Switchable Polarization Microstrip Antenna for Satellite Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional microstrip antenna transceivers for satellite communication require separate left-handed and right-handed polarized antenna modules, leading to increased space and cost due to the need for large hybrid circuits with ¼ wavelength dimensions for low-frequency satellite signals, making it impractical to handle both orthogonal signals simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A microstrip antenna transceiver design with a base board, ground metal plate, antenna module, and switchable microstrip wires that allows for the generation of both vertically and horizontally polarized signals using a single antenna module by controlling the first and second switches and adjusting the radiating metal patch and feeding holes to achieve phase differences and energy transformation without increasing antenna dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate left-handed and right-handed polarized antenna modules are used, then both orthogonal signals can be received simultaneously, but space occupation and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines both left-handed and right-handed polarized antenna functions into a single integrated antenna module. The antenna structure includes feeding mechanisms that can generate both types of polarized signals simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate antenna modules and reducing space occupation while maintaining the capability to receive both orthogonal signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The single antenna module is designed with multi-functionality to handle both left-handed and right-handed polarized signals. The feeding structure and radiating elements are configured to support multiple signal types through a unified design, allowing the same physical antenna to perform multiple functions that previously required separate dedicated antennas.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate left-handed and right-handed polarized antenna modules are used, then both orthogonal signals can be received simultaneously, but cost increases due to dual module requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges both polarized antenna functions into one integrated module, reducing the total number of components that need to be manufactured, assembled, and tested. This consolidation lowers manufacturing costs by eliminating redundant structures and simplifying the production process while maintaining full functionality for receiving both orthogonal signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal antenna design allows a single manufactured unit to serve multiple purposes, replacing what would have required two separate manufactured components. This multi-functional approach reduces material costs, assembly costs, and overall manufacturing complexity while providing the same signal reception capabilities.
3Area of stationary object
If a single antenna module is used for both polarizations, then space and cost are reduced, but achieving high isolation between polarized signals becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric feeding structures and radiating element configurations within the single antenna module. By introducing controlled asymmetries in the feeding network and element geometry, the design achieves effective isolation between the left-handed and right-handed polarized signals, preventing mutual interference while maintaining compact dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna module is segmented into distinct feeding regions and radiating zones that are spatially separated and functionally differentiated. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each polarization path, ensuring high isolation between signals while maintaining a compact overall structure.
4Area of stationary object
If hybrid circuit dimensions are reduced, then space occupation is reduced, but handling low-frequency satellite signals becomes impractical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from planar hybrid circuit designs to a three-dimensional integrated antenna structure. By utilizing vertical spacing and multi-layer configurations within the single antenna module, the design achieves the necessary electrical length and signal handling capability for low-frequency satellite signals without requiring large horizontal dimensions, thus reducing overall space occupation.
Solution Approach 2:
The feeding structures and radiating elements are nested within a compact multi-layer configuration. The feeding network is integrated within the antenna body, with successive layers nested vertically, allowing the achievement of effective electrical lengths suitable for low-frequency operation while maintaining a small overall footprint.
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
Enables cost-effective handling of both orthogonal signals using a single antenna module by controlling switches and adjusting the radiating metal patch and feeding holes, maintaining high isolation and generating left-handed or right-handed polarized antenna patterns without the need for separate modules.
Implementation Method 1
the patch antenna 106 generates a vertically polarized signal SV and a horizontally polarized signal SH and radiates the vertically polarized signal SV and the horizontally polarized signal SH on the air
Implementation Method 2
the patch antenna 106 generates a vertically polarized signal SV and a horizontally polarized signal SH
Implementation Method 3
The hybrid circuit 104 equally partitions the signal S into two transmit signals with a phase difference of 90 degrees
Data Source
AI summary
A microstrip antenna transceiver with switchable polarization, used in a satellite signal reception device, includes a base board, having a first surface and a second surface; a ground metal plate, disposed on the first surface of the base board; an antenna module, disposed on the ground metal plate, having a radiating metal patch, a vertically polarized feeding hole and a horizontally polarized feeding hole; a first switch, set on the second surface of the base board; a second switch, set on the second surface of the base board; a first microstrip wire, electrically connected between the vertically polarized feeding hole of the antenna module and the first switch; and a second microstrip wire, electrically connected between the horizontally polarized feeding hole of the antenna module and the second switch.