Antenna array, antenna module and electronic device

Abstract

The application discloses an antenna array, an antenna module and an electronic device. The antenna array comprises a first antenna unit and a second antenna unit. The first antenna unit operates at least in a first frequency band and a second frequency band, and any frequency in the second frequency band is higher than any frequency in the first frequency band. The second antenna unit operates at least in a third frequency band, and the third frequency band at least partially overlaps with the second frequency band. The number of the first antenna units is multiple, and the multiple first antenna units are arranged at intervals. The second antenna unit is arranged between at least two adjacent first antenna units. The center distance between each two adjacent first antenna units is within a preset size range, so that the gain of the antenna array in the first frequency band is greater than or equal to a target value. The antenna array provided by the application can meet the gain requirement of a lower frequency band and effectively realize the characteristics of wide-angle scanning of a higher frequency band.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of wireless communication, and more particularly to an antenna array, an antenna module, and an electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of communication technology, common-aperture antenna arrays are widely used in various electronic devices. These arrays can cover multiple frequency bands to achieve multi-band scanning. However, in traditional antenna arrays, to ensure that the gain of lower frequency band scanning meets the requirements, the center spacing between the antenna elements needs to be appropriately increased. With the aforementioned center spacing, the scanning angle of the higher frequency bands is relatively small, making it difficult to simultaneously meet the requirements of wide-angle scanning. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides an antenna array, antenna module, and electronic device that can effectively achieve wide-angle scanning characteristics in higher frequency bands while meeting the gain requirements of lower frequency band scanning.

[0004] To achieve the above technical objectives, this application adopts the following technical solution:

[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides an antenna array comprising a first antenna element and a second antenna element. The first antenna element operates at least in a first frequency band and a second frequency band, and any frequency in the second frequency band is higher than any frequency in the first frequency band. The second antenna element operates at least in a third frequency band, which at least partially overlaps with the second frequency band. The number of first antenna elements is multiple, and the multiple first antenna elements are arranged at intervals, with a second antenna element disposed between at least two adjacent first antenna elements. The center-to-center distance between each pair of adjacent first antenna elements is within a preset size range, so that the gain of the antenna array in the first frequency band is greater than or equal to a target value.

[0006] The frequency ranges covered by the first and second frequency bands can be various, as long as any frequency within the second frequency band is higher than any frequency within the first frequency band. For example, the first frequency band can be considered a lower frequency band, and the second frequency band can be considered a higher frequency band. For instance, the first frequency band can be a fully covered band including bands n257 and n258, for example, covering a frequency range of 24.25 GHz to 27.5 GHz; the second frequency band can be a fully covered band including bands n259 and n260, for example, covering a frequency range of 37 GHz to 43.5 GHz.

[0007] The frequency range covered by the third frequency band can be various, as long as it at least partially overlaps with the second frequency band. It is understood that, relative to the first frequency band, the overlapping frequency band between the second and third frequency bands can also be considered a higher frequency band. In this embodiment, since both the first and second antenna elements operate in this overlapping frequency band, and the center-to-center distance between the first and second antenna elements is small, the antenna array can effectively achieve wide-angle scanning in this overlapping frequency band. It is understood that the frequency ranges covered by the first, second, and third frequency bands can all be various, and no specific limitations are imposed on the frequency ranges covered by the first, second, and third frequency bands here.

[0008] When the antenna array operates in the first frequency band, the larger the center-to-center distance between any two adjacent first antenna elements, the better the gain performance of the antenna array in that lower frequency band. Furthermore, according to relevant antenna radiation theory, when the center-to-center distance between any two adjacent first antenna elements is too large, it will cause grating lobes to form in the antenna pattern, thus degrading the performance of the antenna array. Therefore, the center-to-center distance between any two adjacent first antenna elements should be set within a preset range to effectively improve the gain of the antenna array in the first frequency band while avoiding grating lobe formation.

[0009] When the first antenna element operates in the overlapping frequency band between the second and third frequency bands, inserting a second antenna element, also operating in the overlapping frequency band, between two adjacent first antenna elements can increase the scanning angle of the antenna array in the overlapping frequency band, thereby effectively achieving the characteristics of wide-angle scanning at higher frequencies. It should also be noted that, to ensure the gain of the antenna array in the overlapping frequency band meets the corresponding requirements, the center-to-center distance between adjacent first and second antenna elements should be set to an appropriately large value.

[0010] The antenna array provided in this application arranges multiple first antenna elements at intervals, with the center-to-center distance between each pair of adjacent first antenna elements set within a preset size range. This allows the antenna array to achieve a gain greater than or equal to a target value in the first frequency band, thus satisfying the gain requirements of the lower frequency band. Furthermore, by setting a second antenna element between at least two adjacent first antenna elements, with the third frequency band of the second antenna element at least partially overlapping the second frequency band of the first antenna element, the spacing between antenna elements in the higher frequency band is reduced. This improves the scanning angle of the antenna array in the higher frequency band, effectively achieving the characteristics of wide-angle scanning in the higher frequency band.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the preset size range is greater than or equal to 0.45 times the wavelength corresponding to the first frequency band, and less than or equal to 0.8 times the wavelength corresponding to the first frequency band. Here, the wavelength corresponding to the first frequency band refers to the wavelength λ1 corresponding to the center frequency of the first frequency band. Based on this, the physical length range of the center-to-center spacing between any two adjacent first antenna elements is 0.45λ1 to 0.8λ1, corresponding to an electrical length range of 0.45 to 0.8. In a specific embodiment, the physical length of the center-to-center spacing between any two adjacent first antenna elements is 0.5λ1. When the center-to-center spacing between any two adjacent first antenna elements is within the aforementioned preset range, the gain of the antenna array in the first frequency band can be greater than or equal to the target value, thus meeting the gain requirements of lower frequency bands and effectively preventing the generation of grating lobes.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the target value is 8 dBi. It is understood that when the gain of the antenna array in the first frequency band is greater than or equal to 8 dBi, the gain of the antenna array in the lower frequency band can meet the corresponding requirements.

[0013] In one possible implementation, a plurality of the first antenna elements are arranged in a linear array, and at least one second antenna element is provided between every two adjacent first antenna elements. It is understood that, under the above structure, the antenna array is linearly arranged, has a small volume, and can be effectively applied to small electronic devices, such as mobile phones and tablets.

[0014] In one possible implementation, a second antenna element is provided between every two adjacent first antenna elements, and the center-to-center distance between the second antenna element and the two adjacent first antenna elements is the same. When only one second antenna element is provided between every two adjacent first antenna elements, the second antenna element divides the center-to-center distance between the two adjacent first antenna elements equally, thereby effectively improving the symmetry of the antenna array scanning at higher frequency bands.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the frequency range where the second and third frequency bands overlap is called the overlapping frequency band; the center-to-center distance between adjacent first and second antenna elements is greater than or equal to 0.3 times the wavelength corresponding to the overlapping frequency band, and less than or equal to 0.45 times the wavelength corresponding to the overlapping frequency band. Here, the wavelength corresponding to the overlapping frequency band refers to the wavelength λ0 corresponding to the center frequency of the overlapping frequency band. Based on this, the physical length range of the center-to-center distance between adjacent first and second antenna elements is 0.3λ0 to 0.45λ0, and the corresponding electrical length range is 0.3 to 0.45. When the center-to-center distance between adjacent first and second antenna elements is within the above-mentioned size range, the gain of the antenna array in the overlapping frequency band can meet the corresponding requirements, and the scanning angle of the antenna array in the overlapping frequency band can be improved, thereby effectively realizing the characteristics of wide-angle scanning in higher frequency bands. In a specific embodiment, the physical length of the center-to-center distance between every two adjacent first antenna elements is 0.37λ0.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the first frequency band is 24.25 GHz to 29.5 GHz, and the second and third frequency bands are both 37 GHz to 43.5 GHz. It is understood that the third frequency band covers the same frequency range as the second frequency band; for example, it can be considered that both the first and second antenna elements can operate in the second frequency band, enabling the antenna array to effectively achieve wide-angle scanning in the higher frequency band of 37 GHz to 43.5 GHz.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the center-to-center spacing between two adjacent first antenna elements is 5.6 mm, and the center-to-center spacing between adjacent first antenna elements and second antenna elements is 2.8 mm. When the center-to-center spacing between the second antenna element and two adjacent first antenna elements is 2.8 mm, the scanning symmetry of the antenna array can be improved. Furthermore, the antenna array can effectively achieve wide-angle scanning characteristics in the second frequency band while meeting the gain requirements of scanning in the first frequency band (24.25 GHz to 27.5 GHz) and the second frequency band (37 GHz to 43.5 GHz).

