A base station antenna unit having an array of multiple antennas spanning by jumper cables

Abstract

The base station antenna unit includes a first base station antenna and a second base station antenna having respective first and second housings. The first housing includes a top end cap and the second housing includes a bottom end cap. A jumper cable including a first connector port is mounted in one of the top end cap or the bottom end cap and a second connector port configured to mate with the first connector port is mounted in the other of the top end cap or the bottom end cap. A longitudinal axis of the first connector port extends in a vertical direction and a longitudinal axis of the second connector port extends in the vertical direction.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 975,372, filed February 12, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 949,709, filed December 18, 2019, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] This invention generally relates to radio communications, and more specifically to base station antennas supporting multi-band communications.

[0004] Cellular communication systems are well known in the art. In a cellular communication system, a geographical area is divided into a series of areas called “cells” served by corresponding base stations. A base station may include one or more antennas configured to provide bidirectional radio frequency (“RF”) communication with mobile users within the cell served by the base station. In many cases, each cell is divided into “sectors”. Typically, base station antennas are mounted on towers or other elevated structures, where a radiation pattern (also referred to herein as an “antenna beam”) is generated by the outward-pointing base station antennas.

[0005] A common base station configuration is a three-sector configuration, where the cell is divided into three 120° sectors in the azimuth plane. A base station antenna is provided for each sector. In a three-sector configuration, the antenna beam generated by each base station antenna typically has a half-power beamwidth (“HPBW”) in the azimuth (horizontal) plane of approximately 65°, providing good coverage across the entire 120° sector. Typically, each base station antenna will contain one or more vertically extending columns of radiating elements, commonly referred to as a “linear array.” Each radiating element can have an HPBW of approximately 65°. By providing a column of radiating elements extending along the elevation (vertical) plane, the elevation HPBW of the antenna beam can be narrowed to significantly less than 65°, with the narrowing increasing with the length of the column in the vertical direction. The radiating elements in the linear array are typically spaced at a fixed distance from adjacent radiating elements, the fixed distance being based on the operating frequency band of the radiating elements and the performance requirements of the array. The number of radiating elements included in the linear array can then be selected such that the linear array has a length that provides the desired elevation beamwidth.

[0006] The desired elevation beamwidth for a linear array of radiating elements will depend on the size of the cell where the base station antenna is deployed and the terrain. To meet the requirements of cellular operators, base station antenna manufacturers typically sell many base station antenna models in multiple types with different array lengths and therefore different elevation beamwidths. For example, in some cases, a small elevation beamwidth (e.g., 10-15 degrees) may be desired to increase antenna gain and / or reduce antenna beam spillover to neighboring cells (since such spillover manifests as interference in neighboring cells). This requires a relatively long linear array. In other cases, a larger elevation beamwidth is acceptable, allowing for the use of a shorter linear array with fewer radiating elements.

[0007] To accommodate the increasing volume of cellular traffic, new frequency bands are becoming available for cellular services. Cellular operators are now typically deploying multi-band base station antennas, which include arrays of radiating elements operating in different frequency bands to support services in these new bands. For example, most base station antennas now include: a linear array of "low-frequency" radiating elements that provides service in some or all of the 617-960 MHz band; and a linear array of "mid-frequency" radiating elements that provides service in some or all of the 1427-2690 MHz band. There is also interest in deploying base station antennas that include one or more "high-frequency" radiating element arrays that operate in higher frequency bands, such as some or all of the 3.3-4.2 GHz and / or 5.1-5.8 GHz bands. "High-frequency" arrays are typically implemented as multi-row radiating element arrays that can be configured to perform active beamforming, where the shape of the antenna beam generated by the array can be controlled to form a more directional antenna beam supporting higher throughput. When using beamforming arrays, beamforming radios are typically mounted directly on the back of the base station antenna to reduce RF loss. However, because the requirements for beamforming antennas are likely to change, and because beamforming antennas may experience a higher failure rate, cellular operators may sometimes prefer to implement beamforming antennas as standalone antennas.

[0008] Unfortunately, there are various drawbacks associated with deploying additional base station antennas. First, each base station antenna installed on an antenna tower is typically charged separately, so increasing the number of antennas usually increases installation costs. Second, cellular operators typically lease space on antenna towers and usually charge a separate rental fee for each piece of equipment installed on the antenna tower. Furthermore, local regulations and / or zoning rules may limit the number of base station antennas that can be installed on antenna towers; therefore, if the required number of base station antennas exceeds the number permitted by local zoning rules, additional antenna towers may need to be built.

[0009] When using shorter base station antennas, it is possible to mount two base station antennas in a vertically stacked manner so that the two base station antennas may appear as a single antenna. For example, as disclosed in U.S. Publication No. 2019 / 0123426, which is incorporated herein by reference, the first and second base station antennas can be mounted together in a vertically stacked arrangement such that the composite base station antenna unit has the appearance of a single base station antenna. The first base station antenna may include, for example, a conventional dual-band base station antenna, which includes an array of radiating elements in a low-frequency band and a mid-frequency band and may have a height in the range of about 1.0 meter to about 2.0 meter (i.e., the length of the antenna in the vertical direction perpendicular to the plane defined by the horizon when the antenna is mounted for use). The second base station antenna may include, for example, a beamforming antenna operating in a portion of a frequency band, such as 3.3-4.2 GHz or 5.1-5.8 GHz. For example, the height of the second base station antenna may be less than about 1.0 meter. Summary of the Invention

[0010] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a base station antenna unit is provided, comprising: a first base station antenna, the first base station antenna including a first housing, the first housing including a first antenna cover and a top cover; a second base station antenna, the second base station antenna including a second housing, the second housing including a second antenna cover and a bottom cover; and a jumper cable including a first connector port mounted in one of the top cover or the bottom cover, and a second connector port configured to mate with the first connector port, the second connector port being mounted in the other of the top cover or the bottom cover. A first longitudinal axis of the first connector port extends in a vertical direction, and a second longitudinal axis of the second connector port extends in a vertical direction.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna may be installed in a vertically stacked arrangement, and the bottom surface of the second base station antenna may be within 1 inch of the top surface of the first base station antenna.

[0012] In some embodiments, the patch cable may be a retractable patch cable. In some embodiments, the retractable patch cable may be one of a plurality of patch cables, each of which may include a corresponding cable and a corresponding first connector port, and the second connector port may be one of a plurality of second connector ports, and each of the retractable patch cables may be configured to mate with a corresponding one of the second connector ports. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of retractable patch cables may be mounted in the top cover or the bottom cover, and each of the associated second connector ports may be mounted in another of the top cover or the bottom cover. In some embodiments, at least two of the first connector ports may be mounted in a common connector support that is movable between a disconnected position and a connected position. In some embodiments, the first connector port may be a push-pull connector port.

[0013] In some embodiments, the top cover may include a compartment having a front wall and a pair of side walls, and the plurality of retractable jumper cables may be mounted in the compartment. The top cover may also include a cover forming the rear wall of the compartment. The cover may include, for example, a sliding cover, a pivoting cover, and a removable cover.

[0014] In some embodiments, the retractable jumper cables may be configured to retract inside one of the first and second housings. In some embodiments, the bottom cover may include a compartment having a front wall and a pair of side walls, and the plurality of retractable jumper cables are mounted in the compartment. The bottom cover may also include a sliding cover, a pivoting cover, and a removable cover forming the rear wall of the compartment.

[0015] In some embodiments, the second connector port may extend into the compartment when the second base station antenna is vertically stacked on top of the first base station antenna. In some embodiments, the horizontal width of the first radome may be substantially the same as the horizontal width of the second radome.

[0016] In some embodiments, the first base station antenna may further include a first radio frequency (“RF”) port and a first radiating element array coupled to the first RF port, as well as a second RF port and a first portion of a second radiating element array coupled to the second RF port, and the second base station antenna may include a third RF port and a third radiating element array coupled to the first RF port, as well as a second portion of the second radiating element array.

[0017] In some embodiments, the base station antenna unit may further include a first array of first band radiating elements spanning the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna, and a first phase shifter connected to each of the first band radiating elements in the first array. The base station antenna unit may further include a second array of second band radiating elements spanning the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna, and a second phase shifter connected to each of the second band radiating elements in the second array. The base station antenna unit may further include a first duplexer in the first base station antenna and a second duplexer in the second base station antenna, wherein the first duplexer includes a first port connected to the first phase shifter, a second port connected to the second phase shifter, and a common port connected to the second duplexer. The base station antenna unit may further include a second duplexer, the second duplexer including a first port connected to at least one of the first band radiating elements in the second base station antenna, a second port connected to at least one of the second band radiating elements in the second base station antenna, and a common port connected to the common port of the first duplexer. The first duplexer may be connected to the second duplexer via a patch cable.

