Switch-Fed Beamforming Antenna Array Without Phase Shifters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 5G communication systems face challenges in beamforming due to high costs and complexity associated with phase control in antenna arrays, particularly in high-frequency millimeter wave bands, which affect signal propagation and transmission distance.
Innovation Solution
An antenna device with a reconfigurable switch-based feeding path, comprising a processor and multiple switching circuits, allows for the implementation of various beam patterns by controlling the switching circuits to operate in different modes, reducing phase adjustment costs and enhancing signal transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If phase shifters or Butler matrix are used to perform beamforming, then beamforming capability is achieved, but cost for phase control increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the phase control function from traditional phase shifters and Butler matrix, implementing beamforming through a reconfigurable antenna array where the feeding network itself provides the necessary phase manipulation through selective signal routing to different antenna elements, thereby eliminating dedicated phase control components
Solution Approach 2:
The feeding network is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides both signal distribution and phase control simultaneously through its reconfigurable structure, eliminating the need for separate phase shifter components and reducing overall system complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If more beam patterns are implemented, then communication coverage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna array employs dynamic reconfiguration capability where the feeding network can be dynamically switched between different connection states to generate multiple beam patterns, allowing the system to adapt to different communication scenarios without adding permanent hardware for each pattern
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic switching between different beam patterns through the reconfigurable feeding network, enabling time-division multiplexing of different beam directions to serve multiple users or coverage areas sequentially, thereby achieving comprehensive coverage without simultaneous complexity
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna device includes an antenna array including a plurality of first antenna elements, arranged in a 2-by-2 array, a plurality of second antenna elements arranged in a 2-by-2 array, a first switching circuit, a second switching circuit connected to the first switching circuit and the first antenna elements, a third switching circuit connected to the first switching circuit and the second antenna elements, and a processor connected to the switching circuits. The processor is configured to control at least one of the switching circuits to operate in a single mode, among the plurality of modes, based on a single beam pattern among a plurality of predetermined beam patterns and to feed power to the antenna array through the first switching circuit, the second switching circuit, and the third switching circuit, to transmit a signal having the beam pattern.