[0018] In one possible implementation, multiple second antenna elements are provided between each pair of adjacent first antenna elements, and the center-to-center distance between each pair of adjacent second antenna elements is equal to the center-to-center distance between adjacent first antenna elements and second antenna elements. When the first antenna elements operate in a first frequency band and a second frequency band, and the second antenna elements operate in the second frequency band, and the frequency covered by the first frequency band has a large phase difference with the frequency covered by the second frequency band, multiple second antenna elements can be inserted between each pair of adjacent first antenna elements to improve the radiation performance of the antenna array. It can also be understood that, under the above structure, the center-to-center distance between each pair of adjacent second antenna elements can be equal to the center-to-center distance between adjacent first antenna elements and second antenna elements, thereby effectively improving the symmetry of the antenna array scanning in the second frequency band.

[0019] In one possible implementation, two second antenna elements are provided between every two adjacent first antenna elements; the frequency range where the second frequency band and the third frequency band overlap is the overlapping frequency band; the center-to-center distance between adjacent first antenna elements and second antenna elements is greater than or equal to 0.3 times the wavelength corresponding to the overlapping frequency band, and less than or equal to 0.45 times the wavelength corresponding to the overlapping frequency band. It is understood that when two second antenna elements are provided between every two adjacent first antenna elements, and the center-to-center distance between adjacent first antenna elements and second antenna elements, as well as between adjacent second antenna elements, are all within the aforementioned distance range, the scanning angle of the antenna array in higher frequency bands can be effectively improved, thereby effectively achieving wide-angle scanning characteristics. For example, in this implementation, the first frequency band is 24.25 GHz to 29.5 GHz, and the second frequency band is 57 GHz to 64 GHz.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the first frequency band is 24.25 GHz to 29.5 GHz, and the second and third frequency bands are both 122 GHz to 123 GHz. It is understood that 122 GHz to 123 GHz is a radar frequency band. When the antenna array 100 operates in this frequency band, its requirements for the scanning angle are relatively low, and even if the electrical length of the center-to-center distance between each antenna element is small, it can still meet the corresponding functional requirements.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the antenna array is axially symmetrical about a virtual axis of symmetry, and this axis of symmetry is perpendicular to the extension direction of the antenna array. When the antenna array is symmetrically distributed as described above, the scanning symmetry of the antenna array can be effectively improved, thereby giving the antenna array better scanning performance. It should also be noted that the antenna elements symmetrically distributed about the aforementioned axis of symmetry can be fed with the same feed signal, making the antenna array not only structurally symmetrical but also symmetrical in signal distribution, further improving the scanning symmetry of the antenna array.

[0022] In one possible implementation, a plurality of the first antenna elements are arranged in a planar array, and at least one second antenna element is provided between every two adjacent first antenna elements. It is understood that when the antenna array is arranged in an m×n (m>1, n>1) planar array, the antenna array usually contains more first antenna elements and second antenna elements, thereby achieving better antenna radiation performance.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the second antenna element is a multi-frequency antenna element, operating in multiple frequency bands, including but not limited to the third frequency band. It is understood that when the second antenna element is a multi-frequency antenna, the antenna array formed by the first and second antenna elements can operate in more frequency bands, thereby achieving better antenna radiation performance.

[0024] In one possible implementation, the first antenna element is a multi-frequency antenna element, operating in multiple frequency bands, including but not limited to the first frequency band and the second frequency band. It is understood that when the first antenna element is a multi-frequency antenna, the antenna array formed by the first antenna element and the second antenna element can operate in more frequency bands, thereby achieving better antenna radiation performance.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the first antenna unit and the second antenna unit are patch antennas; the first antenna unit has two first feed ports for feeding feed signals, and the two first feed ports are spaced apart to form a dual-polarized patch antenna; the second antenna unit has two second feed ports for feeding feed signals, and the two second feed ports are spaced apart to form a dual-polarized patch antenna.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the first antenna unit and the second antenna unit are dielectric resonant antennas; the first antenna unit includes a first non-metallic dielectric block and two first feed ports disposed on the first non-metallic dielectric block, both of which are used to feed feed signals, and the two first feed ports are spaced apart to form a dual-polarized dielectric resonant antenna; the second antenna unit includes a second non-metallic dielectric block and two second feed ports disposed on the second non-metallic dielectric block, both of which are used to feed feed signals, and the two second feed ports are spaced apart to form a dual-polarized dielectric resonant antenna.

[0027] It should be noted that regardless of whether the first and second antenna elements are patch antennas or dielectric resonant antennas, the antenna array composed of both can meet the antenna performance requirements in the corresponding frequency band. It can also be understood that the types of the first and second antenna elements include, but are not limited to, patch antennas and dielectric resonant antennas, and can also be any other antenna type that meets the corresponding functional requirements. No specific limitations are placed on the types of the first and second antenna elements here.

[0028] Secondly, this application also provides an antenna module, which includes a substrate, a chip, and an antenna array as described in any embodiment of the first aspect. Both the antenna array and the chip are connected to the substrate, and the chip is electrically connected to the antenna array. The antenna array is used to transmit or receive electromagnetic waves to achieve a corresponding radiation function. The chip is electrically connected to the antenna array to modulate signals and transmit them to the antenna array, or to demodulate signals to obtain corresponding information. The substrate may be made of a printed circuit board (PCB) or a flexible printed circuit board (FPC), and the substrate may be a single-layer board or a multi-layer board. This application does not specifically limit the type and structure of the substrate.

[0029] The antenna module provided in this application, by installing the antenna array provided in the embodiments of this application and electrically connecting the chip to the antenna array, transmits corresponding feed signals to the antenna array, thereby effectively achieving the characteristics of wide-angle scanning in higher frequency bands while meeting the gain requirements of lower frequency band scanning.

[0030] In one possible implementation, the chip transmits a first feed signal or a second feed signal to the first antenna element and a third feed signal to the second antenna element; the frequency of the first feed signal is within the first frequency band; the frequency of the second feed signal is within the second frequency band; and the frequency of the third feed signal is within the third frequency band. Through this feeding method, the antenna module can effectively achieve multi-band operation.

[0031] In one possible implementation, a combiner is further provided between the chip and the antenna array. The combiner combines the first feed signal and the second feed signal together, thereby transmitting them simultaneously to the first antenna element. By setting the combiner, feed signals from multiple frequency bands can be fed into the first antenna element simultaneously, enabling the first antenna element to achieve multi-band scanning functionality.

[0032] Thirdly, this application also provides an electronic device including an antenna module as described in any embodiment of the second aspect. The electronic device includes a housing, a motherboard, and the antenna module provided in the embodiments of this application. The antenna module is integrated within the housing to achieve corresponding antenna radiation functions. The motherboard is electrically connected to the antenna module to supply power to the antenna module. It is understood that the electronic device can be a mobile phone, tablet, computer, large-screen TV, customer pre-installation equipment (CPE), or any other electronic device equipped with an antenna; no specific limitation is made to the type of electronic device herein. The electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application, by installing the antenna module provided in the embodiments of this application, can effectively achieve wide-angle scanning characteristics in higher frequency bands while meeting the gain requirements of lower frequency band scanning. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0034] Figure 1b This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device in another embodiment;

[0035] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device in another embodiment;

[0036] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device in another embodiment;

[0037] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna module provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0038] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna module in another embodiment;

[0039] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna array arrangement and signal transmission provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0040] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna array arrangement and signal transmission in another embodiment;

[0041] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna array arrangement and signal transmission in another embodiment;

[0042] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of an antenna array.

[0043] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna array arrangement and signal transmission in another embodiment;

[0044] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of an antenna array composed of patch antennas;

[0045] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 The image shows the echo curves and isolation curves for some frequency bands obtained from the simulation of the antenna array shown.