[0018] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a base station antenna unit is provided, comprising: a first base station antenna, the first base station antenna including a first housing, the first housing including a first antenna cover and a top cover; a second base station antenna, the second base station antenna including a second housing, the second housing including a second antenna cover and a bottom cover; a retractable jumper cable including a first connector port, the first connector port being installed in one of the top cover or the bottom cover, and a second connector port configured to mate with the first connector port, the second connector port being installed in the other of the top cover or the bottom cover.

[0019] In some embodiments, the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna may be mounted in a vertically stacked arrangement, and the bottom surface of the second base station antenna may be within 1 inch of the top surface of the first base station antenna.

[0020] In some embodiments, the retractable patch cable may include one of a plurality of patch cables, each of the plurality of retractable patch cables including a corresponding cable and a corresponding first connector port, and the second connector port may include one of a plurality of second connector ports, and each of the retractable patch cables may also be configured to mate with a corresponding one of the second connector ports. Each of the plurality of retractable patch cables may be mounted in the top cover or the bottom cover, and each of the associated second connector ports may be mounted in another of the top cover or the bottom cover. Furthermore, at least two of the first connector ports may optionally be mounted in a common connector support that is movable between a disconnected position and a connected position.

[0021] In some embodiments, the top cover may include a compartment having a front wall and a pair of side walls, and the plurality of retractable jumper cables may be mounted in the compartment. The top cover may also include a cover forming the rear wall of the compartment.

[0022] In some embodiments, the cable of the retractable jumper cable may be configured to retract inside one of the first housing and the second housing.

[0023] In some embodiments, the bottom cover may include a compartment, and the plurality of retractable jumper cables may be mounted in the compartment. In some embodiments, the second connector port may extend into the compartment when the second base station antenna is vertically stacked on the first base station antenna.

[0024] In some embodiments, the first base station antenna may further include a first RF port and a first radiating element array connected to the first RF port, a second RF port and a first portion of a second radiating element array connected to the second RF port, and the second base station antenna may further include a third RF port and a third radiating element array connected to the first RF port, and a second portion of the second radiating element array.

[0025] In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis of the first connector port may extend in the vertical direction, and the longitudinal axis of the second connector port may also extend in the vertical direction.

[0026] In some embodiments, the base station antenna unit may further include a first array of first band radiating elements spanning the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna; a first phase shifter connected to each of the first band radiating elements in the first array; a second array of second band radiating elements spanning the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna; and a second phase shifter connected to each of the second band radiating elements in the second array. Furthermore, the base station antenna unit may also include a first duplexer in the first base station antenna and a second duplexer in the second base station antenna, wherein the first duplexer includes a first port connected to the first phase shifter, a second port connected to the second phase shifter, and a common port; and the second duplexer includes a first port connected to at least one of the first band radiating elements in the second base station antenna, a second port connected to at least one of the second band radiating elements in the second base station antenna, and a common port connected to the common port of the first duplexer.

[0027] According to some further embodiments of the present invention, a base station antenna assembly is provided, comprising: a first base station antenna including a first housing, the first housing including a first antenna cover and a top cover; a second base station antenna including a second housing, the second housing including a second antenna cover and a bottom cover; a plurality of jumper cables, each jumper cable including a cable and a first connector port, each cable extending through one of the top cover or the bottom cover; a movable connector support, wherein at least two of the first connector ports are mounted on the connector support and movable together with the connector support; and a plurality of second connector ports configured to mate with a corresponding connector port of the first connector ports, the second connector ports being mounted in the other of the top cover or the bottom cover.

[0028] In some embodiments, the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna may be installed in a vertically stacked arrangement, wherein the longitudinal axis of each of the first connector ports may extend in the vertical direction, and the longitudinal axis of each of the second connector ports may also extend in the vertical direction.

[0029] In some embodiments, the movable connector support may be attached to one of the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna via at least two of the jumper cables. In some embodiments, each of the jumper cables may include a retractable jumper cable.

[0030] In some embodiments, the top cover may include a compartment, and the plurality of retractable jumper cables may be installed in the compartment.

[0031] In some embodiments, the retractable jumper cable may be configured to retract inside the first housing.

[0032] In some embodiments, the second connector port may extend into the compartment when the second base station antenna is vertically stacked on the first base station antenna.

[0033] In some embodiments, the first base station antenna may further include a first RF port and a first radiating element array connected to the first RF port, a second RF port and a first portion of a second radiating element array connected to the second RF port, and the second base station antenna may include a third RF port and a third radiating element array connected to the first RF port, and a second portion of the second radiating element array.

[0034] In some embodiments, the base station antenna unit may further include a first array of first band radiating elements spanning the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna; a first phase shifter connected to each of the first band radiating elements in the first array; a second array of second band radiating elements spanning the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna; and a second phase shifter connected to each of the second band radiating elements in the second array. In some embodiments, the base station antenna unit may further include a first duplexer in the first base station antenna and a second duplexer in the second base station antenna, wherein the first duplexer includes a first port connected to the first phase shifter, a second port connected to the second phase shifter, and a common port, and the second duplexer includes a first port connected to at least one of the first band radiating elements in the second base station antenna, a second port connected to at least one of the second band radiating elements in the second base station antenna, and a common port connected to the common port of the first duplexer.

[0035] According to some further embodiments of the present invention, a base station antenna unit is provided, comprising: a first base station antenna; a second base station antenna stacked above the first base station antenna; a first array of first band radiating elements spanning the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna; a second array of second band radiating elements spanning the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna; and a first duplexer having a first frequency-selective port connected to a subset of the first band radiating elements of the first array and a second frequency-selective port connected to a subset of the second band radiating elements of the second array.

[0036] In some embodiments, the base station antenna unit may further include a first phase shifter connected to each of the first band radiating elements in the first array and a second phase shifter connected to each of the second band radiating elements in the second array.

[0037] In some embodiments, the base station antenna unit may further include a second duplexer, the second duplexer including a first frequency selective port connected to the first phase shifter, a second frequency selective port connected to the first phase shifter, and a common port connected to the common port of the first duplexer.

[0038] In some embodiments, the common port of the first duplexer may be connected to the common port of the second duplexer by a jumper cable.

[0039] In some embodiments, the jumper cable may extend between the top cover of the first base station antenna and the bottom cover of the second base station antenna. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Figure 1 This is a front view of a base station antenna unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A side view of the base station antenna unit.

[0042] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A front view of a base station antenna unit, with the radome of the base station antenna removed.

[0043] Figure 4 for Figure 1 A schematic block diagram of the feed network for one of the low-frequency band linear arrays included in the base station antenna.

[0044] Figure 5 for Figure 1 A magnified partial rear view of the base station antenna unit, showing that the connector ports on two antennas are not connected.

[0045] Figure 6 for Figure 1 A magnified partial rear view of the base station antenna unit, showing the connector ports on two antennas in a connected state.

[0046] Figure 7 for Figure 1 A perspective view of the bottom cover of the upper base station antenna included in the base station antenna unit.

[0047] Figure 8 for Figure 1 A perspective view of the top cover of the lower base station antenna included in the base station antenna unit.

[0048] Figure 9 for Figure 8 A perspective view of one of the rubber seals included in the end cap.

[0049] Figure 10 for Figure 1 Another enlarged partial rear view of the base station antenna unit.

[0050] Figure 11 for Figure 1 An enlarged partial rear view of the base station antenna unit, showing the top cover of the lower base station antenna in place.

[0051] Figure 12 for Figure 11 A perspective view of the lid.

[0052] Figure 13 and Figure 14 Except for the jumper cable, which is non-retractable, and Figure 1 A magnified partial rear view of a base station antenna unit similar to the base station antenna unit.

[0053] Figure 15A This is a schematic front view of a base station antenna unit including a duplex connection between a first antenna and a second antenna, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 15B To show Figure 15A A schematic block diagram of the RF connection between the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna of the base station antenna unit.

[0055] Figure 16A for Figure 15A A schematic front view of a modified version of the base station antenna unit.

[0056] Figure 16B To show Figure 16A A schematic block diagram of the RF connection between the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna of the base station antenna unit.

