Waveguide Antenna Housing for Compact Multi-Channel RF Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
The use of waveguide antennae in RF systems requires additional space due to their voluminous character, especially when multiple RF channels are needed, leading to increased manufacturing costs and larger mounting areas.
Innovation Solution
Integrate the waveguide antenna as a part of the RF system's housing, where it forms a wall of the enclosure, reducing the overall size and allowing for more RF channels without increasing the lateral dimension, and optionally incorporating a protection structure like a radome to protect against contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a waveguide antenna is used in an RF system, then manufacturing costs are reduced, but additional space is required due to its voluminous character
Solution Approach 1:
The waveguide antenna is integrated directly into the housing structure, merging two previously separate components (antenna and housing) into a single unified structure. This eliminates the need for additional mounting space while maintaining the cost advantages of waveguide antenna technology
Solution Approach 2:
The housing serves dual functions: it provides mechanical protection for the RF components while simultaneously serving as the waveguide antenna structure itself. This multi-functionality reduces the overall space requirement by eliminating dedicated antenna housing
2Adaptability or versatility
If many antenna elements are implemented in the waveguide antenna, then more RF channels are supported, but the voluminous character increases requiring additional space
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple antenna elements are arranged in a planar configuration on the housing surface rather than extending in three-dimensional space. This two-dimensional arrangement allows multiple RF channels to be supported without increasing the volumetric footprint of the system
3Volume of moving object
If the waveguide antenna is integrated into the housing, then the overall size is reduced, but mechanical protection against contamination may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
A radome made of dielectric material is applied over the waveguide antenna housing. This thin film structure provides mechanical protection against contamination and environmental factors while maintaining RF signal transparency and not significantly increasing the overall size
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 reduces the size and cost of the RF system while enabling more RF channels and channels per unit area, with improved mechanical protection and RF signal gain.
Implementation Method 1
The RF system further comprises a housing, wherein the RF semiconductor chip and the printed circuit board are inside of the housing. The housing comprises a case and a waveguide antenna, wherein a first side of the waveguide antenna faces the printed circuit board.
Data Source
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AI summary
A radio frequency (RF) system is disclosed. The RF system comprises an RF semiconductor chip electrically and mechanically coupled with a printed circuit board. A housing, wherein the RF semiconductor chip and the printed circuit board are inside of the housing. The housing comprises a case and a waveguide antenna, wherein a first side of the waveguide antenna faces the printed circuit board. The case is mounted on the waveguide antenna, and wherein the waveguide antenna is coupled with the RF semiconductor chip to transmit and receive RF signals.