Antenna assembly including a feed line having an air strip structure and antenna device using the same

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an antenna assembly including a feed line having an air-strip structure and an antenna device using the same. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided an antenna assembly including a base, an antenna group including a plurality of radiating elements arranged along a first direction on the base, and a feed line provided to supply power to the plurality of radiating elements and having an air-strip structure, the feed line including a plurality of connection line regions provided to be connected to each of the plurality of radiating elements at one end, and a main line region bent at a predetermined angle at the other end of the connection line regions and formed along the first direction at a side of the antenna group.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an antenna assembly including a feed line with an air bar structure and an antenna device utilizing the same. Background Technology

[0002] The content described in this section is merely for providing background information for this invention and does not constitute prior art.

[0003] An array antenna generally consists of radiating elements and a feedline that powers the radiating elements. The radiating elements can have different sizes depending on the operating frequency. For example, the size of the radiating elements can decrease as the operating frequency increases.

[0004] Power supply lines can be broadly categorized into RF cables and PCBs. The dimensions of both RF cable and PCB transmission lines do not change with the operating frequency. That is, even if the operating frequency increases, the size of the power supply line remains the same.

[0005] Furthermore, losses in the feed line can be divided into conductor losses in the conductor through which the signal flows and dielectric losses caused by the dielectric material surrounding the conductor. These losses can directly reduce the antenna gain. To improve antenna gain, it is necessary to improve the loss component, and choosing to improve the loss component of a dielectric material that is easier to deform is more effective.

[0006] In PCB layouts used to improve dielectric loss in transmission lines, the air-strip structure is a typical example. An air-strip structure refers to a structure where the dielectric portion is composed of air, unlike a typical strip line structure.

[0007] For transmission lines with an air-strip structure, the dielectric loss is close to '0' because the conductor is surrounded by air. Therefore, when the transmission line is implemented with air strips, the dielectric loss can be reduced, and based on this, the antenna gain can be increased.

[0008] However, when the air bar structure is designed with the same impedance, the width of the transmission line will increase. Therefore, the transmission line of the air bar structure will have a relatively large area compared to the size of the radiating element. Moreover, the size of the radiating element should decrease as the operating frequency increases; however, since the size of the transmission line is the same, the area of ​​the transmission line will further increase as the operating frequency increases.

[0009] If the area of ​​the transmission line increases, the interference between the transmission line and the radiating element will also increase. In this case, the radiation characteristics of the antenna and the isolation in a dual-polarized antenna will deteriorate. Furthermore, when using horizontally arranged antennas, such as in a Massive MIMO antenna, the antennas in each column are typically spaced at 0.5 degrees in the horizontal direction. λ However, this arrangement becomes difficult to implement if the area of ​​the transmission line increases. Summary of the Invention

[0010] (a) Technical problems to be solved

[0011] Therefore, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide an antenna assembly that can reduce the amount of interference between the feed line with the air bar structure and the radiating element while achieving horizontal antenna arrangement.

[0012] (II) Technical Solution

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an antenna assembly is provided, including a base; an antenna group including a plurality of radiating elements arranged on the base along a first direction; and a feed line configured to supply power to the plurality of radiating elements and having an air-strip structure. The feed line includes: a plurality of connecting line regions configured to connect one end to each of the plurality of radiating elements; and a main line region bent at a predetermined angle at the other end of the connecting line regions and formed on the side of the antenna group along the first direction.

[0014] (III) Beneficial Effects

[0015] According to the embodiment described above, an antenna assembly is provided that can reduce the amount of interference between the feed line with the air bar structure and the radiating element, while also achieving the effect of horizontal antenna alignment. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an antenna device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of an antenna device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of an antenna assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of an antenna assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 5 yes Figure 2A cross-sectional view of an antenna device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, cut along the V-V' direction.

[0021] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of an antenna device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A magnified view of a portion of the area.

[0023] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of an antenna device according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 9 This is a top view of an antenna device according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of an antenna device according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 11 This is a top view of an antenna device according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A magnified view of a portion of the area. Detailed Implementation

[0028] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. When labeling the drawings, the same reference numerals are used as much as possible, even if the same technical features appear in different drawings. It should also be noted that throughout the specification, detailed descriptions of known technical features and functions are omitted if it is believed that such detailed descriptions would obscure the subject matter of the present invention.

[0029] Furthermore, in describing this invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used. These terms are merely for distinguishing the corresponding technical features from other technical features and do not limit their essence, order, or sequence. Throughout the specification, if a technical feature "comprises" or "possesses" another technical feature, unless otherwise stated, it can be understood that a technical feature also includes the other technical feature, rather than that a technical feature excludes the other technical feature. Moreover, terms such as "...part" and "module" in the specification refer to a unit capable of performing at least one function, which can be implemented through hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0030] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an antenna device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of an antenna device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The antenna device 1 may include an upper housing 11, a lower housing 12, an antenna assembly 13, a plate 14, and a barrier wall 15.

[0033] The upper housing 11 and the lower housing 12 can be combined to form the shape of the antenna device 1. The upper housing 11 and the lower housing 12 can define internal spaces that can accommodate components such as the antenna assembly 13.

[0034] The upper housing 11 can be arranged on the front of the antenna assembly 13. Based on this, the antenna assembly 13 can be protected from external impacts, and in addition, it can prevent external foreign matter from entering the antenna assembly 13. That is, the upper housing 11 can function as the radome of the antenna device 1.