[0057] Figure 17 This is a schematic front view of a base station antenna unit according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Here, when multiple similar elements exist, they can be referred to using two-part reference numerals. Such elements can be referred to individually by their full reference numerals, and they can also be collectively referred to by the first part of their reference numerals (i.e., the part before the hyphen). Detailed Implementation

[0059] As discussed above, it is known to vertically stack a first base station antenna, including a high-frequency band array, on a conventional base station antenna, including one or more low-frequency or mid-frequency band radiating element arrays, so that the two base station antennas appear as a single antenna element. While this approach works well when the low-frequency band linear array has relatively wide elevation beamwidth requirements, if the low-frequency band linear array must have a relatively narrow depression beamwidth, the antenna element may become too long. This requirement increases the length of the conventional base station antenna, making zoning regulations or aesthetic considerations preclude the vertical stacking of two base station antennas.

[0060] This invention relates to a base station antenna unit comprising first and second base station antennas. The first base station antenna may include a portion of a first linear array of radiating elements, and the second base station antenna may include a second array of radiating elements. A third array of radiating elements may span both the first and second base station antennas. An RF connection may be provided between the first and second base station antennas, the RF connection allowing a subcomponent of an RF feed signal input to the third array of the first antenna to be passed to a portion of the third array implemented in the second base station antenna.

[0061] When the first and second base station antennas are stacked vertically, certain advantages in cost reduction and / or performance enhancement can be achieved. However, when antennas are stacked vertically, there may be challenges in providing an RF connection between the two vertically stacked antennas. Conventionally, the RF connector port is located on the bottom end cap of the base station antenna because this prevents water from entering the antenna interior through the connector port and / or the opening of the connector port in the bottom end cap. However, when the second base station is stacked directly (or almost directly) on top of the first base station antenna, it is not possible to install the RF connector port in a conventional manner. Embodiments of the present invention provide a technique for providing an RF connection between a first base station antenna and a second base station antenna, which is easy to install, aesthetically pleasing, exhibits low insertion loss, and maintains good sealing performance.

[0062] Specifically, according to some embodiments of the present invention, a base station antenna assembly is provided, the base station antenna assembly comprising: a first antenna having a plurality of retractable jumper cables terminated by a first connector port; and a second antenna having a plurality of second connector ports configured to mate with the first connector ports. The retractable jumper cables can be used to form multiple RF connections between the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna.

[0063] In some embodiments, the first base station antenna may be the lower of two base station antennas arranged in a vertically stacked configuration, and a retractable jumper cable may be installed in the top cover of the first base station antenna. In such embodiments, a second connector port may be installed in the bottom cover of the upper of the two vertically stacked base station antennas. The upper surface of the top cover of the first base station antenna may be recessed to form a compartment, and the end of each retractable jumper cable including the first connector port may extend from the interior of the first base station antenna into the compartment. The second connector port of the second (upper) base station antenna may also extend through a recess in the upper surface of the top cover of the first (lower) base station antenna and into the compartment. In other embodiments, a retractable jumper cable may be installed in the bottom cover of the upper of two vertically stacked base station antennas, and a second connector port may be installed in the top cover of the lower of the two vertically stacked base station antennas.

[0064] In some embodiments, the first connector port may be mounted in a common connector support that is movable between a disconnected position and a connected position. In such embodiments, the first connector port may be a push-pull connector port, which can mate with the second connector port by simply pushing the two connector ports together. The common connector support allows the installer to connect all the first connector ports to their corresponding second connector ports in a single operation and can help reduce or prevent misconnections.

[0065] According to another embodiment of the present invention, base station antenna units are provided, including a first base station antenna and a second base station antenna stacked above the first base station antenna. These base station antenna units include a first array of first-band radiating elements spanning the first and second base station antennas, and a second array of second-band radiating elements also spanning the first and second base station antennas. These antenna units further include a first duplexer having a first frequency-selective port coupled to a subset of the first-band radiating elements of the first array and a second frequency-selective port coupled to a subset of the second-band radiating elements of the second array.

[0066] In some embodiments, the base station antenna unit may further include a first phase shifter coupled to each of the first band radiating elements in the first array and a second phase shifter coupled to each of the second band radiating elements in the second array. The base station antenna unit may also include a second duplexer having a first frequency-selective port coupled to the first phase shifter, a second frequency-selective port coupled to the first phase shifter, and a common port coupled to a common port of the first duplexer. The common port of the first duplexer may be connected to the common port of the second duplexer by a jumper cable. In some embodiments, the jumper cable may extend between the top cover of the first base station antenna and the bottom cover of the second base station antenna.

[0067] Embodiments of the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0068] Figure 1-17 A base station antenna unit 100 according to certain embodiments of the present invention is shown. The base station antenna unit 100 includes a first base station antenna 200 and a second base station antenna 300. In the following description, the base station antenna unit 100 will be described using the following terms, which assume that the base station antennas 200, 300 are mounted on a tower or other structure, wherein the longitudinal axis of each antenna 200, 300 extends along a vertical axis, and the front surface of each antenna 200, 300 is mounted opposite to the tower.

[0069] First refer to Figure 1-2 The base station antenna assembly 100 includes a first base station antenna 200 and a second base station antenna 300. The second base station antenna 300 is mounted on top of the first base station antenna 200, such that the two antennas 200 and 300 are arranged in a vertically stacked configuration. In various embodiments, the second base station antenna 300 may be in direct contact with the first base station antenna 200, or may be separated from the first base station antenna by a small gap, such as less than six inches, less than four inches, less than two inches, less than one inch, or less than half an inch. The first base station antenna 200 and the second base station antenna 300 may each have the same width (or at least approximately the same width). Therefore, when viewed from the front, the two base station antennas 200 and 300 may appear as a single antenna.

[0070] The first base station antenna 200 includes a housing 210 comprising an radome 212, a bottom cover 214, and a top cover 220. The radome 212 may extend around the entire circumference of the first base station antenna 200 to form a tube, or it may have a front wall and a pair of side walls connected to a back plate of the internal frame of the first base station antenna 200. The bottom cover 214 and / or the top cover 220 may be integrally formed with the radome, but more generally are separate elements that mate with the radome 212. One or more mounting brackets 216 may be provided on the rear side of the first base station antenna 200 for mounting the antenna 200, for example, on an antenna tower. A plurality of RF connector ports 260 are mounted in the bottom cover 214 for connecting radio ports to the first base station antenna 200. (See reference...) Figure 3 The antenna assembly 230, discussed in further detail, is mounted within the housing 210. The antenna assembly 230 can typically be slidably inserted into the housing 210 before the bottom cover 214 is attached to the radome 212. When the antenna 200 is mounted for normal operation, the first base station antenna 200 is typically mounted in a vertical configuration (i.e., its longitudinal axis is generally perpendicular to the plane defined by the horizon).

[0071] The second base station antenna 300 includes a housing 310, which includes an radome 312, a top cover 314, and a bottom cover 320. The radome 312 may extend around the entire circumference of the second base station antenna 300 to form a tube, or it may have a front wall and a pair of side walls connected to a back plate of the internal frame of the second base station antenna 300. In some embodiments, the top cover 314 or the bottom cover 320 may be integrally formed with the radome 312. (Refer to...) Figure 3 The antenna assembly 330, discussed in further detail, is mounted within the housing 310. The antenna assembly 330 can be typically slidably inserted into the housing 310 before the bottom cover 320 is attached to the radome 312. The radio device 302 is mounted on the back surface of the second base station antenna 300. In some embodiments, the radio device 302 may be a beamforming radio device. A plurality of blind-mate RF connector ports (not visible) may be provided on the back surface of the second base station antenna 300, the plurality of blind-mate RF connector ports being configured to mate with corresponding blind-mate RF connector ports (not shown) on the front surface of the radio device 302 when the radio device 302 is mounted on the second base station antenna 300. Suitable means for mounting the radio device 302 on the second base station antenna 300 and for establishing an RF connection between the radio device 302 and the second base station antenna 300 are disclosed in PCT application serial number PCT / US2019 / 054661, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, as fully set forth herein. Mounting bracket 316 can be used to mount radio device 302 and second base station antenna 300 on antenna tower or other mounting structure. The second base station antenna 300 is also mounted in a vertical configuration.

[0072] Figure 3 This is a front view of antenna unit 100, wherein the radome 212 of the first base station antenna 200 and the radome 312 of the second base station antenna 300 are removed.

[0073] like Figure 3 As shown, the antenna assembly 230 of the first base station antenna 200 includes a main backplate 232, which includes a generally flat metal surface and optional sidewalls. The backplate 232 can function as a structural component of the antenna assembly 230 and also as a ground plane and reflector for the radiating elements mounted thereon. Various mechanical and electronic components of the antenna 200 ( Figure 3 (Not visible in the center) It can be mounted behind the back panel 232. The components are, for example, phase shifters, remote electronic tilting units, mechanical linkages, controllers, duplexers, etc. Since these components are conventional, further description of them will be omitted.