[0046] Figure 13 yes Figure 11 The image shows the echo curves and isolation curves for some frequency bands obtained from the simulation of the antenna array shown.

[0047] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of an antenna array composed of dielectric resonant antennas;

[0048] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 The image shows the echo curves and isolation curves for some frequency bands obtained from the simulation of the antenna array shown.

[0049] Figure 16 yes Figure 14 The image shows the echo curves and isolation curves for some frequency bands obtained from the simulation of the antenna array shown.

[0050] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna array arrangement and signal transmission in another embodiment;

[0051] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna array arrangement and signal transmission in another embodiment;

[0052] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna array arrangement in another embodiment;

[0053] Figure 20This is a schematic diagram of the antenna array arrangement in another embodiment;

[0054] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna array arrangement in another embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0055] The embodiments of this application are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0056] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise stated, the word "and / or" in the text is merely a description of the association relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. In the description of the embodiments of this application, "multiple" refers to two or more. In the description of the embodiments of this application, the range from A to B includes endpoints A and B.

[0057] The directional terms mentioned in the embodiments of this application, such as "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "inner", "outer", "side", "top", and "bottom", are only for reference to the directions in the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the directional terms used are for better and clearer explanation and understanding of the embodiments of this application, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application.

[0058] It should be understood that in this application, "electrical connection" can be understood as physical contact and electrical conduction between components; it can also be understood as the form in which different components in a circuit structure are connected through physical lines that can transmit electrical signals, such as copper foil or wires on a printed circuit board (PCB). "Connection" and "connected" can both refer to a mechanical or physical connection relationship. For example, A and B being connected or A and B being connected can mean that there are fastening components (such as screws, bolts, rivets, etc.) between A and B, or that A and B are in contact with each other and are difficult to separate.

[0059] In this application, "length" can be understood as the physical length of an object or as electrical length. Electrical length can be expressed as the ratio of the physical length (e.g., mechanical or geometric length) multiplied by the transmission time of an electrical or electromagnetic signal in a medium to the time required for that signal to travel a distance in free space equal to the physical length of the medium. Electrical length can satisfy the following formula:

[0060]

[0061] Where L is the physical length, a is the transmission time of the electrical or electromagnetic signal in the medium, and b is the transmission time in free space.

[0062] Alternatively, electrical length can also refer to the ratio of physical length (e.g., mechanical length or geometric length) to the wavelength of the transmitted electromagnetic wave, and electrical length can satisfy the following formula:

[0063]

[0064] Where L is the physical length and λ is the wavelength of the electromagnetic wave.

[0065] Connection: The process of making two or more components conduct or connect through the above-mentioned "electrical connection" or "coupling connection" to transmit signals / energy can be called connection.

[0066] Antenna radiation pattern: also known as radiation pattern. It refers to the graph showing how the relative field strength (normalized modulus) of the antenna's radiated field changes with direction at a certain distance from the antenna. It is usually represented by two mutually perpendicular planar radiation patterns passing through the direction of maximum radiation of the antenna.

[0067] Antenna radiation patterns typically have multiple radiating beams. The beam with the highest radiating intensity is called the main lobe, and the remaining beams are called side lobes. Among the side lobes, the side lobe in the opposite direction to the main lobe is also called the back lobe.

[0068] Gain: Characterizes the degree to which an antenna concentrates the input power for radiation. Generally, the narrower the main lobe and the smaller the side lobes of the antenna pattern, the higher the gain.

[0069] Antenna return loss: This can be understood as the ratio of the signal power reflected back to the antenna port after passing through the antenna circuit to the transmit power at the antenna port. The smaller the reflected signal, the larger the signal radiated into space through the antenna, and the higher the antenna's radiation efficiency. Conversely, the larger the reflected signal, the smaller the signal radiated into space through the antenna, and the lower the antenna's radiation efficiency.

[0070] Antenna return loss can be represented by the parameter S1,1, which is usually negative. The smaller the parameter S1,1, the smaller the antenna return loss and the greater the antenna radiation efficiency; the larger the parameter S1,1, the greater the antenna return loss and the lower the antenna radiation efficiency.

[0071] Antenna isolation: refers to the ratio of the signal power transmitted by one antenna to the signal power received by another antenna. It can be expressed by parameters S2,1 and S1,2.

[0072] Please refer to the following: Figure 1a , Figure 1b , Figure 2 and Figure 3 , Figure 1a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 1bThis is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device in another embodiment; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device in another embodiment; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device in another embodiment.

[0073] This application provides an electronic device 10000, which includes a housing 2000, a motherboard 3000, and an antenna module 1000 provided in this application embodiment. The antenna module 1000 is integrated within the housing 2000 to achieve corresponding antenna radiation functions. The motherboard 3000 is electrically connected to the antenna module 1000 to supply power to the antenna module 1000. It is understood that the electronic device 10000 can be a mobile phone, tablet, computer, large-screen TV, customer pre-installation equipment (CPE), or any other electronic device 10000 equipped with an antenna. No specific limitation is made here regarding the type of electronic device 10000.

[0074] like Figure 1a and Figure 1b For example, the electronic device 10000 is a mobile phone, and its housing 2000 includes a frame 2100 and a back cover 2200. The frame 2100 and the back cover 2200 enclose a receiving cavity, and the antenna module 1000 is housed within the receiving cavity. It is understood that for relatively small and portable electronic devices like mobile phones 10000, the antenna array within the antenna module 1000 typically adopts a 1×n (n>1) linear array arrangement, thereby effectively avoiding interference between other electronic components within the receiving cavity and the antenna module 1000. It should also be understood that the antenna array can also adopt an m×n (m>1, n>1) planar array arrangement, which can be adjusted according to the overall design and arrangement of the electronic components within the receiving cavity. The motherboard 3000 is also housed within the housing 2000, and the power supply circuit (not shown) on the motherboard 3000 is connected to the antenna module 1000 to supply power to the antenna module 1000. It should be noted that the antenna module 1000 within the accommodating cavity can be located near the top frame 2100 or near the side frames 2100. The location near the frame 2100 can refer to the edge of the motherboard 3000 facing the frame 2100 (e.g., Figure 1a ) or within the 3000 edge of the motherboard (such as Figure 1b The term "antenna module 1000" can also refer to the position attached to the frame 2100. It is understood that the antenna module 1000 within the cavity can also be located in any other position, as long as it can meet the corresponding function of transmitting and / or receiving electromagnetic waves. Here, no specific limitation is made on the distribution position of the antenna module 1000 within the electronic device 10000.

[0075] like Figure 2For example, the electronic device 10000 is a large-screen television. Its housing 2000 includes a front panel 2300, a middle frame 2400, and a chassis cover 2500. The front panel 2300, middle frame 2400, and chassis cover 2500 enclose a receiving cavity, and the antenna module 1000 is housed within the receiving cavity. It is understood that for electronic devices 10000, which are relatively large in size and do not require portability, such as large-screen televisions, the antenna array within the antenna module 1000 can adopt an m×n (m>1, n>1) planar array arrangement. Compared to a 1×n (n>1) linear array arrangement, when the antenna array adopts an m×n (m>1, n>1) planar array arrangement, two-dimensional scanning can be achieved, and its scanning range is larger, thereby achieving better antenna radiation performance. It should be understood that the antenna array can also adopt a 1×n (n>1) linear array arrangement, which can be adjusted according to the overall design and arrangement of the electronic components within the receiving cavity. The motherboard 3000 is also housed within the housing 2000. The power supply circuit (not shown) on the motherboard 3000 is connected to the antenna module 1000 to supply power to the antenna module 1000.

[0076] like Figure 3 For example, electronic device 10000 is a customer front-end device. The antenna module 1000 inside its housing 2000 has a structure roughly the same as the antenna module 1000 inside a large-screen TV. The motherboard 3000 is also housed inside the housing 2000. The power supply circuit (not shown) on the motherboard 3000 is connected to the antenna module 1000 to supply power to the antenna module 1000. It should be noted that when electronic device 10000 is a customer front-end device, a base 4000 may also be provided inside the housing 2000 to support the antenna module 1000. Furthermore, the base 4000 can control the antenna module 1000 to rotate, thereby realizing the multi-directional scanning function of the antenna. In one embodiment, other circuit elements (not shown) may be provided inside the base 4000 for electrical connection with the antenna module 1000.

