Interdependently Tuned Directional Antennas for Compact Wireless Access Points
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Solution Overview
Problem
Directional antennas often protrude due to being separate components and are not optimally tuned for combined radiation patterns, which can be sub-optimal for specific applications and locations, and existing antennas are typically designed for single frequencies, making them difficult to use in devices with unobtrusive form factors.
Innovation Solution
The use of interdependently tuned directional antennas, where multiple antennas are associated with the same or different electromagnetic radiation frequencies, and a network interface, to achieve a desired combined radiation pattern, integrated into a substrate or printed circuit board within a wireless access point, allowing for untethered wireless connections and an unobtrusive form factor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If directional antennas are used as separate components, then directional radiation pattern is achieved, but the device protrudes and form factor becomes obtrusive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple directional antenna elements into a single planar substrate, merging what would traditionally be separate protruding components into a flat, unobtrusive structure that maintains directional radiation capabilities while eliminating the protrusion problem
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna elements are arranged in a planar configuration on a substrate, transitioning from three-dimensional protruding structures to a two-dimensional flat layout, achieving directional radiation without increasing the device's volumetric footprint
2Reliability
If antennas are tuned for single frequencies, then optimal performance at that frequency is achieved, but adaptability to different frequencies and applications is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs antenna elements with adjustable tuning capabilities that allow the same antenna structure to be optimized for different frequencies and radiation patterns, enabling a single device to serve multiple frequency bands and application scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna system incorporates可调 tuning mechanisms that allow dynamic adjustment of resonant frequency and radiation pattern characteristics, enabling the antennas to adapt to different operating conditions and frequency requirements
3Reliability
If multiple directional antennas are used to improve coverage, then radiation pattern improves, but tuning complexity increases and antennas are not optimally tuned together
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs measurement and tuning procedures that use feedback from radiation pattern measurements to iteratively optimize the tuning of multiple antenna elements, ensuring they work together coherently to achieve the desired combined radiation pattern
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes desired radiation patterns as target specifications before the tuning process, allowing the multiple antenna elements to be systematically adjusted to meet pre-defined performance criteria rather than attempting trial-and-error optimization
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 approach enhances radio coverage by achieving a desired and optimal radiation pattern, providing better coverage area and flexibility in frequency operation, while maintaining a compact and unobtrusive design, suitable for various applications and environments.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of directional antennas associated with the same electromagnetic radiation (EMR) frequency
Data Source
AI summary
A technique for improving radio coverage involves using interdependently tuned directional antennas. An example according to the technique is a substrate including two antennas, a transceiver, and a connector. Another example system according to the technique is a wireless access point (AP) including a processor, memory, a communication port, and a PCB comprising a plurality of directional antennas and a radio. An example method according to the technique involves determining a voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) and interdependently tuning a first and second directional antenna to reach an expected radiation pattern.