Balanced line-unbalanced line converter and antenna device

Abstract

A balanced line-unbalanced line converter is provided with: a balanced-side line having a first transmission line (2), one end (21) of which is a first signal end and the other end (22) of which is short-circuited, and a second transmission line (3), one end (31) of which is a second signal end and the other end (32) of which is short-circuited; an unbalanced-side line (4), one end (41) of which is a third signal end and the other end (42) of which is an open end, the unbalanced-side line (4) having a first transmission line section (43) that constitutes a first coupling line (C1) with the first transmission line (2) and a second transmission line section (44) that constitutes a second coupling line (C2) with the second transmission line (3); a first open stub (5) connected to one end (31) of the second transmission line (3); and a second open stub (6) connected to the unbalanced side line (4) and constituting a third coupling line (C3) with the first open stub (5).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a balanced line-unbalanced line converter that converts a balanced signal, so-called differential signal, into an unbalanced signal, so-called single-phase signal, or converts an unbalanced signal into a balanced signal. Background Art

[0002] Non-Patent Document 1 discloses a commercially available balun as one type of balanced-unbalanced line converter.

[0003] The commercial balun shown in non-patent document 1 consists of one set of coupled transmission-line sections (hereinafter referred to as two coupled transmission lines) and two identical uncoupled transmission-line sections (hereinafter referred to as two uncoupled transmission lines).

[0004] In a commercial balun configured in this manner, a connecting segment exists between two uncoupled transmission lines due to a manufacturing gap between the two coupled transmission lines.

[0005] As a result, parasitic inductance is generated by the connection section, and the electrical characteristics of the commercial balun are degraded.

[0006] In Non-Patent Document 1, in order to compensate for parasitic inductance caused by a connection section, a VIP (vertically installed planar structure) of height wv is formed at the terminals of two coupled transmission lines.

[0007] Prior art literature

[0008] Non-patent literature

[0009] Non-patent document 1: Hee-Ran Ahn, "Novel Generic Asymmetric and SymmetricEquivalent Circuits of 90℃coupled Transmission-Line Sections Applicable to Marchand Baluns," IEEE TRANSACTIONs ON MICROWAVE THEORY AND TECHNIQUES,VOL.65,NO.3,MARCH 2017,pp746-760 Summary of the Invention

[0010] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0011] The commercial balun shown in non-patent document 1 is constructed as described above, so a three-dimensional structure such as VIP is adopted. Therefore, the structure is complex and difficult to apply to planar array antennas in which multiple antenna elements are arranged on the same substrate, etc., and the structure is not suitable for miniaturization.

[0012] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present disclosure is to provide a balanced line-to-unbalanced line converter that is miniaturized while improving the phase difference between two transmission lines transmitting balanced signals.

[0013] Means for solving problems

[0014] The balanced-to-unbalanced line converter disclosed herein comprises: a balanced-side line having a first transmission line with one end serving as a first signal end and the other end short-circuited, and a second transmission line with one end serving as a second signal end and the other end short-circuited; an unbalanced-side line having one end serving as a third signal end and the other end being open, and having a first transmission line portion forming a first coupled line with the first transmission line and a second transmission line portion forming a second coupled line with the second transmission line; a first open-circuited stub connected to one end of the second transmission line; and a second open-circuited stub connected to the unbalanced-side line and forming a third coupled line with the first open-circuited stub.

[0015] Effects of the Invention

[0016] According to the present disclosure, since the first open stub is connected to one end of the second transmission line and the second open stub is connected to the unbalanced-side line and forms a third coupling line with the first open stub, the electrical characteristics of the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter can be improved with a simple and compact structure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the main parts of the balanced line-unbalanced line converter according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the balanced-side line and the unbalanced-side line of the balanced-unbalanced line converter according to the first embodiment, as viewed from the back surface of the dielectric substrate (the ground layers of the front and back surfaces are omitted).

[0019] Figure 3 This is a plan view showing a balanced-side line of the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter according to the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 4 This is a plan view showing an unbalanced-side line of the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter according to the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 AA cross-sectional view.

[0022] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 BB cross-sectional view.

[0023] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing an equivalent circuit of the balanced line-unbalanced line converter according to the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing an equivalent circuit of a balanced-to-unbalanced line converter as a comparative example.

[0025] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing the reflection characteristics of the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter according to the first embodiment.

[0026] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the transmission characteristics of the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter according to the first embodiment.

[0027] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing the transmission phase difference of the balanced line-unbalanced line converter according to the first embodiment.

[0028] Figure 12 This is a plan view showing a portion of a second transmission line and a first stub of a balanced-side line of a balanced-to-unbalanced line converter according to a second embodiment.

[0029] Figure 13 This is a plan view showing a portion of a second transmission line and a first stub of a balanced-side line of a balanced-to-unbalanced line converter according to a third embodiment.

[0030] Figure 14 This is a plan view showing a balanced-side line and a first stub of a balanced-to-unbalanced line converter according to a fourth embodiment.

[0031] Figure 15 It is a perspective top view showing the balanced-side line and the unbalanced-side line of a balanced-unbalanced line converter according to the fifth embodiment.

[0032] Figure 16 It is a perspective top view showing the balanced-side line and the unbalanced-side line of a balanced-unbalanced line converter according to the sixth embodiment.

[0033] Figure 17This is a plan view showing a balanced-side line of a balanced-to-unbalanced line converter according to a sixth embodiment.

[0034] Figure 18 It is a plan view showing an unbalanced-side line of a balanced-to-unbalanced line converter according to the sixth embodiment.

[0035] Figure 19 This is a plan view showing a balanced-side line of a balanced-to-unbalanced line converter according to a seventh embodiment.

[0036] Figure 20 It is a top perspective view showing the balanced-side line and the unbalanced-side line of a balanced-to-unbalanced line converter according to the eighth embodiment.

[0037] Figure 21 This is a schematic configuration diagram showing an antenna device according to a ninth embodiment.

[0038] Figure 22 This is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of an antenna device according to a tenth embodiment.

[0039] Figure 23 This is a schematic configuration diagram of an array antenna device according to embodiment 11.

[0040] Figure 24 This is a schematic configuration diagram of an array antenna device according to embodiment 12.

[0041] Figure 25 This is a schematic configuration diagram of an array antenna device according to embodiment 13. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] Implementation method 1.

[0043] use Figures 1 to 11 The balanced line-unbalanced line converter according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0044] The balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of the first embodiment can be applied to either a balanced-to-unbalanced line converter that converts a balanced signal, so-called differential signal, into an unbalanced signal, so-called single-phase signal, or a balanced-to-unbalanced line converter that converts an unbalanced signal into a balanced signal.

[0045] The balanced-unbalanced line converter of the first embodiment is mainly applicable to a balanced-unbalanced line converter operating at a high frequency such as a sub-terahertz band or a terahertz band.

[0046] In the following description, since the description becomes complicated, the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter that converts a balanced signal into an unbalanced signal will be mainly described.

[0047] like Figures 1 to 6As shown, the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of the first embodiment includes: a multilayer dielectric substrate 1; a balanced-side line having a first transmission line 2 and a second transmission line 3; an unbalanced-side line 4; a first open stub 5; a second open stub 6; a first signal line 7; a second signal line 8; and a third signal line 9.

[0048] The dielectric substrate 1 includes at least a first conductive layer 11 and a second conductive layer 12 therein, a ground layer 13 on one main surface, in this example, the front surface, and a ground layer 14 on the other main surface, in this example, the back surface.

[0049] In the dielectric substrate 1, in the direction from the back surface to the front surface, that is, in the interlayer direction, Figure 5 and Figure 6 The first conductor layer 11 and the second conductor layer 12 are sequentially formed in the vertical direction (hereinafter referred to as the Z-axis direction) on the illustrated paper.

[0050] Alternatively, the first conductor layer 11 and the second conductor layer 12 may be formed sequentially from the front surface to the back surface.

[0051] The dielectric substrate 1 is made of a material such as a resin substrate or a ceramic substrate.

[0052] These materials may also be selected based on desired cost and electrical properties.

[0053] Furthermore, when the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of embodiment 1 is incorporated into a multilayer dielectric substrate used in an antenna device, such as a high-frequency package completed in the upstream stage of an antenna element in the antenna device, an RFIC (Radio Frequency Integrated Circuit), or a multilayer dielectric substrate used in a high-frequency module that does not include an antenna element, the first conductor layer, the second conductor layer, the front conductor layer, and the back conductor layer of the dielectric substrate outside the region where the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter is incorporated are also used as wiring layers.

[0054] In this example, a four-layer dielectric substrate 1 is shown, but any dielectric substrate 1 having at least the first conductor layer 11 and the second conductor layer 12 may be provided therein, and any dielectric substrate 1 having four or more layers may be used.

[0055] The dielectric substrate 1 having four or more layers is appropriately selected depending on the purpose of assembling the balanced-unbalanced line converter.

[0056] For example, when a balanced-unbalanced line converter is assembled on a dielectric substrate 1 together with a passive circuit or an active circuit, the balanced-unbalanced line converter may be assembled on a dielectric substrate 1 having four or more layers in consideration of the wiring of the transmission line between the passive circuit or the active circuit.

[0057] One end 21 of the first transmission line 2 constituting the balanced-side line serves as a first signal end, and the other end 22 is short-circuited.

[0058] The first transmission line 2 is formed on the first conductor layer 11 of the dielectric substrate 1 .

[0059] One end portion 21 of the first transmission line 2 is connected to the first signal line 7 formed in the first conductive layer 11 of the dielectric substrate 1 .

[0060] The first transmission line 2 and the first signal line 7 are integrally formed of a continuous conductor layer.

[0061] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the first signal line 7 is formed straight in the vertical direction of the paper (hereinafter referred to as the Y-axis direction), in this example, from one end 21 of the first transmission line 2 to the - direction of the Y-axis (downward direction of the paper).

[0062] The first signal line 7 functions as a first input signal line when one of the balanced signals from a balanced line or a balanced circuit (hereinafter collectively referred to as a balanced line including a balanced circuit) is input, and the first signal end 21 of the first transmission line 2 functions as an input end.

[0063] The first signal line 7 functions as a first output signal line when outputting one of the balanced signals to the balanced line, and the first signal end portion 21 of the first transmission line 2 functions as an output end.

[0064] The first signal line 7 functions as a first input / output signal line when one of the balanced signals is input / output to / from the balanced line, and the first signal end portion 21 of the first transmission line 2 functions as an input / output terminal.

[0065] The other end portion 22 of the first transmission line 2 is connected to a ground layer, in this example, the ground layer 14 on the back surface, via a via (VIA) Va.

[0066] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the first transmission line 2 includes: a first line portion 23, which bends and extends at a right angle outward from one end portion 21 of the first signal line 7, that is, in the left direction of the paper (hereinafter, the left and right directions of the paper are referred to as the X-axis direction, and the left direction is referred to as the -direction); a second line portion 24, which bends and extends at a right angle in the + direction of the Y-axis from the first line portion 23; and a third line portion 25, which bends and extends at a right angle inward from the second line portion 24, that is, in the + direction of the X-axis.

[0067] That is, the first line portion 23 , the second line portion 24 , and the third line portion 25 of the first transmission line 2 are integrally formed of a continuous conductor layer, and constitute three sides of a rectangle.

[0068] The first line portion 23 and the third line portion 25 are opposed to each other and are arranged parallel to the X-axis.

[0069] The length of the first transmission line 2 , that is, the length from one end 21 to the other end 22 , is 90 degrees relative to the center frequency of the transmitted signal.

[0070] One end 31 of the second transmission line 3 constituting the balanced-side line serves as a second signal end, and the other end 32 is short-circuited.

[0071] The second transmission line 3 is formed on the first conductor layer 11 of the dielectric substrate 1 .

[0072] One end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 is connected to the second signal line 8 formed in the first conductive layer 11 of the dielectric substrate 1 .

[0073] The second transmission line 3 and the second signal line 8 are integrally formed of a continuous conductor layer.

[0074] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, in this example, the second signal line 8 is formed in a straight line from one end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 in the negative direction of the Y axis, and is arranged in parallel with the first signal line 7 .

[0075] The second signal line 8 functions as a second input signal line when the other of the balanced signals from the balanced line is input, and the second signal end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 functions as an input terminal.

[0076] The second signal line 8 functions as a second output signal line when outputting the other of the balanced signals to the balanced line, and the second signal end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 functions as an output end.

[0077] The second signal line 8 functions as a second input / output signal line when the other of the balanced signals is input / output to / from the balanced line, and the second signal end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 functions as an input / output terminal.

[0078] The other end portion 32 of the second transmission line 3 is connected to a ground layer, in this example, the ground layer 14 on the back surface, via a via (VIA) Vb.

[0079] like Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the second transmission line 3 includes: a first line portion 33, which bends and extends at a right angle outward from one end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3, that is, in the + direction of the X axis; a second line portion 34, which bends and extends at a right angle from the first line portion 33 in the + direction of the Y axis; and a third line portion 35, which bends and extends at a right angle inward from the second line portion 34, that is, in the - direction of the X axis.

[0080] That is, the first line portion 33 , the second line portion 34 , and the third line portion 35 of the second transmission line 3 are integrally formed of a continuous conductor layer, and constitute three sides of a rectangle.

[0081] The first line portion 33 and the third line portion 35 are opposed to each other and are arranged parallel to the X-axis.

[0082] The length of the second transmission line 3 , that is, the length from one end 31 to the other end 32 , is 90 degrees with respect to the center frequency of the transmitted signal.

[0083] An end surface of one end portion 21 of the first transmission line 2 and an end surface of one end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 are arranged to face each other.

[0084] To achieve impedance and the like between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 , a gap G1 is provided between the end surface of the one end portion 21 of the first transmission line 2 and the end surface of the one end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 .

[0085] The first signal line 7 and the second signal line 8 are also arranged to have the same interval as the gap G1 .

[0086] The end surface of the other end portion 22 of the first transmission line 2 and the end surface of the other end portion 32 of the second transmission line 3 are arranged to face each other with a gap therebetween.

[0087] The second line portion 24 of the first transmission line 2 and the second line portion 34 of the second transmission line 3 are opposed to each other and are arranged parallel to the Y-axis.

[0088] In summary, the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 are relative to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The illustrated centers OO are arranged line-symmetrically and have the same shape.

[0089] The center line OO is a virtual line located at the center of the first signal line 7 and the second signal line 8 and extending in the Y-axis direction in parallel with the first signal line 7 and the second signal line 8 .

[0090] One end 41 of the unbalanced-side line 4 is a third signal end, and the other end 42 is an open end.

[0091] The unbalanced line 4 includes a first transmission line portion 43 forming a first coupled line C1 with the first transmission line 2 , a second transmission line portion 44 forming a second coupled line C2 with the second transmission line 3 , and a connecting line portion 45 connecting the first transmission line portion 43 and the second transmission line portion 44 .

[0092] The unbalanced line 4 is formed on the second conductor layer 12 of the dielectric substrate 1 .

[0093] The first transmission line portion 43 of the unbalanced-side line 4 is arranged to face the first transmission line 2 in the Z-axis direction.

[0094] The second transmission line portion 44 of the unbalanced-side line 4 is arranged to face the second transmission line 3 in the Z-axis direction.

[0095] The first transmission line portion 43 and the second transmission line portion 44 are continuously formed via a connection line portion 45 .

