Heatsink antenna targets small wireless electronics

Heatsink antenna targets small wireless electronics

Device cools and protects while conducting

power flow at near-optimal levels

University of Florida researchers designed a novel heatsink antenna for highly integrated wireless systems and phased array radars. Typically, manufacturers must include printed circuit boards (PCBs) when developing small electronic devices in order to properly organize and direct the products’ flow of electricity. One of the main components within these PCBs is the patch antenna. The antennas available today don’t address the problems generated by excessive power and heat flow and often, as a result, the integrity of the other metals within the product is compromised. In order to provide a cost-effective solution to these problems, researchers at UF have created an innovative antenna that uses a heatsink to cool and protect the devices while also conducting power flow at near optimal levels.

A novel heatsink antenna can be used across a multitude of small electronic devices, including miniaturized wireless communication and computing systems that need to integrate antenna, the RF transceiver, high-speed processor, and the heatsink in a small-volume package.

The dual-function device can save space and resolve electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) issues in small electronic packages. By using the orientation, fin height, and fin configuration of the heatsink, researchers were able to create a dual-function heatsink antenna for use in small electronic devices. Feeding the heatsink with a patch antenna and referencing the bottom of the heatsink base, enabled the researchers to develop two orientations that would allow for increased efficiency for antennas. The primary resonant frequency within these orientations facilitates the design of a smaller antenna and also allows for increases in overall efficiency.

This new antenna increases efficiency, directivity, and overall power generation, and facilitates the development of even smaller electronic devices. The antenna design can be used across a multitude of small electronic devices, including miniaturized wireless communication and computing systems that need to integrate antenna, the RF transceiver, high speed processor, and the heatsink in a small-volume package. It can also be used for phased array radar that needs a miniaturized active transmitter element and integrates the antenna and high power amplifier. A working prototype has been developed and researchers are looking to market this inexpensive, dual-function antenna. For more information contact
and ask about record UF ID 13034, or call 352-392-8929.

Paul O’Shea