EP1093098A1 - Antenna structure with a casing including electronic components - Google Patents

Antenna structure with a casing including electronic components Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1093098A1
EP1093098A1 EP99120230A EP99120230A EP1093098A1 EP 1093098 A1 EP1093098 A1 EP 1093098A1 EP 99120230 A EP99120230 A EP 99120230A EP 99120230 A EP99120230 A EP 99120230A EP 1093098 A1 EP1093098 A1 EP 1093098A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
housing
radiant element
cylindrical
antenna structure
antenna
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP99120230A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1093098B1 (en
Inventor
Jean-Francois Zürcher
Olivier Staub
Anja Skrivervik
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Asulab AG
Original Assignee
Asulab AG
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Asulab AG filed Critical Asulab AG
Priority to DE69906973T priority Critical patent/DE69906973T2/en
Priority to EP99120230A priority patent/EP1093098B1/en
Priority to JP2000308665A priority patent/JP4598939B2/en
Priority to US09/685,892 priority patent/US6373439B1/en
Priority to CN00125981.4A priority patent/CN1216438C/en
Publication of EP1093098A1 publication Critical patent/EP1093098A1/en
Priority to HK01107115A priority patent/HK1036363A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1093098B1 publication Critical patent/EP1093098B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04G—ELECTRONIC TIME-PIECES
    • G04G21/00—Input or output devices integrated in time-pieces
    • G04G21/04—Input or output devices integrated in time-pieces using radio waves
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B47/00—Time-pieces combined with other articles which do not interfere with the running or the time-keeping of the time-piece
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04R—RADIO-CONTROLLED TIME-PIECES
    • G04R60/00—Constructional details
    • G04R60/06—Antennas attached to or integrated in clock or watch bodies
    • G04R60/10—Antennas attached to or integrated in clock or watch bodies inside cases
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
    • H01Q1/00—Details of, or arrangements associated with, antennas
    • H01Q1/27—Adaptation for use in or on movable bodies
    • H01Q1/273—Adaptation for carrying or wearing by persons or animals
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
    • H01Q9/00—Electrically-short antennas having dimensions not more than twice the operating wavelength and consisting of conductive active radiating elements
    • H01Q9/04—Resonant antennas
    • H01Q9/0407—Substantially flat resonant element parallel to ground plane, e.g. patch antenna
    • H01Q9/0421—Substantially flat resonant element parallel to ground plane, e.g. patch antenna with a shorting wall or a shorting pin at one end of the element
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
    • H01Q9/00—Electrically-short antennas having dimensions not more than twice the operating wavelength and consisting of conductive active radiating elements
    • H01Q9/04—Resonant antennas
    • H01Q9/0407—Substantially flat resonant element parallel to ground plane, e.g. patch antenna
    • H01Q9/0471—Non-planar, stepped or wedge-shaped patch