[0096] The one end portion 41 of the unbalanced-side line 4 is arranged at a position facing the other end portion 22 of the first transmission line 2 in the Z-axis direction.

[0097] The other end portion 42 of the unbalanced-side line 4 is arranged at a position facing the other end portion 32 of the second transmission line 3 in the Z-axis direction.

[0098] One end of the first transmission line portion 43 of the unbalanced line 4 is the one end 41 of the unbalanced line 4 , and the other end of the second transmission line portion 44 of the unbalanced line 4 is the other end 42 of the unbalanced line 4 .

[0099] The end face of the one end portion 41 of the unbalanced-side line 4 is located closer to the other end portion 42 than the end face of the other end portion 22 of the first transmission line 2 .

[0100] The end surface of the other end portion 42 of the unbalanced-side line 4 and the end surface of the other end portion 32 of the second transmission line 3 are located on a plane formed in the Z-axis direction.

[0101] The distance between the end faces of the one end 41 and the other end 42 of the unbalanced line 4 is narrower than the gap G1 between the end faces of the one end 21 of the first transmission line 2 and the one end 31 of the second transmission line 3 .

[0102] The connection line portion 45 of the unbalanced-side line 4 is arranged to face the gap G1 between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 in the Z-axis direction.

[0103] The first transmission line portion 43 , the second transmission line portion 44 and the connection line portion 45 of the unbalanced line 4 are integrally formed of a continuous conductor layer and form four sides of a rectangle except for the space between the end faces of the one end portion 41 and the other end portion 42 .

[0104] One end portion 41 of the unbalanced line 4 is connected to the third signal line 9 formed in the second conductor layer 12 .

[0105] The unbalanced-side line 4 and the third signal line 9 are integrally formed of a continuous conductor layer.

[0106] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the third signal line 9 is formed in a straight line from one end portion 41 of the unbalanced line 4 toward the positive direction of the Y axis.

[0107] The third signal line 9 is located on the opposite side to the first signal line 7 and the second signal line 8 in the Y-axis direction.

[0108] The third signal line 9 functions as an input signal line when an unbalanced signal from an unbalanced line is input, and the third signal end portion 41 of the unbalanced-side line 4 functions as an input terminal.

[0109] The third signal line 9 functions as an output signal line when outputting an unbalanced signal to the unbalanced line, and the third signal end portion 41 of the unbalanced-side line 4 functions as an output terminal.

[0110] The third signal line 9 functions as a third input / output signal line when an unbalanced signal is input / output to / from the unbalanced line, and the third signal end portion 41 of the unbalanced-side line 4 functions as an input / output terminal.

[0111] The first transmission line portion 43 of the unbalanced line 4 includes a first line portion 43a, a second line portion 43b, and a third line portion 43c, which are respectively arranged to face the first line portion 23, the second line portion 24, and the third line portion 25 of the first transmission line 2 in the Z-axis direction with an insulating layer interposed therebetween.

[0112] The third line portion 43c bends at a right angle outward, i.e., in the - direction of the X-axis, from one end portion 41 of the third signal end portion 41, and extends. The second line portion 43b bends at a right angle in the - direction of the Y-axis from the third line portion 43c and extends. The first line portion 43a bends at a right angle inward, i.e., in the + direction of the X-axis, from the second line portion 43b and extends. The other end of the first line portion 43a becomes one end of the connection line portion 45.

[0113] The second transmission line portion 44 of the unbalanced line 4 includes a first line portion 44a, a second line portion 44b, and a third line portion 44c, which are respectively arranged to face the first line portion 33, the second line portion 34, and the third line portion 35 of the second transmission line 3 in the Z-axis direction with an insulating layer interposed therebetween.

[0114] The third line portion 44c extends outward from the open end 42, that is, in the + direction of the X-axis. The second line portion 44b bends at a right angle from the third line portion 44c in the - direction of the Y-axis and extends. The first line portion 44a bends at a right angle from the second line portion 44b inward, that is, in the - direction of the X-axis and extends. One end of the first line portion 44a becomes the other end of the connection line portion 45.

[0115] The length of the unbalanced line 4 , that is, the length from one end 41 to the other end 42 via the first transmission line portion 43 , the second transmission line portion 44 , and the connection line portion 45 , is 180 degrees relative to the center frequency of the transmitted signal.

[0116] The first and second transmission lines 2 and 3 and the first and second signal lines 7 and 8 constituting the balanced-side lines are formed as strip lines sandwiched between a ground layer 13 formed on the front surface and a ground layer 14 formed on the back surface of the dielectric substrate 1 .

[0117] The first transmission line portion 43 , the second transmission line portion 44 , the connection line portion 45 , and the third signal line 9 of the unbalanced line 4 are formed as a strip line sandwiched between the ground layers 13 and 14 .

[0118] By forming the balanced-side line and the unbalanced-side line 4 from strip lines in this manner, the effective relative dielectric constant of the base material of the dielectric substrate 1 can be made uniform in the balanced-side line and the unbalanced-side line 4 .

[0119] Furthermore, either the balanced-side line or the unbalanced-side line 4 may be formed of a microstrip line formed on the front surface or the back surface of the dielectric substrate 1 instead of a strip line.

[0120] like Figure 2 As shown, the first transmission line 2 and the first transmission line portion 43 of the unbalanced line 4 constituting the balanced-side line, and the second transmission line 3 and the second transmission line portion 44 of the unbalanced-side line constituting the balanced-side line completely overlap when viewed through the back surface of the dielectric substrate 1.

[0121] That is, the first transmission line 2, the second transmission line 3, and the unbalanced-side line 4 have the same width, the first transmission line 2 and the first transmission line portion 43 have the same shape, the second transmission line 3 and the second transmission line portion 44 have the same shape, and the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction are consistent.

[0122] Furthermore, in order to adjust the coupling amount of the first coupled line C1 formed by the first transmission line 2 and the first transmission line portion 43, and the coupling amount of the second coupled line C2 formed by the second transmission line 3 and the second transmission line portion 44, the overlapping amounts of the first transmission line 2 and the first transmission line portion 43 in the X-axis and Y-axis directions, and the overlapping amounts of the second transmission line 3 and the second transmission line portion 44 in the X-axis and Y-axis directions may be offset.

[0123] Furthermore, the widths of the first transmission line 2 , the second transmission line 3 , and the unbalanced-side line 4 may be different according to the characteristic impedance of each line.

[0124] The first open-circuit stub 5 is connected to one end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 constituting a balanced-side line.

[0125] The first open stub 5 is formed in the first conductive layer 11 of the dielectric substrate 1 .

[0126] Specifically, the first open stub 5 is connected to one end of the second transmission line 3 that forms the second coupled line C2 with the second transmission line portion 44 located on the open end 42 side of the unbalanced line 4 , i.e., the end connected to the second signal line 8 .

[0127] The first open stub 5 is formed integrally with the second transmission line 3 via the first conductor layer 11 at an end portion of the second transmission line 3 at a gap G1 between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 .

[0128] The first open stub 5 extends from one end portion of the second transmission line 3 inward, that is, in the positive direction of the Y axis.

[0129] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the first open stub 5 has an extension portion 51 extending inward from one end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3, i.e., in the - direction of the X-axis, and a coupling portion 52 extending from the extension portion 51 at a right angle to the + direction of the Y-axis and opposite to the second open stub 6.

[0130] The side end surface of the coupling portion 52 located on one end side of the first transmission line 2 is opposite to Figure 3 The center line OO shown is arranged on one end side of the first transmission line 2 .

[0131] The length of the first open stub 5 , more precisely, the length of the coupling portion 52 , is a fraction of the wavelength at the center frequency of the transmitted signal, for example, 1 / 30 to 1 / 4 wavelength.

[0132] For example, in an RFIC, a balanced-side line having a first transmission line 2 and a second transmission line 3 and an unbalanced-side line 4 are formed on the first conductive layer 11 and the second conductive layer 12 located in the inner layers of a multilayer dielectric substrate 1, respectively. If the thickness of the insulating layer between the first conductive layer 11 and the second conductive layer 12 is set to several microns, the length of the first open-circuit stub 5 is preferably set to a length of approximately 1 / 20 of the wavelength.

[0133] The second open-circuit stub 6 is connected to the unbalanced-side line 4 .

[0134] The second open stub 6 is formed in the second conductor layer 12 of the dielectric substrate 1 .

[0135] The second open-circuit stub 6 and the first open-circuit stub 5 form a third coupling line C3.

[0136] The second open stub 6 is connected to one end of the connection line portion 45 of the unbalanced line 4 so as to be in contact with the other end of the first line portion 43 a of the first transmission line portion 43 of the unbalanced line 4 .

[0137] The second open stub 6 extends from the connection line portion 45 of the unbalanced-side line 4 inward, that is, in the positive direction of the Y axis.

[0138] The second open stub 6 is arranged to face the first open stub 5 with an insulating layer interposed therebetween, and is located on the first transmission line 2 side relative to the first open stub 5 in the X-axis direction.

[0139] The side end surface of the second open stub 6 located at one end side of the second transmission line 3 is opposite to Figure 1 The center line OO shown is arranged on one end side of the first transmission line 2 .

[0140] The second open stub 6 and the coupled portion 52 of the first open stub 5 are arranged as two straight lines parallel to the Y-axis, and the coupled portion 52 of the second open stub 6 and the first open stub 5 constitute a third coupled line C3 .

[0141] The coupling portion 52 of the first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6 are arranged asymmetrically with respect to the center line OO.

[0142] The coupling portion 52 of the first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6 form a third coupled line C3 via an insulating layer. Therefore, the coupling portion 52 and the second open stub 6 form a capacitor.

[0143] The first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6 function as capacitive elements.

[0144] As a result, the capacitance generated by the coupling portion 52 and the second open stub 6 and the capacitance of each of the first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6 act to cancel out the parasitic inductance generated by the connection line portion 45 of the unbalanced-side line 4 .

[0145] Since the parasitic inductance generated by the connecting line portion 45 can be offset by the capacitance generated by the first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6 constituting the third coupled line C3, degradation of the electrical characteristics of the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter caused by the parasitic inductance generated by the connecting line portion 45, i.e., degradation of the transmission phase difference between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 in the balanced-side line, can be suppressed, thereby improving the transmission phase difference.

[0146] Furthermore, the extension portion 51 of the first open stub 5 functions to fill the gap G1 between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 , thereby further improving the transmission phase difference between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 .

[0147] That is, Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the gap G2 between the end face of the extension portion 51 and the end face of the one end portion 21 of the first transmission line 2 is narrower than the gap G1, which can substantially shorten the length of the connecting line portion 45 of the unbalanced-side line 4. Therefore, the parasitic inductance generated by the connecting line portion 45 can be reduced, and the degradation of the electrical characteristics caused by the connecting line portion 45 can be alleviated.

[0148] As a result, the transmission phase difference between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 can be improved.

[0149] The length of the second open stub 6 is a fraction of the wavelength at the center frequency of the transmitted signal, for example, 1 / 30 to 1 / 4 of the wavelength.

[0150] For example, in an RFIC, a balanced-side line having a first transmission line 2 and a second transmission line 3 and an unbalanced-side line 4 are formed on the first conductive layer 11 and the second conductive layer 12 located in the inner layers of a multilayer dielectric substrate 1, respectively. If the thickness of the insulating layer between the first conductive layer 11 and the second conductive layer 12 is set to several microns, the length of the second open-circuit stub 6 is preferably set to a length of approximately 1 / 20 of the wavelength.

[0151] Thus, the lengths of the first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6 are a fraction of a wavelength, so the first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6 do not increase the size of the balun converter.

[0152] Furthermore, since the first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6 are arranged inside the balanced-side line and the unbalanced-side line 4, even if the first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6 are provided, the size of the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter is not affected, thereby achieving miniaturization of the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter.

[0153] In addition, the positional relationship between the first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6 only needs to achieve the set coupling amount of the third coupling line C3. Figure 2 As shown, the structures may be staggered in the X-axis direction. Alternatively, the coupling portion 52 of the first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6 may be overlapped in the X-axis direction.

[0154] Next, the operation of the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0155] A balanced-to-unbalanced line converter that converts a balanced signal into an unbalanced signal will be described.

[0156] Figure 7 An equivalent circuit diagram of the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter according to the first embodiment is shown.

[0157] One of the balanced signals flowing through the first signal line 7 is input to the first signal terminal 21 and flows to the first transmission line 2 .

[0158] A signal flowing into the first transmission line 2 is coupled to the electromagnetic field of the first transmission line 2 constituting the first coupling line C1 and the first transmission line portion 43 of the unbalanced side line 4, flows into the first transmission line portion 43 as an unbalanced signal, and is output from the third signal end portion 41 to the third signal line 9.

[0159] The other of the balanced signals flowing through the second signal line 8 is input to the second signal terminal 31 and flows to the second transmission line 3 .

[0160] Another signal flowing to the second transmission line 3 is coupled to the electromagnetic field of the second transmission line 3 constituting the second coupling line C2 and the second transmission line portion 44 of the unbalanced side line 4, and flows to the second transmission line portion 44 as an unbalanced signal, and is output from the third signal end 41 to the third signal line 9 via the connecting line portion 45 and the first transmission line 2.

[0161] like Figure 7 As shown, a third coupled line C3 composed of a first open stub 5 and a second open stub 6 is connected in parallel to the connection line portion 45 .

[0162] An LC circuit based on the inductance of the connection line portion 45 and the capacitance of the third coupling line C3 achieves impedance matching between the other end of the first transmission line portion 43 of the unbalanced-side line 4 and one end of the second transmission line portion 44, thereby improving the passing phase difference between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 relative to the unbalanced-side line 4.

[0163] use Figures 9 to 11 The following describes how the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of the first embodiment improves the transmission phase difference by providing the third coupled line C3 composed of the first open stub and the second open stub 6 .

[0164] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing the reflection characteristics of the third signal end portion 41 (output end: reflection end) of the unbalanced line 4 , which is one of the results of electromagnetic field analysis of the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter.

[0165] exist Figure 9 In the figure, the horizontal axis represents the frequency normalized by the center frequency of the transmitted signal, the vertical axis represents the reflection amplitude S-parameter (Parameter): S11 [dB], the solid line ES11 represents the reflection characteristic curve in implementation example 1, and the dotted line RS11 represents the reflection characteristic curve in the comparative example.

[0166] The comparative example has the same structure as the balun of the first embodiment except that the first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6 are not provided.

[0167] Figure 8 An equivalent circuit of a comparative example is shown.

[0168] Depend on Figure 9 As can be seen, the reflection characteristics in Embodiment 1 are improved by providing the third coupled line C3 composed of the first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6. Although the resonant frequency slightly shifts compared to the comparative example, the reflection amplitude remains at the same level, and the third coupled line C3 does not significantly affect the reflection characteristics.

[0169] That is, in terms of reflection characteristics, the first embodiment is not inferior to the comparative example.

[0170] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing one of the electromagnetic field analysis results of the balanced-unbalanced line converter, namely, the transmission characteristics from the input end of the balanced-side line to the third signal end 41 (output end) of the unbalanced-side line 4 .