[0074] For example Figure 3As shown, the first base station antenna 200 includes portions of two linear arrays 240-1 and 240-2 of low-frequency radiating elements 242 and four linear arrays 250-1 to 250-4 of mid-frequency radiating elements 252. The low-frequency radiating elements 242 are mounted to extend forward from the backplate 232 and are installed in two columns. Each low-frequency radiating element 242 is implemented as a cross dipole radiating element with a slant of + / -45°. The low-frequency radiating elements 242 can be configured to transmit and receive signals in a first frequency band, such as the 617-960 MHz frequency range or a portion thereof (e.g., the 617-896 MHz band, the 696-960 MHz band, etc.). The mid-frequency radiating elements 252 can similarly be mounted to extend forward from the backplate 232 and are installed in four columns to form four linear arrays 250-1 to 250-4. Linear arrays 250-1 and 250-4 extend along the respective side edges of backplate 232, while linear arrays 250-2 and 250-3 extend along the center of backplate 232. The intermediate frequency (IF) radiating element 252 can be configured to transmit and receive signals in a second frequency band, such as the 1427-2690 MHz frequency range or a portion thereof (e.g., the 1710-2200 MHz band, the 2300-2690 MHz band, etc.). The low-frequency (LF) array 240-1 extends between IF arrays 250-1 and 250-2, and the LF array 240-2 extends between IF arrays 250-3 and 250-4.

[0075] like Figure 3 As also shown, the antenna assembly 330 of the second base station antenna 300 includes a main backplate 332, which includes a generally flat metal surface and optional sidewalls. The backplate 332 can serve as a structural component of the antenna assembly 330 and also as a ground plane and reflector for the radiating elements mounted thereon. Various mechanical and electronic components of the second base station antenna 300 ( Figure 3 (Not visible in the center) can be installed behind the backplate 332, and the components are, for example, a phase shifter, a remote electronic tilting unit, a mechanical linkage, a controller, a duplexer, etc.

[0076] For example Figure 3As shown, the second base station antenna 300 includes the remainder of two linear arrays 240-1 and 240-2 of low-frequency radiating elements 242 and a planar eight-column array 350 of high-frequency radiating elements 352. The low-frequency radiating elements 242 are mounted to extend forward from the backplate 332 and are arranged in two columns. The low-frequency radiating elements 242 may be the same as those included in the first base station antenna 200, and therefore further description thereof will be omitted. The high-frequency radiating elements 352 are mounted to extend forward from the backplate 332 and are arranged in eight columns to operate as a beamforming array. The high-frequency radiating elements 352 may be configured to transmit and receive signals in a third frequency band, such as the 3300-4200 MHz frequency range or a portion thereof.

[0077] like Figure 3 As can also be seen, low-frequency radiating elements 242 are mounted on feed boards 244. For example, in linear array 240-1, low-frequency radiating elements 242-1 and 242-2 are mounted on a first feed board 244-1, low-frequency radiating elements 242-3 and 242-4 are mounted on a second feed board 244-2, and low-frequency radiating element 242-5 is mounted on a third feed board 244-3. Each feed board 244 connects the RF signal input to it to one or more radiating elements 242 mounted on it. Thus, for example, feed board 244-1 splits the RF signal input to it into two sub-components and connects the two sub-components of the RF signal to the corresponding radiating elements 242-1 and 242-2. A feed board 244 comprising only a single radiating element 242 can connect the entire RF signal input to it to the radiating element 242 mounted on it.

[0078] like Figure 3 As shown, each linear array 240-1, 240-2 of the low-frequency band radiating element 242 extends across or "across" both the first base station antenna 200 and the second base station antenna 300. RF connector ports 260 feeding signals to the low-frequency band linear arrays 240-1, 240-2 are mounted in the bottom cover 214 of the first base station antenna 200. Specifically, first RF connector ports 260-1 and second RF connector ports 260-2 are provided, feeding the first and second RF signals to the corresponding +45° and -45° radiators of the cross-polarized low-frequency band radiating element 242 of the linear array 240-1 (one RF connector port 260 for each polarization), and third RF connector ports 260-3 and fourth RF connector ports 260-4 are provided, feeding the first and second RF signals to the corresponding +45° and -45° radiators of the cross-polarized low-frequency band radiating element 242 of the linear array 240-2 (again, one RF connector port 260 for each polarization).

[0079] Although the radiating elements in each of the low-frequency band linear array 240 and the mid-frequency band linear array 250 are aligned along their respective vertical axes, it should be understood that, as used herein, the term "linear array" includes staggered linear arrays, in which some of the radiating elements are staggered in the horizontal direction relative to the other radiating elements, such that the radiating elements do not extend perfectly along the vertical axis.

[0080] Figure 4 This is a block diagram schematically illustrating a feed network 270 for a first polarized RF signal (e.g., a +45° polarized RF signal) used in a low-frequency linear array 240-1. It should be understood that the same feed network can be used to feed a second polarized RF signal to the linear array 240-1, as well as a first polarized RF signal and a second polarized RF signal to the linear array 240-2.

[0081] like Figure 4 As shown, the RF connector port 260-1 of the first base station antenna 200 is connected (e.g., by coaxial cable 272) to a phase shifter / power divider unit 274. The phase shifter / power divider unit 274 divides the RF signal into five sub-components and applies a phase taper to these sub-components, the phase taper being based on the settings of the phase shifter / power divider unit 274, as is well known to those skilled in the art. The applied phase taper (if present) can be used to electronically change the elevation or "tilt" angle of the antenna beam formed by the first polarized radiator of the radiating element 242 of the linear array 240-1. The three outputs of the phase shifter / power divider unit 274 are connected by coaxial feed cables 276 to the three feed plates 244 included in the first base station antenna 200 for the linear array 240-1. A total of five low-frequency radiation elements 242 are installed on these three feed boards 244, namely, low-frequency radiation elements 240-1 and 240-2 are installed on feed board 244-1, low-frequency radiation elements 240-3 and 240-4 are installed on feed board 244-2, and low-frequency radiation element 240-5 is installed on feed board 244-3.

[0082] like Figure 4As also shown, the remaining two outputs of the phase shifter / power divider unit 274 are connected (directly or indirectly) to coaxial jumper cables 280. Each coaxial jumper cable 280 includes at least a cable 282 and an RF connector port 284, which is mounted on the end of the cable 282 opposite to the phase shifter / power divider unit 274. A pair of RF connector ports 360-1, 360-2 are provided on the second base station antenna 300 and configured to mate with the RF connector ports 284 provided on the coaxial jumper cables 280. The RF connector ports 360-1, 360-2 are connected by coaxial feed cables 362 to two feed boards 244 included in the second base station antenna 300 for the linear array 240-1. A total of three low-frequency radiation elements 242 are mounted on the two feed boards 244, namely, low-frequency radiation elements 240-6 and 240-7 are mounted on feed board 244-4, and low-frequency radiation element 240-8 is mounted on feed board 244-5.

[0083] The first base station antenna 200 includes eight additional RF connector ports 260 (two RF connector ports connected to each linear array, one polarized per array) connected to an intermediate frequency band linear array 250 to transmit RF signals between the intermediate frequency band linear array 250 and the associated radio device. These RF connector ports 260 and the feed networks connecting them to the respective intermediate frequency band linear arrays 250 can be conventional, and therefore further description thereof will be omitted here. Similarly, the second base station antenna 300 includes sixteen additional RF connector ports (not shown) connected to a high frequency band array 350 (two RF connector ports connected to each of eight columns of the array, one polarized per column) to transmit RF signals between the high frequency band array 350 and the radio device 302. These RF connector ports and the feed networks connecting them to the respective arrays can have any design, such as that shown in PCT application serial number PCT / US2019 / 054661, and therefore further description thereof will be omitted here.

[0084] Will recognize Figure 1-4An example of a base station antenna element according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, which can be modified in many ways. For example, in other embodiments, the number of low-frequency, mid-frequency, and high-frequency band arrays may differ from those shown (including omissions of certain types of arrays), and the number of radiating elements included in each array may also differ. Similarly, different arrays may span two base station antennas, and / or the arrays may be arranged differently than shown. Although the radiating elements are shown as dual-polarized radiating elements in the depicted embodiments, it should be recognized that in other embodiments, some or all of the dual-polarized radiating elements may be replaced by single-polarized radiating elements. It should also be recognized that although the radiating elements are shown as dipole radiating elements in the depicted embodiments, other types of radiating elements, such as, for example, patch radiating elements, may be used in other embodiments.

