Stacked Multi-Layer Antenna Structure for Compact Multi-Band Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern electronic devices require compact antennas that support multiple frequency bands, such as 5G communications, while maintaining a slim and lightweight design, posing a challenge in accommodating multiple resonating elements within limited space.
Innovation Solution
A dual or tri-band antenna structure is designed with multiple metal layers, each forming resonating elements operating at different frequency bands, connected by transmission lines and parasitic elements, and utilizing a stacked dielectric substrate to enhance performance and compactness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple resonating elements are stacked in different metal layers to support multiple frequency bands, then the antenna can operate at multiple bands (first band and second band), but the device complexity increases due to the multi-layer structure and multiple transmission lines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from planar antenna designs to a three-dimensional stacked configuration, placing resonating elements in multiple metal layers (first, second, and third metal layers) at different vertical positions. This vertical stacking enables multi-band operation by utilizing the z-dimension, allowing each layer to contribute to different frequency bands while maintaining a compact footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna structure implements a nested configuration where resonating elements are embedded within stacked metal layers. The first resonating element is positioned in the second metal layer above the first metal layer, and the second resonating element is positioned in the third metal layer above the second metal layer, creating a compact nested structure that integrates multiple functional elements in a limited space.
2Reliability
If resonating elements are positioned at different vertical positions to achieve frequency separation, then the antenna can distinguish between first band and second band signals, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase for aligning multiple metal layers and transmission lines
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna structure is segmented into distinct functional layers, with each metal layer containing specific resonating elements and transmission lines optimized for particular frequency bands. The first resonating element and its associated transmission line are configured for the first band, while the second resonating element and its transmission line are configured for the second band, allowing independent optimization and simplifying the manufacturing process for each segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dielectric layers as intermediary materials between the metal layers containing resonating elements. These dielectric layers provide mechanical support and electrical isolation, facilitating precise positioning of the resonating elements in the vertical dimension while maintaining the required electrical performance for frequency band discrimination.
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
The antenna structure effectively supports multiple frequency bands, optimizing space usage and performance, enabling efficient radio-frequency functionality in modern devices.
Implementation Method 1
The second metal layer forms a first antenna resonating element operating at a first band
Implementation Method 2
The third metal layer forms a second antenna resonating element operating at a second band
Implementation Method 3
a first transmission line extending from the first metal layer to the second metal layer and a second transmission line extending from the first metal layer through the first opening to the third metal layer
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna structure is provided. The antenna structure includes a first metal layer and a second metal layer disposed over the first metal layer. The second metal layer forms a first antenna resonating element operating at a first band and has a first opening. The antenna structure also includes a third metal layer disposed over the second metal layer. The third metal layer forms a second antenna resonating element operating at a second band, which is different from the first band. The antenna structure further includes a first transmission line extending from the first metal layer to the second metal layer and a second transmission line extending from the first metal layer through the first opening to the third metal layer.