[0171] exist Figure 10In the figure, the horizontal axis represents the frequency normalized by the center frequency of the transmitted signal, and the vertical axis represents the pass amplitude S-parameters (Parameter): S21 and S31 [dB]. The solid line ES21 represents the pass characteristic curve from the first signal end 21 (first input end) of the first transmission line 2 to the third signal end 41 (output end) of the unbalanced side line 4 in embodiment 1. The dotted line ES31 represents the pass characteristic curve from the second signal end 31 (second input end) of the second transmission line 3 to the third signal end 41 (output end) of the unbalanced side line 4 in embodiment 1. The single-dot chain line RS21 represents the pass characteristic curve from the first input end of the first transmission line to the output end of the unbalanced side line in the comparative example. The single-dot chain line RS31 represents the pass characteristic curve from the second input end of the second transmission line to the output end of the unbalanced side line in the comparative example.

[0172] Depend on Figure 10 It can be seen that at the standardized frequency of 0.7 to 1.4, the difference in the pass-through amplitude between the first input end of the first transmission line to the output end of the unbalanced side line and the pass-through amplitude from the second input end of the second transmission line to the output end of the unbalanced side line is improved by about 2.5 dB in embodiment 1 compared to the comparative example.

[0173] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing one of the electromagnetic field analysis results of the balanced-unbalanced line converter, namely, the difference in transmission phase between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 with respect to the unbalanced-side line 4 .

[0174] exist Figure 11 , the horizontal axis represents the frequency normalized by the center frequency of the transmitted signal, the vertical axis represents the phase difference [degrees], the solid line E represents the passing phase difference curve in embodiment 1, and the dotted line R represents the passing phase difference curve in the comparative example.

[0175] Depend on Figure 11 It can be seen that the slope of the passage phase difference at the normalized frequency of 0.7 to 1.4 is smaller in Embodiment 1 than in the comparative example, and the passage phase difference in Embodiment 1 is an ideal approximately 180 degrees in a wide range.

[0176] As described above, the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of embodiment 1 includes: a first open stub 5 connected to one end 31 of the second transmission line 3; and a second open stub connected to the unbalanced-side line 4 and forming a third coupling line C3 with the first open stub 5. Therefore, the electrical characteristics of the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter can be improved with a simple and compact structure.

[0177] Furthermore, the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of the first embodiment can improve the transmission phase difference between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 caused by the parasitic inductance generated by the connecting line portion 45 present in the unbalanced line 4 through the third coupled line C3.

[0178] In the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of embodiment 1, since the first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6 are arranged inside the balanced-side line and the unbalanced-side line 4, even if the first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6 are provided to improve the phase difference, the size of the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter is not affected, thereby achieving miniaturization of the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter.

[0179] Furthermore, when the balanced line-unbalanced line converter of embodiment 1 is applied to an RFIC to enhance the function of the RFIC, the balanced line-unbalanced line converter of embodiment 1 can also be formed using two different wiring layers in an RFIC having multiple wiring layers.

[0180] Furthermore, in RFIC, a structure using a redistribution layer as a post-process technology of semiconductor technology may be adopted, and the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of embodiment 1 may be formed using two different wiring layers: the RFIC wiring layer and the redistribution layer.

[0181] Furthermore, in the case of an RFIC having multiple redistribution layers, the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of the first embodiment can be formed using different layers within the redistribution layer while separating various circuits formed in the RFIC from the redistribution layer.

[0182] Implementation method 2.

[0183] use Figure 12 A balanced line-unbalanced line converter according to the second embodiment will be described.

[0184] In the balun converter of the first embodiment, the first open stub 5 includes an extension portion 51 extending in the - direction of the X axis and a coupling portion 52 extending and bending at a right angle from the extension portion 51 in the + direction of the Y axis.

[0185] In contrast, the balun of the second embodiment differs from the balun of the first embodiment in that a cutout portion 53 is provided outside the bent portion between the extension portion 51 and the coupling portion 52 ; other aspects are the same.

[0186] Figure 12 In, with Figures 1 to 6 The same reference numerals as those shown indicate the same or corresponding parts.

[0187] Hereinafter, the first open stub 5 , which is different from the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of the first embodiment, will be mainly described, and descriptions of other components will be omitted.

[0188] The first open stub 5 includes an extension portion 51 extending inward, that is, in the - direction of the X axis, from one end portion of the second transmission line 3 , and a coupling portion 52 extending from the extension portion 51 in the + direction of the Y axis and facing the second open stub 6 .

[0189] The first open stub 5 has a cutout portion 53 in the extending portion 51 , outside a bent portion between the extending portion 51 and the coupling portion 52 .

[0190] The cutout portion 53 is a cutout portion formed by cutting out a straight line with an inner angle of 45 degrees from the outer contact point between the extension portion 51 and the coupling portion 52 toward the outer edge of the extension portion 51 .

[0191] To address the excessive capacitive properties caused by the bends in the first and second transmission lines 2 and 3 and the unbalanced line 4 that constitute the balanced-side line, electrical characteristics can be adjusted by providing a cutout portion 53 on the outside of the bend between the extension portion 51 and the coupling portion 52, that is, by cutting away a portion of the bend.

[0192] In particular, when high frequencies are handled, the excessive capacitive state that affects the high frequencies can be adjusted by providing the cutout portion 53 .

[0193] Furthermore, the internal angle of the cutout portion 53 is not limited to 45 degrees, and may be smaller than 90 degrees depending on the amount of capacitance adjustment.

[0194] The side end surface of the coupling portion 52 located on one end side of the first transmission line 2 is similar to the coupling portion 52 in the first embodiment. Figure 3 The center line OO shown is arranged on one end side of the first transmission line 2 .

[0195] The length of the first open stub 5 , more precisely, the length of the coupling portion 52 , is a fraction of the wavelength at the center frequency of the transmitted signal, for example, 1 / 30 to 1 / 4 wavelength.

[0196] In addition, the positional relationship between the first open short stub 5 and the second open short stub 6 is the same as that described in embodiment 1, and can be a structure offset in the X-axis direction. In addition, it can also be a structure in which the coupling portion of the first open short stub 5 overlaps with the second open short stub 6 in the X-axis direction.

[0197] The balanced line-unbalanced line converter of the second embodiment constructed in this manner also has the same effects as the balanced line-unbalanced line converter of the first embodiment. In addition, by providing the cutout portion 53 in the first open-circuited stub 5, the excessive capacitive state caused by the bending parts of the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 and the unbalanced line 4 constituting the balanced-side line can be easily adjusted, thereby adjusting the electrical characteristics.

[0198] Implementation method 3.

[0199] use Figure 13 A balanced line-unbalanced line converter according to a third embodiment will be described.

[0200] In the balun converter of the first embodiment, the first open stub 5 includes an extension portion 51 extending in the - direction of the X axis and a coupling portion 52 extending and bending at a right angle from the extension portion 51 in the + direction of the Y axis.

[0201] In contrast, the balun of the third embodiment differs from the balun of the first embodiment in that an arc-shaped cutout portion 53 is provided on the outside of the bent portion between the extension portion 51 and the coupling portion 52 ; other aspects are the same.

[0202] Figure 13 In, with Figures 1 to 6 The same reference numerals as those shown indicate the same or corresponding parts.

[0203] Hereinafter, the first open stub 5 , which is different from the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of the first embodiment, will be mainly described, and descriptions of other components will be omitted.

[0204] The first open stub 5 includes an extension portion 51 extending inward, that is, in the - direction of the X axis, from one end portion of the second transmission line 3 , and a coupling portion 52 extending from the extension portion 51 in the + direction of the Y axis and facing the second open stub 6 .

[0205] The first open stub 5 has an arc-shaped cutout portion 53 in the extending portion 51 outside a bent portion between the extending portion 51 and the coupling portion 52 .

[0206] The cutout portion 53 is a cutout portion formed by cutting out a quarter of a circle from the outer contact point between the extending portion 51 and the coupling portion 52 toward the outer edge of the extending portion 51 .

[0207] By providing the cutout portion 53 in the first open stub 5 , the excessive capacitive state caused by the bends of the first and second transmission lines 2 and 3 constituting the balanced-side line and the unbalanced-side line 4 can be easily adjusted, thereby adjusting the electrical characteristics.

[0208] Furthermore, since the cutout portion 53 is in an arc shape, it is possible to further alleviate the parasitic capacitance component that would otherwise cause excessive capacitance.

[0209] The cutout portion 53 is not limited to a 1 / 4 arc, and may be any shape as long as the corners are rounded according to the amount of capacitance adjustment.

[0210] The side end surface of the coupling portion 52 located on one end side of the first transmission line 2 is similar to the coupling portion 52 in the first embodiment. Figure 3 The center line OO shown is arranged on one end side of the first transmission line 2 .

[0211] The length of the first open stub 5 , more precisely, the length of the coupling portion 52 , is a fraction of the wavelength at the center frequency of the transmitted signal, for example, 1 / 30 to 1 / 4 wavelength.

[0212] In addition, the positional relationship between the first open short stub 5 and the second open short stub 6 is the same as that described in embodiment 1, and can be a structure offset in the X-axis direction. In addition, it can also be a structure in which the coupling portion of the first open short stub 5 overlaps with the second open short stub 6 in the X-axis direction.

[0213] The balanced line-unbalanced line converter of the third embodiment thus constructed has the same effects as the balanced line-unbalanced line converter of the first embodiment. In addition, by providing the arc-shaped cutout portion 53 in the first open-circuited stub 5, the parasitic capacitance component that causes excessive capacitive properties caused by the bends of the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 constituting the balanced-side line and the unbalanced-side line 4 can be mitigated and easily adjusted, thereby enabling adjustment of the electrical characteristics.

[0214] Implementation method 4.

[0215] use Figure 14 A balanced line-unbalanced line converter according to a fourth embodiment will be described.

[0216] In the balun converter of the first embodiment, the first open stub 5 includes an extension portion 51 extending in the - direction of the X axis and a coupling portion 52 extending and bending at a right angle from the extension portion 51 in the + direction of the Y axis.

[0217] In contrast, the balanced line-to-unbalanced line converter of embodiment 4 differs from the balanced line-to-unbalanced line converter of embodiment 1 in that the first open stub 5 is a straight line extending from one end 31 of the second transmission line 3 in the + direction of the Y-axis at a right angle and opposite to the second open stub 6; other aspects are the same.

[0218] Figure 14In, with Figures 1 to 6 The same reference numerals as those shown indicate the same or corresponding parts.

[0219] Hereinafter, the first open stub 5 , which is different from the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of the first embodiment, will be mainly described, and descriptions of other components will be omitted.

[0220] The first open stub 5 bends at a right angle from the first line portion 33 at the one end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 and extends inward, that is, in the positive direction of the Y axis.

[0221] The first open-circuit stub 5 and the second signal line 8 are continuous along the Y-axis.

[0222] The length of the first open-circuit stub 5 is a fraction of the wavelength at the center frequency of the transmitted signal, for example, 1 / 30 to 1 / 4 of the wavelength.

[0223] The length of the first open stub 5 and the length of the second open stub 6 are approximately the same.

[0224] The positional relationship between the first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6 is the same as that described in the first embodiment. They may be offset in the X-axis direction or overlapped in the X-axis direction.

[0225] The balanced line-unbalanced line converter of embodiment 4 constructed in this way also has the same effect as the balanced line-unbalanced line converter of embodiment 1. In addition, the structure composed of the second transmission line 3, the second signal line 8 and the first open short line 5 can be simplified.

[0226] Implementation method 5.

[0227] use Figure 15 A balanced line-unbalanced line converter according to the fifth embodiment will be described.

[0228] In the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of the first embodiment, the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3, the first open stub 5, the first signal line 7, and the second signal line 8 constituting the balanced-side line are formed on the first conductive layer 11 of the dielectric substrate 1, while the unbalanced-side line 4, the second open stub 6, and the third signal line 9 are formed on the second conductive layer 12 of the dielectric substrate 1.

[0229] That is, in the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of the first embodiment, the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 constituting the balanced-side line are broadside-coupled to the unbalanced-side line 4 .

[0230] In contrast, the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of the fifth embodiment differs from the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of the first embodiment in that the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3, the first open stub 5, the first signal line 7, the second signal line 8, the unbalanced line 4, the second open stub 6, and the third signal line 9 constituting the balanced-side line are formed on the same conductor layer of the dielectric substrate 1; all other aspects are the same.

[0231] That is, in the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of the fifth embodiment, the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 constituting the balanced-side line are coplanarly coupled with the unbalanced-side line 4 .

[0232] In this case, the distance between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 constituting the balanced line and the unbalanced line 4 is not increased, but is designed to a distance that enables the function and characteristics of a balanced-to-unbalanced line converter to be obtained.

[0233] Figure 15 In, with Figures 1 to 6 The same reference numerals as those shown indicate the same or corresponding parts.

[0234] The following description will focus on the differences from the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of the first embodiment.

[0235] The shapes of the first transmission line 2 and the first signal line 7 are the same as those of the first transmission line 2 and the first signal line 7 in the first embodiment.

[0236] That is, it is configured as follows.

[0237] One end portion 21 of the first transmission line 2 is connected to the first signal line 7 , and the other end portion 22 of the first transmission line 2 is connected to the ground layer via a via Va.

[0238] The first transmission line 2 includes a first line portion 23 extending outward from the first signal line 7 , a second line portion 24 extending and bending at a right angle from the first line portion 23 , and a third line portion 25 extending and bending at a right angle inward from the second line portion 24 .

[0239] The first signal line 7 is integrally formed with the first transmission line 2 by a continuous conductive layer, and is bent at a right angle from one end portion 21 of the first transmission line 2 to form a straight line in the - direction of the Y axis.

[0240] The shapes of the second transmission line 3 and the second signal line 8 are the same as those of the second transmission line 3 and the second signal line 8 in the first embodiment.

[0241] That is, it is configured as follows.

[0242] One end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 is connected to the second signal line 8 , and the other end portion 32 of the second transmission line 3 is connected to the ground layer via a via Vb.

[0243] The end surface of the one end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 is arranged to face the end surface of the one end portion 21 of the first transmission line 2 with a gap G1 therebetween.

[0244] The first signal line 7 and the second signal line 8 are also arranged to have the same interval as the gap G1 .

[0245] The second transmission line 3 includes a first line portion 33 extending outward from the second signal line 8 , a second line portion 34 extending and bending at a right angle from the first line portion 33 , and a third line portion 35 extending and bending at a right angle inward from the second line portion 34 .

[0246] The second signal line 8 is integrally formed with the second transmission line 3 by a continuous conductor layer, and is bent at a right angle from one end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 to form a straight line in the negative direction of the Y axis.

[0247] The shape of the unbalanced-side line 4 is the same as that of the unbalanced-side line 4 in the first embodiment.

[0248] That is, it is configured as follows.

[0249] The unbalanced line 4 is formed on the same conductor layer as the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 and is arranged facing the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 in a region surrounded by the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 .

[0250] The unbalanced-side line 4 includes a first transmission line portion 43 that forms a first coupled line C1 with the first transmission line 2, a second transmission line portion 44 that forms a second coupled line C2 with the second transmission line 3, and a connecting line portion 45 that is interposed between the first transmission line portion 43 and the second transmission line portion 44 and is used to continuously form the first transmission line portion 43 and the second transmission line portion 44.

[0251] One end 41 of the unbalanced-side line 4 is connected to the third signal line 9 , and the other end 42 of the unbalanced-side line 4 is an open end.

[0252] The end surface of one end portion 41 of the unbalanced-side line 4 and the end surface of the other end portion 42 of the unbalanced-side line 4 are arranged to face each other, and the unbalanced-side line 4 has a rectangular shape.

