If a device needs cellular, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth, then it’s a safe bet that it also requires support for global navigation satellite system (GNSS) positioning. That’s because connectivity and location go hand in hand for many mobile applications, such as health/fitness wearables, fleet telematics, asset trackers, and drones.
That relationship highlights why it’s essential to consider GNSS options early in the device design process. A key consideration is the technologies and techniques used to manufacture the antenna. More options than ever enable implementations that weren’t practical or possible just a few years ago.
One example is Laser Direct Structuring (LDS), a process that uses polymer resins to create an antenna in a 3-dimensional plastic carrier. The laser enables the metallic antenna traces to adhere to the polymer, which can be part of the device’s housing or a separate piece of plastic. LDS is an ideal alternative to metal stamped or flexible adhesive antennas for devices with limited space or FOR antennas whose shape is too complex to fit the device’s form factor. A prime example is wearables such as smartwatches.
Another benefit of LDS is that it can simplify the assembly process by eliminating the need for additional components for the antenna. This helps achieve the device’s size and price point targets.
The Advantages of Hidden Location
Some applications benefit from nearly invisible antennas, such as avoiding drawing attention away from the device’s or vehicle’s sleek aesthetics. Another example is to make it difficult for thieves to see whether there’s a GNSS-cellular tracker on a high-value mobile asset, such as a construction trailer with five figures’ worth of tools and equipment inside.
That’s why Taoglas developed the TFX125.A, the world’s first invisible multi-band GNSS antenna for fixed and mobile applications. Made with carbon nanotube material, the TFX125.A provides the installation freedom of traditional opaque flexible PCB antennas but with the added benefit of transparency. One example is a vehicle windshield, where the TFX125.A won’t obstruct the view of the driver or passenger – the TFX125.A also complements invisible cellular and/or Wi-Fi antennas in applications where all communications technologies must be concealed.
Lightweight Except When It Comes to Durability
Drones, agricultural equipment and vehicles are three examples of applications where GNSS antennas are routinely subjected to extreme temperatures, vibration, and other conditions that can undermine the performance and reliability of traditional ceramic patch antennas. The Taoglas GGBTP.35.3.A.40 and the Taoglas GPDF6010A GNSS antennas are up to those challenges because they’re built with Terrablast, a material that Taoglas developed to provide ultra-impact-resistant characteristics such as storage and operating temperature ranges of -40°C to 85°C, the ability to withstand a 12-meter drop and tolerate eight hours/axis vibration under the ISO16750 standard. This is critical for maintaining the antenna’s mechanical and electrical integrity in use cases such as reporting the precise location of a vehicle following a crash.
Terrablast is significantly lighter despite this toughness: just 10 grams for the GGBTP.35.3.A.40 versus 15.5 grams for an equivalent ceramic patch antenna. That makes it ideal for airborne applications such as drones.
Satellite-based devices also have demanding size and weight requirements. Taoglas is meeting those with research, development, and innovation (RD&I) through projects with the European Space Agency (ESA). Taoglas also played a key role in EIRSAT-1, Ireland’s first satellite, which launched in 2023. Supported by an ESA program, EIRSAT-1 features the Taoglas DSGP.1575.25 ceramic patch antenna and custom-designed cabling.
To learn more about how polymer resins, carbon nanotubes, and Terrablast can make your GNSS devices tougher, lighter, and even invisible, get in touch with Taoglas’ Engineering team by clicking the button below.
