Vehicle Antenna Module Layout for Compact Multi-Band Decoupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing antenna modules in motor vehicles face challenges in accommodating multiple antennas in a compact space without interference, particularly due to shielding by the vehicle casing and the need for sufficient reception in different frequency ranges.
Innovation Solution
The design integrates AM-FM and DAB antennas as planar helical antennas on a common circuit board, with LTE 5G antennas positioned perpendicularly, utilizing roof capacitance and strategic orientation to minimize interference, allowing for compact and efficient placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If multiple antennas are arranged close together to reduce installation space, then the antenna module becomes more compact, but the antennas interfere with each other due to their proximity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning from planar antenna arrangements to three-dimensional spatial configuration. The helical antenna turns are arranged in space with specific pitch and radius, allowing antennas to be positioned in different vertical and horizontal planes. This 3D arrangement enables compact integration while maintaining sufficient separation between antennas of different types (AM, FM, DAB, LTE 5G) to minimize electromagnetic interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the antenna system into distinct functional groups arranged on separate circuit boards. The AM-FM-DAB antennas are arranged on a first circuit board while LTE 5G antennas are arranged on a second circuit board. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each antenna group's layout and reduces mutual interference between different antenna types.
2Reliability
If antenna size is increased to improve reception quality in different frequency ranges, then reception performance improves, but the antenna module occupies more installation space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses three-dimensional helical antenna structures instead of traditional planar designs. The helical turns provide extended electrical length within a compact volume by utilizing vertical space through the pitch of the helix. This allows the antenna to achieve resonant lengths suitable for different frequency ranges (AM, FM, DAB) without increasing the horizontal footprint of the antenna module.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functionality by designing a combined AM-FM-DAB antenna system where a single helical antenna structure can operate across multiple frequency ranges. The helical antenna's geometric parameters (radius, pitch, number of turns) can be optimized to provide resonant frequencies for AM, FM, and DAB bands simultaneously, reducing the need for separate antennas for each service.
3Reliability
If antennas are positioned outside the motor vehicle to reduce shielding, then reception is improved, but available installation space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nesting by integrating multiple antennas and circuit boards into a compact hierarchical structure. The first and second circuit boards are arranged in an overlay configuration where components are nested vertically. The antenna module is designed to fit within the vehicle's roof structure or external mounting space, with circuit boards stacked and connected through vertical interconnections, maximizing space utilization while maintaining antenna performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional planar circuit board layouts to three-dimensional stacked configurations. Circuit boards are arranged vertically with antennas extending in multiple directions, utilizing the Z-axis dimension to separate antenna elements. This 3D arrangement allows the antenna module to achieve sufficient physical separation for reduced interference while maintaining a compact overall volume suitable for vehicle installation.
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna module for a motor vehicle, comprises at least one electrically small AM-FM antenna and a DAB antenna. The antenna module comprises an antenna unit comprising the combined AM-FM antenna and the DAB antenna, wherein the antenna unit comprises at least one first circuit board having a first height in a first direction and a first width in a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction, wherein helical antenna turns of the AM-FM antenna and/or DAB antenna, at least part of which is a planar helical antenna, are arranged on the at least one first circuit board, wherein the helical antenna turns run in the second direction, wherein at least one LTE 5G telephone antenna is arranged on a second circuit board having a second height in the first direction and a second width in a third direction different from the first and second directions.