Definitions

  • the present invention generally relates to the field of antennas intended for the emission and reception of an electromagnetic signal. More in particular, the present invention relates to a low volume structure forming antenna derived from a structure known under the name PIFA or "Planar Inverted-F Antenna" intended to be incorporated in a unit portable small volume, like a timepiece.
  • the structure forming antenna according to the present invention is in particular intended for the transmission and reception of high frequency electromagnetic signals allowing by example of ensuring radio telephone communication over a network of mobile telephony.
  • the antenna structure according to the present invention can nevertheless be applied in other systems requiring a wireless communication between a portable unit and a station remote transmitter / receiver.
  • the present invention also relates to a timepiece, such a watch, suitable for transmitting and receiving signals high frequency electromagnetic incorporating structure forming above-mentioned antenna and for example ensuring radio telephone communication with other users on a network of mobile telephony.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a PIFA structure, shown globally by reference numeral 1, as it is typically known in the state of the art.
  • This PIFA 1 structure includes a mass 2, a radiant element 6 of rectangular shape whose length is approximately equal to ⁇ / 4, where ⁇ is the wavelength transmit / receive antenna, arranged substantially parallel to the plane earth 2, as well as a short circuit plate 4 connecting the element radiant 6 to ground plane 2 and now this radiant element 6 to a distance determined from the ground plane 2.
  • This antenna 1 is supplied by a transmission line, such as a coaxial line 8, from behind the ground plane 2.
  • This coaxial line 8, arranged at a determined distance from the short-circuit plate 4, comprises an internal conductor 8a crossing the ground plane 2 to connect the radiant element 6, and an external conductor 8b connected to the ground plane 2 and distant from the internal conductor 8a by a distance ⁇ d.
  • this PIFA structure Due to its low profile, this PIFA structure is thus perfectly adapted to be mounted on a portable communication unit, such as a cell phone.
  • This PIFA structure is thus generally mounted on a face of the conductive body of the cell phone which also forms the ground plane of the antenna.
  • the characteristics of the antenna not only depend dimensions of the radiant element and its distance from the ground plane, but also dimensions of the conductive body forming the ground plane of the antenna.
  • the shape and dimensions of this body are not overly restrictive elements in a cell phone because it remains nevertheless a relatively large object compared, for example, to a portable unit such as a timepiece which is characterized by a significantly lower volume.
  • An object of the present invention is thus to propose an antenna can easily be arranged and mounted inside a portable unit low volume communication, such as, for example, a timepiece.
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide an antenna meeting the above definition and the structure of which is of realization as easy as possible to limit manufacturing costs.
  • the present invention relates to a structure forming antenna intended for a portable unit of small volume, such as a room watchmaking, the characteristics of which are set out in claim 1.
  • the present invention also relates to a timepiece incorporating the above-mentioned antenna structure.
  • An advantage of the present invention lies in the fact that the proposed structure is fully integrated into a weak structure volume that combines compactness, rigidity and aesthetics, the radiant element making integral part of a case forming the ground plane of the antenna.
  • the sizing as well as tuning and adapting the characteristics of this antenna are also very wealthy.
  • the housing constituting the ground plane of the antenna also allows advantageously to house all or part of the electronics of the portable unit communication inside the antenna structure, this box forming thus a shielded case inside which the electronics are protected and does not affect the performance of the antenna.
  • the proposed antenna can thus very advantageously be supplied from inside the housing as well constituted.
  • the proposed structure elegantly combines the ground plane of the antenna and a case to accommodate not only the electronics of the unit portable but also any other components that may be present in this unit.
  • the structure according to the present invention can thus advantageously constitute a watch case to accommodate in besides a movement of a timepiece.
  • the structure can also be easily surrounded or coated with an external plastic element.
  • This external element can thus take various forms such as, for example, the shape of a watch case.
  • the radiant element of the antenna is electrically small, but the influence of the complete structure (including the housing) determines the properties of radiation from the antenna. Associated with low losses due to the absence of a dielectric between the radiant element and the ground plane, or more exactly at the presence of a dielectric formed only of air, this leads to a gain and remarkable efficiency of the antenna.
  • FIGS. 2a and 2b constitutes a preferred embodiment of a antenna structure which can advantageously be incorporated into a timepiece provided with a radio telephone function.
  • FIG. 4 a schematic example of a timepiece incorporating the structure illustrated in Figures 2a and 2b.
  • FIGS. 2a and 2b thus respectively show a front view and an exploded perspective view of an antenna forming structure constituting a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • This structure forming an antenna is made of a conductive material and has essentially the appearance, in this example, of a portion of a cylinder delimited by a substantially contour cylindrical A, and first and second planes B and C substantially perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of the cylinder, perpendicular to the plane of the Figure 2a and shown in broken lines in Figure 2b.
  • this antenna-forming structure 10 comprises a radiant element 20, of substantially shape or surface rectangular, integral with a housing 11 forming an integral part of the plane of mass of the antenna.
  • the housing 11 is preferably made in two parts 12 and 13, one 12 essentially forming a cover of the housing 11, and the other 13 forming essentially a body of the housing 11 and also supporting the element radiant 20.
  • the body 13 of the housing 11 has a bottom 14 and a set of side walls 13a to 13d, and thus defines, with the cover 12, a housing shielded capable of receiving various components, such as electronics necessary for the operation of the antenna.
  • the radio frequency electronics necessary for the transmission and the reception of electromagnetic signals and any electronics that could potentially influence or be influenced by the emission or reception of these electromagnetic signals If the size allows or requires it, everything other electronic or non-electronic component may be arranged to the interior of this case, such, for example, the movement of a part clock and / or a power source from the portable unit.
  • the radiant element 20 has a circular arc profile and is arranged on the side of the housing 11, or more specifically on the cylindrical contour A of the structure 10. This radiant element 20 is linked by one 20b of its ends to the body 13 of the housing 11, and is therefore short-circuited, by this same end 20b, to the ground plane of the antenna formed by the housing 11, the opposite end 20a of the radiant element 20 being left free.
  • the length of the radiant element 20 between the free end 20a and the end short-circuited 20b is approximately equal to a quarter of the length wave ⁇ transmission / reception of the antenna.
  • a radial recess 18 having the shape of an arc of a circle is present between the radiant element 20 and the housing 11 of the structure.
  • This recess radial 18 defines, on the housing 11, a surface in an arc 18a concentric with the cylindrical contour A of the structure, and two surfaces substantially flat 18b and 18c extending radially between the surface 18a and the cylindrical contour A of the structure.
  • the housing 11 thus comprises two cylindrical side walls 13a and 13b respectively defined by the cylindrical contour A and the surface in a circular arc 18a of the radial recess 18, and two flat side walls 13c and 13d defined by the surfaces planes 18b and 18c.
  • the radiant element 20 is thus placed on the cylindrical contour A of the structure 10 opposite the cylindrical side wall 13b, the shorted end 20b of this radiant element 20 being connected to the angle formed by the cylindrical side wall 13a and the flat side wall 13c.
  • the free end 20a of the radiant element 20, for its part, points towards the angle formed by the cylindrical side wall 13a and the flat side wall 13d.
  • the antenna structure 10 has thus a general cylindrical appearance, the outline of this structure not being interrupted only by the vacuum left between the free end 20a of the element radiant and the angle formed by the cylindrical side wall 13a and the wall lateral plane 13d of the body 13 of the housing 11.
  • the cylindrical outline of the structure can thus advantageously play the role of a nesting circle allowing the structure to be easily inserted into an external element of the unit portable, like the middle of a watch.
  • the excitation of the antenna can be carried out in a conventional manner by a transmission line, such as a coaxial line, from inside the box 11.
  • a transmission line such as a coaxial line
  • the excitation antenna can thus be provided by a coaxial line 28 whose internal conductor 28a, isolated from the ground plane, passes through the side wall cylindrical 13b through an orifice 16 formed in the latter for go and contact the radiant element 20 at a determined point 21 distant from the short-circuited end 20b, and the external conductor 28b of which contacts the inner face of the cylindrical side wall 13b.
  • the radiant element 20 of the antenna thus extends over the cylindrical contour A of the structure in an arc about 136o and is placed at a distance of the order of 3 mm opposite the cylindrical side wall 13b of the body 13 of the housing 11.
  • the antenna structure is preferably made in one metallic material, such as brass, but can alternatively also be made of a dielectric material, such as a plastic material, coated with a film electrically conductive.
  • a metallic material such as brass
  • a dielectric material such as a plastic material
  • Figures 3a and 3b respectively show a front view and a exploded perspective view of an antenna structure, indicated generally by the reference numeral 100, constituting another mode of realization of the present invention.
  • the antenna forming structure 100 includes a radiant element 120, in the form or substantially rectangular surface, integral with a housing 111 forming part of the antenna ground plane.
  • This case 111 has basically the appearance, in this example, of a portion of cylinder delimited by a substantially cylindrical contour A *, and first and second planes B * and C * substantially perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of the cylinder, perpendicular to the plane of Figure 3a and indicated by lines interrupted in Figure 3b.
  • the housing 111 is made in two parts 112 and 113, one 112 essentially forming a cover for the case 111, and the other 113 essentially forming a body of case 111 and also supporting the radiant element 120.
  • the body 113 of the housing 111 has a bottom 114 and a cylindrical side wall 113a, and thus defines, with the cover 112, an armored box capable of receiving, so analogous to the previous embodiment, various components of the unit portable in which it is incorporated.
  • the radiant element 120 is arranged on a concentric circle with a cylindrical outline A * beyond the cylindrical side wall 113a of the body 113 of the housing. Element 115 extending substantially radially between the cylindrical side wall 113a and one end 120b of the radiant element 120 short-circuits this last to the ground plane formed by the housing. The other end 120a of the radiant element 120 is left free.
  • the excitation of the antenna can be carried out in a similar way to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2a and 2b via a coaxial line, the internal conductor, isolated from the ground plane, passes through the side wall cylindrical 113 through an orifice 116 formed in the latter for go and contact the radiant element 120 at a determined point 121 distant from the short-circuited end 120b, and the external conductor of which contacts the inner face of the cylindrical side wall 113 of the housing 111.
  • the antenna-forming structure according to the present invention can take various forms depending on the constraints dimensions of the portable unit in which this structure is incorporated.
  • the antenna structure can thus perfectly present a substantially rectangular elliptical or polygonal outline.
  • FIGS. 2a and 2b show a schematic perspective view of a room watchmaking in the form of a wristwatch with display analog illustrating a possibility of incorporating the structure forming antenna 10 illustrated in FIGS. 2a and 2b.
  • the structure 10 is thus surrounded and incorporated into an external element made of a non-conductive material like a plastic material and having the shape of a watch middle, identified by the reference numeral 30 in the figure.
  • the movement, no shown, the timepiece is advantageously disposed entirely inside the antenna structure 10.
  • Small diameter holes can be perfectly arranged in the housing 11 of the antenna structure 10, without substantially affect the characteristics of the latter, so as to allow the passage, where appropriate, of components of display members and / or control elements, these elements being necessarily isolated from the structure 10.
  • axes or canons of hour and hour hands 32 minutes thus pass through the center of the cover 12 of the housing 11 of the structure.
  • rods from various control members penetrate laterally through the cylindrical side wall (side wall cylindrical 13a in Figures 2a and 2b) of the body 13 of the housing of the structure 10, these control members comprising in particular a rod rotary integral with a time setting crown 34 and two buttons buttons 35 and 36.
  • the antenna-forming structure 10 is preferably arranged in the middle of the watch 30 so that the radiant element 20 is oriented opposite the control members 34, 35 and 36, or, in general, opposite any organ penetrating the interior of the antenna structure 10.
  • an antenna structure can thus be made so as to be incorporated into a timepiece, such as a watch, and to receive, inside the armored box, all or part of radio frequency electronics, timepiece electronics and its movement.
  • the radiant element can thus or not extend over the entire thickness of the structure and may or may not be shorted to the ground plane over the entire length of its end linked to the housing.

