Wrap-Around Antenna Layout to Avoid Support Structure RF Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Macro cell and small-cell base station antennas face challenges when mounted offset on support structures, as they may not be aesthetically pleasing and can experience RF signal interference with the structure, leading to compromised antenna patterns and performance.
Innovation Solution
A wrap-around antenna design that encircles the support structure, using enclosures to house antenna columns with adjustable tilt and radiating elements, allowing for effective radiation away from the structure and minimizing interference, while being aesthetically pleasing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the antenna is mounted offset to the side of the support structure, then the antenna can be installed on pre-existing infrastructure, but the support structure interferes with RF signals causing scattering and compromising antenna patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna is wrapped around the support structure in a circumferential arrangement, transitioning from a side-mounted configuration to a wrap-around configuration. This dimensional change allows the antenna to encircle the structure, positioning radiating elements to radiate signals away from the support structure rather than having signals blocked or scattered by it.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of mounting the antenna on the side of the support structure where it would be blocked, the antenna is inverted to wrap around the structure. This inversion allows the radiating elements to be positioned such that signals radiate outward away from the support structure, eliminating the interference problem while maintaining installation flexibility.
2Reliability
If the antenna is mounted on top of the support structure, then RF signal radiation is optimized, but the top of the support structure is often not available due to real estate constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna utilizes the circumferential dimension around the support structure rather than requiring vertical space on top. By wrapping around the structure in a horizontal plane, the antenna achieves optimal RF radiation patterns without needing access to the top of the support structure, thus resolving the conflict between performance optimization and installation location availability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the antenna is offset to the side of the support structure, then installation is possible on pre-existing infrastructure, but the appearance is not aesthetically pleasing
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna wraps around the support structure in a circumferential arrangement, creating a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing appearance compared to an offset side-mounted configuration. This wrap-around design distributes the antenna structure evenly around the support structure, improving visual appearance while maintaining the ability to install on pre-existing infrastructure.
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 wrap-around antenna design enhances RF signal radiation patterns by eliminating interference with the support structure, improving performance and aesthetics, and can be adapted for various support structures and frequency bands.
Implementation Method 1
the antenna assembly allows for radiation away from the support structure, scattering effects due to interference from the support structure is eliminated
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
An antenna comprising an antenna assembly comprising a plurality of antenna columns that are connected to form a perimeter about a central region, wherein each of the plurality of inter-connected antenna columns includes one or more radiating elements; at least one power divider configured to distribute radio frequency (RF) signals received from a base station and combine signals received from at least one of the plurality of inter-connected antenna columns; and a plurality of respective enclosures housing the plurality of antenna columns respectively, wherein the at least one power divider is enclosed within one of the plurality of enclosures, wherein the antenna assembly is configured to be mounted around a support structure.