[0035] At least one antenna assembly 13 is modularized and can be mounted on the plate 14. When the antenna assembly 13 is modularized, it is not only convenient to maintain each antenna assembly 13, but also convenient to change the design of the antenna device 1.

[0036] Multiple antenna assemblies 13 can be arranged in a row along a first direction. In this case, the multiple antenna assemblies 13 can form an antenna column. Here, the first direction refers to the longitudinal direction of the antenna device 1. For example, the first direction is along... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The reference direction is parallel to the X-axis.

[0037] Multiple antenna assemblies 13 include multiple radiating elements ( Figure 4 Therefore, an antenna array can also include multiple radiating elements 1321.

[0038] Furthermore, when the intermediate frequency of the operating frequency bandwidth is assumed to be λ, if the spacing between a radiating element 1321 and its adjacent radiating elements 1321 is greater than 1λ within an antenna array, an undesirable grating lobe will be generated in the radiation pattern.

[0039] Therefore, the first directional spacing between a radiating element 1321 and its adjacent radiating element 1321 is preferably 0.8λ to 0.9λ. However, this disclosure is not limited to this, and the first directional spacing between two radiating elements 1321 may also have values ​​outside the above range.

[0040] The antenna device 1 may include multiple antenna arrays. These multiple antenna arrays may be arranged on the plate 14 along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The second direction refers to the width direction of the antenna device 1. For example, the second direction is... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The reference direction is parallel to the Y-axis.

[0041] When the intermediate frequency of the operating frequency bandwidth is assumed to be λ, the second directional spacing between an antenna array and its adjacent antenna array can be 0.5λ, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0042] At least one antenna assembly 13 may be arranged on the plate portion 14. The plate portion 14 may be made of a metallic material, and the radiating element of the antenna assembly 13 ( Figure 4 1321) can provide a ground plane.

[0043] The barrier wall 15 can rise vertically from the plate portion 14 in a direction perpendicular to the plate portion 14. Specifically, the barrier wall 15 rises vertically from the plate portion 14, that is, in a direction perpendicular to the plate portion 14. Figure 1 and Figure 2 It is erected vertically in the direction parallel to the Z-axis.

[0044] The barrier wall 15 extends along a first direction between the two antenna arrays. The barrier wall 15 may be made of a metallic material and may extend to the two main line regions adjacent to the two sides of the barrier wall 15. Figure 3 1331) provides a ground plane. Detailed specifications related to it will be provided in [reference needed]. Figure 5 Please provide an explanation.

[0045] The plate portion 14 and the barrier wall 15 can be integrally formed. For example, the plate portion 14 and the barrier wall 15 can be integrally manufactured using the same mold. However, this disclosure is not limited to this, and the plate portion 14 and the barrier wall 15 can also be integrally formed by heat welding.

[0046] By integrally forming the plate portion 14 with the barrier wall 15, the PIMD (passive intermodulation distortion) component caused by the bonding between dissimilar metals can be minimized.

[0047] in addition, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The lower housing 12 and plate 14 are shown as different components, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0048] For example, the antenna device 1 can also be configured so that no other components corresponding to the lower housing 12 are required, and the plate portion 14 can function as the lower housing 12. In this case, the upper housing 11 can define an internal accommodating space by engaging with the plate portion 14.

[0049] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of an antenna assembly 13 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of an antenna assembly 13 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The antenna assembly 13 may include a base 131, an antenna array 132, a feed line 133, and a guide 136.

[0052] The base 131 can be mounted on the plate 14, and the base 131 can be connected to the antenna group 132, the feed line 133, etc.

[0053] The base 131 may be made of a dielectric material, such as plastic. The radiating element 1321 needs to be spaced apart from the plate 14 to ensure radiation characteristics. The base 131 is arranged between the radiating element 1321 and the plate 14, thereby separating the radiating element 1321 from the plate 14.

[0054] Antenna group 132 may include a plurality of radiating elements 1321 arranged on base 131 along a first direction. For example, antenna group 132 may include three radiating elements 1321A, 1321B and 1321C. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and antenna group 132 may also include two or more radiating elements 1321.

[0055] Each of the plurality of radiating elements 1321 can be configured to achieve dual polarization. For example, a single radiating element 1321 can radiate two polarized signals, one at +45 degrees and the other at -45 degrees. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto; the radiating element 1321 can also be configured to achieve single polarization or quadruple polarization.

[0056] The feed line 133 is configured to supply power to the multiple radiating elements 1321 included in the antenna group 132. That is, the multiple radiating elements 1321 can transmit and receive signals or receive power through the feed line 133.

[0057] The feeder line 133 may have an air-strip structure. An air-strip structure refers to a structure in which the dielectric portion of a typical dielectric strip line is composed of air.

[0058] For transmission lines with air strip structures, the dielectric loss is close to '0' because the conductors are surrounded by air. Therefore, when using air strips to implement transmission lines, dielectric loss can be reduced, and based on this, the antenna gain can be increased.

[0059] The power supply line 133 may include a main line area 1331, multiple connecting line areas 1332, and an input / output area 1334.

[0060] The main line area 1331 can be arranged on the side of the antenna group 132, for example, on both sides of the antenna group 132, and can extend along the first direction.

[0061] One end of each of the multiple connecting line regions 1332 can be connected to a multiple radiating element 1321, and the other end can be connected to the main line region 1331. The main line region 1331 can be bent at a preset angle at the other end of the connecting line region 1332. For example, the main line region 1331 can be bent along a direction perpendicular to the base 131, that is, at... Figure 3 and Figure 4 It is formed in a direction parallel to the Z-axis with reference to the base. However, this disclosure is not limited to this, and the main line area 1331 may also be formed at an angle relative to the base 131.