[0085] As discussed above, the linear arrays 240-1 and 240-2 span the first base station antenna 200 and the second base station antenna 300. Therefore, the RF connection 110 is provided between the first base station antenna 200 and the second base station antenna 300 in the form of a coaxial jumper cable 280 on the first base station antenna 200 and an RF connector port 360 on the second base station antenna 300. Figure 5-12 An example embodiment of these RF connections 110 and related structures protecting these RF connections 110 from the influence of components is shown.

[0086] Figure 5 and Figure 6 This is a magnified partial rear view of antenna element 100, showing the interface between the first base station antenna 200 and the second base station antenna 300. (As shown...) Figure 5-6 As shown, the second base station antenna 300 can be directly mounted on top of the first base station antenna 200. The bottom cover 320 of the second base station antenna 300 includes a plurality of connector ports 360 therein. Each connector port 360 can extend along a corresponding longitudinal axis. In the depicted embodiment, all of these longitudinal axes extend in the vertical direction. Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the bottom cover 320 of the second base station antenna 300. As can be seen, the bottom cover 320 can have a conventional design and includes eight openings 322 for receiving the corresponding RF connector 360.

[0087] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of the top cover 220 of the first base station antenna 200. Figure 8As shown, the top cover 220 may have an unconventional design. Specifically, the top cover 220 has a planar top surface 221 with a downwardly extending lip 222. The planar top surface 221 is recessed to form a compartment 223 defined between a pair of sidewalls 224, a front wall 225, and a base plate 226. The rear portion of the compartment 223 can remain open to allow access to the interior of the compartment 223. A plurality of openings 227 are formed in the base plate 226 of the compartment 223. Each rubber seal 228, including an access hole 229, is installed in the corresponding opening 227. Figure 9 An enlarged perspective view of one of the rubber seals 228. (See image.) Figure 9 As shown, each rubber seal 228 includes a downwardly projecting post 228c that receives within an opening 227 in the bottom plate 226 of the compartment 223 in the top cover 220. The top portion of the rubber seal 228 is in the form of a raised lip 228l that elevates the upper portion of the inlet hole 229 above the bottom plate 226 of the compartment 223. Therefore, even if a small amount of water enters the compartment 223 and collects on the bottom plate 226, the raised lip 228l prevents water from entering the inlet hole 229.

[0088] In some embodiments, the opening 227 in the base plate 226 of compartment 223 may be angled relative to the vertical line. This angle may be useful when using retractable jumper cable 280, as it can help initiate the bending of cable 282 that occurs when cable 292 retracts back into antenna 200.

[0089] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 10 As can be seen, the cable 282 of the coaxial patch cable 280 passes through the rubber seal 228 in the corresponding opening 227, such that the RF connector port 284 is outside the housing 210. In some embodiments, the RF connector port 284 may be mounted in a common movable connector support 290, which includes a mounting position for each RF connector port 284. In the depicted embodiment, the connector support 290 is implemented as a plastic plate including an opening for each cable 282 and screw holes (not visible) allowing each RF connector port 284 to be mounted to the connector support 290 via small screws. These mounting positions may be positioned such that each RF connector port 284 can be aligned with a corresponding one of the RF connector ports 360 in the bottom end cover 320 of the second base station antenna 300. The RF connector port 284 may be a push-in connector port configured to mate with the corresponding RF connector port 360. Figure 6As shown, the connector support 290 is movable upwards to engage each RF connector port 284 with a corresponding one of the RF connector ports 360 to establish an RF connection 110 between the first base station antenna 200 and the second base station antenna 300. One or more latches (not shown) or other locking mechanisms may be included to hold the connector support 290 in place. Figure 6 As shown in the diagram, connector support 290 allows the installer to connect all eight RF connector ports 284 to mating RF connector ports 360 in a single operation, and also ensures that each RF connector port 284 is connected to its corresponding RF connector port 360 (i.e., preventing incorrect connections).

[0090] In some embodiments, the coaxial patch cable may be a retractable patch cable, allowing cable 280 to move relative to an opening 227 in the base plate 226 of compartment 223. In embodiments where patch cable 280 is a retractable patch cable, cable 282 can still be secured to housing 210 or other internal structures of the first base station antenna 200 to ensure that an installer cannot pull cable 282 out of antenna 200, causing one or more internal ends of cable 282 to be loosened from the structure to which the cable is attached. In many cases, the internal end of each patch cable 280 may be soldered to an output port on phase shifter 274; securing cable 282 internally so that force cannot be transmitted to these solder joints helps maintain the integrity of the solder joints.

[0091] In other embodiments, cables 280 may be secured to housing 210 such that a preselected length of each cable 282 extends through an opening 227 in the top cover 220. This preselected length may include sufficient slack so that connector support 290 can be accessed from... Figure 5 The position shown is moved to Figure 6 The location shown. Figure 13 and Figure 14 This is an enlarged partial rear view of a base station antenna element 100', which is similar to the base station antenna element 100, except that the jumper cable 280 is a non-retractable jumper cable. Figure 13 As shown, a slack loop 286 may appear in cable 282 when RF connector port 284 is in the open state. Figure 14 As shown, when the jumper cable 280 is fully extended so that its RF connector port 284 mates with the corresponding RF connector port 360 on the second base station antenna 300, the slack loop 286 can be substantially eliminated.

[0092] refer to Figure 11 and Figure 12A cover 292 may be provided to form the rear wall of compartment 223. Cover 292 may be a separate removable cover, a hinged cover, a sliding cover, etc. Cover 292 can protect RF connection 110 from components and can also reduce or prevent water from entering compartment 223. Although not shown in the figures, a seal such as a rubber gasket may also be provided between the bottom cover 320 of the second base station antenna 300 and the top cover 220 of the first base station antenna 200.

[0093] The above-described design of the RF connection 110 between the first base station antenna 200 and the second base station antenna 300 offers several advantages. First, the RF connector port 360 extends downward from the bottom cover 320 of the second base station antenna 300. This design helps protect the second base station antenna 300 from water ingress through the RF connector port 360 and protects the RF connector port 360 from rain. Second, by mounting the RF connector ports 284, 360 on the respective top and bottom covers, the length of the RF connection 110 between the first base station antenna 200 and the second base station antenna 300 can be kept very short, which reduces insertion loss along the RF connection. Since the array 350 operates at high frequencies, insertion loss can be quite high, so having a short RF connection provides a significant performance improvement (e.g., an insertion loss improvement of approximately 2-3 dB). Third, by mounting the RF connector port 284 in the common connector support 290 and implementing the RF connector ports 284, 360 using push-in connectors, the installer can easily fabricate all eight RF connections 110 in a single operation, and this can be done without incorrect connections. Fourth, cover 292 can protect RF connector ports 284 and 360, and can shield RF connection 110, making it invisible.

[0094] It should be understood that the present invention can be modified in many different ways. For example, in some embodiments, the top cover 220 of the first base station antenna 200 can alternatively (with appropriate modifications) serve as the bottom cover of the second base station antenna 300, and the bottom cover 320 of the second base station antenna 300 (with appropriate modifications) can serve as the top cover of the first base station antenna 200. In such embodiments, the RF connector port 360 will be mounted in the top cover of the first base station antenna 200, and the coaxial patch cable 280 will be mounted in the bottom cover of the second base station antenna 300. Such embodiments are entirely within the scope of the present invention.

[0095] In some cases, according to embodiments of the invention, it may be advantageous to extend an additional antenna array between the first antenna and the second antenna of the base station antenna element. As discussed above, in some exemplary embodiments of the invention, two low-frequency band arrays 240-1, 240-2 span both the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300. For example, as Figure 3-4As shown, in one embodiment, four phase cable connections extend between the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300 for the low-frequency band array 240-1, namely, the first phase cable connection for the +45° dipole radiators of radiating elements 242-6 and 242-7, the second phase cable connection for the +45° dipole radiator of radiating element 242-8, the third phase cable connection for the -45° dipole radiators of radiating elements 242-6 and 242-7, and the fourth phase cable connection for the -45° dipole radiator of radiating element 242-8. A phase cable connection refers to the connection between the output of the phase shifter / power divider and one or more radiating elements. Four additional phase cable connections similarly extend between the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300 for the low-frequency band array 240-2. Therefore, in Figure 3-4 In the base station antenna unit 100, a total of eight RF connections are provided between the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300.

[0096] Due to space constraints, in some base station antenna designs, it may be difficult to include substantially more than eight RF connections between the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300. Reducing the number of RF connections between the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300 is also desirable, as it reduces the possibility of connection errors. However, there are applications where an additional array spans both the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300; for example, some or all of the intermediate frequency band arrays 250-1 to 250-4 included in the base station antenna element 100 span both the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300.