[0077] The electronic device 10000 provided in this application embodiment, by installing the antenna module 1000 provided in this application embodiment, can effectively achieve the wide-angle scanning characteristic of higher frequency bands while meeting the gain requirements of lower frequency band scanning. For example, in one embodiment, the antenna module 1000 operates in the millimeter-wave band, and simultaneously operates in both relatively high and relatively low millimeter-wave bands, thereby satisfying the multi-band scanning function. It should be noted that in other embodiments of this application, the electronic device 10000 may include more or fewer components than shown in the figures, or combine some components, or split some components, or have different component arrangements.

[0078] Please refer to the following: Figure 4 and Figure 5 , Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna module provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna module in another embodiment.

[0079] This application provides an antenna module 1000, which includes a substrate 200, a chip 300, and an antenna array 100 provided in this application embodiment. Both the antenna array 100 and the chip 300 are connected to the substrate 200, and the chip 300 is electrically connected to the antenna array 100. It is understood that the antenna module 1000 provided in this application embodiment is a common-aperture antenna. A common-aperture antenna refers to placing multiple antenna elements of different frequency bands within the same aperture for operation, rather than independently arranging and operating antennas of different frequency bands. The antenna array 100 is used to transmit or receive electromagnetic waves to achieve the corresponding radiation function. The chip 300 is electrically connected to the antenna array 100 to modulate signals and transmit them to the antenna array 100, or to demodulate signals to obtain corresponding information. The substrate 200 can be constructed from a printed circuit board (PCB) or a flexible printed circuit board (FPC), and the substrate 200 can be a single-layer board or a multi-layer board. This application does not specifically limit the type and structure of the substrate 200.

[0080] In one embodiment, the antenna module 1000 is a phased array antenna. A phased array antenna is an antenna that changes its radiation pattern shape by controlling the feed phase of the antenna elements in the array. Controlling the phase can change the direction of the maximum value of the antenna radiation pattern to achieve beam scanning.

[0081] It is understandable that there are various combinations of the substrate 200, chip 300, and antenna array 100, as long as they can meet the corresponding antenna radiation function. For example... Figure 4 In one embodiment, the antenna array 100 is disposed on the surface of the substrate 200, the chip 300 is disposed on the side of the substrate 200 away from the antenna array 100, and physical circuits (not shown) pass through the substrate 200 to connect the chip 300 and the antenna array 100, thereby realizing the electrical connection between the chip 300 and the antenna array 100.

[0082] like Figure 5 In one embodiment, the antenna array 100 and the chip 300 are located on the same side of the substrate 200. The antenna array 100 is disposed on the flexible circuit board 400 and located on the side of the chip 300 away from the substrate 200. The chip 300 is connected to the antenna array 100 through the flexible circuit board 400. In a specific embodiment, connectors 500 are also provided between the chip 300, the flexible circuit board, and the substrate 200 to realize corresponding electrical connection functions.

[0083] In one embodiment, a combiner 600 is provided between the chip 300 and the antenna array 100. The combiner 600 is disposed on the substrate 200 or the flexible circuit board 400. The combiner 600 can combine multiple feed signals from different frequency bands from the chip 300 into a multi-band combined signal, which is then transmitted to the corresponding antenna element in the antenna array 100, thereby realizing the multi-band signal transmission function.

[0084] It is understood that the structure of the antenna module 1000 includes, but is not limited to, the above-mentioned structures, and may also be other various structures. In some embodiments, the antenna module 1000 may include more or fewer components than shown in the figures, or combine some components, or split some components, or arrange different components. No specific limitation is made to the structure of the antenna module 1000 here.

[0085] The antenna module 1000 provided in this application embodiment, by installing the antenna array 100 provided in this application embodiment and electrically connecting the chip 300 to the antenna array 100, transmits corresponding feed signals to the antenna array 100, thereby effectively achieving the characteristics of wide-angle scanning in higher frequency bands while meeting the gain requirements of lower frequency band scanning. The antenna array 100 provided in this application embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0086] Please see Figures 6 to 8 , Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna array arrangement and signal transmission provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0087] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna array arrangement and signal transmission in another embodiment; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna array arrangement and signal transmission in another embodiment.

[0088] This application provides an antenna array 100, which includes a first antenna element 10 and a second antenna element 20. The number of first antenna elements 10 is plurality of them, and the plurality of first antenna elements 10 are arranged at intervals. At least two adjacent first antenna elements 10 are provided with a second antenna element 20 between them, and the center-to-center distance between any two adjacent first antenna elements 10 is within a preset size range, so that the gain of the antenna array 100 in the lower frequency band is greater than or equal to a target value.

[0089] It is understandable that the center spacing between any two adjacent first antenna elements 10 refers to the distance between the structural center of one first antenna element 10 and the structural center of the adjacent first antenna element 10.

[0090] It is also understood that the structures of the first antenna element 10 and the second antenna element 20 can be varied, as long as they can satisfy the corresponding antenna radiation function. For example, both the first antenna element 10 and the second antenna element 20 include at least a radiator and a feed point. The feed point is used to connect to a corresponding feed circuit to supply power to the radiator, which is used to radiate electromagnetic waves. No specific limitations are placed on the structures of the first antenna element 10 and the second antenna element 20 here.

[0091] like Figure 6 In one embodiment, a plurality of first antenna elements 10 are arranged in a linear array, and a second antenna element 20 is provided between every two adjacent first antenna elements 10. In this embodiment, the first antenna elements 10 and the second antenna elements 20 are arranged in an alternating combination, and their operating frequency bands overlap.

[0092] The first antenna element 10 operates at least in a first frequency band and a second frequency band. It is understood that the frequency ranges covered by the first and second frequency bands can be multiple, as long as any frequency within the second frequency band is higher than any frequency within the first frequency band. For example, the first frequency band can be considered a lower frequency band, and the second frequency band can be considered a higher frequency band. For instance, both the first and second frequency bands are 5G millimeter-wave frequency bands. The first frequency band is a full-coverage band including frequency bands n257 and n258, for example, the frequency range covered by the first frequency band can be from 24.25 GHz to 27.5 GHz; the second frequency band is a full-coverage band including frequency bands n259 and n260, for example, the frequency range covered by the second frequency band is from 37 GHz to 43.5 GHz. It is understood that the frequency ranges covered by the first and second frequency bands can be various. As long as they are relatively low and relatively high frequency bands in the millimeter wave band, they can be used as the first and second frequency bands in this application embodiment, respectively. The frequency ranges covered by the first and second frequency bands are not specifically limited here. For ease of explanation, this embodiment only takes the first frequency band as 24.25 GHz to 27.5 GHz and the second frequency band as 37 GHz to 43.5 GHz as an example for detailed description. The antenna array 100 provided in this embodiment can cover the millimeter wave bands 24.25 GHz-29.5 GHz / 37 GHz-43.5 GHz.

[0093] In one embodiment, a combiner 600 is provided between the first antenna unit 10 and the corresponding feed circuit. The combiner 600 is used to combine the first frequency band feed signal and the second frequency band feed signal output by the feed circuit to form a first frequency band-second frequency band combined feed signal, and transmit the combined feed signal to the first antenna unit 10, thereby realizing the multi-band signal transmission function.

[0094] It is understandable that the first frequency band can be considered a lower frequency band. In order to ensure that the gain of the antenna array 100 in the first frequency band is greater than or equal to the target value, thereby meeting the gain requirement of the antenna array 100 in this lower frequency band, the center spacing between every two adjacent first antenna elements 10 needs to be set within a preset size range. Please refer to the equivalent formula for gain calculation:

[0095]

[0096] Wherein, G represents the gain of antenna array 100; S represents the aperture area of ​​antenna array 100, which is positively correlated with the center-to-center spacing between antenna elements; λ represents the wavelength of the electromagnetic wave corresponding to the center frequency of antenna array 100 in the operating frequency band, where the center frequency of the operating frequency band refers to the frequency corresponding to the center point of the operating frequency band; η represents the efficiency, which is related to the material loss and return loss of antenna array 100.