[0062] The main line area 1331 may be separated from the barrier wall 15. The main line area 1331 may have an air strip structure, thereby creating a free space between the main line area 1331 and the barrier wall 15.

[0063] Furthermore, when the air bar structure is designed with the same impedance, the width of the transmission line will increase. Therefore, the transmission line of the air bar structure can have a relatively large area compared to the size of the radiating element, which makes it difficult to reduce the horizontal spacing between the radiating elements.

[0064] The power supply line 133 provided in this disclosure is characterized in that, in order to overcome the defects of such an air strip structure, it is configured to include a region formed perpendicularly to the base 131 or at a predetermined angle, namely, the main line region 1331.

[0065] Specifically, a technical feature of the feed line 133 according to an embodiment of this disclosure is that a portion of the air strip structure feed line 1331 is bent to form the main line region 1331, thereby minimizing the area occupied by the feed line 133 on the base 131. Based on this, even if the area of ​​the feed line 133 is larger than that of the radiating element 1321, the second-direction spacing between the radiating elements 1321 can still be sufficiently narrowed.

[0066] Multiple connection line areas 1332 can connect the main line area 1331 to each of the multiple radiating elements 1321.

[0067] Multiple connection line areas 1332 can branch from the main line area 1331, and each connection line area 1332 can be connected to its corresponding radiating element 1321. For example, the first connection line area 1332A, the second connection line area 1332B, and the third connection line area 1332C can be connected to the first radiating element 1321A, the second radiating element 1321B, and the third radiating element 1321C, respectively.

[0068] Multiple connecting line areas 1332 can extend while the main line area 1331 is bent. In this case, the multiple connecting line areas 1332 can be parallel to the base 131.

[0069] The input / output area 1334 can be connected to the RF circuit and the main line area 1331.

[0070] Specifically, one end of the input / output region 1334 can be connected to the main line region 1331, and the other end of the input / output region 1334 can be connected to an RF circuit that includes a filter, a power amplifier, a power supply unit, etc.

[0071] The RF circuit can be located inside the antenna device 1, or it can be located on an external device such as an RRH (remote radio head). When the RF circuit is located on an external device such as an RRH, the external device having the antenna device 1 and the RF circuit can be connected via an RF cable or connector.

[0072] The input / output region 1334 transmits signals from the RF circuit to multiple radiating elements 1321, or transmits signals from multiple radiating elements 1321 to the RF circuit, through the main line region 1331 and the connecting line region 1332. Furthermore, the input / output region 1334 supplies power to the multiple radiating elements 1321 through the main line region 1331 and the connecting line region 1332.

[0073] To minimize phase difference and even power loss caused by the increased length of the transmission line, the input / output area 1334 can be arranged near the middle area of ​​the main line area 1331.

[0074] In addition, since the dielectric portion of the air strip structure is made of air, the length of the feed line 133 can be relatively longer in order to input the same phase to multiple radiating elements 1321.

[0075] For example, when the intermediate frequency of the operating frequency bandwidth is assumed to be λ, in order to input signals with the same phase into the first radiation element 1332A and the second radiation element 1332B, the length of the feeding line 133 can be 1λ. That is, the length of the feeding line 133 from the first connection line area 1332A to the second connection line area 1332B can be 1λ.

[0076] However, as Figure 1 and Figure 2 described, in order to minimize the grating lobe, the first-direction interval between the two radiation elements 1321 can have a value of 0.8λλ to 0.9λλ. At this time, the problem is that the length of the feeding line connecting the two radiation elements 1321 is greater than the interval between the two radiation elements 1321.

[0077] To solve this problem, the main line area 1331 can include a delay line 1333. The delay line 1333 is an area formed by bending a part of the main line area 1331, and can partially compensate for the length of the lengthened feeding line 133.

[0078] The delay line 1333 can be formed on at least a part of the main line area 1331, and the main line area 1331 is used to connect the first connection line area 1332A and the second connection line area 1332B.

[0079] The delay line 1333 can have a shape that is recessed toward the base 131 or can have a convex shape away from the base 131. For example, the delay line 1333 can have a 'C' shape, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0080] The main line area 1331 includes the delay line 1333, thereby preventing the first-direction interval between the two radiation elements 1321 from being forced to become farther. Based on this, the antenna device 1 can be more compact, thereby minimizing the generation of grating lobes.

[0081] In addition, the multiple radiation elements 1321 can have a patch antenna structure. The patch antenna can have a relatively thin thickness, which is beneficial to reducing the overall thickness of the antenna device 1.

[0082] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the multiple radiation elements 1321 can also have a structure other than the patch antenna, for example, a dipole antenna structure.

[0083] When the multiple radiation elements 1321 have a patch antenna structure, the multiple connection line areas 1332 can be integrally formed with the multiple radiation elements 1321 having the patch antenna structure.

[0084] However, this disclosure is not limited thereto; the connecting line area 1332 and the radiating element 1321 may also be separate components. In this case, the connecting line area 1332 and the radiating element 1321 may be connected by a separate connecting line (not shown).

[0085] Each of the plurality of guides 136 may be arranged on the upper part of each of the plurality of radiating elements 1321. The guides 136 are arranged in front of the radiating elements 1321 in the radiating direction, thereby increasing the operating frequency bandwidth and improving the antenna gain.

[0086] The antenna assembly 13 may further include a first support structure 134 and a second support structure 135.

