Waveguide Support Structure for Thermal Strain Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing waveguide devices experience deformation due to uneven material stresses, particularly thermal strains, leading to reduced reliability and stability, especially when configured as antenna devices in vehicles.
Innovation Solution
The waveguide device incorporates support elements with compensation recesses and stiffening elements to adapt and balance material strains across surface sides, using compensation recesses to mirror waveguide structures and stiffening elements to enhance mechanical stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the waveguide device is configured as an antenna device in vehicles, then the functionality for electromagnetic wave transmission is improved, but deformation due to thermal strains and material stresses increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by introducing support elements with compensation recesses at specific locations within the waveguide device structure. These support elements are strategically positioned to counteract thermal strains and material stresses in critical areas, allowing the device to maintain its functional configuration while resisting deformation. The compensation recesses create localized structural adaptations that balance internal stresses without compromising the overall antenna functionality.
2Reliability
If the waveguide device operates under thermal stresses, then the operational capability is maintained, but strain and deformation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes by modifying the structural parameters of the waveguide device through the introduction of support elements with compensation recesses. These structural modifications alter the stress distribution parameters within the device, enabling it to maintain operational capability under thermal stresses while reducing strain and deformation. The compensation recesses adjust the physical parameters of the structure to better withstand thermal expansion and contraction forces.
3Ease of manufacture
If the waveguide device uses conventional structure without support elements, then the manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but deformation and instability increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the waveguide device structure into functional waveguide sections and supportive structural sections. The support elements with compensation recesses are introduced as distinct structural components that can be integrated into the manufacturing process. This segmentation allows the device to maintain relative manufacturing simplicity while incorporating features that significantly improve stability and reduce deformation under operational conditions.
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 configuration reduces deformation, enhances reliability and stability, and maintains functional integrity by aligning material stresses, thereby improving performance and durability.
Implementation Method 1
The strain on the first and/or second surface side can be a change in length triggered by material stresses that are free of external forces. The strain can be triggered by thermally induced mechanical stresses.
Data Source
AI summary
A waveguide device. The waveguide device as a base element, having a first surface side and an oppositely situated second surface side, and a plurality of waveguide elements that conduct electromagnetic waves. The elements are arranged between the first and second surface sides and, on the first surface side, comprise a first waveguide opening arrangement and, on the second surface side, comprise a second waveguide opening arrangement different from the first waveguide opening arrangement. The base element comprises support elements for adapting a strain in a first plane comprising the first surface side to a strain in a second plane comprising the second surface side. The adaptation reduces a deformation of the waveguide device.