[0097] According to another embodiment of the invention, a duplexer (note that the term "duplexer" is used broadly herein to encompass means of filtering / combining signals across two or more frequency bands, and thus encompasses, for example, a tripplexer) can be added to both the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300 to allow the RF connection 110 to extend between the two antennas 200, 300 to carry, for example, low-frequency and mid-frequency RF signals. In this way, the RF connection 110 can be used to transmit low-frequency and mid-frequency RF signals between the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300, thereby effectively doubling the number of actual RF transmission paths without increasing the number of RF connections 110.

[0098] Figure 15A This is a schematic front view of a base station antenna element 400 including such a design (with the radome removed) according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 15A As shown, the base station antenna element 400 is similar to the one described in the reference above. Figure 1-14The base station antenna unit 100 discussed herein. Specifically, the base station antenna unit 400 includes a first base station antenna 500 and a second base station antenna 600. The antenna assembly of the first base station antenna 500 includes a backplate 232, which can at least serve as a ground plane and reflector for the radiating elements mounted thereon. The first base station antenna 500 also includes portions of two linear arrays 240-1, 240-2 of low-frequency band radiating elements 242, which may be identical to arrays 240 with the same numbering as the low-frequency band radiating elements 242 included in the base station antenna unit 100, and therefore further description thereof will be omitted. Figure 3 The feeder board 244 is mounted on the feeder board in exactly the same manner as described. Figure 15A (Not shown in the image). The first base station antenna 500 also includes portions of four linear arrays 550-1 to 550-4 of intermediate frequency (IF) band radiating elements 252. The IF band radiating elements 252 are mounted to extend forward from the backplate 232. The IF band linear arrays 550-1 to 550-4 are similar to the IF band linear arrays 250-1 to 250-4 included in the base station antenna unit 100 discussed above, except that each of the IF band linear arrays 550-1 to 550-4 includes two additional IF band radiating elements 252 included in the second base station antenna 600. In other words, the base station antenna unit 400 differs from the base station antenna unit 100 in that the four linear arrays 550-1 to 550-4 of the IF band radiating elements 252 each span the first antenna 500 and the second antenna 600 in the base station antenna unit 400. Otherwise, the four linear arrays 550-1 to 550-4 of the intermediate frequency band radiating element 252 can be the same as the four linear arrays 250-1 to 250-4 of the intermediate frequency band radiating element 252 discussed above in the reference base station antenna element 100.

[0099] The second base station antenna 600 includes a main backplane 332, which at least serves as a ground plane and reflector for the radiating elements mounted thereon. Figure 15A As shown, the second base station antenna 600 includes the remainder of two linear arrays 240-1 and 240-2 of low-frequency radiating elements 242, the remainder of four linear arrays 550-1 to 550-4 of mid-frequency radiating elements 252, and a planar eight-column array 350 of high-frequency radiating elements 352. The planar eight-column array 350 of high-frequency radiating elements 352 may be the same as the high-frequency array 350 with the same numbering included in the base station antenna unit 100, and therefore further description thereof will be omitted. The eight-column array 350 of high-frequency radiating elements 352 in... Figure 15A The diagram is schematically represented as a box to simplify the drawing.

[0100] Each low-frequency band linear array 240-1, 240-2 of the low-frequency band radiating element 242 extends across or "across" the first base station antenna 500 and the second base station antenna 600, and each intermediate frequency band linear array 550-1 to 550-4 of the intermediate frequency band radiating element 252 similarly spans both the first base station antenna 500 and the second base station antenna 600. The second base station antenna 600 includes a total of two intermediate frequency band radiating elements 252 for each linear array 550-1 to 550-4, and in each linear array 550, both radiating elements 252 are mounted on a common feed plate 254 and configured to be fed by a common feed signal. Therefore, a total of eight RF connections are required between the first base station antenna 500 and the second base station antenna 600 to transmit RF signals to and from the intermediate frequency band radiating elements 252; that is, for each of the two polarizations, each of the four intermediate frequency band arrays 550 requires one RF connection.

[0101] In the base station antenna unit 400, a total of eight RF connections 110 are provided between the first base station antenna 500 and the second base station antenna 600, but a total of sixteen RF connections are required (eight for the low-frequency band array 240 and eight for the mid-frequency band array 550). To achieve sixteen RF connections on the eight physical RF connections 110, according to an embodiment of the invention, each RF connection is multiplexed, allowing it to serve as both a low-frequency band RF transmission path and a mid-frequency band RF transmission path. This references... Figure 15B As shown in more detail, the figure is a schematic block diagram depicting some of the components of the base station antenna element 400.

[0102] like Figure 15B As shown, phase shifters 574 of the low-frequency band arrays 240-1 and 240-2 and phase shifters 576 of the mid-frequency band arrays 550-1 to 550-4 are installed in the first base station antenna 500. Although Figure 15B The diagram shows only one low-frequency band phase shifter 574 and two mid-frequency band phase shifters 576. It should be understood that a total of four low-frequency band phase shifters 574 and eight mid-frequency band phase shifters 576 can be provided, i.e., two phase shifters 574 (one for each polarization) for each low-frequency band array 240 and two phase shifters 576 for each mid-frequency band linear array 550.

[0103] The first RF port 560-1 on the first base station antenna 500 is connected to the input port of the low-frequency band phase shifter 574. The low-frequency band phase shifter 574 can split the RF signal input to it into multiple sub-components and can apply a phase cone to the sub-components to electrically change the elevation or "tilt" angle of the antenna beam generated by the low-frequency band linear array 240-1 in a manner well understood by those skilled in the art. In the depicted embodiment, the low-frequency band phase shifter 574 splits the RF signal input to it from the first RF port 560-1 into five sub-components output at five corresponding outputs of the low-frequency band phase shifter 574. Figure 15B As shown, three of the outputs of the low-frequency band phase shifter 574 are consistent with the above. Figure 4 The low-frequency radiating element 242 of the first low-frequency array 240-1, which is installed in the base station antenna 500, is connected in exactly the same manner as shown. Figure 15B As also shown, the fourth output of the low-frequency band phase shifter 574 is connected to the first frequency selective port of the first duplexer 590-1 installed in the first base station antenna 500, and the fifth output of the low-frequency band phase shifter 574 is connected to the first frequency selective port of the second duplexer 590-2 installed in the first base station antenna 500.

[0104] The second RF port 560-2 included on the first base station antenna 500 is connected to the input port of the first intermediate frequency band phase shifter 576-1. The first intermediate frequency band phase shifter 576-1 can divide the RF signal input to it into multiple sub-components and can apply a phase cone to the sub-components to electrically change the elevation or "tilt" angle of the antenna beam generated by the intermediate frequency band linear array 550-1. In the depicted embodiment, the first intermediate frequency band phase shifter 576-1 divides the RF signal input to it into seven sub-components output at seven corresponding outputs of the phase shifter 576-1. Six of the outputs can be connected to the twelve intermediate frequency band radiating elements 252 in the first intermediate frequency band array 550-1 (each output feeds two intermediate frequency band radiating elements 252). The seventh output is connected to the second frequency selective port of the first duplexer 590-1.

[0105] The third RF port 560-3 on the first base station antenna 500 is connected to the input port of the second intermediate frequency band phase shifter 576-2. The second intermediate frequency band phase shifter 576-2 can divide the input RF signal into multiple sub-components and can apply a phase cone to the sub-components to electrically change the elevation or "tilt" angle of the antenna beam generated by the intermediate frequency band linear array 550-2. In the depicted embodiment, the second intermediate frequency band phase shifter 576-2 divides the input RF signal into seven sub-components, which are output at seven corresponding outputs of the phase shifter 576-2. Six of the outputs are connected to twelve intermediate frequency band radiating elements 252 in the second intermediate frequency band array 550-2 (each output feeds two intermediate frequency band radiating elements 252). The seventh output is connected to the second frequency selective port of the second duplexer 590-2.

[0106] The common port of the first duplexer 590-1 is connected to the first RF connector port 584-1, and the common port of the second duplexer 590-2 is connected to the second RF connector port 584-2. A first coaxial patch cable (not shown) connects the first RF connector port 584-1 to the first RF connector port 360-1 on the second base station antenna 600, and a second coaxial patch cable (not shown) connects the second RF connector port 584-2 to the second RF connector port 360-2 on the second base station antenna 600. The coaxial patch cable can be any of the coaxial patch cables disclosed herein, including retractable coaxial patch cables, said retractable coaxial patch cables including, for example, reference to... Figure 5-6 The connector port 584 is described. The first RF connector port 360-1 on the base station antenna 600 is connected to the common port of the third duplexer 590-3, and the second RF connector port 360-2 on the base station antenna 600 is connected to the common port of the fourth duplexer 590-4.