Abstract

La présente invention concerne une structure formant antenne (10) destinée à une unité portative de faible volume, telle une pièce d'horlogerie, et comprenant un élément radiant (20) de forme sensiblement rectangulaire disposé à une distance déterminée d'un plan de masse et court-circuité à ce plan de masse par l'une (20b) de ses extrémités (20a, 20b), l'extrémité opposée (20a) de cet élément radiant (20) étant laissée libre. Selon la présente invention, cette structure (10) comporte un boîtier (11) faisant partie intégrante du plan de masse et comprenant au moins un couvercle (12), un fond (14), et une paroi latérale (13b) en regard de laquelle est disposé l'élément radiant (20), ce boîtier (11) formant un boîtier blindé pouvant recevoir tout ou partie d'une électronique et/ou d'autres composants de l'unité portative. La présente invention concerne également une pièce d'horlogerie incorporant la structure formant antenne susmentionnée. <IMAGE> <IMAGE>The present invention relates to an antenna structure (10) intended for a portable unit of small volume, such as a timepiece, and comprising a radiant element (20) of substantially rectangular shape arranged at a determined distance from a ground plane. and short-circuited to this ground plane by one (20b) of its ends (20a, 20b), the opposite end (20a) of this radiant element (20) being left free. According to the present invention, this structure (10) comprises a housing (11) forming an integral part of the ground plane and comprising at least one cover (12), a bottom (14), and a side wall (13b) opposite which is disposed the radiant element (20), this housing (11) forming a shielded housing that can receive all or part of electronics and / or other components of the portable unit. The present invention also relates to a timepiece incorporating the above-mentioned antenna structure. <IMAGE> <IMAGE>

Description

La présente invention concerne généralement le domaine des antennes destinées à l'émission et la réception d'un signal électromagnétique. Plus particulièrement, la présente invention concerne une structure de faible volume formant antenne dérivée d'une structure connue sous la dénomination PIFA ou "Planar Inverted-F Antenna" destinée à être incorporée dans une unité portative de faible volume, telle une pièce d'horlogerie. La structure formant antenne selon la présente invention est en particulier destinée à l'émission et la réception de signaux électromagnétiques de haute fréquence permettant par exemple d'assurer une communication radio téléphonique sur un réseau de téléphonie mobile. La structure formant antenne selon la présente invention peut néanmoins être appliquée dans d'autres systèmes nécessitant une communication sans fils entre une unité portative et une station émettrice/réceptrice éloignée.The present invention generally relates to the field of antennas intended for the emission and reception of an electromagnetic signal. More in particular, the present invention relates to a low volume structure forming antenna derived from a structure known under the name PIFA or "Planar Inverted-F Antenna" intended to be incorporated in a unit portable small volume, like a timepiece. The structure forming antenna according to the present invention is in particular intended for the transmission and reception of high frequency electromagnetic signals allowing by example of ensuring radio telephone communication over a network of mobile telephony. The antenna structure according to the present invention can nevertheless be applied in other systems requiring a wireless communication between a portable unit and a station remote transmitter / receiver.

La présente invention concerne également une pièce d'horlogerie, telle une montre, adaptée pour émettre et recevoir des signaux électromagnétiques de haute fréquence incorporant la structure formant antenne susmentionnée et permettant par exemple d'assurer une communication radio téléphonique avec d'autres utilisateurs sur un réseau de téléphonie mobile.The present invention also relates to a timepiece, such a watch, suitable for transmitting and receiving signals high frequency electromagnetic incorporating structure forming above-mentioned antenna and for example ensuring radio telephone communication with other users on a network of mobile telephony.

L'expansion continue des systèmes de communication radio fréquence, et notamment des systèmes de téléphonie mobile, conduit à une demande grandissante d'équipements de communication portatifs de plus en plus compacts et légers. Parallèlement aux avancées technologiques qui ont permis le développement de circuits électroniques et de circuits radio fréquence de faible taille et le développement de sources d'énergie performantes, il a déjà été proposé des antennes de faible profil adaptées pour être montés sur des unités portatives de communication tels des téléphones cellulaires. Une telle structure est connue sous la dénomination anglo-saxonne "Planar Inverted-F Antenna" ou PIFA.The continuous expansion of radio frequency communication systems, including mobile phone systems, leads to demand growing portable communication equipment more and more compact and light. Along with the technological advances that have allowed the development of electronic circuits and radio circuits low frequency and development of energy sources high-performance antennas have already been proposed to be mounted on portable communication units such as cell phones. Such a structure is known by the name Anglo-Saxon "Planar Inverted-F Antenna" or PIFA.

La figure 1 illustre un exemple d'une structure PIFA, indiquée globalement par la référence numérique 1, telle qu'elle est typiquement connue dans l'état de la technique. Cette structure PIFA 1 comporte un plan de masse 2, un élément radiant 6 de forme rectangulaire dont la longueur est approximativement égale à λ/4, où λ est la longueur d'onde d'émission/réception de l'antenne, disposé sensiblement parallèlement au plan de masse 2, ainsi qu'une plaque de court-circuit 4 connectant l'élément radiant 6 au plan de masse 2 et maintenant cet élément radiant 6 à une distance déterminée par rapport au plan de masse 2.Figure 1 illustrates an example of a PIFA structure, shown globally by reference numeral 1, as it is typically known in the state of the art. This PIFA 1 structure includes a mass 2, a radiant element 6 of rectangular shape whose length is approximately equal to λ / 4, where λ is the wavelength transmit / receive antenna, arranged substantially parallel to the plane earth 2, as well as a short circuit plate 4 connecting the element radiant 6 to ground plane 2 and now this radiant element 6 to a distance determined from the ground plane 2.

Cette antenne 1 est alimentée par une ligne de transmission, telle une ligne coaxiale 8, depuis l'arrière du plan de masse 2. Cette ligne coaxiale 8, disposée à une distance déterminée de la plaque de court-circuit 4, comprend un conducteur interne 8a traversant le plan de masse 2 pour aller connecter l'élément radiant 6, et un conducteur externe 8b connecté au plan de masse 2 et distant du conducteur interne 8a d'une distance Δd.This antenna 1 is supplied by a transmission line, such as a coaxial line 8, from behind the ground plane 2. This coaxial line 8, arranged at a determined distance from the short-circuit plate 4, comprises an internal conductor 8a crossing the ground plane 2 to connect the radiant element 6, and an external conductor 8b connected to the ground plane 2 and distant from the internal conductor 8a by a distance Δd.

Une analyse détaillée de la structure PIFA illustrée à la figure 1 peut être trouvée dans le document "Analysis, Design and Measurement of Small and Low-Profile Antennas", Artech House, Norwood, MA, 1992, Ch. 5, pages 161-180, Kazuhiro Hirasawa et Misao Haneishi, qui est incorporé ici par référence.A detailed analysis of the PIFA structure illustrated in Figure 1 can be found in the document "Analysis, Design and Measurement of Small and Low-Profile Antennas ", Artech House, Norwood, MA, 1992, Ch. 5, pages 161-180, Kazuhiro Hirasawa and Misao Haneishi, which is incorporated here by reference.