[0087] The main line area 1331 can be supported by at least one first support structure 134.

[0088] At least one first support structure 134 may be integrally formed with the base 131 and protrude from the base 131. Specifically, a plurality of first support structures 134 may be arranged along a first direction in the two side regions of the base 131. That is, the plurality of first support structures 134 may form two columns in the two side regions of the base 131.

[0089] The main line region 1331 may have a shape extending along a first direction. Therefore, the main line region 1331 may be combined with a plurality of first support structures 134 arranged in a row along the first direction.

[0090] One end of the first support structure 134 may be formed with a groove for the main line region 1331 to be coupled. The main line region 1331 is inserted into the groove of the first support structure 134, thereby being coupled with the first support structure 134.

[0091] The main line area 1331 has an air strip structure, making it difficult to fix. In this respect, the first support structure 134 can serve to firmly fix the main line area 1331 to the base 131.

[0092] Multiple guides 136 can be supported by a second support structure 135.

[0093] Multiple second support structures 135 can be integrally formed with the base 131 and protrude from the base 131.

[0094] Multiple second support structures 135 may be arranged to be adjacent to or overlap with the radiating element 1321. When the second support structure 135 overlaps with the radiating element 1321, the second support structure 135 may penetrate the radiating element 1321.

[0095] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of an antenna device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, cut along the V-V' direction.

[0096] Reference Figure 5 The antenna device 1 may include a first antenna assembly 13A and a second antenna assembly 13B. For ease of explanation, the first antenna assembly 13A and the second antenna assembly 13B may refer to any two adjacent antenna assemblies 13. Therefore, the following description is not limited to antenna assemblies 13 used in a specific location.

[0097] The first antenna assembly 13A and the second antenna assembly 13B can be arranged side by side on the plate 14 in a second direction.

[0098] The feed line 133 of the first antenna assembly 13A may include a first main line region 1331A near the second antenna assembly 13B, and the feed line 133 of the second antenna assembly 13B may include a second main line region 1331B near the first antenna assembly 13A.

[0099] The barrier wall 15 can be located between the first antenna assembly 13A and the second antenna assembly 13B and rises from the plate portion 14. In addition, the barrier wall 15A can be arranged between the first main line area 1331A and the second main line area 1331B.

[0100] The first main line area 1331A and the second main line area 1331B have air strip structures, so that the barrier wall 15A can form a free space between the first main line area 1331A and the second main line area 1331B.

[0101] The barrier wall 15A is arranged between the first main line area 1331A and the second main line area 1331B, so that it can simultaneously provide grounding surfaces to the first main line area 1331A and the second main line area 1331B.

[0102] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the antenna device 1 has the effect of providing a ground plane to two main line regions 1331A and 1331B near the two sides of the barrier wall 15A through a barrier wall 15A.

[0103] Therefore, compared to the case where two barrier walls 15 are used to provide grounding surfaces to the two main line areas 1331 respectively, this method can provide a higher degree of isolation.

[0104] The following Figures 6 to 7 Another embodiment of this disclosure, illustrated herein, is, from the viewpoint that the antenna assembly is not modular, similar to... Figures 1 to 5The embodiments of this disclosure illustrated herein differ from those shown. The following description will focus on the distinguishing features from another embodiment of this disclosure, while structures substantially identical to those in one embodiment will be omitted from repeated description.

[0105] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of an antenna device 2 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0106] Reference Figure 6 The antenna device 2 may include an antenna assembly 23, a plate 24, and a barrier wall 25.

[0107] At least one antenna assembly 23 may include multiple radiating elements ( Figure 7 (2321). For example, at least one antenna assembly 23 may include 10 radiating elements 2321, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0108] Antenna device 2 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure differs from antenna device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in that an antenna assembly 23 can form an antenna column.

[0109] When the intermediate frequency of the operating frequency bandwidth is assumed to be λ, the first directional spacing between a radiating element 2321 and its adjacent radiating element 2321 within an antenna array can be 0.8λ to 0.9λ. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0110] The antenna device 2 may include multiple antenna arrays. The multiple antenna arrays may be arranged on the plate 24 along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0111] When the intermediate frequency of the operating frequency bandwidth is assumed to be λ, the second directional spacing between an antenna array and its adjacent antenna array can be 0.5λ, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0112] At least one antenna assembly 23 may be arranged on the plate portion 24. The plate portion 24 may be made of a metallic material and may radiate to the radiating element of the antenna assembly 23. Figure 7 2321) provides the ground plane.

[0113] The barrier wall 25 can rise vertically from the plate portion 24 in a direction perpendicular to the plate portion 24. Specifically, the barrier wall 25 can rise vertically from the plate portion 24 in a direction perpendicular to the plate portion 24. Figure 6 It is erected vertically in the direction parallel to the Z-axis.

[0114] The barrier wall 25 may extend along a first direction between the antenna arrays. The barrier wall 25 may be made of a metallic material and may extend towards two main line regions adjacent to both sides of the barrier wall 25. Figure 7 2331) provides a ground plane.

[0115] The plate portion 24 and the barrier wall 25 can be integrally formed. For example, the plate portion 24 and the barrier wall 25 can be integrally manufactured using a single mold. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0116] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A magnified view of a portion of the area.

[0117] Reference Figure 7 The antenna assembly 23 may include a base 231, an antenna array 232, a feed line 233, and a guide 236.

[0118] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the base 231 can be injection molded onto the plate portion 24. In this case, the base 231 can be made of a dielectric material such as plastic.

