Modular EBG Antenna Arrangement for Millimeter-Wave Assembly Yield
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Solution Overview
Problem
Antenna arrays at millimeter wave frequencies face manufacturing challenges due to stringent tolerances and low yields, especially with increasing numbers of radiation elements and operational frequencies, as EBG structures become more complex and difficult to produce accurately.
Innovation Solution
A stacked layered antenna arrangement with a distribution layer using EBG structures, comprising multiple distribution modules and a positioning structure, such as a frame, to securely hold these modules in place, along with a support layer and shield layer, which includes EBG structures to prevent electromagnetic propagation and facilitate efficient signal distribution with low loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the number of radiation elements and operational frequency increase, then the control of radiation pattern improves, but manufacturing tolerances become more challenging and yield decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution layer is divided into multiple distribution modules, each handling a subset of radiation elements. This segmentation reduces the complexity of each module, making manufacturing more feasible while maintaining overall radiation pattern control across the entire antenna array.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a stacked layered structure with distribution layers positioned at different heights above the radiation layer. This vertical dimensionality allows EBG structures to effectively manage electromagnetic propagation in three-dimensional space, improving manufacturing feasibility while maintaining radiation control.
2Loss of energy
If EBG structures are used in distribution layer, then compact design and low loss are achieved, but manufacturing yield decreases due to complex structures at high frequencies
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the distribution layer into multiple modules, each with fewer EBG structures, the manufacturing complexity of individual modules is reduced while maintaining the low-loss benefits of EBG structures across the entire antenna array.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the EBG structure parameters (size, spacing, configuration) to be optimized for modular fabrication. This allows the EBG structures to maintain their electromagnetic performance while becoming more amenable to manufacturing processes.
3Ease of operation
If distribution layer uses EBG structures without electrical contact, then assembly precision requirements are reduced, but manufacturing tolerances become more sensitive at high frequencies
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution layer is segmented into modules that can be assembled independently with relaxed precision requirements. Each module's EBG structures are designed to be tolerant of manufacturing variations, and the modular approach allows for easier quality control.
Solution Approach 2:
The EBG structures are designed to perform multiple functions: electromagnetic shielding, signal distribution, and mechanical support. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate precision components, simplifying assembly while maintaining performance.
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 improves manufacturing yields and assembly efficiency while maintaining high performance by reducing the need for precise electrical contact and minimizing electromagnetic leakage, allowing for compact, low-loss designs even at high frequencies.
Implementation Method 1
a first electromagnetic bandgap, EBG, structure arranged to form at least one first waveguide intermediate the distribution layer and the radiation layer. The first EBG structure is also arranged to prevent electromagnetic propagation (i.e. electromagnetic radiation) in a frequency band of operation from propagating from the at least one first wave guide in directions other than through the at least one distribution layer feed and the one or more radiation elements
Implementation Method 2
at least one first waveguide intermediate the distribution layer and the radiation layer
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
An antenna arrangement (100) having a stacked layered structure. The antenna arrangement comprises a radiation layer (110) comprising one or more radiation elements (111), and a distribution layer facing the radiation layer (110). The distribution layer is arranged to distribute a radio frequency signal to the one or more radiation elements (111). The distribution layer comprises at least one distribution layer feed and a first electromagnetic bandgap, EBG, structure arranged to form at least one first waveguide intermediate the distribution layer and the radiation layer (110). The first EBG structure is also arranged to prevent electromagnetic propagation in a frequency band of operation from propagating from the at least one first wave guide in directions other than through the at least one distribution layer feed and the one or more radiation elements (111). The distribution layer comprises a plurality of distribution modules (121) and a positioning structure (122), wherein the positioning structure (122) is arranged to fix the distribution modules (121) in position.