[0097] As shown in formula (1), when the antenna array 100 operates in the first frequency band, the larger the center-to-center distance between any two adjacent first antenna elements 10, the better the gain performance of the antenna array 100 in that frequency band. Furthermore, according to the relevant theory of antenna radiation, when the center-to-center distance between any two adjacent first antenna elements 10 is too large, it will lead to a decrease in the performance of the antenna array 100. Based on this, the center-to-center distance between any two adjacent first antenna elements 10 should be set within a preset size range to effectively improve the gain of the antenna array 100 in the first frequency band.

[0098] In one specific embodiment, the target gain is 8 dBi, meaning the gain of antenna array 100 in the first frequency band should be greater than or equal to 8 dBi to meet the gain requirements of the first frequency band (e.g., a lower frequency band within the millimeter-wave band). Under this requirement, the preset size range is: greater than or equal to 0.45 times the wavelength corresponding to the first frequency band, and less than or equal to 0.8 times the wavelength corresponding to the first frequency band. Here, the wavelength corresponding to the first frequency band refers to the wavelength λ1 corresponding to the center frequency of the first frequency band, and the center frequency of the first frequency band refers to the frequency corresponding to the center point of the first frequency band. Based on this, the physical length range of the center-to-center spacing between any two adjacent first antenna elements 10 is 0.45λ1 to 0.8λ1, corresponding to an electrical length range of 0.45 to 0.8. In one specific embodiment, the physical length of the center-to-center spacing between any two adjacent first antenna elements 10 is 0.5λ1.

[0099] The second antenna element 20 operates at least in the third frequency band. The frequency range covered by the third frequency band can be various, as long as it at least partially overlaps with the second frequency band. It is understood that the overlapping frequency band between the second and third frequency bands can also be considered a higher frequency band compared to the first frequency band. In this embodiment, since both the first antenna element 10 and the second antenna element 20 operate in this overlapping frequency band, and the center-to-center distance between the first antenna element 10 and the second antenna element 20 is small, the antenna array 100 can effectively achieve wide-angle scanning in this overlapping frequency band. The center-to-center distance between the first antenna element 10 and the second antenna element 20 refers to the distance between the structural center of the first antenna element 10 and the structural center of the second antenna element 20. Please refer to the formula:

[0100]

[0101] Where θ represents the scanning angle of antenna array 100; d represents the center-to-center distance between two adjacent antenna elements; λ represents the wavelength corresponding to the center frequency of antenna array 100 in the operating frequency band, where the center frequency of the operating frequency band refers to the frequency corresponding to the center point of the operating frequency band; Δφ represents the phase difference between two adjacent antenna elements.

[0102] According to formula (2) and related theories, the maximum phase difference is 180°. When the phase difference remains constant, the values ​​of d and θ are inversely proportional. When the first antenna element 10 operates in the overlapping frequency band between the second and third frequency bands, inserting a second antenna element 20, which also operates in the overlapping frequency band, between two adjacent first antenna elements 10 can effectively reduce the value of d and increase the value of θ. This improves the scanning angle of the antenna array 100 in the overlapping frequency band, thereby effectively achieving the characteristics of wide-angle scanning in higher frequency bands. It should also be noted that, in conjunction with formula (1), in order to ensure that the gain of the antenna array 100 in the overlapping frequency band meets the corresponding requirements, the center distance between adjacent first antenna elements 10 and second antenna elements 20 should be set to an appropriate size.

[0103] In one specific embodiment, the center-to-center distance between adjacent first antenna elements 10 and second antenna elements 20 is greater than or equal to 0.3 times the wavelength corresponding to the overlapping frequency band, and less than or equal to 0.45 times the wavelength corresponding to the overlapping frequency band. Here, the wavelength corresponding to the overlapping frequency band refers to the wavelength λ0 corresponding to the center frequency of the overlapping frequency band, and the center frequency of the overlapping frequency band refers to the frequency corresponding to the center point of the overlapping frequency band. Based on this, the physical length range of the center-to-center distance between adjacent first antenna elements 10 and second antenna elements 20 is 0.3λ0 to 0.45λ0, and the corresponding electrical length range is 0.3 to 0.45. When the center-to-center distance between adjacent first antenna elements 10 and second antenna elements 20 is within the above-mentioned size range, the gain of the antenna array 100 in the overlapping frequency band can meet the corresponding requirements, and the scanning angle of the antenna array 100 in the overlapping frequency band can be improved, thereby supplementing the spatial coverage of the higher frequency band scanning and effectively realizing the characteristics of large-angle and wide-angle scanning in the higher frequency band. In one specific embodiment, the physical length of the center-to-center distance between any two adjacent first antenna elements 10 is 0.37λ0.

[0104] It should be noted that when the antenna array 100 performs multi-band radiation, the feed signal corresponding to each frequency band is transmitted to the antenna array 100 to achieve the corresponding radiation function. Specifically, the first feed signal F1, which is within the first frequency band range, is transmitted to the first antenna element 10 so that the first antenna element 10 can radiate in the first frequency band; the second feed signal F2, which is within the second frequency band range, is transmitted to the first antenna element 10 so that the first antenna element 10 can also radiate in the second frequency band; and the third feed signal F3, which is within the third frequency band range, is transmitted to the second antenna element 20 so that the second antenna element 20 can radiate in the third frequency band.

[0105] like Figure 7 In one embodiment, to meet the corresponding wireless communication requirements, the third frequency band can be a full-coverage frequency band including frequency bands n259 and n260. For example, the frequency range covered by the third frequency band is 37 GHz to 43.5 GHz. It is understood that in this embodiment, the third frequency band covers the same frequency range as the second frequency band. For example, it can be considered that both the first antenna element 10 and the second antenna element 20 can operate in the second frequency band, enabling the antenna array 100 to effectively achieve wide-angle scanning in the 37 GHz to 43.5 GHz frequency band. For ease of explanation, this embodiment only uses the example of the second antenna element 20 also operating in the second frequency band (37 GHz to 43.5 GHz) for detailed description. For example, a second feed signal F2 within the second frequency band range is transmitted to the first antenna element 10 and the second antenna element 20, so that both the first antenna element 10 and the second antenna element 20 can radiate in the second frequency band.

[0106] It can also be understood that when multiple first antenna elements 10 in the antenna array 100 are arranged in a linear array, and a second antenna element 20 is provided between every two adjacent first antenna elements 10, the antenna array 100 can be axially symmetrical about a virtual axis of symmetry I, wherein the virtual axis of symmetry I is perpendicular to the extension direction of the antenna array 100, the first antenna elements 10 and the second antenna elements 20 are arranged alternately on both sides of the axis of symmetry I, and the center spacing between every two adjacent first antenna elements 10 is the same, and the center spacing between every two adjacent second antenna elements 20 is the same. It should be noted that when the antenna array 100 is symmetrically distributed as described above, the scanning symmetry of the antenna array 100 can be effectively improved, thereby enabling the antenna array 100 to have better scanning performance. It should also be noted that the antenna elements symmetrically distributed about the aforementioned axis of symmetry I can be fed with the same feed signal, thereby making the antenna array 100 not only symmetrical in structure but also symmetrical in signal distribution, further improving the scanning symmetry of the antenna array 100.

[0107] It is understood that "perpendicular" in the embodiments of this application may not be strictly perpendicular. That is, in the antenna array 100 provided in the embodiments of this application, the angle between the virtual axis of symmetry I and the extension direction of the antenna array 100 is close to 90°, but may not be 90°. For example, angles within the range of 80° to 100° (e.g., 85° to 95°, or 88° to 92°) can be considered perpendicular. The angle error between the virtual axis of symmetry I and the extension direction of the antenna array 100 provided in the embodiments of this application due to manufacturing process should be acceptable to those skilled in the art, and this angle should not affect the achievement of the purpose of the embodiments of this application. It is also understood that "symmetry" in the embodiments of this application may not be strictly symmetrical and may have certain deviations, which is also acceptable to those skilled in the art.