[0119] Multiple bases 231 can be arranged in a row along a first direction. In this case, the multiple bases 231 can form a base column. The multiple bases 231 can also form multiple base columns arranged side by side in a second direction.

[0120] The base 231 may be equipped with an antenna array 232, a feed line 233, etc. Each of the multiple bases 231 may be equipped with a radiating element 2321. However, this disclosure is not limited to this, and a base 231 may be equipped with two or more radiating elements 2321.

[0121] The base 231 is arranged between the radiating element 2321 and the plate portion 24, thereby separating the radiating element 2321 from the plate portion 24.

[0122] The antenna group 232 may include a plurality of radiating elements 2321 arranged along a first direction on the base 231. For example, the antenna group 232 may include 10 radiating elements 2321, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0123] Each of the multiple radiating elements 2321 can be configured to achieve dual polarization. For example, a single radiating element 2321 can radiate two polarized signals, one at +45 degrees and the other at -45 degrees.

[0124] The feed line 233 can be configured to supply power to the multiple radiating elements 2321 included in the antenna group 232. That is, the multiple radiating elements 2321 can transmit and receive signals or receive power through the feed line 233.

[0125] The power supply line 233 may have an air-strip structure.

[0126] The feeder line 233 may include a main line area 2331, multiple connecting line areas 2332, and input / output areas. Figure 6 (of 2334).

[0127] The main line area 2331 can be arranged on the side of the antenna group 232, for example, on both sides of the antenna group 232, and extends along the first direction.

[0128] One end of each of the multiple connecting line areas 2332 can be connected to a multiple radiating element 2321, and the other end can be connected to the main line area 2331. The main line area 2331 can be bent at a preset angle at the other end of the connecting line area 2332. For example, the main line area 2331 can be bent along a direction perpendicular to the base 231, that is, at... Figure 7 It is formed in a direction parallel to the Z-axis. However, this disclosure is not limited to this, and the main line area 2331 may also be formed at an angle relative to the base 231.

[0129] The main line area 2331 can be separated from the barrier wall 25. The main line area 2331 has an air strip structure, thereby creating a free space between the main line area 2331 and the barrier wall 25.

[0130] However, in order to fix the main line area 2331, a partial insulating support (not shown) can also be formed between the barrier wall 25 and the main line area 2331.

[0131] Multiple connecting line areas 2332 can branch from the main line area 2331, and each connecting line area 2332 can be connected to its corresponding radiating element 2321.

[0132] Based on this, multiple connection line areas 2332 can connect the main line area 2331 to each of the multiple radiation elements 2321.

[0133] Multiple connecting line areas 2332 can extend while the main line area 2331 is bent. In this case, the multiple connecting line areas 2332 can be parallel to the base 231.

[0134] The input / output area 2334 can be connected to the RF circuit and the main line area 2331.

[0135] Specifically, one end of the input / output region 2334 can be connected to the main line region 2331, and the other end of the input / output region 2334 can be connected to an RF circuit with filters, power amplifiers, power supply units, etc.

[0136] The RF circuit can be located inside the antenna device 2 or it can also be located on an external device such as an RRH (remote radio head). When the RF circuit is located on an external device such as an RRH, the external device having the antenna device 2 and the RF circuit can be connected via an RF cable or connector.

[0137] The input / output region 2334 transfers the signals from the RF circuit to the plurality of radiating elements 2321 or transfers the signals from the plurality of radiating elements 2321 to the RF circuit through the main line region 2331 and the connection line region 2332. In addition, the input / output region 2334 supplies power to the plurality of radiating elements 2321 through the main line region 2331 and the connection line region 2332.

[0138] In order to minimize the phase difference and power loss caused by the increase in the length of the transmission line, the input / output region 2334 may be arranged near the middle region of the main line region 2331.

[0139] The main line region 2331 may include a delay line 2333. The delay line 2333 is a region formed by bending a part of the main line region 2331, and can partially compensate for the increased length of the feed line 233.

[0140] The delay line 2333 may be formed on at least a part of the main line region 2331, and the main line region 2331 is used to connect two adjacent connection line regions 2332.

[0141] The delay line 2333 may have a shape recessed toward the base 231 or may have a convex shape away from the base 231. For example, the delay line 2333 may have a 'C' shape, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0142] The plurality of radiating elements 2321 may have a patch antenna structure. The plurality of connection line regions 2332 may be integrally formed with the plurality of radiating elements 2321 having a patch antenna structure.

[0143] Each of the plurality of directors 236 of the plurality of directors 236 may be arranged above each of the radiating elements 2321 of the plurality of radiating elements 2321.

[0144] The antenna assembly 23 may further include a second support structure 235.

[0145] The plurality of directors 236 may be supported by the second support structure 235.

[0146] The plurality of second support structures 235 may be integrally formed with the base 231 and protrude from the base 231.

[0147] The plurality of second support structures 235 may be arranged overlapping the radiating elements 2321. In this case, the second support structure 235 may penetrate the radiating element 2321.

[0148] Multiple guides 236 may be welded in a state of being placed in the second support structure 235, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0149] The antenna device 2 may further include an upper housing (not shown) that can serve as an antenna radome and a lower housing (housing) for joining with the upper housing.

[0150] The upper and lower housings can form the shape of the antenna device 2. The upper and lower housings can define internal receiving spaces that can accommodate components such as the antenna assembly 23.

[0151] Furthermore, the antenna device 2 does not require an additional lower housing; the plate 24 can also function as the lower housing. In this case, the upper housing is combined with the plate 24, thereby forming an internal accommodating space.