[0253] One end 41 and the other end 42 of the unbalanced-side line 4 are arranged at positions facing the other end 22 of the first transmission line 2 and the other end 32 of the second transmission line 3 .

[0254] One end of the first transmission line portion 43 of the unbalanced line 4 is the one end 41 of the unbalanced line 4 , and the other end of the second transmission line portion 44 of the unbalanced line 4 is the other end 42 of the unbalanced line 4 .

[0255] The third signal line 9 is formed linearly outward from one end 41 of the unbalanced line 4 , that is, in the positive direction of the Y axis, and extends outward from between the other end 22 of the first transmission line 2 and the other end 32 of the second transmission line 3 .

[0256] The first transmission line portion 43 of the unbalanced-side line 4 includes a first line portion 43 a , a second line portion 43 b , and a third line portion 43 c .

[0257] The first line portion 43 a , the second line portion 43 b , and the third line portion 43 c of the first transmission line portion 43 are arranged to face the first line portion 21 , the second line portion 22 , and the third line portion 23 of the first transmission line 2 , respectively.

[0258] The second transmission line portion 44 of the unbalanced-side line 4 includes a first line portion 44 a , a second line portion 44 b , and a third line portion 44 c .

[0259] The first line portion 44 a , the second line portion 44 b , and the third line portion 44 c of the second transmission line portion 44 are arranged to face the first line portion 31 , the second line portion 32 , and the third line portion 33 of the second transmission line 3 , respectively.

[0260] The first open-circuit stub 5 is connected to one end of the second transmission line 3 constituting a balanced-side line.

[0261] The first open stub 5 is formed integrally with the second transmission line 3 at an end portion of the second transmission line 3 where the gap G1 between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 is located.

[0262] The first open stub 5 extends outward, ie, in the negative direction of the Y-axis, from one end portion of the second transmission line 3 and is interposed between the first signal line 7 and the second signal line 8 .

[0263] The first open stub 5 includes an extension portion 51 extending inward from one end of the second transmission line 3 , i.e., in the negative direction of the X axis, and a coupling portion 52 extending from the extension portion 51 at a right angle in the negative direction of the Y axis and facing the second open stub 6 .

[0264] The length of the first open stub 5 , more precisely, the length of the coupling portion 52 , is a fraction of the wavelength at the center frequency of the transmitted signal, for example, 1 / 30 to 1 / 4 wavelength.

[0265] The second open-circuit stub 6 is connected to the unbalanced-side line 4 .

[0266] The second open-circuit stub 6 and the first open-circuit stub 5 form a third coupling line C3.

[0267] The second open stub 6 is connected to the connection line portion 45 of the unbalanced-side line 4 .

[0268] The second open stub 6 extends outward, ie, in the negative direction of the Y axis, from the connecting line portion 45 of the unbalanced line 4 , faces the coupling portion 52 of the first open stub 5 , and is interposed between the first signal line 7 and the second signal line 8 .

[0269] The length of the second open stub 6 , strictly speaking, the length of the portion facing the coupling portion 52 of the first open stub 5 , is a fraction of the wavelength at the center frequency of the transmitted signal, for example, 1 / 30 to 1 / 4 wavelength.

[0270] The balanced line-unbalanced line converter of the fifth embodiment configured in this manner also has the same effects as those of the balanced line-unbalanced line converter of the first embodiment.

[0271] Alternatively, the balanced and unbalanced lines 4 may be formed by strip lines, the balanced and unbalanced lines 4 may be formed by microstrip lines, or one of the balanced and unbalanced lines 4 may be formed by a strip line and the other by a microstrip line.

[0272] Implementation method 6.

[0273] use Figures 16 to 18 A balanced line-unbalanced line converter according to the sixth embodiment will be described.

[0274] In the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of embodiment 1, the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 each have a shape forming three sides of a rectangle, the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 are arranged opposite each other to form four sides of a rectangle, and the unbalanced-side line 4 has a shape forming four sides of a rectangle.

[0275] In contrast, the balanced line-unbalanced line converter of embodiment 6 differs from the balanced line-unbalanced line converter of embodiment 1 in that the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 are respectively in the form of a straight line, and the unbalanced side line 4 and the third signal line 9 are in the form of a straight line; other aspects are the same.

[0276] Figures 16 to 18 In, with Figures 1 to 6 The same reference numerals as those shown indicate the same or corresponding parts.

[0277] Hereinafter, the differences from the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of the first embodiment, namely, the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 , the unbalanced-side line 4 , and the third signal line 9 will be mainly described.

[0278] like Figures 16 to 18 As shown, the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of embodiment 6 includes: a multilayer dielectric substrate 1; a balanced-side line having a first transmission line 2 and a second transmission line 3; an unbalanced-side line 4; a first open stub 5; a second open stub 6; a first signal line 7; a second signal line 8; and a third signal line 9.

[0279] One end 21 of the first transmission line 2 constituting the balanced-side line serves as a first signal end, and the other end 22 is short-circuited.

[0280] The first transmission line 2 is formed on the first conductor layer 11 of the dielectric substrate 1 .

[0281] like Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the first transmission line 2 is formed in a straight line from one end portion 21 outward, that is, in the negative direction of the X-axis.

[0282] One end portion 21 of the first transmission line 2 is connected to the first signal line 7 formed in the first conductive layer 11 of the dielectric substrate 1 .

[0283] The first transmission line 2 and the first signal line 7 are integrally formed of a continuous conductor layer.

[0284] like Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the first signal line 7 is bent at a right angle from one end portion 21 of the first transmission line 2 and formed into a straight line in the negative direction of the Y axis.

[0285] The other end portion 22 of the first transmission line 2 is connected to a ground layer, in this example, the ground layer 14 on the back surface, via a via Va.

[0286] The length of the first transmission line 2 , that is, the length from one end 21 to the other end 22 , is approximately 90 degrees relative to the center frequency of the transmitted signal.

[0287] One end 31 of the second transmission line 3 constituting the balanced-side line serves as a second signal end, and the other end 32 is short-circuited.

[0288] The second transmission line 3 is formed on the first conductor layer 11 of the dielectric substrate 1 .

[0289] like Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the second transmission line 3 is formed in a straight line from one end portion 31 outward, that is, in the positive direction of the X axis.

[0290] An end surface of one end portion 21 of the first transmission line 2 and an end surface of one end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 are arranged to face each other.

[0291] To achieve impedance and the like between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 , a gap G1 is provided between the end surface of the one end portion 21 of the first transmission line 2 and the end surface of the one end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 .

[0292] The first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 are arranged so that the propagation directions of electromagnetic waves are opposite to each other.

[0293] One end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 is connected to the second signal line 8 formed in the first conductive layer 11 of the dielectric substrate 1 .

[0294] The second transmission line 3 and the second signal line 8 are integrally formed of a continuous conductor layer.

[0295] like Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the second signal line 8 is bent at a right angle from one end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 and formed into a straight line in the negative direction of the Y axis, and is arranged in parallel with the first signal line 7 .

[0296] The first signal line 7 and the second signal line 8 are also arranged to have the same interval as the gap G1 .

[0297] The other end portion 32 of the second transmission line 3 is connected to a ground layer, in this example, the ground layer 14 on the back surface, via a via Vb.

[0298] The length of the second transmission line 3 , that is, the length from one end 31 to the other end 32 , is approximately 90 degrees relative to the center frequency of the transmitted signal.

[0299] One end 41 of the unbalanced-side line 4 is a third signal end, and the other end 42 is an open end.

[0300] The unbalanced line 4 includes a first transmission line portion 43 forming a first coupled line C1 with the first transmission line 2 , a second transmission line portion 44 forming a second coupled line C2 with the second transmission line 3 , and a connecting line portion 45 connecting the first transmission line portion 43 and the second transmission line portion 44 .

[0301] The unbalanced line 4 is formed on the second conductor layer 12 of the dielectric substrate 1 .

[0302] The first transmission line portion 43 of the unbalanced-side line 4 is arranged to face the first transmission line 2 with an insulating layer interposed therebetween in the Z-axis direction.

[0303] The second transmission line portion 44 of the unbalanced-side line 4 is arranged to face the second transmission line 3 with an insulating layer interposed therebetween in the Z-axis direction.

[0304] The first transmission line portion 43 and the second transmission line portion 44 are continuously formed via a connection line portion 45 .

[0305] One end portion 41 of the unbalanced-side line 4 is arranged at a position facing the other end portion 22 of the first transmission line 2 with an insulating layer interposed therebetween in the Z-axis direction.

[0306] The other end portion 42 of the unbalanced-side line 4 is arranged at a position facing the other end portion 32 of the second transmission line 3 with an insulating layer interposed therebetween in the Z-axis direction.

[0307] One end of the first transmission line portion 43 of the unbalanced line 4 is the one end 41 of the unbalanced line 4 , and the other end of the second transmission line portion 44 of the unbalanced line 4 is the other end 42 of the unbalanced line 4 .

[0308] The end surface of the one end portion 41 of the unbalanced-side line 4 and the end surface of the other end portion 22 of the first transmission line 2 are located on a plane formed in the Z-axis direction.

[0309] The end surface of the other end portion 42 of the unbalanced-side line 4 and the end surface of the other end portion 32 of the second transmission line 3 are located on a plane formed in the Z-axis direction.

[0310] The connection line portion 43 of the unbalanced-side line 4 is arranged to face the gap G1 between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 in the Z-axis direction with an insulating layer interposed therebetween.

[0311] The first transmission line portion 43, the second transmission line portion 44 and the connection line portion 43 of the unbalanced side line 4 are integrally formed by a continuous conductor layer. Figure 16 and Figure 18 As shown, the line extending from one end portion 41 to the other end portion 42 is formed in a straight line parallel to the X-axis.

[0312] One end portion 41 of the unbalanced line 4 is connected to the third signal line 9 formed in the second conductor layer 12 .

[0313] The unbalanced-side line 4 and the third signal line 9 are integrally formed of a continuous conductor layer.

[0314] like Figure 16 and Figure 18 As shown, the third signal line 9 is formed in a straight line from one end portion 41 of the unbalanced line 4 toward the - direction of the X-axis.

[0315] The length of the unbalanced line 4 , that is, the length from one end 41 to the other end 42 via the first transmission line portion 43 , the second transmission line portion 44 , and the connection line portion 45 , is approximately 180 degrees relative to the center frequency of the transmitted signal.

[0316] The first and second transmission lines 2 and 3 and the first and second signal lines 7 and 8 constituting the balanced-side lines are formed as strip lines sandwiched between a ground layer 13 formed on the front surface and a ground layer 14 formed on the back surface of the dielectric substrate 1 .

[0317] The first transmission line portion 43 , the second transmission line portion 44 , the connection line portion 45 , and the third signal line of the unbalanced line 4 are formed as a strip line sandwiched between the ground layers 13 and 14 .

[0318] Furthermore, either the balanced-side line or the unbalanced-side line 4 may be formed of a microstrip line formed on the front surface or the back surface of the dielectric substrate 1 instead of a strip line.

[0319] like Figure 16 As shown, the first transmission line 2 and the first transmission line portion 43 of the unbalanced line 4 constituting the balanced-side line, and the second transmission line 3 and the second transmission line portion 44 of the unbalanced-side line constituting the balanced-side line completely overlap when viewed through the back surface of the dielectric substrate 1.

[0320] That is, the first transmission line 2 , the second transmission line 3 , and the unbalanced-side line 4 have the same width and are arranged in a straight line along the X-axis.

[0321] Since the first transmission line 2, the second transmission line 3, and the unbalanced-side line 4 are straight lines, the influence of discontinuity in the transmission path on the balanced signal and the unbalanced signal can be eliminated. Compared with the balanced line-unbalanced line converter of embodiment 1, the parasitic inductance generated by the connecting line portion 45 of the unbalanced-side line 4 can be apparently reduced, thereby improving the electrical characteristics.

[0322] Furthermore, in order to adjust the coupling amount of the first coupled line C1 formed by the first transmission line 2 and the first transmission line portion 43, and the coupling amount of the second coupled line C2 formed by the second transmission line 3 and the second transmission line portion 44, the overlap in the Y-axis direction between the first transmission line 2 and the first transmission line portion 43, and the overlap in the Y-axis direction between the second transmission line 3 and the second transmission line portion 44 may be offset.

[0323] Furthermore, the widths of the first transmission line 2 , the second transmission line 3 , and the unbalanced-side line 4 may be different according to the characteristic impedance of each line.

[0324] The first open-circuit stub 5 is connected to one end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 constituting a balanced-side line.

[0325] The first open stub 5 is formed in the first conductive layer 11 of the dielectric substrate 1 .

[0326] The first open stub 5 is formed integrally with the second transmission line 3 via the first conductor layer 11 at an end portion of the second transmission line 3 at a gap G1 between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 .

[0327] The first open stub 5 extends from one end portion of the second transmission line 3 toward the positive direction of the Y axis, that is, toward the side opposite to the second signal line 8 .

[0328] like Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the first open stub 5 has an extension portion 51 extending from one end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 in the - direction of the X axis, and a coupling portion 52 extending from the extension portion 51 in the + direction of the Y axis at a right angle and facing the second open stub 6.

[0329] The side end surface of the coupling portion 52 located on one end side of the first transmission line 2 is opposite to Figure 16 The center line OO shown is arranged on one end side of the first transmission line 2 .

[0330] The length of the first open stub 5 , more precisely, the length of the coupling portion 52 , is a fraction of the wavelength at the center frequency of the transmitted signal, for example, 1 / 30 to 1 / 4 wavelength.

[0331] For example, in an RFIC, a balanced-side line having a first transmission line 2 and a second transmission line 3 and an unbalanced-side line 4 are formed on the first conductive layer 11 and the second conductive layer 12 located in the inner layers of a multilayer dielectric substrate 1, respectively. If the thickness of the insulating layer between the first conductive layer 11 and the second conductive layer 12 is set to several microns, the length of the first open-circuit stub 5 is preferably set to a length of approximately 1 / 20 of the wavelength.

[0332] The second open-circuit stub 6 is connected to the unbalanced-side line 4 .

[0333] The second open stub 6 is formed in the second conductor layer 12 of the dielectric substrate 1 .

[0334] The second open-circuit stub 6 and the first open-circuit stub 5 form a third coupling line C3.

[0335] The second open stub 6 is connected to one end portion of the connection line portion 45 of the unbalanced-side line 4 .

[0336] The second open stub 6 extends from the connection line portion 45 of the unbalanced-side line 4 in the positive direction of the Y axis.

[0337] The second open stub 6 is arranged to face the first open stub 5 with an insulating layer interposed therebetween, and is located on the first transmission line 2 side relative to the first open stub 5 in the X-axis direction.

[0338] The side end surface of the second open stub 6 located at one end side of the second transmission line 3 is opposite to Figure 16 The center line OO shown is arranged on one end side of the first transmission line 2 .

[0339] The second open stub 6 and the coupled portion 52 of the first open stub 5 are arranged as two straight lines parallel to the Y-axis, and together with the coupled portion 52 of the first open stub 5 , form a coupled line C3 .

[0340] Since the parasitic inductance generated by the connecting line portion 45 can be offset by the capacitance generated by the first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6 constituting the third coupled line C3, degradation of the electrical characteristics of the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter caused by the parasitic inductance generated by the connecting line portion 45, i.e., degradation of the transmission phase difference between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 in the balanced-side line, can be suppressed, thereby improving the transmission phase difference.