[0108] Under the aforementioned symmetrical distribution, the center-to-center distance between the second antenna element 20 and the two adjacent first antenna elements 10 is the same. In a specific embodiment, the center-to-center distance between the two adjacent first antenna elements 10 is 5.6 mm, and the center-to-center distance between the adjacent first antenna element 10 and the second antenna element 20 is 2.8 mm. It can be understood that when the center-to-center distance between the second antenna element 20 and the two adjacent first antenna elements 10 is 2.8 mm, the scanning symmetry of the antenna array 100 can be improved. Furthermore, the antenna array 100 can effectively achieve wide-angle scanning characteristics in the second frequency band while meeting the gain requirements of scanning in the first frequency band (24.25 GHz to 27.5 GHz) and the second frequency band (37 GHz to 43.5 GHz).

[0109] It should be noted that, typically, the number of output ports for the power supply signals of each frequency band on chip 300 is fixed. For example... Figure 8 In one embodiment, the number of output ports for the feed signals of each frequency band is four, and the antenna array 100 can simultaneously receive four first feed signals F1 and four second feed signals F2. It is understood that in this embodiment, if the number of feed signals needs to be increased, the number of chips 300 needs to be increased accordingly, leading to increased cost. Therefore, typically, the number of first feed signals F1 and second feed signals F2 simultaneously fed into the antenna array 100 is maintained at four.

[0110] It is understandable that when the number of first feed signals F1 and second feed signals F2 is both kept at four, only two first antenna elements 10 in the antenna array 100 can be fed with the combined signal formed by the combination of the first feed signals F1 and the second feed signals F2, while the other two first antenna elements 10 are only fed with the first feed signal F1. Furthermore, only two second antenna elements 20 in the antenna array 100 can be fed with the second feed signal F2, while the remaining second antenna elements 20 are not fed with signals, thus serving as dummy elements. In this application, a dummy element refers to an antenna element that is not fed with a signal. It should be noted that, to ensure that the antenna array 100 can satisfy the wide-angle scanning characteristics in the second frequency band and to improve the scanning symmetry of the antenna array 100, the following should be adopted: Figure 7 The signal feeding method shown feeds the corresponding signals to the first antenna element 10 and the second antenna element 20. It should also be noted that the second antenna element 20, as a dummy element, is not fed with a signal and therefore has virtually no radiation function, so it can be omitted; however, in order to ensure the structural symmetry of the antenna array 100, the second antenna element 20, as a dummy element, can be retained.

[0111] Please refer to the following: Figure 8 and Figure 9 , Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an antenna array 900.

[0112] Depend on Figure 9 As can be seen, the antenna array 900 includes multiple first antenna elements 10. Each first antenna element 10 is fed with a combined signal formed by combining a first feed signal F1 and a second feed signal F2. By adjusting the center spacing between two adjacent first antenna elements 10, the gain and scanning angle of the antenna array 900 in the first and second frequency bands can be changed. Please refer to Table 1, which shows the parameter simulation results of the antenna array 900 and the antenna array 100 in the above embodiment in different frequency bands.

[0113] Table 1. Simulation results of parameters of antenna array 900 and antenna array 100 in the above embodiments at different frequency bands.

[0114]

[0115] As shown in Table 1, in the first frequency band, for example, in the frequency range of 24.25 GHz to 29.5 GHz, the gain of antenna array 100 relative to antenna array 900 can be maintained at greater than or equal to 8 dBi, thereby meeting the gain requirements of the lower frequency band; and the scanning angle of antenna array 100 in the first frequency band is slightly smaller than that of antenna array 900 in the first frequency band, but it can still meet the scanning angle requirements of the lower frequency band.

[0116] In the second frequency band, for example, in the frequency range of 37 GHz to 43.5 GHz, the gain of antenna array 100 is slightly smaller than that of antenna array 900, but it can still maintain a gain greater than or equal to 8 dBi, thereby meeting the gain requirements of the higher frequency band; and the scanning angle of antenna array 100 in the second frequency band is much larger than that of antenna array 900 in the second frequency band, thereby effectively realizing the characteristics of wide-angle scanning in the higher frequency band.

[0117] In summary, the antenna array 100 can meet the multi-band gain requirements while increasing the scanning angle at higher frequencies, effectively realizing the wide-angle scanning characteristic at higher frequencies.

[0118] The antenna array 100 provided in this application embodiment arranges multiple first antenna elements 10 at intervals, and sets the center spacing between each pair of adjacent first antenna elements 10 within a preset size range, so that the gain of the antenna array 100 in the first frequency band is greater than or equal to the target value, thereby meeting the gain requirements of the lower frequency band; and by setting a second antenna element 20 between at least two adjacent first antenna elements 10, the third frequency band of the second antenna element 20 at least partially overlaps with the second frequency band of the first antenna element 10, thereby reducing the spacing between the antenna elements in the higher frequency band, thereby improving the scanning angle of the antenna array 100 in the higher frequency band, so as to effectively realize the characteristics of wide-angle scanning in the higher frequency band.

[0119] Please see Figure 10 , Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna array arrangement and signal transmission in another embodiment.

[0120] In one embodiment, the second antenna unit 20 is a multi-frequency antenna unit. The second antenna unit 20 can not only operate in the second frequency band, but also in other frequency bands, so that the antenna array 100 composed of the first antenna unit 10 and the second antenna unit 20 is not limited to a dual-frequency antenna array 100, but can also be a multi-frequency antenna array 100.

[0121] like Figure 10For example, the second antenna element 20 operates in both the second and fourth frequency bands. A first feed signal F1, within the first frequency band range, is transmitted to the first antenna element 10 to enable it to radiate in the first frequency band; a second feed signal F2, within the second frequency band range, is transmitted to the first antenna element 10 and the second antenna element 20 to enable them to radiate in the second frequency band; and a fourth feed signal F4, within the fourth frequency band range, is transmitted to the second antenna element 20 to enable it to radiate in the fourth frequency band. This allows the antenna array 100 to operate in the first, second, and fourth frequency bands.

[0122] It is understood that the fourth frequency band can be a radar band; for example, the antenna array 100 implements radar radiation functionality in the fourth frequency band. It is also understood that, unlike communication frequency bands, radar frequency bands have higher frequencies; for example, any frequency in the fourth frequency band is higher than any frequency in the second frequency band. Furthermore, since radar radiation has relatively lower requirements for scanning angles, even if the center-to-center spacing of adjacent second antenna elements 20 is small, the fourth feed signal F4 can be fed simultaneously to achieve the corresponding radar radiation functionality. Here, the center-to-center spacing of adjacent second antenna elements 20 refers to the distance between the structural center of one second antenna element 20 and the structural center of the adjacent second antenna element 20. In one specific embodiment, the frequency range covered by the fourth frequency band is 57 GHz to 64 GHz. It is understood that the frequency range covered by the fourth frequency band can also be various, which will not be elaborated upon here.

[0123] In one embodiment, a combiner 600 is provided between the second antenna unit 20 and the corresponding feed circuit. The combiner is used to combine the second frequency band feed signal (second feed signal F2) and the fourth frequency band feed signal (fourth feed signal F4) output by the feed circuit to form a second frequency band-fourth frequency band combined feed signal, and transmit the combined feed signal to the second antenna unit 20, thereby realizing the multi-frequency band signal transmission function.

[0124] Please refer to the following: Figures 11 to 13 , Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of an antenna array composed of patch antennas; Figure 12 Figure 1 shows the echo curves and isolation curves for some frequency bands obtained from the simulation of the antenna array shown in Figure 1. Figure 13 yes Figure 11 The image shows the echo curves and isolation curves for some frequency bands obtained from the simulation of the antenna array shown.

[0125] like Figure 11In one embodiment, both the first antenna element 10 and the second antenna element 20 are patch antennas, and the antenna array 100 is composed of patch antennas. In a specific embodiment, the first antenna element 10 is provided with two first feed ports 11, which are spaced apart and located at two corners of the first antenna element 10. One first feed port 11 is connected to a feed line (not shown), and the other first feed port 11 is connected to another feed line (not shown). The two feed lines are perpendicular to each other and feed signals into the first antenna element 10 together to form a dual-polarized patch antenna. The second antenna element 20 is provided with two second feed ports 12, which are spaced apart and located at two corners of the second antenna element 20. One second feed port 12 is connected to a feed line, and the other second feed port 12 is connected to another feed line. The two feed lines are perpendicular to each other and feed signals into the second antenna element 20 together to form a dual-polarized patch antenna. It should be noted that a dual-polarized antenna can be, for example, an antenna that combines two polarization directions of +45° and -45° that are orthogonal to each other and operate simultaneously in transmit / receive duplex mode.