De par son faible profil, cette structure PIFA est ainsi parfaitement adaptée pour être montée sur une unité portative de communication, tel un téléphone cellulaire. Cette structure PIFA est ainsi généralement montée sur une face du corps conducteur du téléphone cellulaire qui forme par ailleurs le plan de masse de l'antenne. On notera que les caractéristiques de l'antenne (fréquence de résonance, largeur de bande, etc.) dépendent non seulement des dimensions de l'élément radiant et de sa distance au plan de masse, mais également des dimensions du corps conducteur formant le plan de masse de l'antenne. La forme et les dimensions de ce corps ne constituent pas des éléments trop contraignants dans un téléphone cellulaire car ce dernier reste néanmoins un objet de relativement grande taille par rapport, par exemple, à une unité portative telle une pièce d'horlogerie qui est caractérisée par un volume sensiblement plus faible.Due to its low profile, this PIFA structure is thus perfectly adapted to be mounted on a portable communication unit, such as a cell phone. This PIFA structure is thus generally mounted on a face of the conductive body of the cell phone which also forms the ground plane of the antenna. Note that the characteristics of the antenna (resonant frequency, bandwidth, etc.) not only depend dimensions of the radiant element and its distance from the ground plane, but also dimensions of the conductive body forming the ground plane of the antenna. The shape and dimensions of this body are not overly restrictive elements in a cell phone because it remains nevertheless a relatively large object compared, for example, to a portable unit such as a timepiece which is characterized by a significantly lower volume.

Afin d'incorporer une telle antenne dans une unité portative de faible volume, telle une montre, il convient ainsi de trouver des solutions qui allient avantageusement un faible encombrement et néanmoins des performances permettant d'assurer une communication radio dans les meilleures conditions.In order to incorporate such an antenna in a portable unit of low volume, like a watch, it is therefore necessary to find solutions that combine advantageously a small footprint and nevertheless performance allowing radio communication in the best conditions.

Un but de la présente invention est ainsi de proposer une antenne pouvant aisément être disposée et montée à l'intérieur d'une unité portative de communication de faible volume, telle, par exemple, une pièce d'horlogerie. An object of the present invention is thus to propose an antenna can easily be arranged and mounted inside a portable unit low volume communication, such as, for example, a timepiece.

Un autre but de la présente invention est de proposer une antenne répondant à la définition susmentionnée et dont la structure est de réalisation aussi aisée que possible afin de limiter les coûts de fabrication.Another object of the present invention is to provide an antenna meeting the above definition and the structure of which is of realization as easy as possible to limit manufacturing costs.

A cet effet, la présente invention à pour objet une structure formant antenne destinée à une unité portative de faible volume, telle une pièce d'horlogerie, dont les caractéristiques sont énoncées à la revendication 1.To this end, the present invention relates to a structure forming antenna intended for a portable unit of small volume, such as a room watchmaking, the characteristics of which are set out in claim 1.

Des modes de réalisation avantageux de la présente invention font l'objet des revendications dépendantes.Advantageous embodiments of the present invention provide the subject of the dependent claims.

La présente invention a également pour objet une pièce d'horlogerie incorporant la structure formant antenne susmentionnée.The present invention also relates to a timepiece incorporating the above-mentioned antenna structure.

Un avantage de la présente invention réside dans le fait que la structure proposée est complètement intégrée en une structure de faible volume qui allie compacité, rigidité et esthétique, l'élément radiant faisant partie intégrante d'un boítier formant le plan de masse de l'antenne. Le dimensionnement ainsi que l'accord et l'adaptation des caractéristiques de cette antenne (fréquence, bande passante, impédance, etc.) sont par ailleurs très aisés.An advantage of the present invention lies in the fact that the proposed structure is fully integrated into a weak structure volume that combines compactness, rigidity and aesthetics, the radiant element making integral part of a case forming the ground plane of the antenna. The sizing as well as tuning and adapting the characteristics of this antenna (frequency, bandwidth, impedance, etc.) are also very wealthy.

Le boítier constituant le plan de masse de l'antenne permet en outre avantageusement de loger tout ou partie de l'électronique de l'unité portative de communication à l'intérieur de la structure de l'antenne, ce boítier formant ainsi un boítier blindé à l'intérieur duquel l'électronique est protégée et n'affecte nullement les performances de l'antenne. L'antenne proposée peut ainsi très avantageusement être alimentée depuis l'intérieur du boítier ainsi constitué.The housing constituting the ground plane of the antenna also allows advantageously to house all or part of the electronics of the portable unit communication inside the antenna structure, this box forming thus a shielded case inside which the electronics are protected and does not affect the performance of the antenna. The proposed antenna can thus very advantageously be supplied from inside the housing as well constituted.

La structure proposée allie élégamment le plan de masse de l'antenne et un boítier permettant d'accueillir non seulement l'électronique de l'unité portative mais également tout autre composants pouvant être présents dans cette unité. La structure selon la présente invention peut ainsi avantageusement constituer un boítier de montre permettant d'accueillir en outre un mouvement d'une pièce d'horlogerie.The proposed structure elegantly combines the ground plane of the antenna and a case to accommodate not only the electronics of the unit portable but also any other components that may be present in this unit. The structure according to the present invention can thus advantageously constitute a watch case to accommodate in besides a movement of a timepiece.

Si des critères esthétiques le nécessitent, la structure peut par ailleurs être aisément entourée ou enrobée d'un élément externe en plastique. Cet élément externe peut ainsi prendre des formes variées telle, par exemple, la forme d'une carrure de montre.If aesthetic criteria so require, the structure can also be easily surrounded or coated with an external plastic element. This external element can thus take various forms such as, for example, the shape of a watch case.

L'élément radiant de l'antenne est électriquement petit, mais l'influence de la structure complète (y compris le boítier) détermine les propriétés de radiation de l'antenne. Associé aux faibles pertes dues à l'absence d'un diélectrique entre l'élément radiant et le plan de masse, ou plus exactement à la présence d'un diélectrique formé uniquement d'air, ceci conduit à un gain et une efficacité remarquable de l'antenne.The radiant element of the antenna is electrically small, but the influence of the complete structure (including the housing) determines the properties of radiation from the antenna. Associated with low losses due to the absence of a dielectric between the radiant element and the ground plane, or more exactly at the presence of a dielectric formed only of air, this leads to a gain and remarkable efficiency of the antenna.

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaítront plus clairement à la lecture de la description détaillée qui suit, faite en référence aux dessins annexés donnés à titre d'exemples non limitatifs et dans lesquels :

  • la figure 1, déjà présentée, illustre une structure PIFA connue;
  • les figures 2a et 2b présentent respectivement une vue de face et une vue en perspective éclatée d'un mode de réalisation préféré d'une structure formant antenne selon la présente invention;
  • les figures 3a et 3b présentent respectivement une vue de face et une vue en perspective éclatée d'un autre mode de réalisation d'une structure formant antenne selon la présente invention; et
  • la figure 4 présente une vue en perspective schématique d'une pièce d'horlogerie incorporant la structure formant antenne illustrée dans les figures 2a et 2b.
Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly on reading the detailed description which follows, given with reference to the appended drawings given by way of nonlimiting examples and in which:
  • FIG. 1, already presented, illustrates a known PIFA structure;
  • Figures 2a and 2b show respectively a front view and an exploded perspective view of a preferred embodiment of an antenna structure according to the present invention;
  • Figures 3a and 3b show respectively a front view and an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of an antenna structure according to the present invention; and
  • Figure 4 shows a schematic perspective view of a timepiece incorporating the antenna structure illustrated in Figures 2a and 2b.

La présente invention sera maintenant décrite en référence à différents modes de réalisation. On notera néanmoins que l'homme du métier sera parfaitement capable de modifier et d'adapter les structures présentées pour leur faire prendre des formes variées selon le type d'application et les contraintes de conception imposées, sans toutefois sortir du cadre de l'invention défini par les revendications annexées.The present invention will now be described with reference to various embodiments. Note however that the skilled person will perfectly capable of modifying and adapting the structures presented to make them take various forms depending on the type of application and the design constraints imposed, without however departing from the framework of the invention defined by the appended claims.