[0152] The following Figures 8 to 9 In another embodiment of this disclosure, illustrated in the figure, a feeder line with an air strip structure is arranged between the base plate and the cover plate. From this perspective, it is similar to... Figures 1 to 5 The embodiments illustrated in the figures differ from one embodiment of this disclosure. The following description will focus on the distinguishing features from yet another embodiment of this disclosure, while structures substantially identical to those in one embodiment will be omitted from repeated description.

[0153] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of antenna device 3 according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0154] Figure 9 This is a top view of antenna device 3 according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. For ease of explanation, Figure 9 Cover plate 337 is omitted in the illustration.

[0155] Reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 The antenna device 3 includes a base plate 331, a cover plate 337, an antenna array 332, a feed line 333, and a guide 336.

[0156] An antenna array 332 may be arranged on the base plate 331. The base plate 331 may be made of metal and may provide a ground plane to the first line region 3331 of the radiating element 3321 and the feed line 333.

[0157] The cover plate 337 is positioned opposite the base plate 331 and is arranged at a distance from the base plate 331.

[0158] The cover plate 337 may be made of a metallic material and, together with the base plate 331, may provide a ground plane to the first line area 3331 of the radiating element 3321 and the feed line 333.

[0159] The antenna group 332 includes a plurality of radiating elements 3321 arranged along a first direction on the cover plate 337. For example, the antenna group 332 may include 10 radiating elements 3321, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0160] When the intermediate frequency of the operating frequency bandwidth is assumed to be λ, the first directional spacing between a radiating element 3321 and its adjacent radiating element 3321 within an antenna array can be 0.8λ to 0.9λ. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0161] The antenna device 3 may include multiple antenna arrays. These multiple antenna arrays may be arranged on the cover plate 337 along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0162] When the intermediate frequency of the operating frequency bandwidth is assumed to be λ, the second directional spacing between an antenna array and its adjacent antenna array can be 0.5λ, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0163] Each of the multiple radiating elements 3321 can be configured to achieve dual polarization. For example, a single radiating element 3321 can radiate two polarized signals, one at +45 degrees and the other at -45 degrees.

[0164] The power supply line 333 can be configured to supply power to multiple radiating elements 3321. That is, multiple radiating elements 3321 can transmit and receive signals or receive power through the power supply line 333.

[0165] The power supply line 333 may include a first line area 3331, a second line area 3332, and an input / output area 3334.

[0166] The first line area 3331 can be arranged between the base plate 331 and the cover plate 337. Specifically, two first line areas 3331 can be arranged side by side between the base plate 331 and the cover plate 337, and the two first line areas 3331 can extend along the first direction.

[0167] The first line area 3331 may have an airstrip structure that is separated from the base plate 331 and the cover plate 337 respectively.

[0168] Therefore, the first line area 3331 can be separated from the base plate 331 and the cover plate 337 respectively, and a free space can be formed between the first line area 3331 and each plate 331, 337.

[0169] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the antenna device 3 may arrange a first line region 3331 between the base plate 331 and the cover plate 337, so that at least a portion of the first line region 3331 may overlap with the radiating element 3321.

[0170] Based on this, even if the area of ​​the feed line 333 is larger than that of the radiating element 3321, the second-direction spacing between the radiating elements 3321 can still be sufficiently narrowed.

[0171] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the antenna device 3 has a cover plate 337 arranged between the radiating element 3321 and the first line region 3331, thereby spatially separating the radiating element 3321 from the first line region 3331. Based on this, the amount of interference between the radiating element 3321 and the first line region 3331 can be reduced.

[0172] The second line area 3332 can penetrate the cover plate 337 and can connect the first line area 3331 with each of the multiple radiating elements 3321.

[0173] The input / output area 3334 can be connected to the RF circuit and the first line area 3331.

[0174] One end of the input / output region 3334 can be connected to the first line region 3331, and the other end of the input / output region 3334 can be connected to an RF circuit with filters, power amplifiers, power supply units, etc.

[0175] The RF circuit can be located inside the antenna device 3 or on an external device such as an RRH (remote radio head). When the RF circuit is located on an external device such as an RRH, the external device having the antenna device 3 and the RF circuit can be connected via an RF cable or connector.

[0176] The input / output region 3334 transmits signals from the RF circuit to multiple radiating elements 3321 via the first line region 3331 and the second line region 3332, or transmits signals from multiple radiating elements 3321 to the RF circuit. In addition, the input / output region 3334 supplies power to the multiple radiating elements 3321 via the main line region 3331 and the connecting line region 3332.

[0177] To minimize phase difference and even power loss caused by the increased length of the transmission line, the input / output region 3334 can be arranged near the middle region of the first line region 3331.

[0178] When the mid-frequency of the operating frequency bandwidth is assumed to be λ, the required length of the feed line 333 in order to input signals with the same phase to two adjacent radiating elements 3321 along the first direction can be 1λ. That is, the length of the feed line 333 extending to the two adjacent second line regions 3332 can be 1λ.

[0179] However, as described above, the first-direction interval between the two radiation elements 3321 may have a value of 0.8λ to 0.9λ. At this time, there is a problem that the length of the feeding line for connecting between the two radiation elements 3321 is greater than the interval between the two radiation elements 3321.

[0180] To solve this problem, the first line area 3331 may include a delay line 3333. The delay line 3333 is an area formed by bending a part of the first line area 3331, and can partially compensate for the length of the lengthened feeding line 333.

