Window Antenna Segments for Impedance Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional window assemblies utilizing clear films or coatings for antenna purposes suffer from inadequate robustness and efficiency in antenna performance, insufficient control over radiation patterns and impedance characteristics, and require costly modifications such as deletions or slits in the transparent layer.
Innovation Solution
A window assembly with first and second antenna segments that extend along the periphery and abut the transparent layer, providing improved impedance matching and radiation pattern alteration without modifying the transparent layer, and allowing a minimized footprint for the antenna element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If clear films or coatings are applied over a substantial part of the windshield for antenna purposes, then antenna coverage is improved, but antenna performance robustness and efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system is divided into multiple segments: a transparent conductive coating layer applied over the windshield, and additional antenna elements positioned at the periphery. This segmentation allows the transparent layer to provide broad coverage while peripheral elements enhance performance robustness without requiring the entire windshield area to be modified.
2Reliability
If clear films or coatings are modified with deletions, voids, or slits for antenna purposes, then antenna functionality is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The transparent conductive coating serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides antenna functionality across the windshield surface, maintains structural integrity without requiring deletions or voids, and preserves the optical and thermal properties of the glass. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for costly modifications while achieving reliable antenna performance.
3Reliability
If antenna elements are extended to maximize impedance matching and radiation pattern control, then antenna performance is improved, but antenna footprint increases
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system transitions from a two-dimensional planar layout to a three-dimensional configuration by positioning antenna elements at the periphery and extending them in multiple directions. This dimensional change allows the antenna to achieve optimal impedance matching and radiation pattern control while maintaining a compact footprint on the windshield surface.
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 solution enhances antenna performance by optimizing radiation patterns and impedance matching, reducing the need for costly modifications and maintaining the transparent layer's functionality for heat reflection and defogging purposes.
Implementation Method 1
the clear films or coatings reflect infrared radiation from sunlight. In so doing, the clear films or coatings reduce the amount of infrared radiation entering an interior of the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
The area of the transparent layer provides transmission and/or reception of radio frequency signals
Implementation Method 3
The first and second antenna segments alter antenna radiation pattern and/or antenna impedance characteristics
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
A window assembly includes an electrically conductive transparent layer and an antenna element disposed on a substrate. The antenna element includes a first antenna segment and a second antenna segment. The first antenna segment is elongated and disposed in an outer region devoid of the transparent layer. The second antenna segment extends from the first antenna segment toward the transparent layer such that the second antenna segment crosses a periphery of the transparent layer. The second antenna segment abuts and is in direct electrical contact with the transparent layer. A feeding element is coupled to the antenna element and energizes the first and second antenna segments and the transparent layer such that the first and second antenna segments and the transparent layer collectively transmit and/or receive radio frequency signals.