners that pass through aligned holes in adjacent PCBs, creating a modular structure that achieves large overall size while maintaining connection integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The connection structure combines multiple materials and methods: mechanical fasteners (screws or rivets) provide primary structural connection, while adhesive bonding provides secondary reinforcement and sealing. This composite approach creates a stronger, more reliable joint than either method alone, addressing the mechanical reliability concern when scaling to multiple PCBs
2Strength
If mechanical fasteners are added to connect PCBs, then the mechanical strength improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical fasteners serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide structural connection between PCBs, align the PCB segments during assembly, and create mounting points for additional components or shielding. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate alignment features or mounting structures, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Holes are pre-drilled and pre-tapped into the PCBs at precise locations during the PCB manufacturing process, before assembly. This preliminary action ensures accurate alignment and simplifies the final assembly operation, reducing the complexity of the assembly process while maintaining strong mechanical connections
3Stability of the object's composition
If PCBs are securely attached to support structure, then the stability under mechanical stress improves, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is designed to integrate with the PCB assembly by providing a common mounting surface that accommodates multiple PCBs simultaneously. The PCBs are attached to the support structure using standardized mounting brackets or flanges that are pre-installed on the PCB edges, combining the support function with the structural framework in a single manufactured component
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
This disclosure is directed to techniques to improve the mechanical reliability and strength of slot array antennae created using printed circuit board (PCB) technology. In some examples, a multi-layer PCB may have a limit on the length and width dimensions. Therefore, a larger slot array antenna may require two or more PCBs to create the full size of the antenna. This disclosure describes techniques to securely connect the two or more PCBs to withstand environments where the slot array antenna may be placed under mechanical stress, such as vibration. A PCB based antenna may define the walls of radiating waveguides with vias between the layers of the PCB. Mechanical fasteners may pass through some of the existing vias to secure the PCB to a support structure, such as a feeding waveguide, as well as to secure one PCB to other PCBs.