[0181] The delay line 3333 may be formed on at least a part of the first line area 3331, and the first line area 3331 is used to connect two adjacent connection line areas 3332.

[0182] The delay line 3333 may have a shape that is recessed inward or may have a shape that protrudes outward. For example, the delay line 3333 may have an 'L'-shaped, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0183] The plurality of radiation elements 3321 may have a patch antenna structure, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the plurality of radiation elements 3321 may also have a structure other than a patch antenna, for example, a dipole antenna structure.

[0184] Each of the plurality of directors 336 may be arranged above each of the plurality of radiation elements 3321 of the plurality of radiation elements 3321. The director 336 is arranged in front of the radiation direction of the radiation element 3321, so that the operating frequency bandwidth can be increased, and the antenna gain can be improved.

[0185] The antenna device 3 may further include an upper housing (not shown) that can serve as a radome and a lower housing (housing) for combining with the upper housing.

[0186] The upper housing and the lower housing may form the outer shape of the antenna device 2. The upper housing and the lower housing may define an accommodation space inside, and components such as the base plate 331, the cover plate 337, the antenna group 332, the feeding line 333, the director 336, etc. may be accommodated in this accommodation space.

[0187] In addition, the antenna device 3 does not require an additional lower housing, and the base plate 331 may also function as a lower housing. At this time, the upper housing (not shown) is combined with the base plate 331, so that an accommodation space can be defined inside.

[0188] As described later Figures 10 to 12 In another embodiment of the present disclosure illustrated in, the feeding line having an air strip structure is not physically connected to the radiation element but uses a coupling method. From this point of view, compared with Figures 1 to 5 The embodiments illustrated in the figures differ from one embodiment of this disclosure. The following description will focus on the distinguishing features from yet another embodiment of this disclosure, while structures substantially identical to those in one embodiment will be omitted from repeated description.

[0189] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of an antenna device 4 according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0190] Figure 11 This is a top view of an antenna device 4 according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0191] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A magnified view of a portion of the area.

[0192] Reference Figures 10 to 12 The antenna device 4 includes a base plate 431, an antenna array 432, a feed line 433, and a second support structure 435.

[0193] Antenna array 432 may be arranged on base plate 431. Base plate 331 may be made of metal material and may provide ground plane to radiating element 4321 and feed line 433.

[0194] Antenna group 432 may include a plurality of radiating elements 4321 arranged along a first direction on base plate 431. For example, antenna group 432 may include 10 radiating elements 4321, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0195] When the intermediate frequency of the operating frequency bandwidth is assumed to be λ, the first directional spacing between a radiating element 4321 and its adjacent radiating element 4321 within an antenna array can be 0.8λ to 0.9λ. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0196] The antenna device 4 may include multiple antenna arrays. The multiple antenna arrays may be arranged on the base plate 431 along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0197] When the intermediate frequency of the operating frequency bandwidth is assumed to be λ, the second directional spacing between an antenna array and its adjacent antenna array can be 0.5λ, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0198] Each of the multiple radiating elements 4321 can be configured to achieve dual polarization. For example, a single radiating element 4321 can radiate two polarized signals, one at +45 degrees and the other at -45 degrees.

[0199] The feeder line 433 can be configured to supply power to multiple radiating elements 4321. That is, multiple radiating elements 4321 can transmit and receive signals or receive power through the feeder line 433. (Refer to...) Figure 12Multiple radiating elements 4321 can be arranged on the supporting structure 435 or powered by coupling rather than physically connected to the feed line 433.

[0200] The feed line 433 can be arranged between the base plate 431 and the antenna group 432. Specifically, two feed lines 433 can be arranged side by side between the base plate 431 and the antenna group 432, and the two feed lines 433 can extend along a first direction.

[0201] The support structure 435 supports the feed line 433 and the antenna group 432. The support structure 435 can be attached to the base plate 431 or formed integrally with the base plate 431. The support structure 435 may include multiple protrusions that can be connected to the antenna group 432 and the feed line 433. The support structure 435 may include a first support portion with a stepped shape for supporting the feed line 433 and a second support portion with a cylindrical shape for supporting the antenna group 432.

[0202] The feed line 433 is supported by the support structure 435 and may have airstrip structures that are separated from the base plate 431 and the antenna group 432, respectively. The feed line 433 may include a bending portion that corresponds to the shape of the support structure 435 to obtain support from the support structure 435.

[0203] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the antenna device 4 arranges a feed line 433 between the base plate 431 and the antenna group 432, so that at least a portion of the feed line 433 can overlap with the radiating element 4321.

[0204] Based on this, even if the area of ​​the feed line 433 is larger than that of the radiating element 4321, the second-direction spacing between the radiating elements 4321 can still be sufficiently narrowed.

[0205] According to another embodiment of the antenna device 4 of this disclosure, the radiating element 4321 is configured to be powered by coupling rather than physically connected to the feed line 433, thereby spatially separating the radiating element 4321 from the feed line 433. Based on this, the amount of interference between the radiating element 4321 and the feed line 433 can be reduced.

[0206] The input / output area 4334 can be connected to the RF circuit and the power supply line 433.

[0207] One end of the input / output region 4334 can be connected to the feed line 433, and the other end of the input / output region 4334 can be connected to an RF circuit with filters, power amplifiers, power supply units, etc.

[0208] The RF circuit can be located inside the antenna device 4 or it can also be located on an external device such as an RRH (remote radio head). When the RF circuit is located on an external device such as an RRH, the external device having the antenna device 4 and the RF circuit can be connected via an RF cable or connector.