La structure qui sera décrite dans la suite de la présente description en référence aux figures 2a et 2b constitue un mode de réalisation préféré d'une structure formant antenne qui peut avantageusement être incorporée dans une pièce d'horlogerie pourvue d'une fonction radio téléphonique. En référence à la figure 4, on présentera ainsi ultérieurement un exemple schématique d'une pièce d'horlogerie incorporant la structure illustrée dans les figures 2a et 2b.The structure which will be described in the following of this description in reference to FIGS. 2a and 2b constitutes a preferred embodiment of a antenna structure which can advantageously be incorporated into a timepiece provided with a radio telephone function. In reference in FIG. 4, a schematic example of a timepiece incorporating the structure illustrated in Figures 2a and 2b.

Les figures 2a et 2b montrent ainsi respectivement une vue de face et une vue en perspective éclatée d'une structure formant antenne constituant un mode de réalisation préféré de la présente invention. Cette structure formant antenne, indiquée généralement par la référence numérique 10, est réalisée en un matériau conducteur et a essentiellement l'apparence, dans cet exemple, d'une portion de cylindre délimitée par un contour sensiblement cylindrique A, et des premier et second plans B et C sensiblement perpendiculaires à l'axe de symétrie du cylindre, perpendiculaire au plan de la figure 2a et indiqué en traits interrompus dans la figure 2b. FIGS. 2a and 2b thus respectively show a front view and an exploded perspective view of an antenna forming structure constituting a preferred embodiment of the present invention. This structure forming an antenna, generally indicated by the reference numeral 10, is made of a conductive material and has essentially the appearance, in this example, of a portion of a cylinder delimited by a substantially contour cylindrical A, and first and second planes B and C substantially perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of the cylinder, perpendicular to the plane of the Figure 2a and shown in broken lines in Figure 2b.

Selon la présente invention, cette structure formant antenne 10 comporte un élément radiant 20, de forme ou surface sensiblement rectangulaire, solidaire d'un boítier 11 formant partie intégrante du plan de masse de l'antenne. Comme on peut le constater à partir des figures, le boítier 11 est préférablement réalisé en deux parties 12 et 13, l'une 12 formant essentiellement un couvercle du boítier 11, et l'autre 13 formant essentiellement un corps du boítier 11 et supportant par ailleurs l'élément radiant 20. Le corps 13 du boítier 11 comporte un fond 14 et un ensemble de parois latérales 13a à 13d, et définit ainsi, avec le couvercle 12, un boítier blindé susceptible de recevoir divers composants, telle l'électronique nécessaire au fonctionnement de l'antenne. En particulier, on pourra disposer dans ce boítier 11, l'électronique radio fréquence nécessaire à l'émission et la réception des signaux électromagnétiques et toute électronique qui pourrait potentiellement influencer ou être influencée par l'émission ou la réception de ces signaux électromagnétiques. Si l'encombrement le permet ou l'exige, tout autre composant électronique ou non électronique peut être disposé à l'intérieur de ce boítier, tels, par exemple, le mouvement d'une pièce d'horlogerie et/ou une source d'énergie de l'unité portative.According to the present invention, this antenna-forming structure 10 comprises a radiant element 20, of substantially shape or surface rectangular, integral with a housing 11 forming an integral part of the plane of mass of the antenna. As can be seen from the figures, the housing 11 is preferably made in two parts 12 and 13, one 12 essentially forming a cover of the housing 11, and the other 13 forming essentially a body of the housing 11 and also supporting the element radiant 20. The body 13 of the housing 11 has a bottom 14 and a set of side walls 13a to 13d, and thus defines, with the cover 12, a housing shielded capable of receiving various components, such as electronics necessary for the operation of the antenna. In particular, we will have in this case 11, the radio frequency electronics necessary for the transmission and the reception of electromagnetic signals and any electronics that could potentially influence or be influenced by the emission or reception of these electromagnetic signals. If the size allows or requires it, everything other electronic or non-electronic component may be arranged to the interior of this case, such, for example, the movement of a part clock and / or a power source from the portable unit.

L'élément radiant 20 présente un profil en arc de cercle et est disposé sur le côté du boítier 11, ou plus spécifiquement sur le contour cylindrique A de la structure 10. Cet élément radiant 20 est lié par l'une 20b de ses extrémités au corps 13 du boítier 11, et est donc court-circuité, par cette même extrémité 20b, au plan de masse de l'antenne formé par le boítier 11, l'extrémité opposée 20a de l'élément radiant 20 étant laissée libre. La longueur de l'élément radiant 20 entre l'extrémité libre 20a et l'extrémité court-circuitée 20b est approximativement égale au quart de la longueur d'onde λ d'émission/réception de l'antenne.The radiant element 20 has a circular arc profile and is arranged on the side of the housing 11, or more specifically on the cylindrical contour A of the structure 10. This radiant element 20 is linked by one 20b of its ends to the body 13 of the housing 11, and is therefore short-circuited, by this same end 20b, to the ground plane of the antenna formed by the housing 11, the opposite end 20a of the radiant element 20 being left free. The length of the radiant element 20 between the free end 20a and the end short-circuited 20b is approximately equal to a quarter of the length wave λ transmission / reception of the antenna.

Un évidement radial 18 ayant la forme d'un arc de cercle est présent entre l'élément radiant 20 et le boítier 11 de la structure. Cet évidement radial 18 définit, sur le boítier 11, une surface en arc de cercle 18a concentrique au contour cylindrique A de la structure, et deux surfaces sensiblement planes 18b et 18c s'étendant radialement entre la surface 18a et le contour cylindrique A de la structure. Le boítier 11 comprend ainsi deux parois latérales cylindriques 13a et 13b respectivement définies par le contour cylindrique A et la surface en arc de cercle 18a de l'évidement radial 18, et deux parois latérales planes 13c et 13d définies par les surfaces planes 18b et 18c. A radial recess 18 having the shape of an arc of a circle is present between the radiant element 20 and the housing 11 of the structure. This recess radial 18 defines, on the housing 11, a surface in an arc 18a concentric with the cylindrical contour A of the structure, and two surfaces substantially flat 18b and 18c extending radially between the surface 18a and the cylindrical contour A of the structure. The housing 11 thus comprises two cylindrical side walls 13a and 13b respectively defined by the cylindrical contour A and the surface in a circular arc 18a of the radial recess 18, and two flat side walls 13c and 13d defined by the surfaces planes 18b and 18c.

L'élément radiant 20 est ainsi disposé sur le contour cylindrique A de la structure 10 en regard de la paroi latérale cylindrique 13b, l'extrémité court-circuitée 20b de cet élément radiant 20 étant connectée à l'angle formé par la paroi latérale cylindrique 13a et la paroi latérale plane 13c. L'extrémité libre 20a de l'élément radiant 20 pointe, quant à elle, en direction de l'angle formé par la paroi latérale cylindrique 13a et la paroi latérale plane 13d.The radiant element 20 is thus placed on the cylindrical contour A of the structure 10 opposite the cylindrical side wall 13b, the shorted end 20b of this radiant element 20 being connected to the angle formed by the cylindrical side wall 13a and the flat side wall 13c. The free end 20a of the radiant element 20, for its part, points towards the angle formed by the cylindrical side wall 13a and the flat side wall 13d.