[0341] Furthermore, the extension portion 51 of the first open stub 5 functions to fill the gap G1 between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 , thereby further improving the transmission phase difference between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 .

[0342] The length of the second open stub 6 is a fraction of the wavelength at the center frequency of the transmitted signal, for example, 1 / 30 to 1 / 4 of the wavelength.

[0343] For example, in an RFIC, a balanced-side line having a first transmission line 2 and a second transmission line 3 and an unbalanced-side line 4 are formed on the first conductive layer 11 and the second conductive layer 12 located in the inner layers of a multilayer dielectric substrate 1, respectively. If the thickness of the insulating layer between the first conductive layer 11 and the second conductive layer 12 is set to several microns, the length of the second open-circuit stub 6 is preferably set to a length of approximately 1 / 20 of the wavelength.

[0344] In addition, the positional relationship between the first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6 only needs to achieve the set coupling amount of the third coupling line C3. Figure 16 As shown, the structures may be staggered in the X-axis direction. Alternatively, the coupling portion 52 of the first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6 may be overlapped in the X-axis direction.

[0345] The operation of the balanced line-unbalanced line converter according to the sixth embodiment will be described.

[0346] A balanced-to-unbalanced line converter that converts a balanced signal into an unbalanced signal will be described.

[0347] The equivalent circuit diagram of the balanced-unbalanced line converter of embodiment 1 is the same as Figure 7 The equivalent circuit diagram of the balanced-unbalanced converter of the first embodiment is the same as that of the balanced-unbalanced converter of the first embodiment, and the operation is basically the same as that of the balanced-unbalanced converter of the first embodiment.

[0348] like Figure 7 As shown, a third coupled line C3 composed of a first open stub 5 and a second open stub 6 is connected in parallel to the connection line portion 45 .

[0349] An LC circuit based on the inductance of the connection line portion 45 and the capacitance of the third coupling line C3 achieves impedance matching between the other end of the first transmission line portion 43 of the unbalanced-side line 4 and one end of the second transmission line portion 44, thereby improving the passing phase difference between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 relative to the unbalanced-side line 4.

[0350] In addition, if Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the gap G2 between the end face of the extension portion 51 of the first open-circuited stub 5 and the end face of the one end portion 21 of the first transmission line 2 is narrower than the gap G1, which can substantially shorten the length of the connecting line portion 45 of the unbalanced-side line 4. Therefore, the parasitic inductance generated by the connecting line portion 45 can be reduced, and the degradation of the electrical characteristics caused by the connecting line portion 45 can be alleviated.

[0351] As a result, the transmission phase difference between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 can be improved.

[0352] As described above, the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of the sixth embodiment includes: a first open-circuited stub 5 connected to one end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3; and a second open-circuited stub connected to the unbalanced-side line 4 and forming a third coupled line C3 with the first open-circuited stub 5. Therefore, the third coupled line C3 can improve the transmission phase difference between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 caused by the parasitic inductance generated by the connecting line portion 45 present in the unbalanced-side line 4, thereby improving the electrical characteristics of the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter with a simple and compact structure.

[0353] Furthermore, the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of embodiment 6 forms the first transmission line 2, the second transmission line 3, and the unbalanced-side line 4 in a straight line shape, thereby eliminating the influence of discontinuity of the transmission path on the balanced and unbalanced signals and improving electrical characteristics.

[0354] In addition, when the balanced line-unbalanced line converter of embodiment 6 is applied to RFIC to enhance the function as RFIC, the balanced line-unbalanced line converter of embodiment 6 can also be formed by using two different wiring layers in an RFIC having multiple wiring layers.

[0355] In addition, in RFIC, a structure using a redistribution layer as a post-process technology of semiconductor technology can also be adopted to form the balanced line-unbalanced line converter of embodiment 6 using two different wiring layers: the wiring layer of RFIC and the redistribution layer.

[0356] Furthermore, in the case of an RFIC having multiple redistribution layers, the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of the sixth embodiment can be formed using different layers within the redistribution layer while separating various circuits formed in the RFIC from the redistribution layer.

[0357] In addition, the shape of the first open short-circuit line 5 can also have a cut-out portion 53 on the outside of the bent portion between the extension portion 51 and the coupling portion 52 in the same manner as shown in embodiment 2. In addition, the shape of the first open short-circuit line 5 can also have an arc-shaped cut-out portion 53 on the outside of the bent portion between the extension portion 51 and the coupling portion 52 in the same manner as shown in embodiment 3.

[0358] In addition, similar to the concept shown in the fourth embodiment, the first open stub 5 may be a straight line extending from the one end 31 of the second transmission line 3 at a right angle in the positive direction of the Y axis and facing the second open stub 6 .

[0359] That is, the first open stub 5 may extend from one end of the second transmission line 3 in the positive direction of the Y axis, that is, in the opposite direction from the second signal line 8 , while being bent at a right angle and continuous with the second signal line 8 along the Y axis.

[0360] The length of the first open stub 5 is the same as that of the second open stub 6 , which is a fraction of the wavelength at the center frequency of the transmitted signal, for example, 1 / 30 to 1 / 4 wavelength.

[0361] Implementation method 7.

[0362] use Figure 19 A balanced line-unbalanced line converter according to a seventh embodiment will be described.

[0363] In the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of the sixth embodiment, the first signal line 7 and the second signal line 8 are formed to extend from the one end 21 of the first transmission line 2 and the one end 31 of the second transmission line 3 in the same direction, ie, the negative direction of the Y axis.

[0364] In contrast, the balanced line-unbalanced line converter of embodiment 7 differs from the balanced line-unbalanced line converter of embodiment 6 in that the first signal line 7 is formed to extend from one end 21 of the first transmission line 2 in the + direction of the Y-axis, and the second signal line 8 is formed to extend from one end 31 of the second transmission line 3 in the - direction of the Y-axis. Other aspects are the same.

[0365] Figure 19 In, with Figures 16 to 18 The same reference numerals as those shown indicate the same or corresponding parts.

[0366] The following mainly describes the differences from the balanced line-unbalanced line converter of embodiment 6, namely, the relationship between the first signal line 7 and the second signal line 8 and the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 and the first stub 5, and omits descriptions of other components.

[0367] The first signal line 7 is integrally formed with the first transmission line 2 by a continuous conductive layer, and is bent at a right angle from one end portion 21 of the first transmission line 2 to form a straight line in the positive direction of the Y axis.

[0368] The second signal line 8 is integrally formed with the second transmission line 3 by a continuous conductor layer, and is bent at a right angle from one end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 to form a straight line in the negative direction of the Y axis.

[0369] The first signal line 7 and the second signal line 8 extend in opposite directions to each other in parallel with the Y axis with respect to a straight line along the X axis on which the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 are arranged.

[0370] The distance between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3, that is, the distance between the side surfaces of the first transmission line 2 and the side surfaces of the second transmission line 3 that are opposite to each other in the X-axis direction, and the gap G1 between the end surface of one end portion 21 of the first transmission line 2 and the end surface of one end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 are the same.

[0371] The first open stub 5 includes an extension portion 51 extending from the one end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 in the - direction of the X axis, and a coupling portion 52 extending from the extension portion 51 in the + direction of the Y axis at a right angle and facing the second open stub 6 .

[0372] The first signal line 7 is arranged in parallel with the coupling portion 52 of the first open stub 5 with a gap therebetween.

[0373] The balanced line-unbalanced line converter of the seventh embodiment configured in this manner also has the same effects as those of the balanced line-unbalanced line converter of the sixth embodiment.

[0374] Alternatively, the first signal line 7 may be formed linearly in the - direction of the Y axis, and the coupling portion 52 between the second signal line 8 and the first open stub 5 may be formed linearly in the + direction of the Y axis.

[0375] In addition, the shape of the first open short-circuit line 5 can also have a cut-out portion 53 on the outside of the bent portion between the extension portion 51 and the coupling portion 52 in the same manner as shown in embodiment 2. In addition, the shape of the first open short-circuit line 5 can also have an arc-shaped cut-out portion 53 on the outside of the bent portion between the extension portion 51 and the coupling portion 52 in the same manner as shown in embodiment 3.

[0376] Furthermore, similar to the concept shown in the fourth embodiment, the first open stub 5 may be a straight line extending from the one end 31 of the second transmission line 3 at a right angle in the positive direction of the Y axis and facing the second open stub 6 .

[0377] Implementation method 8.

[0378] use Figure 20 A balanced line-unbalanced line converter according to the eighth embodiment will be described.

[0379] In the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of the sixth embodiment, the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3, the first open stub 5, the first signal line 7, and the second signal line 8 constituting the balanced-side line are formed on the first conductive layer 11 of the dielectric substrate 1, while the unbalanced-side line 4, the second open stub 6, and the third signal line 9 are formed on the second conductive layer 12 of the dielectric substrate 1.

[0380] That is, in the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of the sixth embodiment, the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 constituting the balanced-side line are broadside-coupled to the unbalanced-side line 4 .

[0381] In contrast, the balanced line-to-unbalanced line converter of the eighth embodiment differs from the balanced line-to-unbalanced line converter of the sixth embodiment in that the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3, the first open stub 5, the first signal line 7, the second signal line 8, the unbalanced line 4, the second open stub 6, and the third signal line 9 constituting the balanced-side line are formed on the same conductor layer of the dielectric substrate 1; all other aspects are the same.

[0382] That is, in the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter of the eighth embodiment, the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 constituting the balanced-side line are coplanarly coupled with the unbalanced-side line 4 .

[0383] In this case, the distance between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 constituting the balanced line and the unbalanced line 4 is not increased, but is designed to a distance that enables the function and characteristics of a balanced-to-unbalanced line converter to be obtained.

[0384] Figure 20 In, with Figures 16 to 18 The same reference numerals as those shown indicate the same or corresponding parts.

[0385] The following description will focus on the differences from the balanced line-unbalanced line converter of the sixth embodiment.

[0386] The shapes of the first transmission line 2 and the first signal line 7 are the same as those of the first transmission line 2 and the first signal line 7 in the sixth embodiment.

[0387] That is, it is configured as follows.

[0388] One end portion 21 of the first transmission line 2 is connected to the first signal line 7 , and the other end portion 22 of the first transmission line 2 is connected to the ground layer via a via Va.

[0389] The first transmission line 2 is formed in a straight line from one end portion 21 outward, that is, in the negative direction of the X-axis.

[0390] The first signal line 7 is integrally formed with the first transmission line 2 by a continuous conductive layer, and is bent at a right angle from one end portion 21 of the first transmission line 2 to form a straight line in the - direction of the Y axis.

[0391] The shapes of the second transmission line 3 and the second signal line 8 are the same as those of the second transmission line 3 and the second signal line 8 in the sixth embodiment.

[0392] That is, it is configured as follows.

[0393] One end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 is connected to the second signal line 8 , and the other end portion 32 of the second transmission line 3 is connected to the ground layer via a via Vb.

[0394] The end surface of the one end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 is arranged to face the end surface of the one end portion 21 of the first transmission line 2 with a gap G1 therebetween.

[0395] The second transmission line 3 is formed in a straight line from one end portion 31 outward, that is, in the positive direction of the X axis.

[0396] The second signal line 8 is integrally formed with the second transmission line 3 by a continuous conductor layer, and is bent at a right angle from one end portion 31 of the second transmission line 3 to form a straight line in the negative direction of the Y axis.

[0397] The first signal line 7 and the second signal line 8 are also arranged to have the same interval as the gap G1 .

[0398] The shape of the unbalanced-side line 4 is the same as that of the unbalanced-side line 4 in the sixth embodiment.

[0399] That is, it is configured as follows.

[0400] The unbalanced-side line 4 is formed on the same conductor layer as the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 .

[0401] One end 41 of the unbalanced-side line 4 is connected to the third signal line 9 , and the other end 42 of the unbalanced-side line 4 is an open end.

[0402] The unbalanced line 4 includes a first transmission line portion 43 forming a first coupled line C1 with the first transmission line 2 , a second transmission line portion 44 forming a second coupled line C2 with the second transmission line 3 , and a connecting line portion 45 connecting the first transmission line portion 43 and the second transmission line portion 44 .

[0403] The unbalanced line 4 is formed in a straight line parallel to the X-axis from one end 41 to the other end 42 , and the first transmission line portion 43 , the second transmission line portion 44 , and the connection line portion 45 are formed in a straight line.

[0404] The first transmission line portion 43 is arranged opposite to the first transmission line 2 in the Y-axis direction, the second transmission line portion 44 is arranged opposite to the second transmission line 3 in the Y-axis direction, and the connecting line portion 45 is arranged opposite to the gap G1 between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 in the Y-axis direction.

[0405] The third signal line 9 is formed integrally with the unbalanced line 4 by a continuous conductor layer, and is formed in a straight line from one end 41 of the unbalanced line 4 toward the − direction of the X-axis.

[0406] The first open stub 5 includes an extension portion 51 extending from one end of the second transmission line 3 in the negative direction of the X axis, and a coupling portion 52 extending from the extension portion 51 in the negative direction of the Y axis at a right angle and interposed between the first signal line 7 and the second signal line 8 .

[0407] The second open stub 6 extends from the connection line portion 45 of the unbalanced line 4 in the negative direction of the Y axis, faces the coupling portion 52 of the first open stub 5 , and is interposed between the first signal line 7 and the second signal line 8 .

[0408] The first open-circuit stub 5 and the second open-circuit stub 6 form a third coupling line C3.

[0409] The balanced line-unbalanced line converter of the eighth embodiment configured in this manner also has the same effects as those of the balanced line-unbalanced line converter of the sixth embodiment.

[0410] Alternatively, the balanced and unbalanced lines 4 may be formed by strip lines, the balanced and unbalanced lines 4 may be formed by microstrip lines, or one of the balanced and unbalanced lines 4 may be formed by a strip line and the other by a microstrip line.

[0411] Implementation method 9.

[0412] use Figure 21 An antenna device according to a ninth embodiment will be described.

[0413] The antenna device according to the ninth embodiment includes an antenna element 200A, a signal source 300A, and a balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100A.

[0414] The balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100A is a balanced-to-unbalanced line converter that converts a balanced signal, so-called differential signal, into an unbalanced signal, so-called single-phase signal, and is the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter described in any of the first to eighth embodiments.

[0415] In addition, the following description will be given as an antenna device of a transmission system.

[0416] The receiving system has the same structure, with the only difference being the active circuit component connected to the antenna element, namely, the receiving circuit 300. This receiving circuit 300 processes the signal obtained by the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100 from converting the received signal based on the radio wave received by the antenna element 200.

[0417] The antenna element 200A receives an unbalanced signal as input, and transmits a radio wave based on the input unbalanced signal.

[0418] The antenna element 200A is a patch antenna or a slot antenna.

[0419] The antenna element 200A only needs to satisfy the design specifications and may be an antenna other than a patch antenna or a slot antenna.

[0420] The antenna element 200A is connected to the third signal line 9 functioning as an output signal line, and receives the unbalanced signal from the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100A.

[0421] The signal source 300A outputs a balanced signal for the radio waves transmitted by the antenna element 200A.

[0422] The signal source 300A refers to an active circuit such as an active component such as an amplifier or a mixer.

