Directional Patch Antenna with Switched Orientation for 60 GHz Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems using the 60 GHz frequency band face limited spatial coverage due to the high directional nature of patch antennas and atmospheric absorption, restricting communication range to about 10-20 meters, making them suitable only for in-home and limited-range commercial applications.
Innovation Solution
The use of multiple patch antennas oriented differently to increase spatial coverage, with a switch device to select the optimal antenna for directivity, allowing for broader radio-frequency field of view and improved communication range, while being less expensive and more power-efficient than traditional phased array systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a single patch antenna is used at 60 GHz, then the antenna provides high directional gain, but the spatial coverage is limited to a narrow beam width
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the antenna system into multiple discrete patch antennas (at least three), each oriented to cover different spatial sectors. This segmentation allows the system to maintain high directional gain from individual antennas while achieving broader overall spatial coverage through the combination of multiple antenna beams.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the antenna array from a two-dimensional planar configuration to a three-dimensional spatial arrangement with antennas oriented at different angles and positions. This dimensional expansion enables coverage of approximately 210 degrees of spatial coverage, overcoming the limitation of narrow beam width while maintaining high gain characteristics.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple patch antennas are used to increase spatial coverage, then the radio-frequency field of view is broadened, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a switch device that dynamically selects which patch antenna to activate based on the desired communication direction. This dynamic switching capability allows the system to maintain simplicity by using only one antenna at a time while providing the versatility of multiple antenna orientations, effectively managing the trade-off between complexity and spatial coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes control logic that automatically determines the optimal antenna selection based on spatial requirements, eliminating the need for manual configuration or complex external control systems. The antenna system serves itself by autonomously selecting the appropriate antenna element to meet the spatial coverage requirement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional phased array systems are used to achieve broad spatial coverage, then the field of view is expanded, but manufacturing costs and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs simple patch antenna elements with basic switch device control instead of complex phased array components. This approach uses lower-cost, simpler antenna structures that can be manufactured more economically and consume less power, while still achieving the desired spatial coverage through selective antenna switching rather than requiring all antennas to operate simultaneously at full power.
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 enhances communication range beyond traditional patch antennas, achieving approximately 210 degrees of spatial coverage and reducing manufacturing costs and power consumption, making it suitable for broader applications beyond traditional 60 GHz limitations.
Implementation Method 1
The antenna system includes a first patch antenna and a second patch antenna. The second patch antenna is oriented at a different angle than the first patch antenna. The patch antennas may be disposed on a flexible printed circuit board (FPC).
Data Source
AI summary
A device includes, in one embodiment, first and second patch antennas. The first patch antenna is disposed at a dielectric substrate, and defines a first principle plane. The second patch antenna is disposed at the dielectric substrate, and defines a second principle plane, an orientation of the second principle plane being different from an orientation of the first principle plane. A switch is coupled to the first patch antenna and to the second patch antenna, the switch to select between operation of the first patch antenna and operation of the second patch antenna.