Dans ce mode de réalisation, la structure formant antenne 10 possède ainsi une apparence générale cylindrique, le contour de cette structure n'étant interrompu que par le vide laissé entre l'extrémité libre 20a de l'élément radiant et l'angle formé par la paroi latérale cylindrique 13a et la paroi latérale plane 13d du corps 13 du boítier 11. Le contour cylindrique de la structure peut ainsi avantageusement jouer le rôle d'un cercle d'emboítage permettant d'insérer aisément la structure dans un élément externe de l'unité portative, telle la carrure d'une montre.In this embodiment, the antenna structure 10 has thus a general cylindrical appearance, the outline of this structure not being interrupted only by the vacuum left between the free end 20a of the element radiant and the angle formed by the cylindrical side wall 13a and the wall lateral plane 13d of the body 13 of the housing 11. The cylindrical outline of the structure can thus advantageously play the role of a nesting circle allowing the structure to be easily inserted into an external element of the unit portable, like the middle of a watch.

L'excitation de l'antenne peut être réalisée de manière conventionnelle par une ligne de transmission, telle une ligne coaxiale, depuis l'intérieur du boítier 11. Comme cela est par exemple illustré dans la figure 2a, l'excitation de l'antenne peut ainsi être assurée par une ligne coaxiale 28 dont le conducteur interne 28a, isolé du plan de masse, traverse la paroi latérale cylindrique 13b au travers d'un orifice 16 ménagé dans cette dernière pour aller contacter l'élément radiant 20 en un point déterminé 21 distant de l'extrémité court-circuitée 20b, et dont le conducteur externe 28b contacte la face intérieure de la paroi latérale cylindrique 13b.The excitation of the antenna can be carried out in a conventional manner by a transmission line, such as a coaxial line, from inside the box 11. As illustrated for example in FIG. 2a, the excitation antenna can thus be provided by a coaxial line 28 whose internal conductor 28a, isolated from the ground plane, passes through the side wall cylindrical 13b through an orifice 16 formed in the latter for go and contact the radiant element 20 at a determined point 21 distant from the short-circuited end 20b, and the external conductor 28b of which contacts the inner face of the cylindrical side wall 13b.

En jouant sur les dimensions de la structure, on agira sur les caractéristiques de l'antenne. On pourra notamment agir sur la distance entre l'élément radiant 20 et la surface en arc de cercle 18a ainsi que sur les dimensions globales du boítier 11 pour modifier la largeur de bande de l'antenne. On pourra également agir sur la longueur et la largeur de l'élément radiant 20 pour en modifier la fréquence de résonance.By playing on the dimensions of the structure, we will act on the antenna characteristics. We can notably act on the distance between the radiant element 20 and the surface in a circular arc 18a as well as on the overall dimensions of the housing 11 to modify the bandwidth of the antenna. We can also act on the length and width of the element radiant 20 to modify the resonant frequency.

Selon ce mode de réalisation de la présente invention, il a ainsi été conçu une structure formant antenne adaptée pour émettre et recevoir des signaux électromagnétique à une fréquence de 1.8 GHz dont le diamètre extérieur est de l'ordre de 35 mm et l'épaisseur totale d'environ 10 mm, ces dimensions permettant parfaitement l'incorporation de la structure dans une pièce d'horlogerie. Selon cette réalisation, l'élément radiant 20 de l'antenne s'étend ainsi sur le contour cylindrique A de la structure en un arc de cercle d'environ 136º et est disposé à une distance de l'ordre de 3 mm en regard de la paroi latérale cylindrique 13b du corps 13 du boítier 11.According to this embodiment of the present invention, it has thus been designed an antenna structure suitable for transmitting and receiving electromagnetic signals at a frequency of 1.8 GHz whose diameter exterior is of the order of 35 mm and the total thickness of approximately 10 mm, these dimensions perfectly allowing the incorporation of the structure in a timepiece. According to this embodiment, the radiant element 20 of the antenna thus extends over the cylindrical contour A of the structure in an arc about 136º and is placed at a distance of the order of 3 mm opposite the cylindrical side wall 13b of the body 13 of the housing 11.

La structure formant antenne est préférablement réalisée en un matériau métallique, tel du laiton, mais peut alternativement également être réalisée en un matériau diélectrique, tel un matériau plastique, enrobé d'un film électriquement conducteur. Différentes techniques de fabrication et d'usinage connues de l'homme du métier permettent de réaliser cette structure, parmi lesquelles le moulage, l'emboutissage ou le fraisage par exemple.The antenna structure is preferably made in one metallic material, such as brass, but can alternatively also be made of a dielectric material, such as a plastic material, coated with a film electrically conductive. Different manufacturing and machining techniques known to those skilled in the art make it possible to produce this structure, among which molding, stamping or milling for example.

Les figures 3a et 3b montrent respectivement une vue de face et une vue en perspective éclatée d'une structure formant antenne, indiquée généralement par la référence numérique 100, constituant un autre mode de réalisation de la présente invention. Dans cet autre mode de réalisation, la structure formant antenne 100 comporte un élément radiant 120, de forme ou surface sensiblement rectangulaire, solidaire d'un boítier 111 formant partie intégrante du plan de masse de l'antenne. Ce boítier 111 a essentiellement l'apparence, dans cet exemple, d'une portion de cylindre délimitée par un contour sensiblement cylindrique A*, et des premier et second plans B* et C* sensiblement perpendiculaires à l'axe de symétrie du cylindre, perpendiculaire au plan de la figure 3a et indiqué en traits interrompus dans la figure 3b.Figures 3a and 3b respectively show a front view and a exploded perspective view of an antenna structure, indicated generally by the reference numeral 100, constituting another mode of realization of the present invention. In this other embodiment, the antenna forming structure 100 includes a radiant element 120, in the form or substantially rectangular surface, integral with a housing 111 forming part of the antenna ground plane. This case 111 has basically the appearance, in this example, of a portion of cylinder delimited by a substantially cylindrical contour A *, and first and second planes B * and C * substantially perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of the cylinder, perpendicular to the plane of Figure 3a and indicated by lines interrupted in Figure 3b.

Comme on peut le constater des figures, le boítier 111 est réalisé en deux parties 112 et 113, l'une 112 formant essentiellement un couvercle du boítier 111, et l'autre 113 formant essentiellement un corps du boítier 111 et supportant par ailleurs l'élément radiant 120. Le corps 113 du boítier 111 comporte un fond 114 et une paroi latérale cylindrique 113a, et définit ainsi, avec le couvercle 112, un boítier blindé susceptible de recevoir, de manière analogue au mode de réalisation précédent, divers composants de l'unité portative dans laquelle celle-ci est incorporée.As can be seen from the figures, the housing 111 is made in two parts 112 and 113, one 112 essentially forming a cover for the case 111, and the other 113 essentially forming a body of case 111 and also supporting the radiant element 120. The body 113 of the housing 111 has a bottom 114 and a cylindrical side wall 113a, and thus defines, with the cover 112, an armored box capable of receiving, so analogous to the previous embodiment, various components of the unit portable in which it is incorporated.