[0107] The first frequency-selective port on the third duplexer 590-3 is connected to low-frequency radiating elements 242-6 and 242-7, which are part of the first low-frequency array 240-1 and are installed in the second base station antenna 600. The second frequency-selective port on the third duplexer 590-3 is connected to two intermediate-frequency (IF) radiating elements 252, which are part of the first IF array 550-1 and are installed in the second base station antenna 600. Similarly, the first frequency-selective port on the fourth duplexer 590-4 is connected to the remaining low-frequency radiating element 242-8 in the first low-frequency array, and the second frequency-selective port on the fourth duplexer 590-4 is connected to two IF radiating elements 252, which are part of the second IF array 550-2 and are installed in the second base station antenna 600.

[0108] First duplexers 590-1 and third duplexers 590-3 allow simultaneous transmission of low-frequency (LF) and intermediate-frequency (IF) RF signals from a first base station antenna 500 to a second base station antenna 600 (or vice versa) via RF connection 510-1. Similarly, second duplexers 590-2 and fourth duplexers 590-4 allow simultaneous transmission of LF and IF RF signals from a first base station antenna 500 to a second base station antenna 600 (or vice versa) via a single RF connection 510-2. Therefore, by sharing RF connection 510 with the low-frequency array 240, duplexers 590 allow the IF array 550 to span both antennas 500 and 600.

[0109] Figure 16A for Figure 15A A schematic front view of a modified version of the base station antenna unit 400, namely base station antenna unit 400'. Base station antenna unit 400' and... Figure 15A The base station antenna elements 400 are very similar, therefore, the following discussion focuses on the differences between the two base station antenna elements 400 and 400'.

[0110] For example, through comparison Figure 15A and 16A It can be seen that the base station antenna unit 400' differs from the base station antenna unit 400 in that only two intermediate frequency (IF) band arrays 550 span the first base station antenna 500' and the second base station antenna 600', while in the base station antenna unit 400, all four IF band arrays 550 span the first base station antenna 500 and the second base station antenna 600. Furthermore, in the IF band linear array 550' included in the base station antenna unit 400', four IF band radiating elements 252 are mounted in the second base station antenna 600' for IF band linear arrays 550'-1 and 550'-4, which differs from the case of only two IF band radiating elements 252 in the base station antenna unit 400. Each pair of IF band radiating elements 252 in the second base station antenna 600' is fed by a first RF connection in the RF connection 510 for the first polarization signal and by a second RF connection in the RF connection 510 for the second polarization signal. Therefore, for the intermediate frequency band linear array 550, a total of eight RF connections are required between the first base station antenna 500' and the second base station antenna 600'. As... Figures 15A-15B Similar to the previous embodiment, this is achieved by using a multiplexed connection 510' carrying low-frequency and intermediate-frequency RF signals. Finally, unlike the base station antenna unit 400 which includes eight columns of high-frequency band array 350, the base station antenna unit 400' includes four columns of high-frequency band array 350' to make room for an additional intermediate-frequency band radiating element 252, which extends closer to the top of the base station antenna unit 400' in the second base station antenna 600'.

[0111] Figure 16B To illustrate a schematic block diagram of multiplexing connection 510', this multiplexing connection can be used to transmit low-frequency and mid-frequency RF signals (for one of two polarizations) to low-frequency radiating element 242, and to [other components] mounted on [a circuit]. Figure 16A The mid-frequency radiating element 252 of the linear array 240-1 and 550'-1 in the second base station antenna 600' of the base station antenna unit 400'. Figure 16B The circuitry shown will be replicated in base station antenna element 400' to support linear arrays 240-2 and 550'-4, and these two circuits will subsequently be replicated again to support the second polarization of each linear array 240-1, 240-2, 550'-1, and 550'-4. As can be seen, Figure 16B The circuit is similar to Figure 15B The circuit, except in Figure 16B In the circuit, only one intermediate frequency band phase shifter 576 powers the duplexer 590 because the low frequency band linear array 240-1 and the intermediate frequency band linear array 550'-1 share the same two duplexers 590-1 and 590-2 to transmit the two RF signals to the second base station antenna 600' respectively.

[0112] It should be noted that the 617-960MHz low-frequency band and the 1427-2690MHz mid-frequency band are quite widely separated in frequency. Therefore, in some implementations, relatively low-cost microstrip printed circuit board-based duplexers can be used to implement duplexer 590 while still providing acceptable isolation, return loss and insertion loss performance.

[0113] Figure 17 This is a schematic front view of a base station antenna unit 700 according to an embodiment of the present invention, which includes a first base station antenna 800 and a second base station antenna 900. Figure 17As shown, the base station antenna unit 700 includes a first array 240-1 and a second array 240-2 of low-frequency band radiating elements 242, a first array 550-1 and a second array 550-2 of mid-frequency band radiating elements 252, an eight-column array 350-1 of high-frequency band radiating elements 352, and a four-column array 350-2 of high-frequency band radiating elements 352. The low-frequency band linear array 240 and the mid-frequency band linear array 550 each span both the first base station antenna 800 and the second base station antenna 900. The low-frequency band linear arrays 240-1, 240-2 and the mid-frequency band linear arrays 550-1, 550-2 can be the same as the low-frequency band linear arrays 240-1, 240-2 and the mid-frequency band linear arrays 550-1, 550-4 included in the base station antenna unit 400, therefore further description of them will be omitted. Similarly, the high-frequency band linear array 350-1 may be the same as the high-frequency band linear array 350 included in the base station antenna unit 400, and therefore further description thereof will be omitted. Thus, the main difference between the base station antenna unit 400 and the base station antenna 700 is that two of the mid-frequency band linear arrays 550-2 and 550-3 included in the base station antenna unit 400 are replaced by the high-frequency band linear array 350-2 in the base station antenna unit 700. In some embodiments, the high-frequency band linear array 350-2 may, for example, be a civilian band radio service array configured to operate in the 3550-3700MHz frequency band.

[0114] Embodiments of the invention have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the invention are illustrated. However, the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Throughout the text, the same numerals denote the same elements.

[0115] It will be understood that although the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the invention, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0116] It will be understood that when an element is described as being “on” another element, that element may be directly on the other element, or there may be intermediate elements. Conversely, when an element is described as being “directly on” another element, there are no intermediate elements. It will also be understood that when an element is described as being “connected” or “coupled” to another element, that element may be directly connected or coupled to the other element, or there may be intermediate elements. Conversely, when an element is described as being “directly connected” or “directly coupled” to another element, there are no intermediate elements. Other terms used to describe relationships between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (i.e., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.).

[0117] Relative terms, such as “below” or “above” or “upper” or “lower” or “horizontal” or “vertical”, may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element, layer, or region to another element, layer, or region, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device other than those depicted in the drawings.

[0118] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the terms “comprising,” “including,” and / or “having” as used herein mean the presence of the stated features, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0119] All aspects and elements of the embodiments disclosed above may be combined in any way and / or combined with aspects or elements of other embodiments to provide multiple additional embodiments.

Claims

1. A base station antenna unit, comprising: a first base station antenna including a first housing including a first radome and a top end cap; a second base station antenna including a second housing including a second radome and a bottom end cap; a jumper cable including a first connector port mounted in one of the top end cap or the bottom end cap, and a second connector port configured to mate with the first connector port, the second connector port mounted in the other of the top end cap or the bottom end cap, wherein a first longitudinal axis of the first connector port extends in a vertical direction and a second longitudinal axis of the second connector port extends in the vertical direction, wherein one of the top end cap or the bottom end cap includes a compartment and the first connector port mates with the second connector port within the compartment.

2. The base station antenna unit of claim 1, wherein the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna are mounted in a vertical stack arrangement and a bottom most surface of the second base station antenna is within 1 inch of a top most surface of the first base station antenna.

3. The base station antenna unit of claim 1 or 2, wherein the jumper cable includes a retractable jumper cable.

4. The base station antenna unit of claim 3, wherein the base station antenna unit includes a plurality of retractable jumper cables and a plurality of second connector ports, each of the plurality of retractable jumper cables includes a respective cable and a respective first connector port, and each of the plurality of retractable jumper cables is configured to mate with a respective one of the plurality of second connector ports.

5. The base station antenna unit of claim 4, wherein each of the plurality of retractable jumper cables is mounted in the top end cap or the bottom end cap and each of the plurality of second connector ports is mounted in the other of the top end cap or the bottom end cap.

6. The base station antenna unit of claim 1 or 2, wherein at least two of the first connector ports are mounted in a common connector support movable between a disconnected position and a connected position.