[0423] Power corresponding to the radio waves transmitted from the antenna element 200A is supplied to the active circuit from an input line arranged at a preceding stage of the active circuit. The input power is transmitted within the active circuit and output as a balanced signal.

[0424] The signal source 300A is connected to a first signal line 7 and a second signal line 8 functioning as input signal lines.

[0425] One of the balanced signals from the signal source 300A is input to the first transmission line 2 of the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100A via the first signal line 7 .

[0426] Of the balanced signals from the signal source 300A, the other signal that is in a differential signal relationship with one signal is input to the second transmission line 3 of the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100A via the second signal line 8 .

[0427] In the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100A, one of the balanced signals input to the first transmission line 2 flows as an unbalanced signal to the first transmission line portion 43 through electromagnetic field coupling with the first transmission line portion 43 of the unbalanced-side line 4 constituting the first coupled line C1. The other of the balanced signals input to the second transmission line 3 flows as an unbalanced signal to the second transmission line portion 4 through electromagnetic field coupling with the second transmission line portion 44 of the unbalanced-side line 4 constituting the second coupled line C2. The phase difference between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 is improved through the third coupled line C3 constituted by the first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6, and the signal is output as an unbalanced signal to the third signal line 9.

[0428] The antenna device of embodiment 9 constructed in this way outputs the balanced signal from the signal source 300A as an unbalanced signal to the antenna element 200A through the balanced line-unbalanced line converter 100A shown in any one of embodiments 1 to 8. Therefore, the size of the balanced line-unbalanced line converter 100A can be reduced and the electrical characteristics can be improved. Therefore, the electrical characteristics of the antenna device can be improved while achieving miniaturization of the antenna device.

[0429] In the antenna device of the ninth embodiment, the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100A and the active circuit constituting the signal source 300A may be incorporated into the same multilayer dielectric substrate 1 .

[0430] Alternatively, the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100A may be formed on a multilayer dielectric layer provided on a printed circuit board (herein referred to as a dielectric substrate), and the active circuit constituting the signal source 300A may be incorporated into an RFIC.

[0431] In this case, the dielectric layer forming the balun converter 100A and the RFIC incorporating active circuits can be electrically connected by wire bonding. Alternatively, the RFIC can be flip-chip mounted on a printed circuit board using conductive materials such as solder balls.

[0432] The antenna element 200A may be mounted on an RFIC that is incorporated into the same multilayer dielectric substrate 1 as the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100A and the active circuit constituting the signal source 300A, thereby forming an on-chip antenna structure.

[0433] Alternatively, the antenna element 200A may be formed on a printed circuit board having the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100A formed on a dielectric layer.

[0434] Implementation method 10.

[0435] use Figure 22 An antenna device according to a tenth embodiment will be described.

[0436] The antenna device according to the tenth embodiment includes an antenna element 200B, a signal source 300B, and a balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100B.

[0437] The balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100B is a balanced-to-unbalanced line converter that converts an unbalanced signal, so-called single-phase signal, into a balanced signal, so-called differential signal, and is the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter described in any of the first to eighth embodiments.

[0438] In addition, the following description will be given as an antenna device of a transmission system.

[0439] The receiving system has the same structure, with the only difference being the active circuit component connected to the antenna element, namely, the receiving circuit 300. This receiving circuit 300 processes the signal obtained by the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100 from converting the received signal based on the radio wave received by the antenna element 200.

[0440] The antenna element 200B receives a balanced signal as input, and transmits a radio wave based on the input balanced signal.

[0441] The antenna element 200B is any of a monopole antenna, a dipole antenna, and a Vivaldi antenna.

[0442] The antenna element 200B only needs to satisfy the design specifications and may be an antenna other than a monopole antenna, a dipole antenna, or a Vivaldi antenna.

[0443] The antenna element 200B is connected to the first signal line 7 and the second signal line 8 functioning as output signal lines, and receives the balanced signal from the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100B.

[0444] The signal source 300B outputs an unbalanced signal in response to the radio waves transmitted by the antenna element 200B.

[0445] The signal source 300B refers to an active circuit such as an active component such as an amplifier or a mixer.

[0446] Power corresponding to the radio waves transmitted from the antenna element 200B is supplied to the active circuit from an input line arranged at a preceding stage of the active circuit. The input power is transmitted within the active circuit and output as an unbalanced signal.

[0447] The signal source 300B is connected to the third signal line 9 functioning as an input signal line.

[0448] An unbalanced signal from the signal source 300B is input to the unbalanced-side line 4 of the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100B via the third signal line 9 .

[0449] In the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100B, the unbalanced signal input to the unbalanced-side line 4 is electromagnetically coupled with the first transmission line 2 constituting the first coupled line C1 via the first transmission line portion 43, thereby flowing to the first transmission line 2 as one of the balanced signals. Furthermore, the unbalanced signal is electromagnetically coupled with the second transmission line 3 constituting the second coupled line C2 via the second transmission line portion 44, thereby flowing to the second transmission line 3 as the other of the balanced signals. The unbalanced signal is then passed through the third coupled line C3 constituted by the first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6, thereby improving the phase difference between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3, and is then output as a balanced signal to the first signal line 7 and the second signal line 8.

[0450] The antenna device of embodiment 10 constructed in this manner outputs an unbalanced signal from a signal source 300B as a balanced signal to the antenna element 200B via the balanced line-to-unbalanced line converter 100B shown in any one of embodiments 1 to 8. Therefore, the size of the balanced line-to-unbalanced line converter 100B can be reduced and the electrical characteristics can be improved. Therefore, the electrical characteristics of the antenna device can be improved while achieving miniaturization of the antenna device.

[0451] In the antenna device of the tenth embodiment, the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100B and the active circuit constituting the signal source 300B may be incorporated into the same multilayer dielectric substrate 1 .

[0452] Alternatively, the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100B may be formed on a multilayer dielectric layer provided on a printed circuit board, and the active circuit constituting the signal source 300B may be incorporated into an RFIC.

[0453] In this case, the dielectric layer forming the balun converter 100B and the RFIC incorporating active circuits can be electrically connected by wire bonding. Alternatively, the RFIC can be flip-chip mounted on a printed circuit board using conductive materials such as solder balls.

[0454] The antenna element 200B may be mounted on an RFIC that is incorporated into the same multilayer dielectric substrate 1 as the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100B and the active circuit constituting the signal source 300B, thereby forming an on-chip antenna structure.

[0455] Alternatively, the antenna element 200B may be formed on a printed circuit board having the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100A formed on a dielectric layer.

[0456] Implementation method 11.

[0457] use Figure 23 The antenna device according to the eleventh embodiment will be described.

[0458] The antenna device of the eleventh embodiment includes a plurality of antenna elements 2001 to 200 n array antenna device.

[0459] That is, the antenna device of Embodiment 11 includes n antenna devices, where n is a natural number greater than or equal to 2 and is a plurality of antenna devices, with one antenna device including antenna element 200A, signal source 300A, and balun 100A as shown in Embodiment 9.

[0460] In addition, the following description will be given as an antenna device of a transmission system.

[0461] The receiving system has the same structure, with the only difference being the active circuit component connected to the antenna element, namely, the receiving circuit 300. This receiving circuit 300 processes the signal obtained by the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100 from converting the received signal based on the radio wave received by the antenna element 200.

[0462] The antenna device of the eleventh embodiment includes a plurality of antenna elements 2001 to 200 n The antenna element group has multiple signal sources 3001 to 300 n The signal source group has a plurality of balanced line-unbalanced line converters 1001 to 100 n converter group, and control unit 400.

[0463] Balanced line-unbalanced line converters 1001 to 100 n , each antenna element 2001 to 200 n And each signal source 3001~300 n They are provided accordingly, and each has the same configuration as the antenna element 200A, the signal source 300A, and the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100A described in the ninth embodiment, forming a set.

[0464] That is, each of the balanced-unbalanced line converters 1001 to 100 n This is a balanced-unbalanced line converter that converts a balanced signal, so-called differential signal, into an unbalanced signal, so-called single-phase signal, and is the balanced-unbalanced line converter described in any of the first to eighth embodiments.

[0465] The antenna elements 2001 to 2000 constituting the antenna element group n The corresponding third signal lines 91 to 92 function as output signal lines. n The balanced-unbalanced line converters 1001 to 1001 are connected and inputted. n unbalanced signal.

[0466] Each antenna element 2001 to 200 n The transmission is based on the corresponding balanced-unbalanced line converters 1001 to 100 n The input is an unbalanced signal wave.

[0467] Each antenna element 2001 to 200 n This is the same as the antenna element 200A in the ninth embodiment.

[0468] The signal sources 3001 to 300 that constitute the signal source group n The antenna elements 3001 to 3000 that constitute the antenna element group n correspond.

[0469] Each signal source 3001~300 n For each corresponding antenna element 2001 to 200 n A balanced signal of the transmitted radio wave is output as an output signal.

[0470] Each signal source 3001~300 n The first signal lines 71 to 72 corresponding to the first signal lines 71 to 72 function as input signal lines. n and the second signal lines 81 to 8 n connect.

[0471] From various signal sources 3001 to 300 n One of the balanced signals is transmitted through the corresponding first signal lines 71 to 7 n Input to the corresponding balanced line-unbalanced line converters 1001 to 100 n The first transmission line 2.

[0472] From various signal sources 3001 to 300 n The other signal in the balanced signal relationship with one signal is a differential signal through the corresponding second signal lines 81 to 8 n Input to the corresponding balanced line-unbalanced line converters 1001 to 100 n The second transmission line 3.

[0473] Each signal source 2001~200 n The same as the signal source 200A in the ninth embodiment.

[0474] In the balanced line-unbalanced line converter 1001~100 n In each of the coupled lines C1, one of the balanced signals input to the first transmission line 2 flows as an unbalanced signal to the first transmission line portion 43 through electromagnetic field coupling with the first transmission line portion 43 of the unbalanced-side line 4 constituting the first coupled line C1, and the other of the balanced signals input to the second transmission line 3 flows as an unbalanced signal to the second transmission line portion 4 through electromagnetic field coupling with the second transmission line portion 44 of the unbalanced-side line 4 constituting the second coupled line C2. The phase difference between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 is improved through the third coupled line C3 constituted by the first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6, and the signal is output as an unbalanced signal to the third signal line 9.

[0475] The control unit 400 controls each of the signal sources 3001 to 3000 constituting the signal source group. n , and control the signal sources 3001 to 300 n The power supply and the output timing as a balance signal for the input power.

[0476] The control unit 400 controls the antenna elements 2001 to 2000 constituting the antenna element group. n In order to transmit radio waves, the antenna device functions as an array antenna device.

[0477] The antenna device of the eleventh embodiment configured in this manner includes n sets of antenna elements, signal sources, and balanced-to-unbalanced line converters, and transmits the signals from the respective signal sources 3001 to 3000. nThe balanced signal is passed through the corresponding balanced line-unbalanced line converters 1001 to 1000 shown in any of the first to eighth embodiments. n The unbalanced signal is output to the corresponding antenna elements 2001 to 200 n Therefore, the balanced-unbalanced line converters 1001 to 100 n The size of the converter group is increased by increasing the size of each balanced-unbalanced converter 1001 to 100 n The electrical characteristics of the array antenna device are improved, thereby achieving miniaturization of the array antenna device and improving the electrical characteristics of the array antenna device.

[0478] In the antenna device of the eleventh embodiment, the converter group and the active circuits constituting the signal source group may be separately incorporated into the same multilayer dielectric substrate 1 .

[0479] Alternatively, the converter group may be formed on a multilayer dielectric layer provided on a printed circuit board, and the active circuit constituting the signal source group may be incorporated into an RFIC.

[0480] In this case, the dielectric layer forming the balun converter 100A and the RFIC incorporating active circuits can be electrically connected by wire bonding. Alternatively, the RFIC can be flip-chip mounted on a printed circuit board using conductive materials such as solder balls.

[0481] The antenna element group may be mounted on an RFIC that is separately incorporated on the same multilayer dielectric substrate 1 as the converter group and the active circuits constituting the signal source group, thereby forming an on-chip array antenna structure.

[0482] Alternatively, the antenna element group may be formed on a printed circuit board having a transformer group formed on a dielectric layer.

[0483] In addition, the antenna device of embodiment 11 is an antenna device having n groups of antenna devices with the antenna device including the antenna element 200A, the signal source 300A, and the balanced line-unbalanced line converter 100A shown in embodiment 9 as one group. However, as another antenna device, it can also be an antenna device having n groups of antenna devices with the antenna device including the antenna element 200B, the signal source 300B, and the balanced line-unbalanced line converter 100B shown in embodiment 10 as one group, and controlled by the control unit 400.

[0484] In this case, each of the balanced-unbalanced line converters 1001 to 1001 constituting the converter group nThis is a balanced-unbalanced line converter that converts an unbalanced signal, so-called single-phase signal, into a balanced signal, so-called differential signal, and is the balanced-unbalanced line converter described in any of the first to eighth embodiments.

[0485] The antenna elements 2001 to 2000 constituting the antenna element group n The transmission is based on the corresponding balanced-unbalanced line converters 1001 to 100 n The radio wave of the input balanced signal is the same as that of the antenna element 200B in the tenth embodiment.

[0486] The signal sources 3001 to 300 that constitute the signal source group n For each corresponding antenna element 2001 to 200 n The unbalanced signal of the transmitted radio wave is output as an output signal to each balanced line-unbalanced line converter 1001 to 100 n , which is the same as the signal source 200B in embodiment 10.

[0487] Implementation method 12.

[0488] use Figure 24 An antenna device according to Embodiment 12 will be described.

[0489] The antenna device of the twelfth embodiment includes a plurality of antenna elements 2001 to 200 n array antenna device.

[0490] The antenna device of the eleventh embodiment is configured such that each of the antenna elements 2001 to 200 n Balanced line-unbalanced line converter 1001~100 n and signal sources 3001~300 n A group that matches on a 1-to-1 basis.

[0491] On the other hand, the antenna device of the twelfth embodiment is configured such that each of the antenna elements 2001 to 200 n Balanced Line-Unbalanced Line Converter 100 11 , 100 12 ~100 n1 , 100 n2 and signal source 300 11 , 300 12 ~300 n1 , 300 n A pair of p (p is a natural number greater than or equal to 2, or a plurality of pairs) corresponds to each other.

[0492] In this example, it is described assuming that p=2.

[0493] In addition, the following description will be given as an antenna device of a transmission system.

[0494] The receiving system has the same structure, with the only difference being the active circuit component connected to the antenna element, namely, the receiving circuit 300. This receiving circuit 300 processes the signal obtained by the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100 from converting the received signal based on the radio wave received by the antenna element 200.

[0495] The antenna device of the twelfth embodiment includes an antenna element group having a plurality of antenna elements 2001 to 200 n ; A signal source group having multiple signal sources 300 11 , 300 12 ~300 n1 , 300 n2 A plurality of signal source groups; a converter group having a plurality of balanced line - unbalanced line converters 100 11 , 100 12 ~100 n1 , 100 n2 A plurality of converter groups; a control unit 400; and a synthesis circuit group having a plurality of power synthesis circuits 5001 to 500 n .

[0496] Each antenna element 2001 to 200 n , each signal source group and each converter group are set accordingly.

[0497] In this example, each converter group consists of two balanced-unbalanced line converters 100. 111 , 100 12 ~100 n1 , 100 n2 For a group.