[0126] It is understood that the first feed port 11 and the second feed port 12 can also be located at other positions on the antenna element, as long as the corresponding functional requirements are met. No specific limitations are placed on the positions of the first feed port 11 and the second feed port 12 here. It is also understood that "vertical" in this embodiment may not be strictly perpendicular to each other. That is, the included angle between the two feed lines mentioned in this application embodiment is close to 90°, but it does not have to be 90°. For example, angles within the range of 80° to 100° can be considered vertical.

[0127] Figure 12 and Figure 13 The echo curve and isolation curve are obtained by simulating an antenna array 100 composed of patch antennas.

[0128] In this diagram, the solid line S1,1 represents the echo curve, and the dashed line S1,2 represents the isolation curve between the feed ports; the horizontal axis represents frequency in GHz, and the vertical axis represents dB.

[0129] like Figure 12 As shown, the antenna array 100 exhibits an antenna return loss of less than -10dB and an antenna isolation of less than -25dB in the 24.25GHz-29.5GHz and 37GHz-43.5GHz frequency bands. Figure 13As shown, the antenna return loss of antenna array 100 is less than -10dB and the antenna isolation is less than -25dB in the 37GHz-43.5GHz and 57GHz-64GHz frequency bands. In summary, antenna array 100, composed of patch antennas, can meet the antenna performance requirements in the first, second, and fourth frequency bands.

[0130] Please refer to the following: Figures 14 to 16 , Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of an antenna array composed of dielectric resonant antennas; Figure 15 yes Figure 14 The image shows the echo curves and isolation curves for some frequency bands obtained from the simulation of the antenna array shown. Figure 16 yes Figure 14 The image shows the echo curves and isolation curves for some frequency bands obtained from the simulation of the antenna array shown.

[0131] like Figure 14 In one embodiment, both the first antenna element 10 and the second antenna element 20 are dielectric resonant antennas, and the antenna array 100 is composed of dielectric resonant antennas. In a specific embodiment, the first antenna element 10 includes a first metal pillar 101, a first non-metallic dielectric block 102, and a second non-metallic dielectric block 103 sequentially nested together, and a first metal sheet 104 disposed at the bottom of the first metal pillar 101. The first metal sheet 104 is provided with two first feed ports 11, which are spaced apart and respectively disposed on two sides of the first metal sheet 104. One first feed port 11 is connected to a feed line (not shown), and the other first feed port 11 is connected to another feed line (not shown). The two feed lines are perpendicular to each other and jointly feed signals to the first antenna element 10 to form a dual-polarized dielectric. The second antenna element 20 includes a second metal post 201, a third non-metallic dielectric block 202, and a fourth non-metallic dielectric block 203, which are sequentially nested together, and a second metal sheet 204 disposed at the bottom of the second metal post 201. The second metal sheet 204 is provided with two second feed ports 12, which are spaced apart and respectively disposed on the two sides of the second metal sheet 204. One second feed port 12 is connected to a feed line (not shown), and the other second feed port 12 is connected to another feed line (not shown). The two feed lines are perpendicular to each other and feed signals into the second antenna element 20 together to form a dual-polarized dielectric resonant antenna.

[0132] It is understood that the first feed port 11 and the second feed port 12 can also be located at other positions on the antenna element, as long as the corresponding functional requirements are met. No specific limitations are placed on the positions of the first feed port 11 and the second feed port 12 here. It is also understood that "vertical" in this embodiment may not be strictly perpendicular to each other. That is, the included angle between the two feed lines mentioned in this application embodiment is close to 90°, but it does not have to be 90°. For example, angles within the range of 80° to 100° can be considered vertical.

[0133] Figure 15 and Figure 16 The echo curves and isolation curves are obtained through simulation of an antenna array 100 composed of dielectric resonant antennas. The solid line S1,1 represents the echo curve, and the dashed line S1,2 represents the isolation curve between the feed ports; the horizontal axis represents frequency in GHz, and the vertical axis represents dB.

[0134] like Figure 15 As shown, the antenna array 100 exhibits an antenna return loss of less than -10dB and an antenna isolation of less than -25dB in the 24.25GHz-29.5GHz and 37GHz-43.5GHz frequency bands. Figure 16 As shown, the antenna return loss of antenna array 100 is less than -10dB and the antenna isolation is less than -25dB in the 37GHz-43.5GHz and 57GHz-64GHz frequency bands. In summary, antenna array 100, composed of dielectric resonant antennas, can meet the antenna performance requirements in the first, second, and fourth frequency bands.

[0135] In summary, regardless of whether the first antenna element 10 and the second antenna element 20 are patch antennas or dielectric resonant antennas, the antenna array 100 composed of them can meet the antenna performance requirements in the corresponding frequency band. It can also be understood that the types of the first antenna element 10 and the second antenna element 20 include, but are not limited to, patch antennas and dielectric resonant antennas, and can also be any other type of antenna that meets the corresponding functional requirements. Therefore, no specific limitations are placed on the types of the first antenna element 10 and the second antenna element 20 here.

[0136] Please see Figure 17 , Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna array arrangement and signal transmission in another embodiment.

[0137] In one embodiment, the first antenna element 10 is a multi-frequency antenna element. The first antenna element 10 can not only operate in the first frequency band and the second frequency band, but also in other frequency bands, so that the antenna array 100 composed of the first antenna element 10 and the second antenna element 20 is not limited to the dual-frequency antenna array 100, but can also be a multi-frequency antenna array 100.

[0138] like Figure 17 For example, the first antenna element 10 operates in a first frequency band, a second frequency band, and a fifth frequency band. A first feed signal F1, within the first frequency band range, is transmitted to the first antenna element 10 to enable the first antenna element 10 to radiate in the first frequency band; a second feed signal F2, within the second frequency band range, is transmitted to the first antenna element 10 and the second antenna element 20 to enable the first antenna element 10 and the second antenna element 20 to radiate in the second frequency band; a fifth feed signal F5, within the fifth frequency band range, is transmitted to the first antenna element 10 to enable the first antenna element 10 to also radiate in the fifth frequency band. This allows the antenna array 100 to operate in the first frequency band, the second frequency band, and the fifth frequency band.

[0139] It is understood that the frequency range covered by the fifth frequency band can be various, and the number and distribution of the first antenna elements 10 fed to the corresponding fifth feed signal F5 can be adjusted according to the size of the frequency range covered by the fifth frequency band, so that the gain and scanning angle of the antenna array 100 in the fifth frequency band can meet the corresponding requirements. For example, the first frequency band is 24.25GHz-29.5GHz, the second frequency band is 37GHz-43.5GHz, the fifth frequency band is 57GHz-64GHz, and the center distance between two adjacent first antenna elements 10 is 5.6mm. It is also understood that the first antenna elements 10 can also operate in other frequency bands besides the first, second, and fifth frequency bands; the specific frequency bands and ranges in which the first antenna elements 10 operate are not limited here.

[0140] Please see Figure 18 , Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna array arrangement and signal transmission in another embodiment.

[0141] In one embodiment, multiple second antenna elements 20 are provided between every two adjacent first antenna elements 10. It is understood that when the first antenna elements 10 operate in a first frequency band and a second frequency band, and the second antenna elements 20 operate in the second frequency band, and the frequency covered by the first frequency band has a large phase difference with the frequency covered by the second frequency band, multiple second antenna elements 20 can be inserted between two adjacent first antenna elements 10 to improve the radiation performance of the antenna array 100. It is also understood that, under the above structure, the center-to-center distance between every two adjacent second antenna elements 20 can be equivalent to the center-to-center distance between adjacent first antenna elements 10 and second antenna elements 20, thereby effectively improving the symmetry of the antenna array 100 scanning in the second frequency band.

