Stacked Antenna Module Reducing Mounting Area
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional antenna modules for the 60 GHz band require a larger area for mounting due to the non-overlapping arrangement of the RFIC and waveguide, leading to increased space requirements.
Innovation Solution
The antenna module design includes a waveguide slot antenna with a RFIC positioned to overlap the waveguide in the stacking direction, utilizing a microstripline and solder bumps for mounting on a printed circuit board, reducing the overall area needed for installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the RFIC and waveguide are arranged in a non-overlapping configuration, then capacity coupling issues are avoided, but the mounting area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a planar arrangement to a three-dimensional stacked configuration. The RFIC and waveguide are positioned at different vertical levels separated by a dielectric layer, allowing them to overlap in the mounting footprint while maintaining physical separation. This dimensional change resolves the contradiction by enabling area reduction without compromising antenna performance.
2Area of stationary object
If the RFIC is positioned to overlap the waveguide in the stacking direction, then the mounting area is reduced, but capacity coupling may occur
Solution Approach 1:
A dielectric layer is introduced as an intermediary between the RFIC and the waveguide. This dielectric layer provides electrical isolation and prevents capacity coupling while allowing the components to be positioned in close proximity for compact mounting. The intermediary enables the overlapping configuration without compromising antenna characteristics.
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 configuration allows for a smaller area requirement for mounting the antenna module compared to conventional designs, while maintaining effective antenna characteristics without capacity coupling issues.
Implementation Method 1
bump-connecting the antenna module to the printed circuit board via a solder bump
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna module of the present invention is an antenna module 1 including a waveguide slot antenna (1A), a microstripline (1B), and an RFIC (16), the RFIC (16) being disposed to overlap a waveguide (123, 126) of the waveguide slot antenna (1A) as viewed in a stacking direction of layers. This provides an antenna module which can be mounted in a smaller area than a conventional antenna module.