[0498] Each balanced line-unbalanced line converter 100 11 , 100 12 ~100 n1 , 100 n2 This is a balanced-unbalanced line converter that converts a balanced signal, so-called differential signal, into an unbalanced signal, so-called single-phase signal, and is the balanced-unbalanced line converter described in any of the first to eighth embodiments.

[0499] A plurality of power combining circuits 5001 to 5000 constituting a combining circuit group n Respectively with multiple antenna elements 2001 to 200 n Correspondingly, they have a first input terminal, a second input terminal and an output terminal.

[0500] Each power synthesis circuit 5001~500 n The same unbalanced signals input to the first input terminal and the second input terminal are combined and output to the output terminal as one unbalanced signal.

[0501] Each power synthesis circuit 5001~500 n The first input terminal and the second input terminal are respectively connected to the corresponding two third signal lines 9 11 , 9 12 ~9 n1 , 9 n2 Connect the two corresponding third signal lines 9 11 , 9 12 ~9 n1 , 9 n2 As output, two balanced-unbalanced line converters 100 are provided from each of the corresponding plurality of converter groups. 11 , 100 12 ~100 n1 , 100 n2 The unbalanced-side line 4 functions as an output signal line for an unbalanced signal.

[0502] The antenna elements 2001 to 2000 constituting the antenna element group n and the corresponding power combining circuits 5001 to 500 n The output terminals of the two balanced-unbalanced line converters 100 are connected to each other and combined and input respectively from the corresponding converter group. 11 , 100 12 ~100 n1 , 100 n2 Two unbalanced signals.

[0503] Each antenna element 2001 to 200 n Transmits radio waves based on an unbalanced signal synthesized from two unbalanced signals.

[0504] Each antenna element 2001 to 200 n The amount of electricity passes through each power synthesis circuit 5001 to 500 n The amount of electricity becomes twice that of an unbalanced signal.

[0505] Each antenna element 2001 to 200 n This is the same as the antenna element 200A in the ninth embodiment.

[0506] The signal source groups constituting the signal source group and the antenna elements 3001 to 3000 constituting the antenna element group n correspond.

[0507] In this example, each signal source group consists of two signal sources 300 11 , 300 12 ~300 n1 , 300 n2 For a group.

[0508] The two signal sources 300 constituting each signal source group 11 , 300 12 ~300 n1 , 300 n2 For each corresponding antenna element 2001 to 200 n A balanced signal of the transmitted radio wave is output as an output signal.

[0509] The two signal sources 300 constituting each signal source group 11 , 300 12 ~300 n1 , 300 n2 are connected to two first signal lines 7 functioning as input signal lines corresponding to the respective signal source groups. 11 , 7 12 ~7 n1 , 7 n2 and the second signal line 8 11 , 8 12 ~8 n1 , 8 n2 .

[0510] From two signal sources 300 constituting each signal source group 11 , 300 12 ~300 n1 , 300 n2 One of the balanced signals is transmitted through each first signal line 7 corresponding to each signal source group. 11 , 7 12 ~7 n1 , 7 n2 The balanced-unbalanced line converters 100 input to the converter groups corresponding to the signal source groups are 11 , 100 12 ~100 n1 , 100 n2 The first transmission line 2.

[0511] From two signal sources 300 constituting each signal source group 11 , 300 12 ~300 n1 , 300 n2 The other signal in the balanced signal is transmitted via each second signal line 8 corresponding to each signal source group. 11 , 8 12 ~8n1 , 8 n2 The balanced-unbalanced line converters 100 input to the converter groups corresponding to the signal source groups are 11 , 100 12 ~100 n1 , 100 n2 The second transmission line 3.

[0512] Each signal source 300 11 , 300 12 ~300 n1 , 300 n2 The same as the signal source 300A in the ninth embodiment.

[0513] Balanced line to unbalanced line converter 100 11 , 100 12 ~100 n1 , 100 n2 In each of the coupled lines C1, one of the balanced signals input to the first transmission line 2 flows as an unbalanced signal to the first transmission line portion 43 through electromagnetic field coupling with the first transmission line portion 43 of the unbalanced-side line 4 constituting the first coupled line C1, and the other of the balanced signals input to the second transmission line 3 flows as an unbalanced signal to the second transmission line portion 4 through electromagnetic field coupling with the second transmission line portion 44 of the unbalanced-side line 4 constituting the second coupled line C2. The phase difference between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 is improved through the third coupled line C3 constituted by the first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6, and the signal is output as an unbalanced signal to the third signal line 9.

[0514] The control unit 400 controls each signal source 300 constituting the signal source group for each signal source group. 11 , 300 12 ~300 n1 , 300 n2 , and control to each signal source 300 11 , 300 12 ~300 n1 , 300 n2 The power supply and the output timing as a balance signal for the input power.

[0515] The control unit 400 controls the antenna elements 2001 to 2000 constituting the antenna element group. n In order to transmit radio waves, the antenna device functions as an array antenna device.

[0516] The antenna device of the twelfth embodiment thus constructed comprises n groups of structures comprising antenna elements, a signal source group comprising a plurality of signal sources, and a converter group comprising a plurality of balanced-unbalanced line converters, and transmitting signals from the respective signal sources 300 controlled in units of the signal source groups. 11 , 300 12 ~300 n1 , 300 n2 The balanced signal passes through each balanced line-unbalanced line converter 100 of the converter group corresponding to each signal source group shown in any one of the first to eighth embodiments. 11 , 100 12 ~100 n1 , 100 n2 , is output as an unbalanced signal to each antenna element 2001 to 200 corresponding to each converter group. n , thus, it is possible to reduce the 11 , 100 12 ~100 n1 , 100 n2 The size of each balanced-unbalanced line converter 100 is increased by increasing the size of the converter group. 11 , 100 12 ~100 n1 , 100 n2 The electrical characteristics of each antenna element 2001 to 200 n Therefore, it is possible to realize miniaturization of the array antenna device and increase the power consumption of each antenna element 2001 to 200 n Based on the transmitted power, the electrical characteristics of the array antenna device are improved.

[0517] In the antenna device of the twelfth embodiment, the converter group, the active circuits constituting the signal source group, and the synthesizing circuit group may be separately incorporated into the same multilayer dielectric substrate 1 .

[0518] Alternatively, the converter group may be formed on a multilayer dielectric layer provided on a printed circuit board, the active circuit constituting the signal source group may be incorporated into an RFIC, and the synthesized circuit group may be formed on the printed circuit board.

[0519] In this case, the dielectric layer on which the transducer group is formed and the RFIC on which the active circuit is incorporated can be electrically connected by wire bonding. Alternatively, the RFIC can be flip-chip mounted on a printed circuit board using conductive materials such as solder balls.

[0520] The antenna element group may be mounted on an RFIC that is separately assembled on the same multilayer dielectric substrate 1 as the converter group, the active circuits constituting the signal source group, and the synthesizing circuit group, thereby forming an on-chip array antenna structure.

[0521] Alternatively, the antenna element group may be formed on a printed circuit board having a transformer group formed on a dielectric layer.

[0522] In addition, the antenna device of embodiment 12 is an antenna device having n groups of antenna devices by using the antenna device shown in embodiment 9 having the antenna element 200A, the signal source group having multiple signal sources 300A, and the converter group having multiple balanced line-unbalanced line converters 100A as one group. However, as another antenna device, it can also be an antenna device having n groups of antenna devices by using the antenna device shown in embodiment 10 having the antenna element 200B, the signal source group having multiple signal sources 300B, and the converter group having multiple balanced line-unbalanced line converters 100B as one group, and the antenna device controlled by the control unit 400.

[0523] In this case, the balanced-unbalanced line converter 100 constituting the converter group 11 , 100 12 ~100 n1 , 100 n2 Each is a balanced-unbalanced line converter that converts an unbalanced signal, so-called single-phase signal, into a balanced signal, so-called differential signal, and is the balanced-unbalanced line converter described in any of the first to eighth embodiments.

[0524] The antenna elements 2001 to 2000 constituting the antenna element group n The transmission is based on the plurality of balanced-unbalanced line converters 100 constituting the corresponding converter group. 11 , 100 12 ~100 n1 , 100 n2 The radio waves of the balanced signals inputted are the same as those of the antenna element 200B in the tenth embodiment.

[0525] Each signal source 300 constituting the signal source group 11 , 300 12 ~300 n1 , 300 n2 For each antenna element 2001 to 2002 corresponding to the signal source group, n The unbalanced signal of the transmitted radio wave is output as an output signal to each balanced line-unbalanced line converter 100 of the converter group corresponding to the signal source group. 11 , 100 12 ~100 n1 , 100n2 , which is the same as the signal source 200B in embodiment 10.

[0526] Implementation method 13.

[0527] use Figure 25 An antenna device according to a thirteenth embodiment will be described.

[0528] The antenna device of the thirteenth embodiment includes a plurality of antenna elements 2001 to 200 n array antenna device.

[0529] The antenna device of the eleventh embodiment is configured such that each of the antenna elements 2001 to 200 n Balanced line-unbalanced line converter 1001~100 n and signal sources 3001~300 n A group that matches on a 1-to-1 basis.

[0530] On the other hand, the antenna device of the thirteenth embodiment is configured such that the antenna elements 2001 to 200 n Balanced line-unbalanced line converter 1001~100 m and signal sources 3001~300 m A group corresponding to each other in a 1 to 1 / q manner.

[0531] q is a natural number greater than or equal to 2, that is, a plurality, and m is n / q.

[0532] In this example, it is assumed that q=2 for description.

[0533] In addition, the following description will be given as an antenna device of a transmission system.

[0534] The receiving system has the same structure, with the only difference being the active circuit component connected to the antenna element, namely, the receiving circuit 300. This receiving circuit 300 processes the signal obtained by the balanced-to-unbalanced line converter 100 from converting the received signal based on the radio wave received by the antenna element 200.

[0535] The antenna device of the thirteenth embodiment includes an antenna element group including a plurality of antenna elements 2001 to 200 n A plurality of antenna element groups; a signal source group having a plurality of signal sources 3001 to 300 corresponding to the plurality of antenna element groups m Converter group, which has a plurality of balanced line corresponding to the plurality of antenna element groups - unbalanced line converter 1001 ~ 100 m ; Control unit 400; and a distribution circuit group, which has a plurality of power distribution circuits 6001 ~ 600 m .

[0536] Each of the plurality of antenna element groups and the plurality of signal sources 3001 to 300 m Each and multiple balanced line-unbalanced line converters 1001 to 100 m Set accordingly.

[0537] The plurality of antenna element groups corresponding to the reception, the plurality of signal sources 3001 to 300 m Each and multiple balanced line-unbalanced line converters 1001 to 100 m Each constitutes a subarray.

[0538] In this example, a subarray is composed of two antenna elements, a signal source, and a balanced line-to-unbalanced line converter, and an array antenna is composed of m subarrays.

[0539] Balanced line-unbalanced line converters 1001 to 100 m This is a balanced-unbalanced line converter that converts a balanced signal, so-called differential signal, into an unbalanced signal, so-called single-phase signal, and is the balanced-unbalanced line converter described in any of the first to eighth embodiments.

[0540] A plurality of power distribution circuits 6001 to 6001 forming a distribution circuit group m Each of the plurality of antenna element groups corresponds to an input end, a first output end, and a second output end.

[0541] Each power distribution circuit 6001~600 m An unbalanced signal input to the input terminal is divided into two unbalanced signals, and the same unbalanced signal is output to each of the first output terminal and the second output terminal.

[0542] Each power distribution circuit 6001~600 m The input end and the corresponding third signal lines 91 to 9 m The third signal lines 91 to 9 m As output from the corresponding multiple balanced line-unbalanced line converters 1001 to 100 m Each unbalanced-side line 4 functions as an output signal line of an unbalanced signal.

[0543] The antenna elements 2001 to 2000 constituting the antenna element group n are connected to the respective distribution circuits 6001 to 6000 corresponding to the respective antenna element groups. m The first output terminal and the second output terminal of the balanced line-unbalanced line converter 1001 to 100 corresponding to each antenna element group are mThe unbalanced signal is distributed by the corresponding distribution circuits 6001 to 600 m Assign two and enter.

[0544] Each antenna element 2001 to 200 n The transmission is based on the distribution circuits 6001 to 600 corresponding to the antenna element groups. m The radio wave is divided into two unbalanced signals.

[0545] Each antenna element 2001 to 200 n Radio waves based on the same unbalanced signal are transmitted for each antenna element group, that is, for each subarray.

[0546] In this example, each antenna element group has two antenna elements 2001 to 200 n For a group.

[0547] Antenna elements 2001 to 200 n Each is the same as the antenna element 200A in the ninth embodiment.

[0548] The signal sources 3001 to 300 that constitute the signal source group m Each of the plurality of antenna element groups constituting the antenna element group corresponds to the plurality of antenna element groups.

[0549] Signal source 3001~300 m The two first signal lines 71 to 72 function as the corresponding input signal lines. m and the second signal lines 81 to 8 m connect.

[0550] From various signal sources 3001 to 300 m One of the balanced signals is input to the corresponding balanced line-unbalanced line converters 1001 to 100 m The first transmission line 2.

[0551] From various signal sources 3001 to 300 m The other signal of the balanced signal is input to the corresponding balanced line-unbalanced line converters 1001 to 100 m The second transmission line 3.

[0552] Each signal source 3001~300 m The same as the signal source 200A in the ninth embodiment.

[0553] In the balanced line-unbalanced line converter 1001~100 mIn each of the coupled lines C1, one of the balanced signals input to the first transmission line 2 flows as an unbalanced signal to the first transmission line portion 43 through electromagnetic field coupling with the first transmission line portion 43 of the unbalanced-side line 4 constituting the first coupled line C1, and the other of the balanced signals input to the second transmission line 3 flows as an unbalanced signal to the second transmission line portion 4 through electromagnetic field coupling with the second transmission line portion 44 of the unbalanced-side line 4 constituting the second coupled line C2. The phase difference between the first transmission line 2 and the second transmission line 3 is improved through the third coupled line C3 constituted by the first open stub 5 and the second open stub 6, and the signal is output as an unbalanced signal to the third signal line 9.

[0554] The control unit 400 controls each of the signal sources 3001 to 3000 constituting the signal source group. m , and control the signal sources 3001 to 300 m The power supply and the output timing as a balance signal for the input power.

[0555] The control unit 400 controls the antenna elements 2001 to 2000 constituting the antenna element group for each antenna element group. n In order to transmit radio waves, the antenna device functions as an array antenna device in which each antenna element group functions as a subarray.

[0556] The antenna device of the thirteenth embodiment thus configured includes n groups of antenna element groups, signal sources, and balanced-to-unbalanced line converters. Each antenna element group functions as a subarray, transmitting the signals from the respective signal sources 3001 to 3000. m The balanced signal is passed through the corresponding balanced line-unbalanced line converters 1001 to 1000 shown in any of the first to eighth embodiments. m , as unbalanced signals, are output to the plurality of antenna elements 2001 to 2000 for each corresponding antenna element group. n Therefore, it is possible to reduce the power consumption of the balanced-unbalanced line converters 1001 to 100 m The size of the converter group is increased by increasing the size of each balanced-unbalanced converter 1001 to 100 m The electrical characteristics of the array antenna device are improved, thereby achieving miniaturization of the array antenna device and improving the electrical characteristics of the array antenna device.

