Watchstrap-Embedded Four-Element Multiple-Input–Multiple-Output Antenna Design for a Smartwatch in 5.2–5.8 GHz Wireless Applications

Abstract

This paper presents a compact four-element multiple-input–multiple-output (MIMO) antenna design operating within the WiFi 802.11 ac bands (5.2–5.84 GHz) for a smartwatch. The antenna is fabricated using a polyamide substrate and embedded into the strap of a smartwatch model; the strap is created using three-dimensional etching of plastic materials. The four-element MIMO antenna is formed by four monopole antennas, has a simple structure, and is connected to the system ground plane of the smartwatch. Due to the stub and notched block between two antennas and the slit in the system ground, the four-element MIMO antenna exhibits favorable isolation. Moreover, the envelope correlation coefficient of the antennas is considerably lower than 0.005 in the operating band. The measured −6 dB impedance bandwidths of the four elements of the antenna (Ant1–Ant4) with the human wrist encompass the WiFi 802.11 ac range of 5.2–5.84 GHz; moreover, an isolation of more than 20 dB is achieved. The measured antenna efficiency with and without a phantom hand are 45%–55% and 93%–97%, respectively.