Stacked Radiator Antenna Module for Millimeter-Wave Bandwidth
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing antenna modules in multi-layered substrates face limitations in bandwidth, antenna gain, and interference levels when operating in the millimeter wave band, particularly due to coupling changes with frequency and the need for efficient connection of RFIC and antenna elements.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a broadband antenna module with a plurality of stacked radiators operating independently, utilizing an offset feed structure for lower radiators, open spaces below feed lines, and optimized feed via structures to enhance efficiency and reduce interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If antenna elements are disposed on a single layer, then the device complexity is reduced, but the bandwidth of the antenna elements is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-layer antenna configuration to a multi-layer stacked patch antenna structure. By adding the vertical dimension with multiple patches stacked at different heights above the ground plane, the antenna achieves broader bandwidth while maintaining a compact form factor suitable for integration into electronic devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested configuration where multiple antenna patches are stacked vertically with each patch nested above the previous one. The patches are positioned at different heights (e.g., first patch at height h1, second patch at height h2 where h1 < h2), creating a compact nested structure that enhances bandwidth without significantly increasing the horizontal footprint.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a plurality of antenna elements are stacked on different layers, then the antenna bandwidth is improved, but the coupling change between the antenna elements sensitively reacts with frequency change
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating asymmetric positioning of the stacked patches relative to the ground plane. The patches are offset from the center with different horizontal positions (e.g., first patch centered at (x1, y1), second patch centered at (x2, y2) where the coordinates differ), which creates different local coupling characteristics that stabilize the overall antenna performance across frequency variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces asymmetry in the stacked patch configuration by positioning the patches at different locations and heights rather than symmetrically. This asymmetric arrangement prevents strong resonant coupling between layers that would otherwise cause sensitivity to frequency changes, thereby stabilizing the antenna's operational characteristics across the bandwidth.
3Power
If antenna elements are stacked to improve bandwidth, then the antenna gain can be enhanced, but the interference level increases due to current components in undesired directions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes parameters including the vertical spacing between patches, horizontal offset positions, and ground plane dimensions to control current distribution. By carefully selecting these parameters, the antenna achieves enhanced gain through constructive interference in desired directions while minimizing current components that would create interference in undesired directions.
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 antenna gain and reduces interference by optimizing the connection between RFIC and antenna elements, enhancing performance in the millimeter wave band.
Implementation Method 1
a first radiator 1111 and a second radiator 1112, which are stacked on different layers of the multi-layered substrate 1010, are configured to independently radiate signals
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A(a)~3A(b)
AI summary
Provided is an antenna module produced into a multi-layer substrate. The antenna module comprises: a first radiator disposed on an inner area or an upper area of the multi-layer substrate and formed into a first conductive layer to radiate a radio signal; a second radiator disposed in a lower area of the first radiator to be offset from the center of the first radiator, and formed into a second conductive layer to radiate a radio signal; and a feed line connected to the second radiator by means of a signal via, wherein the first radiator and the second radiator overlap on one axis, and the length of the first radiator on one axis and the length of the second radiator on one axis may differ from each other.