7. The base station antenna unit of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first connector port includes a push-pull connector port.

8. The base station antenna unit of claim 4, wherein the top end cap includes a compartment having a front wall and a pair of side walls, and wherein the plurality of retractable jumper cables are mounted in the compartment.

9. The base station antenna unit of claim 8, wherein the top end cap further includes a cover forming a back wall of the compartment.

10. The base station antenna unit of claim 9, wherein the cover includes one of a sliding cover, a pivoting cover, and a removable cover.

11. The base station antenna unit of claim 4, wherein a cable of the retractable jumper cable is configured to retract within one of the first housing and the second housing.

12. The base station antenna unit of claim 4, wherein the bottom end cap includes a compartment comprising a front wall and a pair of side walls, and wherein the plurality of retractable jumper cables are mounted in the compartment.

13. The base station antenna unit of claim 12, wherein the bottom end cap further includes a cover forming a back wall of the compartment, and the cover comprises one of a sliding cover, a pivoting cover, and a removable cover.

14. The base station antenna unit of claim 8, wherein the second connector port extends into the compartment when the second base station antenna is vertically stacked on the first base station antenna.

15. The base station antenna unit of claim 1 or 2, wherein a horizontal width of the first radome is the same as a horizontal width of the second radome.

16. The base station antenna unit of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first base station antenna further comprises a first radio frequency (RF) port and a first array of radiating elements coupled to the first RF port and a second RF port and a first portion of a second array of radiating elements connected to the second RF port, and wherein the second base station antenna comprises a third RF port and a third array of radiating elements coupled to the first RF port and a second portion of the second array of radiating elements.

17. The base station antenna unit of claim 1 or 2, further comprising a first array of first band radiating elements spanning the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna, and a first phase shifter connected to each of the first band radiating elements in the first array.

18. The base station antenna unit of claim 17, further comprising a second array of second band radiating elements spanning the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna, and a second phase shifter connected to each of the second band radiating elements in the second array.

19. The base station antenna unit of claim 18, further comprising a first duplexer in the first base station antenna and a second duplexer in the second base station antenna, wherein the first duplexer comprises a first port coupled to the first phase shifter, a second port coupled to the second phase shifter, and a common port coupled to the second duplexer.

20. The base station antenna unit of claim 19, wherein the second duplexer comprises a first port coupled to at least one of the first band radiating elements in the second base station antenna, a second port coupled to at least one of the second band radiating elements in the second base station antenna, and a common port coupled to the common port of the first duplexer.

21. The base station antenna unit of claim 20, wherein the first duplexer is connected to the second duplexer via a jumper cable connection.

22. A base station antenna unit, comprising: a first base station antenna comprising a first housing, the first housing comprising a first radome and a top end cap; a second base station antenna comprising a second housing comprising a second radome and a bottom end cap; a retractable jumper cable comprising a first connector port mounted in one of the top end cap or the bottom end cap, and a second connector port configured to mate with the first connector port, the second connector port mounted in the other of the top end cap or the bottom end cap, wherein one of the top end cap or the bottom end cap comprises a compartment, and the first connector port mates with the second connector port within the compartment.

23. The base station antenna unit of claim 22, wherein the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna are mounted in a vertical stack arrangement, and a bottom surface of the second base station antenna is within 1 inch of a top surface of the first base station antenna.

24. The base station antenna unit of claim 22, wherein the base station antenna unit comprises a plurality of retractable jumper cables and a plurality of second connector ports, each of the plurality of retractable jumper cables comprising a respective cable and a respective first connector port, and each of the plurality of retractable jumper cables is configured to mate with a respective one of the plurality of second connector ports.

25. The base station antenna unit of claim 24, wherein each of the plurality of retractable jumper cables is mounted in the top end cap or the bottom end cap, and each of the plurality of second connector ports is mounted in the other of the top end cap or the bottom end cap.

26. The base station antenna unit of any of claims 22-25, wherein at least two of the first connector ports are mounted in a common connector support movable between a disconnected position and a connected position.

27. The base station antenna unit of claim 24, wherein the top end cap comprises a compartment having a front wall and a pair of side walls, and wherein the plurality of retractable jumper cables are mounted in the compartment.

28. The base station antenna unit of claim 27, wherein the top end cap further comprises a cover forming a back wall of the compartment.

29. The base station antenna unit of claim 24, wherein the cable of the retractable jumper cable is configured to retract within one of the first housing and the second housing.

30. The base station antenna unit of claim 24, wherein the bottom end cap comprises a compartment, and wherein the plurality of retractable jumper cables are mounted in the compartment.

31. The base station antenna unit of claim 27, wherein the second connector port extends into the compartment when the second base station antenna is vertically stacked on the first base station antenna.

32. The base station antenna unit of claim 22, wherein the first base station antenna further comprises a first radio frequency (RF) port and a first array of radiating elements coupled to the first RF port and a second RF port and a first portion of a second array of radiating elements connected to the second RF port, and wherein the second base station antenna comprises a third RF port and a third array of radiating elements coupled to the first RF port and a second portion of the second array of radiating elements.

33. The base station antenna unit of claim 22, further comprising: a first array of first band radiating elements spanning the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna; a first phase shifter connected to each of the first band radiating elements in the first array; a second array of second band radiating elements spanning the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna; and a second phase shifter connected to each of the second band radiating elements in the second array.

34. The base station antenna unit of claim 33, further comprising a first duplexer in the first base station antenna and a second duplexer in the second base station antenna, wherein the first duplexer comprises a first port coupled to the first phase shifter, a second port coupled to the second phase shifter, and a common port, and the second duplexer comprises a first port coupled to at least one of the first band radiating elements in the second base station antenna, a second port coupled to at least one of the second band radiating elements in the second base station antenna, and a common port coupled to the common port of the first duplexer.

35. A base station antenna assembly comprising: a first base station antenna comprising a first housing, the first housing comprising a first radome and a top end cap; a second base station antenna comprising a second housing, the second housing comprising a second radome and a bottom end cap; a plurality of jumper cables, each jumper cable comprising a cable and a first connector port, each of the cables extending through one of the top end cap or the bottom end cap; a movable connector support, wherein at least two of the first connector ports are mounted on and movable with the movable connector support, and a plurality of second connector ports configured to mate with respective ones of the first connector ports, the second connector ports mounted in the other of the top end cap or the bottom end cap, wherein one of the top end cap or the bottom end cap comprises a compartment, and respective ones of the first connector ports and the second connector ports mate within the compartment.

36. The base station antenna assembly of claim 35, wherein the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna are mounted in a vertical stack arrangement, and wherein a longitudinal axis of each of the first connector ports extends in a vertical direction and a longitudinal axis of each of the second connector ports extends in the vertical direction. ​ 37. The base station antenna assembly of Claim 36, wherein the movable connector support is attached to one of the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna via at least two of the jumper cables.

38. The base station antenna assembly of Claim 36, wherein each of the jumper cables comprises a retractable jumper cable.

39. The base station antenna assembly of Claim 38, wherein the top end cap comprises a compartment, and wherein a plurality of retractable jumper cables are installed in the compartment.

40. The base station antenna assembly of Claim 39, wherein the cables of the retractable jumper cables are configured to retract within the first housing.

41. The base station antenna assembly of Claim 38, wherein the bottom end cap comprises a compartment, and wherein a plurality of retractable jumper cables are installed in the compartment.

42. The base station antenna assembly of Claim 39, wherein the second connector port extends into the compartment when the second base station antenna is vertically stacked on the first base station antenna.

43. The base station antenna assembly of any of Claims 35-42, wherein the first base station antenna further comprises a first radio frequency (RF) port and a first array of radiating elements coupled to the first RF port and a second RF port and a first portion of a second array of radiating elements connected to the second RF port, and wherein the second base station antenna comprises a third RF port and a third array of radiating elements coupled to the first RF port and a second portion of the second array of radiating elements.

44. The base station antenna assembly of Claim 35, further comprising: a first array of first band radiating elements spanning the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna; a first phase shifter connected to each of the first band radiating elements in the first array; a second array of second band radiating elements spanning the first base station antenna and the second base station antenna; and a second phase shifter connected to each of the second band radiating elements in the second array.

45. The base station antenna assembly of Claim 44, further comprising a first duplexer in the first base station antenna and a second duplexer in the second base station antenna, wherein the first duplexer comprises a first port coupled to the first phase shifter, a second port coupled to the second phase shifter, and a common port, and the second duplexer comprises a first port coupled to at least one of the first band radiating elements in the second base station antenna, a second port coupled to at least one of the second band radiating elements in the second base station antenna, and a common port coupled to the common port of the first duplexer. ​

Images