Antenna-Embedded Building Elements as Futuristic Cellular Infrastructure : Introduction to a multiphysics study

Abstract

A futuristic concept of antenna-embedded building elements is introduced. Such building elements aim at improving transmission coefficients of an incident electromagnetic wave for enhanced outdoor-to-indoor cellular communication, particularly in energy-efficient buildings. A challenge in designing antenna-embedded building elements is the need for a multiphysical study to ensure that embedding antennas do not deteriorate the original performance of building elements. Taking back-to-back passive spiral antenna systems embedded into a load-bearing wall as an example, we demonstrate the optimization of the antenna system and its distribution on the wall. Comprehensive multiphysics analyses of the antenna-embedded wall shed light on the intricate relationship between electromagnetic transmission, thermal insulation, and mechanical load-bearing capacity. Beyond modeling the intricate multiphysical relationship, our research also reveals its broader implications for the Internet-of-Things as a key enabler of smart city evolution where seamless cellular connectivity harmonizes with sustainable architecture. Being a tutorial, this article provides an overview of mathematical formulas governing thermal conductance and solid mechanics in analogy to those of electromagnetism. The overview helps us understand the intricate multiphysical design of innovative antenna-embedded building elements.