Contrairement au mode de réalisation précédent, l'élément radiant 120 est disposé sur un cercle concentrique au contour cylindrique A* au-delà de la paroi latérale cylindrique 113a du corps 113 du boítier. Un élément 115 s'étendant sensiblement radialement entre la paroi latérale cylindrique 113a et une extrémité 120b de l'élément radiant 120 assure le court-circuit de ce dernier au plan de masse formé par le boítier. L'autre extrémité 120a de l'élément radiant 120 est laissée libre.Unlike the previous embodiment, the radiant element 120 is arranged on a concentric circle with a cylindrical outline A * beyond the cylindrical side wall 113a of the body 113 of the housing. Element 115 extending substantially radially between the cylindrical side wall 113a and one end 120b of the radiant element 120 short-circuits this last to the ground plane formed by the housing. The other end 120a of the radiant element 120 is left free.

L'excitation de l'antenne peut être réalisée de manière analogue au mode de réalisation illustré aux figures 2a et 2b via une ligne coaxiale dont le conducteur interne, isolé du plan de masse, traverse la paroi latérale cylindrique 113 au travers d'un orifice 116 ménagé dans cette dernière pour aller contacter l'élément radiant 120 en un point déterminé 121 distant de l'extrémité court-circuitée 120b, et dont le conducteur externe contacte la face intérieure de la paroi latérale cylindrique 113 du boítier 111.The excitation of the antenna can be carried out in a similar way to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2a and 2b via a coaxial line, the internal conductor, isolated from the ground plane, passes through the side wall cylindrical 113 through an orifice 116 formed in the latter for go and contact the radiant element 120 at a determined point 121 distant from the short-circuited end 120b, and the external conductor of which contacts the inner face of the cylindrical side wall 113 of the housing 111.

Bien que les modes de réalisation qui viennent d'être illustrés présentent une apparence générale cylindrique qui est typiquement adaptée à une utilisation horlogère, on comprendra que la structure formant antenne selon la présente invention peut prendre des formes variées selon les contraintes d'encombrement de l'unité portative dans laquelle cette structure est incorporée. La structure formant antenne peut ainsi parfaitement présenter un contour sensiblement rectangulaire elliptique ou polygonal.Although the embodiments which have just been illustrated show a generally cylindrical appearance which is typically adapted to a horological use, it will be understood that the antenna-forming structure according to the present invention can take various forms depending on the constraints dimensions of the portable unit in which this structure is incorporated. The antenna structure can thus perfectly present a substantially rectangular elliptical or polygonal outline.

La figure 4 montre une vue en perspective schématique d'une pièce d'horlogerie se présentant sous la forme d'une montre bracelet à affichage analogique illustrant une possibilité d'incorporation de la structure formant antenne 10 illustrée aux figures 2a et 2b. La structure 10 est ainsi entourée et incorporée dans un élément externe réalisée en un matériau non conducteur tel un matériau plastique et présentant la forme d'une carrure de montre, repérée par la référence numérique 30 dans la figure. Le mouvement, non représenté, de la pièce d'horlogerie est avantageusement disposé entièrement à l'intérieur de la structure formant antenne 10.Figure 4 shows a schematic perspective view of a room watchmaking in the form of a wristwatch with display analog illustrating a possibility of incorporating the structure forming antenna 10 illustrated in FIGS. 2a and 2b. The structure 10 is thus surrounded and incorporated into an external element made of a non-conductive material like a plastic material and having the shape of a watch middle, identified by the reference numeral 30 in the figure. The movement, no shown, the timepiece is advantageously disposed entirely inside the antenna structure 10.

Des orifices de faible diamètre peuvent parfaitement être ménagés dans le boítier 11 de la structure formant antenne 10, sans sensiblement affecter les caractéristiques de cette dernière, de manière à permettre le passage, le cas échéant, d'éléments constitutifs d'organes d'affichage et/ou de commande, ces éléments étant nécessairement isolés de la structure 10. Dans l'exemple de la figure 4, des axes ou canons d'aiguilles des heures et des minutes 32 traversent ainsi le centre du couvercle 12 du boítier 11 de la structure. De même, des tiges de divers organes de commande pénètrent latéralement au travers de la paroi latérale cylindrique (paroi latérale cylindrique 13a dans les figures 2a et 2b) du corps 13 du boítier de la structure 10, ces organes de commande comprenant notamment une tige rotative solidaire d'une couronne de mise à l'heure 34 et deux boutons poussoirs 35 et 36.Small diameter holes can be perfectly arranged in the housing 11 of the antenna structure 10, without substantially affect the characteristics of the latter, so as to allow the passage, where appropriate, of components of display members and / or control elements, these elements being necessarily isolated from the structure 10. In the example of FIG. 4, axes or canons of hour and hour hands 32 minutes thus pass through the center of the cover 12 of the housing 11 of the structure. Likewise, rods from various control members penetrate laterally through the cylindrical side wall (side wall cylindrical 13a in Figures 2a and 2b) of the body 13 of the housing of the structure 10, these control members comprising in particular a rod rotary integral with a time setting crown 34 and two buttons buttons 35 and 36.

On comprendra bien évidemment que la structure formant antenne 10 est préférablement disposée dans la carrure de montre 30 de sorte que l'élément radiant 20 soit orienté à l'opposé des organes de commandes 34, 35 et 36, ou, de manière générale, à l'opposé de tout organe pénétrant à l'intérieur du boítier de la structure formant antenne 10.It will of course be understood that the antenna-forming structure 10 is preferably arranged in the middle of the watch 30 so that the radiant element 20 is oriented opposite the control members 34, 35 and 36, or, in general, opposite any organ penetrating the interior of the antenna structure 10.

Selon la présente invention, une structure formant antenne peut ainsi être réalisée de manière à être incorporée dans une pièce d'horlogerie, telle une montre, et à recevoir, à l'intérieur du boítier blindé, tout ou partie de l'électronique radio fréquence, de l'électronique de la pièce d'horlogerie et de son mouvement.According to the present invention, an antenna structure can thus be made so as to be incorporated into a timepiece, such as a watch, and to receive, inside the armored box, all or part of radio frequency electronics, timepiece electronics and its movement.

On comprendra que différentes modifications et/ou adaptations peuvent être apportée à la structure formant antenne sans sortir du cadre de la présente invention défini par les revendications annexées. En particulier, selon les caractéristiques désirées de l'antenne, l'élément radiant peut ainsi s'étendre ou non sur toute l'épaisseur de la structure et peut ou non être court-circuité au plan de masse sur toute la longueur de son extrémité liée au boítier.It will be understood that different modifications and / or adaptations can be brought to the antenna structure without leaving the frame of the present invention defined by the appended claims. In particular, depending on the desired characteristics of the antenna, the radiant element can thus or not extend over the entire thickness of the structure and may or may not be shorted to the ground plane over the entire length of its end linked to the housing.

