GPS location system using modal antenna
AssigneeEthertronics, Inc.
InventorsLaurent Desclos, Sebastian Rowson, Jeffrey Shamblin
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A modal antenna is implemented to provide a variable radiation pattern for improved global positioning system (GPS) signal reception. A multitude of antenna radiation patterns generated from a modal antenna provide the capability to optimally acquire GPS signals across a wide range of angles of arrival. Minimum radiation pattern roll-off is observed from the composite pattern generated from the multiple patterns. An algorithm is described that reduces the acquisition time for a location fix for cold and hot start conditions.
Claims14
An antenna system configured for acquisition of a device location, the antenna system comprising:
- an antenna radiating element positioned above a circuit board and forming an antenna volume therebetween;
- a first parasitic element positioned within the antenna volume and coupled to a first active element for varying a reactance of the antenna;
- a second parasitic element positioned outside of the antenna volume and adjacent to the antenna radiating element, the second parasitic element is attached to a second active element for varying a current mode thereon;
- the antenna radiating element, first parasitic element, and second parasitic element being configured with a length and proximity for operation in GPS frequency bands;
- wherein the antenna system is configured to produce a plurality of radiation patterns when configured in each of a plurality of modes, each of said plurality of modes being set with a distinct configuration of the first and second active elements, and with each of said radiation patterns being distinct in each mode.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.