Two-Layer Split-Ring Antenna for Compact Electronic Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Miniaturization of antennas for electronic devices is challenging, especially when using single-layer print substrates, which are inexpensive but difficult to miniaturize, and multilayer structures are costly.
Innovation Solution
A two-layer antenna structure with C-shaped split-ring resonators in separate conductor layers connected by through holes, forming splits that act as capacitors to create a compact and cost-effective design, similar to multilayer structures but at a lower cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a single-layer print substrate is used for the antenna, then the manufacturing cost is low, but the antenna size cannot be miniaturized effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-layer planar structure to a two-layer stacked structure with through-holes providing vertical electrical connections. This dimensional change allows the antenna to achieve miniaturization by utilizing the third dimension (height) while maintaining cost-effectiveness through a relatively simple two-layer construction rather than complex multilayer architectures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent embeds the second conductor layer within the structure defined by the first conductor layer and dielectric layer, creating a nested configuration where the second split-ring resonator is positioned inside the volume defined by the first split-ring resonator. This nesting approach maximizes space utilization and achieves miniaturization without requiring expensive multilayer substrates.
2Volume of moving object
If a multilayer structure is used for the antenna, then the antenna size can be miniaturized, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves miniaturization by utilizing a two-layer stacked configuration with vertical through-hole connections, effectively using the height dimension to reduce the planar footprint. This approach provides significant size reduction compared to single-layer designs while avoiding the high costs associated with complex multilayer substrates requiring precise alignment and multiple fabrication steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the antenna structure into two separate conductor layers with distinct split-ring resonators, each layer being independently fabricable. The through-holes provide electrical connection between segments, allowing modular construction that reduces overall size while maintaining manufacturing simplicity and cost-effectiveness compared to integrated multilayer approaches.
3Reliability
If through holes are added to connect conductor layers, then electrical connectivity is achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces through-holes as intermediary elements that electrically connect the first and second conductor layers. These through-holes serve as mediators between the two split-ring resonators, enabling the formation of a complete resonant circuit while maintaining relatively simple manufacturing processes. The through-holes can be formed using standard drilling and plating techniques, avoiding the need for complex three-dimensional integration methods.
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
The two-layer structure achieves miniaturization comparable to six-layer structures while being more affordable, allowing for further size and price reductions in both antennas and electronic devices.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of through holes which are arranged, at predetermined intervals, in the circumferential direction of C-shaped sections in the first split-ring section and the second split-ring section, and electrically connect the first split-ring section with the second split-ring section
Implementation Method 2
a first split section is formed at an opening of the substantially C-shaped section of the first split-ring section, a second split section is formed at an opening of the substantially C-shaped section of the second split-ring section, and the first split section and the second split section form a split to work as a capacitor
Implementation Method 3
The split-ring resonator can control effective permeability by interacting with a magnetic field
Implementation Method 4
a split-ring resonator which includes a first split-ring section which is formed, in a substantially C-shaped manner, in a first conductor layer located on one side of a dielectric layer
Data Source
AI summary
A split section (6a) has an auxiliary conductor pattern (11a) formed on one end of a substantially C-shaped section of a first split-ring section, and a split (12a) formed between the auxiliary conductor pattern (11a) and the other end of the substantially C-shaped section. A split section (6b) has an auxiliary conductor pattern (11b) formed on one end of a substantially C-shaped section of a second split-ring section, and a split (12b) formed between the auxiliary conductor pattern (11b) and the other end of the substantially C-shaped section. The auxiliary conductor pattern (11b) is formed so as to face the auxiliary conductor pattern (11a). The split (12b) is formed so as to be opposite from the position facing the split (12a) and consequently sandwich the auxiliary conductor pattern (11b) therebetween. A split (14) is formed between the auxiliary conductor pattern (11a) and the auxiliary conductor pattern (11b), stores electrical charges having different polarity, and functions as a large-capacity capacitor. As a result, it is possible to inexpensively produce a compact antenna and electric device.