Tablet Side Button Antenna Integration for Limited-Space Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of integrating a multi-antenna communication system in a tablet device is compounded by limited space and the need for cost-effective, detachable antennas, particularly in the side button section.
Innovation Solution
A new antenna is integrated behind a side button within the tablet device, forming a co-constructed structure with the side button using a support frame and antenna module, with a flexible flat cable connecting the side button control board.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a multi-antenna communication system is integrated into the tablet device, then the communication capability is improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the side button structure with the antenna module into a single integrated assembly. The support frame serves dual purposes: providing mechanical support for the side button and forming part of the antenna structure. This merging of functions allows the tablet to achieve multi-antenna communication capability without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The support frame is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously serves as a mechanical support structure for the side button and as an antenna element for wireless communication. This universal design allows a single component to fulfill multiple roles, reducing overall device complexity while enabling multi-antenna functionality
2Quantity of substance
If a new antenna is added in the limited space behind the side button, then the antenna quantity is improved, but the space utilization becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna module is nested within the hollow space behind the side button, utilizing the existing structural cavity. The support frame with its hollow portion creates a natural nesting space that accommodates the antenna module without requiring additional external space, thereby increasing antenna quantity within the same footprint
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from two-dimensional surface mounting to three-dimensional space utilization by placing the antenna module within the hollow space behind the side button. This dimensional transition allows efficient use of vertical and depth space, enabling additional antenna elements without expanding the device's external dimensions
3Productivity
If the side button and antenna are integrated into a co-constructed structure, then the space efficiency is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated structure is divided into modular segments: the support frame with hollow portion, the side button assembly, and the antenna module. These segmented components can be manufactured separately with standard tolerances and then assembled together, reducing the need for high-precision monolithic manufacturing while maintaining the space-efficient integrated design
Data Source
AI summary
A tablet device includes: a case having a top surface and a bottom surface, where a side button frame is provided on one side edge of the top surface; a metal support plate arranged in the case, where a hollow part is provided on one side edge of the metal support plate that corresponds to the side button frame, such that the hollow part forms a space in the case; a support frame arranged in the space; a side button sensor arranged in the side button frame; a side button control board arranged on the side edge of the metal support plate; and an antenna module arranged in the space; where the side button sensor, the support frame, and the antenna module are substantially overlapped with one another.