Claims (8)

Structure formant antenne (10; 100) destinée à une unité portative de faible volume, telle une pièce d'horlogerie, et comprenant un élément radiant (20; 120) de forme sensiblement rectangulaire disposé à une distance déterminée d'un plan de masse et court-circuité à ce plan de masse par l'une (20b; 120b) de ses extrémités (20a, 20b; 120a, 120b), l'extrémité opposée (20a; 120a) de cet élément radiant (20; 120) étant laissée libre, caractérisée en ce que ladite structure (10; 100) comporte un boítier (11; 111) faisant partie intégrante dudit plan de masse et comprenant au moins un couvercle (12; 112), un fond (14; 114), et une paroi latérale (13b; 113a) en regard de laquelle est disposé ledit élément radiant (20, 120), ce boítier (11; 111) formant un boítier blindé pouvant recevoir tout ou partie d'une électronique et/ou d'autres composants de l'unité portative.Antenna structure (10; 100) for one unit portable of small volume, such as a timepiece, and comprising a radiant element (20; 120) of substantially rectangular shape arranged at a determined distance from a ground plane and short-circuited to this ground plane by one (20b; 120b) of its ends (20a, 20b; 120a, 120b), the end opposite (20a; 120a) of this radiant element (20; 120) being left free, characterized in that said structure (10; 100) comprises a housing (11; 111) forming an integral part of the said ground plan and comprising at least a cover (12; 112), a bottom (14; 114), and a side wall (13b; 113a) facing which is disposed said radiant element (20, 120), this housing (11; 111) forming an armored box which can receive all or part of a electronics and / or other components of the portable unit. Structure formant antenne (10; 100) selon la revendication 1, caractérisée en ce que celle-ci présente essentiellement la forme d'une portion de cylindre délimitée par un contour sensiblement cylindrique (A; A*) définissant une paroi latérale cylindrique (13a; 113a) dudit boítier (111), et par des premier et second plan (B, C; B*, C*) définissant respectivement ledit couvercle (12; 112) et ledit fond (14; 114) du boítier (11; 111), et en ce que ledit élément radiant (20; 120) présente un profil sensiblement en arc de cercle concentrique au dit contour cylindrique (A; A*) et est disposé au voisinage de ce dernier.Antenna structure (10; 100) according to claim 1, characterized in that it essentially has the shape of a portion of cylinder delimited by a substantially cylindrical contour (A; A *) defining a cylindrical side wall (13a; 113a) of said housing (111), and by first and second plan (B, C; B *, C *) respectively defining said cover (12; 112) and said bottom (14; 114) of the housing (11; 111), and in that said radiant element (20; 120) has a substantially arcuate profile of concentric circle with said cylindrical contour (A; A *) and is arranged at neighborhood of the latter. Structure formant antenne (10) selon la revendication 2, caractérisée en ce qu'un évidement radial (18) ayant la forme d'un arc de cercle concentrique au dit contour cylindrique (A) sépare ledit élément radiant (20) dudit boítier (11), cet évidement radial (18) définissant, sur ledit boítier (11), une autre paroi latérale cylindrique (13b) concentrique et de rayon inférieur au dit contour cylindrique (A), et deux paroi latérales planes (13c, 13d) s'étendant sensiblement radialement entre les deux parois latérales cylindriques (13a, 13b) du boítier (11), ledit élément radiant (20) étant disposé sur ledit pourtour cylindrique (A) en regard et à une distance déterminée de ladite autre paroi latérale cylindrique (13b), l'extrémité court-circuitée (20b) de cet élément radiant (20) étant connectée à l'angle formé par la paroi latérale cylindrique (13a) et l'unes desdites parois latérales planes (13c, 13d). Antenna structure (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that a radial recess (18) in the form of an arc of concentric circle with said cylindrical contour (A) separates said radiant element (20) of said housing (11), this radial recess (18) defining, on said housing (11), another cylindrical side wall (13b) concentric and of radius lower than said cylindrical contour (A), and two flat side walls (13c, 13d) extending substantially radially between the two side walls cylindrical (13a, 13b) of the housing (11), said radiant element (20) being arranged on said cylindrical periphery (A) facing and at a distance determined from said other cylindrical side wall (13b), the shorted end (20b) of this radiant element (20) being connected to the angle formed by the cylindrical side wall (13a) and one of said side walls planes (13c, 13d). Structure formant antenne (100) selon la revendication 2, caractérisée en ce que ledit élément radiant (120) est disposé au-delà dudit contour cylindrique (A*) en regard et à une distance déterminée de ladite paroi latérale cylindrique (113a) dudit boítier (111), l'extrémité court-circuitée (120b) de cet élément radiant (120) étant connectée à un élément (115) s'étendant sensiblement radialement depuis ladite paroi latérale cylindrique (113a) dudit boítier (111).Antenna structure (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that said radiant element (120) is disposed beyond said cylindrical contour (A *) facing and at a determined distance from said cylindrical side wall (113a) of said housing (111), the shorted end (120b) of this radiant element (120) being connected to an element (115) extending substantially radially from said cylindrical side wall (113a) of said housing (111). Structure formant antenne (10; 100) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisée en ce que l'excitation de l'antenne est assurée par une ligne de transmission, telle une ligne coaxiale (28), depuis l'intérieur dudit boítier (11; 111), cette ligne coaxiale (28) comprenant un conducteur interne (28a) isolé du plan de masse et contactant ledit élément radiant (20; 120) en un point déterminé (21; 121) distant de l'extrémité court-circuitée (20b; 120b), et un conducteur externe (28b) contactant le plan de masse.Antenna structure (10; 100) according to any one of previous claims, characterized in that the excitation of the antenna is provided by a transmission line, such as a coaxial line (28), from the interior of said housing (11; 111), this coaxial line (28) comprising a internal conductor (28a) isolated from the ground plane and contacting said element radiant (20; 120) at a determined point (21; 121) distant from the end short-circuited (20b; 120b), and an external conductor (28b) contacting the ground plan. Structure formant antenne (10; 100) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 5, caractérisée en ce que celle-ci est réalisée en matériau métallique.Antenna structure (10; 100) according to any one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that it is made of material metallic. Structure formant antenne (10; 100) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 5, caractérisée en ce que celle-ci est réalisée en un matériau diélectrique enrobé d'un couche électriquement conductrice.Antenna structure (10; 100) according to any one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that it is carried out in one dielectric material coated with an electrically conductive layer. Pièce d'horlogerie comportant une structure formant antenne selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes.Timepiece with an antenna structure according to any one of the preceding claims.
EP99120230A 1999-10-11 1999-10-11 Antenna structure with a casing including electronic components Expired - Lifetime EP1093098B1 (en)

Priority Applications (6)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE69906973T DE69906973T2 (en) 1999-10-11 1999-10-11 Antenna structure that forms a housing for electronic components of a portable device
EP99120230A EP1093098B1 (en) 1999-10-11 1999-10-11 Antenna structure with a casing including electronic components
JP2000308665A JP4598939B2 (en) 1999-10-11 2000-10-10 Structure that has an antenna and a shield housing that can store all or part of the electronic circuit of a small portable unit.
US09/685,892 US6373439B1 (en) 1999-10-11 2000-10-11 Structure forming an antenna also constituting a shielded housing able, in particular, to accommodate all or part of the electronic circuit of a portable unit of small volume
CN00125981.4A CN1216438C (en) 1999-10-11 2000-10-11 Whole or partial circuit protecting external shell sturcture capable of forming antenna and receiving small-portable device
HK01107115A HK1036363A1 (en) 1999-10-11 2001-10-10 Structure forming an antenna also constituting a shielded housing

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP99120230A EP1093098B1 (en) 1999-10-11 1999-10-11 Antenna structure with a casing including electronic components

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EP1093098A1 true EP1093098A1 (en) 2001-04-18
EP1093098B1 EP1093098B1 (en) 2003-04-16

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Country Status (6)

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US (1) US6373439B1 (en)
EP (1) EP1093098B1 (en)
JP (1) JP4598939B2 (en)
CN (1) CN1216438C (en)
DE (1) DE69906973T2 (en)
HK (1) HK1036363A1 (en)

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HK1036363A1 (en) 2001-12-28
CN1292583A (en) 2001-04-25
CN1216438C (en) 2005-08-24
US6373439B1 (en) 2002-04-16
EP1093098B1 (en) 2003-04-16
JP2001185927A (en) 2001-07-06
DE69906973T2 (en) 2004-02-26
DE69906973D1 (en) 2003-05-22

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