Insertable Wireless Module Using PCB Ground Plane for Antenna Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power tools face challenges in efficiently integrating wireless communication devices due to limited space and the need to meet minimum antenna efficiency standards, particularly when using smaller form factors.
Innovation Solution
The use of a conductive layer from the host device's printed circuit board to create an extended ground plane for the antenna of an insertable wireless communication device, ensuring efficient radio frequency performance while maintaining a compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If an antenna is integrated into a compact wireless communication device for a power tool, then the device size is reduced, but the antenna efficiency may not meet minimum standards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the antenna ground plane with the host device's printed circuit board (PCB) to create an extended ground plane structure. The PCB serves dual purposes: as the circuit board for electronic components and as the ground plane for the antenna, eliminating the need for a separate ground plane structure and enabling compact device integration while maintaining adequate antenna efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The printed circuit board performs multiple functions: it serves as the structural base for mounting electronic components, provides the ground plane for antenna operation, and acts as the reference plane for RF signals. This multi-functionality allows the antenna system to achieve acceptable efficiency within the constrained space of a compact power tool device
2Adaptability or versatility
If wireless communication capabilities are added to power tools, then communication functionality is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless communication module is integrated into the existing power tool structure by utilizing the host device's PCB as the antenna ground plane. This merging approach adds wireless communication functionality without requiring a completely separate antenna system, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The existing PCB structure is made multi-functional by using it simultaneously as the circuit board for power tool control electronics and as the ground plane for the wireless communication antenna. This eliminates the need for additional dedicated antenna structures and reduces the overall complexity increase from adding wireless capabilities
Data Source
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AI summary
A wireless communication device configured to be removably received in a first compartment of a first power tool device of a first type or in a second compartment of a second power tool device of a second type different than the first type of the first power tool device. An electronic processor of the wireless communication device may be configured to determine whether the wireless communication device is coupled to the first power tool device of the first type or the second power tool device of the second type. The electronic processor may be further configured to set an operational characteristic of the wireless communication device based on the determination of whether the wireless communication device is coupled to the first power tool device or the second power tool device.