[0557] In the antenna device of the thirteenth embodiment, the converter group, the active circuits constituting the signal source group, and the distribution circuit group may be separately incorporated into the same multilayer dielectric substrate 1 .

[0558] Alternatively, the converter group may be formed on a multilayer dielectric layer provided on a printed circuit board, the active circuits constituting the signal source group may be incorporated into an RFIC, and the distribution circuit group may be formed on the printed circuit board.

[0559] In this case, the dielectric layer on which the transducer group is formed and the RFIC on which the active circuit is incorporated can be electrically connected by wire bonding. Alternatively, the RFIC can be flip-chip mounted on a printed circuit board using conductive materials such as solder balls.

[0560] The antenna element group may be mounted on an RFIC that is separately assembled on the same multilayer dielectric substrate 1 as the converter group, the active circuits constituting the signal source group, and the distribution circuit group, thereby forming an on-chip array antenna structure.

[0561] Alternatively, the antenna element group may be formed on a printed circuit board having a transformer group formed on a dielectric layer.

[0562] In addition, the antenna device of embodiment 13 is an antenna device having n groups of antenna devices with one group including the antenna device having the plurality of antenna elements 200A, the signal source 300A, and the balanced line-unbalanced line converter 100A as shown in embodiment 9 constituting the antenna element group. However, as another antenna device, it may be an antenna device having n groups with one group including the antenna device having the antenna element 200B, the signal source 300B, and the balanced line-unbalanced line converter 100B as shown in embodiment 10 constituting the antenna element group, and controlled by the control unit 400.

[0563] In this case, each of the balanced-unbalanced line converters 1001 to 1001 constituting the converter group m This is a balanced-unbalanced line converter that converts an unbalanced signal, so-called single-phase signal, into a balanced signal, so-called differential signal, and is the balanced-unbalanced line converter described in any of the first to eighth embodiments.

[0564] The antenna elements 2001 to 2000 constituting the antenna element group n The transmission is based on the transmission from the plurality of balanced-unbalanced line converters 1001 to 100 corresponding to each antenna element group. m The radio waves of the balanced signals inputted are the same as those of the antenna element 200B in the tenth embodiment.

[0565] The signal sources 3001 to 300 that constitute the signal source group m For each corresponding antenna element group, n The unbalanced signal of the transmitted radio wave is output as an output signal to the signal source 3001 to 300 mCorresponding balanced line-unbalanced line converters 1001 to 100 m , which is the same as the signal source 200B in embodiment 10.

[0566] Furthermore, the various embodiments may be freely combined, arbitrary components of the various embodiments may be modified, or arbitrary components of the various embodiments may be omitted.

[0567] Industrial applicability

[0568] The balanced-to-unbalanced line converter disclosed herein is mainly applicable to a balanced-to-unbalanced line converter operating at a high frequency such as a sub-terahertz band or a terahertz band.

[0569] The balanced line-unbalanced line converter disclosed in the present invention is suitable for use in high-frequency equipment such as communications and radars.

[0570] Description of labels

[0571] 100A, 100B, 1001~100 n , 100 11 , 100 12 ~100 n1 , 100 n2 Balanced-to-unbalanced line converter, 1: Dielectric substrate, 11: First conductor layer, 12: Second conductor layer, 13, 14: Ground layer, 2: First transmission line, 23: First line portion, 24: Second line portion, 25: Third line portion, 3: Second transmission line, 33: First line portion, 34: Second line portion, 35: Third line portion, 4: Unbalanced-side line, 43: First transmission line portion, 43a: First line portion, 43b: Second line portion, 43c: Third line portion, 44: Second transmission line portion, 44a: First line portion, 44b: Second line portion, 44c: Third line portion, 45: Connecting line portion, 5: First open stub, 51: Extension portion, 52: Coupling portion, 53: Cutout portion, 6: Second open stub, 7, 71-7 n , 7 11 , 7 12 ~7 n1 , 7 n2 :First signal line, 8, 81~8 n , 8 11 , 8 12 ~8 n1 , 8 n2 :Second signal line, 9, 91~9 n , 9 11 , 9 12 ~9 n1 , 9n2 : third signal line, C1: first coupling line, C2: second coupling line, C3: third coupling line, 200A, 200B, 2001-200 n :Antenna element, 300A, 300B, 3001~300 n , 300 11 , 300 12 ~300 n1 , 300 n2 : Active circuit, 400: Control unit, 5001~500 n :Power synthesis circuit, 6001~600 m : Power distribution circuit.

Claims

1. A balanced-to-unbalanced line converter comprising: A balanced-side line having a first transmission line with one end being a first signal end and the other end being short-circuited, and a second transmission line with one end being a second signal end and the other end being short-circuited; an unbalanced-side line having one end serving as a third signal end and the other end being an open end, and including a first transmission line portion forming a first coupled line with the first transmission line and a second transmission line portion forming a second coupled line with the second transmission line; a first open-circuit stub connected to one end of the second transmission line; as well as A second open-circuit stub is connected to the unbalanced-side line and forms a third coupling line with the first open-circuit stub.

2. The balanced line to unbalanced line converter according to claim 1, wherein: The balanced-to-unbalanced line converter includes a multilayer dielectric substrate having a first conductor layer and a second conductor layer that is a layer different from the first conductor layer. The balanced-side line and the first open-circuit stub are formed on the first conductor layer. The unbalanced-side line and the second open-circuit stub are formed in the second conductor layer.

3. The balanced line to unbalanced line converter according to claim 2, wherein: The first transmission line portion of the unbalanced line is arranged to face the first transmission line portion of the balanced line in the interlayer direction. The second transmission line portion of the unbalanced line is arranged to face the second transmission line portion of the balanced line in the interlayer direction. The unbalanced line includes a connection line portion disposed opposite to a gap between the first transmission line and the second transmission line of the balanced line in an interlayer direction. The second open-circuit stub is connected to a connection line portion of the unbalanced-side line.

4. The balanced line to unbalanced line converter according to claim 1, wherein: The balanced-to-unbalanced line converter includes a multilayer dielectric substrate having a first conductor layer, a second conductor layer that is a layer different from the first conductor layer, and a ground layer that is a layer different from the first and second conductor layers. The first transmission line is formed in the first conductor layer, one end of the first transmission line is connected to a first signal line formed in the first conductor layer, and the other end of the first transmission line is connected to the ground layer. The first transmission line includes a first line portion extending outward, a second line portion extending from the first line portion at a right angle, and a third line portion extending inward from the second line portion at a right angle. The second transmission line is formed in the first conductive layer, one end of the second transmission line is connected to a second signal line formed in the first conductive layer, and the other end of the second transmission line is connected to the ground layer. An end surface of one end of the second transmission line is arranged opposite to an end surface of one end of the first transmission line with a gap therebetween. The second transmission line includes a first line portion extending outward, a second line portion extending from the first line portion at a right angle, and a third line portion extending inward from the second line portion at a right angle. The unbalanced line is formed in the second conductor layer. One end of the unbalanced line is connected to a third signal line formed in the second conductor layer. An end surface of the one end of the unbalanced line is arranged opposite an end surface of the other end of the unbalanced line. The one and other ends of the unbalanced line are arranged at positions opposing the other ends of the first transmission line and the second transmission line. One end of the first transmission line section of the unbalanced line is the one end of the unbalanced line, and the other end of the second transmission line section is the other end of the unbalanced line. The first and second transmission line sections of the unbalanced line are formed continuously. The first transmission line section of the unbalanced line includes a first line section, a second line section, and a third line section that are respectively opposed to the first, second, and third line sections of the first transmission line. The second transmission line section of the unbalanced line includes a first line section, a second line section, and a third line section that are respectively opposed to the first, second, and third line sections of the second transmission line. The first open stub is formed in the first conductor layer and extends inward from one end of the second transmission line. The second open stub is formed in the second conductor layer and extends inward from a line portion of the unbalanced line disposed at a position opposing one end portion of the unbalanced line so as to face the first open stub.

5. The balanced line to unbalanced line converter according to claim 4, wherein: The first open stub includes an extension portion extending inward from one end portion of the second transmission line, and a coupling portion extending and bending inward from the extension portion and facing the second open stub.

6. The balanced line to unbalanced line converter according to claim 5, wherein: The first open stub has a cutout portion outside a bent portion between the extending portion and the coupling portion.

7. The balanced line to unbalanced line converter according to claim 5, wherein: The first open stub has a cutout portion on an arc outside a bent portion between the extending portion and the coupling portion.

8. The balanced line to unbalanced line converter according to claim 4, wherein: The first open stub includes a coupling portion that extends inward from one end portion of the second transmission line and faces the second open stub.

9. The balanced line to unbalanced line converter according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The length of each of the first open stub and the second open stub is 1 / 30 to 1 / 4 of the wavelength at the center frequency of the transmitted signal.

10. The balanced line to unbalanced line converter according to claim 1, wherein: The balanced-to-unbalanced line converter includes a multilayer dielectric substrate having a first conductor layer, a second conductor layer that is a layer different from the first conductor layer, and a ground layer that is a layer different from the first and second conductor layers. The first transmission line is formed linearly on the first conductive layer, one end of the first transmission line is connected to a first signal line formed on the first conductive layer, and the other end of the first transmission line is connected to the ground layer. The second transmission line is formed linearly on the first conductive layer, one end of the second transmission line is connected to a second signal line formed on the first conductive layer, and the other end of the second transmission line is connected to the ground layer. An end surface of one end of the second transmission line faces an end surface of one end of the first transmission line with a gap therebetween, and the second transmission line and the first transmission line are arranged on a straight line. The unbalanced-side line is formed linearly on the second conductive layer. One end of the unbalanced-side line is connected to a third signal line formed on the second conductive layer. One end and the other end of the unbalanced-side line are arranged at positions opposing the other end of the first transmission line and the other end of the second transmission line. One end of a first transmission line portion of the unbalanced-side line is the one end of the unbalanced-side line, and the other end of a second transmission line portion of the unbalanced-side line is the other end of the unbalanced-side line. The first and second transmission line portions of the unbalanced-side line are formed continuously. The first transmission line portion of the unbalanced-side line is arranged opposing the first transmission line, and the second transmission line portion of the unbalanced-side line is arranged opposing the second transmission line. The first open stub is formed in the first conductor layer and extends from one end of the second transmission line in a direction perpendicular to the second transmission line. The second open stub is formed in the second conductor layer, faces the first open stub in the center of the unbalanced line, and extends in a direction perpendicular to the unbalanced line.

11. The balanced line to unbalanced line converter according to claim 10, wherein: The first open stub includes: an extension portion extending from an end surface of one end portion of the second transmission line so as to fill a gap between an end surface of one end portion of the first transmission line and an end surface of one end portion of the second transmission line; and a coupling portion that bends at a right angle and extends from the extending portion and is opposed to the second open-circuit stub.

12. The balanced line to unbalanced line converter according to claim 11, wherein: The first open stub has a cutout portion outside a bent portion between the extending portion and the coupling portion.

13. The balanced line to unbalanced line converter according to claim 11, wherein: The first open stub has a cutout portion on an arc outside a bent portion between the extending portion and the coupling portion.

14. The balanced line to unbalanced line converter according to claim 10, wherein: The first open stub has a coupling portion that bends at a right angle and extends from one end portion of the second transmission line and faces the second open stub.

15. The balanced line to unbalanced line converter according to any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein: The length of each of the first open stub and the second open stub is 1 / 30 to 1 / 4 of the wavelength at the center frequency of the transmitted signal.

16. The balanced line to unbalanced line converter according to claim 1, wherein: The balanced-side line, the unbalanced-side line, the first open-circuit stub, and the second open-circuit stub are formed on the same conductor layer.

17. An antenna device comprising: an antenna element that receives an unbalanced signal and transmits a radio wave based on the input unbalanced signal; a signal source that outputs a balanced signal for the radio wave transmitted by the antenna element; and The balanced line to unbalanced line converter according to any one of claims 1 to 16, which receives a balanced signal from the signal source, converts the input balanced signal into an unbalanced signal, and outputs the unbalanced signal to the antenna element.

18. An antenna device comprising: an antenna element that receives a balanced signal as input and transmits a radio wave based on the input balanced signal; a signal source that outputs an unbalanced signal corresponding to the radio wave transmitted by the antenna element; and The balanced-to-unbalanced line converter according to any one of claims 1 to 16, which receives an unbalanced signal from the signal source, converts the input unbalanced signal into a balanced signal, and outputs the balanced signal to the antenna element.

19. An antenna device comprising: an antenna element group including a plurality of antenna elements, each of which receives an unbalanced signal or a balanced signal as an input signal and transmits a radio wave based on the input signal; a signal source group including a plurality of signal sources, each corresponding to a plurality of antenna elements of the antenna element group, and each of the plurality of signal sources outputting, as an output signal, one of the unbalanced signal and the balanced signal in response to the radio waves transmitted by the corresponding antenna element; as well as A converter group comprising a plurality of balanced line-to-unbalanced line converters according to any one of claims 1 to 16, the plurality of balanced line-to-unbalanced line converters respectively corresponding to the plurality of antenna elements of the antenna element group and the plurality of signal sources of the signal source group, respectively inputting output signals from the corresponding signal sources, converting one of the input unbalanced signal or the input balanced signal into the other of the unbalanced signal or the balanced signal, and outputting the converted signal to the corresponding antenna element.

20. An antenna device comprising: an antenna element group including a plurality of antenna elements, each of which receives an unbalanced signal or a balanced signal as an input signal and transmits a radio wave based on the input signal; a signal source group including a plurality of signal source groups each having a plurality of signal sources, the plurality of signal sources corresponding to the plurality of antenna elements of the antenna element group, and each of the plurality of signal sources outputting, as an output signal, one of the unbalanced signal and the balanced signal of the radio wave transmitted by the corresponding antenna element; as well as A converter group comprising a plurality of converter groups each comprising a plurality of balanced line-to-unbalanced line converters according to any one of claims 1 to 16, the plurality of balanced line-to-unbalanced line converters respectively corresponding to the plurality of antenna elements of the antenna element group and the plurality of signal source groups of the signal source group, and respectively inputting output signals from the plurality of signal sources of the corresponding signal source groups, converting one of the input unbalanced signal or the balanced signal into the other of the unbalanced signal or the balanced signal, and outputting the converted signals to the corresponding antenna element via the corresponding power synthesis circuit.

21. An antenna device comprising: an antenna element group including a plurality of antenna element groups including a plurality of antenna elements, each of the plurality of antenna elements receiving an input signal of the other of an unbalanced signal and a balanced signal and transmitting a radio wave based on the input signal; a signal source group including a plurality of signal sources, each corresponding to a plurality of antenna element groups of the antenna element group, and each outputting, as an output signal, one of the unbalanced signal and the balanced signal of the radio waves transmitted by the plurality of antenna elements of the corresponding antenna element group; as well as A converter group comprising a plurality of balanced line-to-unbalanced line converters according to any one of claims 1 to 16, the plurality of balanced line-to-unbalanced line converters respectively corresponding to the plurality of antenna element groups of the antenna element group and the plurality of signal sources of the signal source group, respectively inputting output signals from the corresponding signal sources, converting one of the input unbalanced signal or the input balanced signal into the other of the unbalanced signal or the balanced signal, and outputting the signals to the plurality of antenna elements of the corresponding antenna element group via a power distribution circuit.

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