Substrate Integrated Waveguide Non-Rectangular Slot Contour

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Solution Overview

Problem

Waveguides for electromagnetic radiation experience high signal loss in the 58 to 62 GHz frequency range, necessitating an improvement in gain values to match the efficiency of lower frequency ranges like 2.5 to 6.0 GHz used for Wi-Fi applications.

Innovation Solution

A substrate integrated waveguide with a non-rectangular slot contour defined by specific equations, utilizing the Gielis formula, which influences gain values and is effective over a broad frequency range, including the 58 to 62 GHz band, by optimizing the shape and positioning of the slot within the waveguide.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If a rectangular slot contour is used in the waveguide, then the manufacturing is simple and straightforward, but the gain values are insufficient in the 58 to 62 GHz frequency range

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveslot fabrication simplicityVSAvoidsignal loss
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies asymmetry by replacing the conventional rectangular slot contour with a non-rectangular contour defined by specific mathematical equations. This asymmetric shape modification optimizes the electromagnetic field distribution within the waveguide, reducing signal loss and improving gain values in the 58 to 62 GHz frequency range while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through precise contour definition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by introducing specific mathematical parameters (a, b, c, d, e, f, g, h, i, j, k, l, m, n, o, p, q, r, s, t, u, v, w, x, y, z) that define the slot contour equations. These parameter adjustments transform the slot geometry to optimize electromagnetic wave propagation characteristics, directly addressing the signal loss issue in the target frequency range.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Device complexity

If a rectangular slot contour is used in the waveguide, then the design is conventional and easy to implement, but the gain values are not improved over a broad frequency range

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveslot design complexityVSAvoidsignal loss
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies asymmetry by replacing the conventional rectangular slot contour with a non-rectangular contour defined by specific mathematical equations. This asymmetric shape modification optimizes the electromagnetic field distribution within the waveguide, reducing signal loss and improving gain values in the 58 to 62 GHz frequency range while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through precise contour definition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by introducing specific mathematical parameters (a, b, c, d, e, f, g, h, i, j, k, l, m, n, o, p, q, r, s, t, u, v, w, x, y, z) that define the slot contour equations. These parameter adjustments transform the slot geometry to optimize electromagnetic wave propagation characteristics, directly addressing the signal loss issue in the target frequency range.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Loss of energy

If the slot contour is modified to improve gain values, then the signal loss is reduced, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal lossVSAvoidslot contour accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements parameter changes by introducing specific mathematical parameters (a, b, c, d, e, f, g, h, i, j, k, l, m, n, o, p, q, r, s, t, u, v, w, x, y, z) that define the slot contour equations. These parameter adjustments transform the slot geometry to optimize electromagnetic wave propagation characteristics, directly addressing the signal loss issue in the target frequency range.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies skipping by providing a comprehensive mathematical framework that allows manufacturing systems to automatically generate and cut the complex contour without requiring manual precision adjustments at every point. The equations enable rapid, accurate fabrication through automated processes, reducing the burden on manufacturing precision while achieving the desired gain improvement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #21Skipping (Rushing through)

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 waveguide achieves significantly improved gain values and reduced signal loss across the 58 to 62 GHz frequency range, enhancing antenna efficiency and compatibility with emerging 5G and millimeter-wave applications.

Implementation Method 1

a waveguide for electromagnetic radiation, which is a substrate integrated waveguide... enables an electromagnetic wave to propagate with reduced loss of energy by restricting the electromagnetic field expansion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic wave propagation: Waveguide

Implementation Method 2

a bottom layer and a top layer of an electrically conductive material... a multitude of pillars of electrically conductive material which extend through the substrate layer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS11069948B2Surface integrated waveguide including top and bottom conductive layers having at least one slot with a specific contour
Publication Date: 2021.07.20 THE ANTENNA COMPANY INT
  • US11069948B2 patent drawing
  • US11069948B2 patent drawing
  • US11069948B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A waveguide for electromagnetic radiation, which is a substrate integrated waveguide which is basically a laminate of planar layers includes a substrate layer of dielectric material; a bottom layer and a top layer of an electrically conductive material provided on the respective bottom surface and top surface of the substrate layer; a multitude of pillars of electrically conductive material which extend through the substrate layer from its bottom to its top surface and which are electrically connected to the bottom and top layer; wherein at least one of the bottom and top layer contains at least one part that is void of electrically conductive material, which part is referred to as a slot.