Compact helical antenna with plastic support for low frequency RF communication

Abstract

An antenna apparatus and method of operating the antenna apparatus, can include a helical antenna comprising a helical portion raised from a printed circuit board to optimize gain and bandwidth, wherein the helical portion incorporates a limited number of turns, which facilitate control over the dimensions of the helical antenna. An antenna support can be provided, which can maintain dimensional consistency with respect to the helical antenna. The antenna support can facilitate achievement of target performance parameters for the antenna apparatus. In addition, the elevated helical portion can be configured to enhance the gain and the bandwidth without compromising the overall dimensions of the helical antenna. In some embodiments, the helical antenna may be formed from plastic.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.