[0142] like Figure 18In one specific embodiment, two second antenna elements 20 are provided between every two adjacent first antenna elements 10, and the center-to-center distance between adjacent first antenna elements 10 and second antenna elements 20 is greater than or equal to 0.3 times the wavelength corresponding to the second frequency band and less than or equal to 0.45 times the wavelength corresponding to the second frequency band. The wavelength corresponding to the second frequency band refers to the wavelength corresponding to the center frequency of the second frequency band, and the center frequency of the second frequency band refers to the frequency corresponding to the center point of the second frequency band. It is understood that under the above-mentioned center-to-center distance requirement, the scanning angle of the antenna array 100 in the second frequency band can be effectively improved, thereby effectively achieving the characteristics of wide-angle scanning in higher frequency bands. For example, in this embodiment, the first frequency band is 24.25 GHz to 29.5 GHz, and the second frequency band is 57 GHz to 64 GHz.

[0143] In another embodiment, the first frequency band is 24.25 GHz to 29.5 GHz, and the second frequency band is 122 GHz to 123 GHz. It is understood that 122 GHz to 123 GHz is a radar frequency band. When the antenna array 100 operates in this frequency band, its requirements for the scanning angle are relatively low. Even if the electrical length of the center-to-center distance between adjacent antenna elements is small, it can still meet the corresponding functional requirements.

[0144] In this embodiment, the antenna array 100 can also be axially symmetrical about a virtual axis of symmetry I, wherein the virtual axis of symmetry I is perpendicular to the extension direction of the antenna array 100. Multiple second antenna elements 20 between two adjacent first antenna elements 10 form a second antenna element group 21. The first antenna elements 10 and the second antenna element group 21 are arranged alternately on both sides of the axis of symmetry II, and the center-to-center distance between any two adjacent first antenna elements 10 is the same. Similarly, the center-to-center distance between any two adjacent second antenna elements 20 within the second antenna element group 21 is the same, and the center-to-center distance between adjacent first antenna elements 10 and second antenna elements 20 is also the same. It should be noted that when the antenna array 100 is symmetrically distributed as described above, the scanning symmetry of the antenna array 100 can be effectively improved, thereby giving the antenna array 100 better scanning performance. It should also be noted that the antenna elements symmetrically distributed about the aforementioned axis of symmetry II can be fed with the same feed signal, thus making the antenna array 100 not only structurally symmetrical but also symmetrical in signal distribution, further improving the scanning symmetry of the antenna array 100.

[0145] Please see Figure 19 , Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna array arrangement in another embodiment.

[0146] like Figure 19In one embodiment, a plurality of first antenna elements 10 are arranged in a planar array, and at least one second antenna element 20 is provided between every two adjacent first antenna elements 10. It is understood that when the antenna array 100 is arranged in an m×n (m>1, n>1) planar array, the antenna array 100 usually contains more first antenna elements 10 and second antenna elements 20, thereby achieving better antenna radiation performance.

[0147] Please refer to the following: Figure 20 and Figure 21 , Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna array arrangement in another embodiment; Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna array arrangement in another embodiment.

[0148] In one embodiment, the antenna array 100 further includes a third antenna element 30, which is spaced apart from the first antenna element 10 and the second antenna element 20. The third antenna element 30 is spaced apart from the first antenna element 10 and the second antenna element 20, and operates in different frequency bands, thereby achieving their respective radiation functions. It can be understood that in this embodiment, some of the first antenna elements 10 or some of the second antenna elements 20 in the antenna array 100 can be replaced with the third antenna element 30, and the operating frequency band of the third antenna element 30 is different from that of the first antenna element 10 and the second antenna element 20. For example, the operating frequency band of the third antenna element 30 is 57GHz-64GHz, thereby enabling the antenna array 100 to achieve multiple radiation functions. Figure 20 The antenna array 100 provided in this embodiment can be arranged in a linear array; such as Figure 21 The antenna array 100 provided in this embodiment can also be arranged in a planar array.

[0149] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Where there is no conflict, the embodiments and features in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An antenna array (100), characterized in that, include: Multiple first antenna elements (10) operate at least in a first frequency band and a second frequency band, and any frequency in the second frequency band is higher than any frequency in the first frequency band; and The second antenna element (20) operates at least in a third frequency band, which at least partially overlaps with the second frequency band, and the frequency range in which the second frequency band and the third frequency band overlap is the overlapping frequency band; Multiple first antenna elements (10) are arranged in a planar matrix at intervals. Along the row, column and diagonal directions of the matrix, at least one second antenna element (20) is provided between every two adjacent first antenna elements (10). The center distance between adjacent first antenna elements (10) and second antenna elements (20) is greater than or equal to 0.3 times the wavelength corresponding to the overlapping frequency band and less than or equal to 0.45 times the wavelength corresponding to the overlapping frequency band. The center distance between every two adjacent first antenna elements (10) is within a preset size range so that the gain of the antenna array (100) in the first frequency band is greater than or equal to the target value.

2. The antenna array (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The preset size range is: greater than or equal to 0.45 times the wavelength corresponding to the first frequency band, and less than or equal to 0.8 times the wavelength corresponding to the first frequency band.

3. The antenna array (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The target value is 8 dBi.

4. The antenna array (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that, Multiple first antenna elements (10) are arranged in a linear array, and at least one second antenna element (20) is provided between each two adjacent first antenna elements (10).

5. The antenna array (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that, A second antenna unit (20) is provided between each pair of adjacent first antenna units (10), and the center distance between the second antenna unit (20) and the adjacent two first antenna units (10) is the same.

6. The antenna array (100) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first frequency band is from 24.25 GHz to 29.5 GHz, and the second and third frequency bands are both from 37 GHz to 43.5 GHz.

7. The antenna array (100) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The center-to-center distance between two adjacent first antenna units (10) is 5.6 mm, and the center-to-center distance between adjacent first antenna units (10) and second antenna units (20) is 2.8 mm.

8. The antenna array (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that, A plurality of second antenna units (20) are provided between each pair of adjacent first antenna units (10), and the center distance between each pair of adjacent second antenna units (20) is equal to the center distance between adjacent first antenna units (10) and second antenna units (20).

9. The antenna array (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that, Two second antenna elements (20) are provided between each two adjacent first antenna elements (10); The frequency range in which the second frequency band and the third frequency band overlap is the overlapping frequency band; The center-to-center distance between adjacent first antenna elements (10) and second antenna elements (20) is greater than or equal to 0.3 times the wavelength corresponding to the overlapping frequency band and less than or equal to 0.45 times the wavelength corresponding to the overlapping frequency band.

10. The antenna array (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first frequency band is 24.25 GHz to 29.5 GHz, and the second and third frequency bands are both 122 GHz to 123 GHz.

11. The antenna array (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The antenna array (100) is symmetrical about a virtual axis of symmetry (I). The first antenna element (10) and the second antenna element (20) are arranged alternately on both sides of the axis of symmetry (I). The center distance between any two adjacent first antenna elements (10) is the same, and the center distance between any two adjacent second antenna elements (20) is the same.

12. The antenna array (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second antenna unit (20) is a multi-frequency antenna unit, and the second antenna unit (20) operates in multiple frequency bands, including the third frequency band.

13. The antenna array (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first antenna unit (10) is a multi-frequency antenna unit, and the first antenna unit (10) operates in multiple frequency bands, including the first frequency band and the second frequency band.

14. The antenna array (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that, The first antenna element (10) and the second antenna element (20) are patch antennas or dielectric resonant antennas.

15. An antenna module (1000), characterized in that, The device includes a substrate (200), a chip (300), and an antenna array (100) as described in any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the antenna array (100) and the chip (300) are both connected to the substrate (200), and the chip (300) is electrically connected to the antenna array (100).

16. The antenna module (1000) according to claim 15, characterized in that, The chip (300) transmits a first feed signal (F1) or a second feed signal (F2) to the first antenna unit (10) and transmits a third feed signal (F3) to the second antenna unit (20). The frequency of the first feed signal (F1) is within the first frequency band; The frequency of the second feed signal (F2) is within the second frequency band range; The frequency of the third feed signal (F3) is within the third frequency band.

17. The antenna module (1000) according to claim 16, characterized in that, A combiner (600) is also provided between the chip (300) and the antenna array (100). The combiner (600) is used to combine the first feed signal (F1) and the second feed signal (F2) together, so as to transmit them together to the first antenna unit (10).

18. An electronic device (10000), characterized in that, Includes the antenna module (1000) as described in any one of claims 16 and 17.

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