[0209] The input / output region 4334 can transmit signals from the RF circuit to multiple radiating elements 4321 via the feed line 433, or transmit signals from multiple radiating elements 4321 to the RF circuit. Furthermore, the input / output region 4334 can supply power to the multiple radiating elements 4321 via the feed line 433.

[0210] To minimize phase difference and even power loss caused by the increased length of the transmission line, the input / output region 4334 can be arranged near the middle region of the feeder line 433.

[0211] When the mid-frequency of the operating frequency bandwidth is assumed to be λ, the required length of the feed line 333 can be 1λ in order to input signals with the same phase to two adjacent radiating elements 3321 along the first direction.

[0212] The plurality of radiating elements 4321 may have a patch antenna structure, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the plurality of radiating elements 4321 may also have a structure other than a patch antenna, such as a dipole antenna structure.

[0213] The antenna device 4 may further include an upper housing (not shown) that can serve as an antenna radome and a lower housing (housing) for joining with the upper housing.

[0214] The upper and lower housings can form the shape of the antenna device 2. The upper and lower housings can define an internal receiving space, which can accommodate components such as the base plate 431, antenna array 432, and feed line 433.

[0215] Furthermore, the antenna device 4 does not require an additional lower housing; the base plate 431 can also function as the lower housing. In this case, the upper housing (not shown) is combined with the base plate 431, thereby defining an internal accommodating space. The above description is merely illustrative of the technical concept of this embodiment. For those skilled in the art to which this embodiment pertains, various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the essential characteristics of this embodiment. Therefore, this embodiment is not intended to limit the technical concept of this embodiment but is for illustrative purposes, and the scope of the technical concept of this embodiment is not limited by the described embodiment. The scope of protection of this embodiment should be interpreted based on the appended claims, and all technical concepts within the equivalent scope should be interpreted as falling within the scope of the rights of this embodiment.

[0216] [Figure Reference Numerals] 1: Antenna assembly, 13: Antenna assembly, 14: Plate, 15: Barrier wall, 131: Base, 132: Antenna array, 133: Feed line, 134: First support structure, 135: Second support structure, 136: Guide, 1321: Radiating element, 1331: Main line area, 1332: Connecting line area, 1333: Delay line

[0217] [Cross-references to related applications]

[0218] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0160429 filed on November 25, 2020 and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0164484 filed on November 25, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. An antenna assembly, characterized in that, include: Base; Antenna array, comprising a plurality of radiating elements arranged along a first direction on the base; The power supply line is configured to supply power to the plurality of radiating elements and has an air bar structure; Multiple guides are arranged on the upper part of each of the multiple radiating elements; as well as Multiple second support structures are integrally formed with the base and protrude from the base. The feeder line includes: Multiple connection line areas, each configured to connect at one end to each of the multiple radiating elements; and The main line area bends at a predetermined angle at the other end of the connecting line area and is formed along the first direction on the side of the antenna group. The plurality of radiating elements includes a first radiating element and a second radiating element located near the first radiating element. The plurality of connection line regions include a first connection line region connected to the first radiating element and a second connection line region connected to the second radiating element. The main line area includes: A delay line formed on at least a portion of the main line region, the main line region being used to connect the first connecting line region and the second connecting line region. The delay line has a shape that is concave towards the base or a convex shape that is convex away from the base. The plurality of guides are supported by the plurality of second support structures.

2. The antenna assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The connection line area is formed parallel to the base.

3. The antenna assembly as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The main line area bends in a direction perpendicular to the connecting line area.

4. The antenna assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The plurality of connection line areas are integrally formed with the plurality of radiating elements.

5. The antenna assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that: It further includes at least one first support structure integrally formed with the base and protruding from the base. The main line area is supported by at least one first support structure.

6. An antenna device, characterized in that, include: The antenna assembly as described in any one of claims 1 to 5; The plate portion has a first antenna assembly and a second antenna assembly arranged side by side in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; as well as A barrier wall is located between the first antenna assembly and the second antenna assembly and rises from the plate portion.

7. The antenna device as described in claim 6, characterized in that: The feed line of the first antenna assembly includes a first main line region near the second antenna assembly. The feed line of the second antenna assembly includes a second main line region close to the first antenna assembly. The barrier wall is arranged between the first main line area and the second main line area.

8. The antenna device as described in claim 6, characterized in that: The barrier wall is integrally formed with the plate portion.

9. The antenna device as claimed in claim 7, characterized in that: The barrier wall is arranged separately from the first main line area and the second main line area.

10. An antenna device, comprising: At least one antenna assembly as described in any one of claims 1 to 5; as well as A plate portion for mounting the at least one antenna assembly. The at least one antenna assembly is modularized and mounted on the plate.

11. An antenna device, characterized in that, include: Base plate; A cover plate, which faces the base plate and is arranged at a distance from the base plate; Antenna array, comprising a plurality of radiating elements arranged along a first direction on the cover plate; The feeder line is configured to supply power to the plurality of radiating elements. Multiple guides are arranged on the upper part of each of the multiple radiating elements. The feeder line includes: A first line area, arranged between the base plate and the cover plate, and having air strip structures separated from both the base plate and the cover plate; and The second line region penetrates the cover plate and serves to connect the first line region to each of the plurality of radiating elements. The first line area includes: A delay line formed on at least a portion of the first line region, the first line region being used to connect two adjacent second line regions. The delay line has a shape that is recessed toward the base plate or a convex shape that is directed away from the base plate.

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