Antennas, antenna arrays, and communication devices

Abstract

This application provides an antenna, antenna array, and communication device, aiming to construct more degrees of freedom and antenna ports within a limited antenna panel size. The antenna includes: four independent feed points; and four helical arms corresponding one-to-one with the four feed points, each helical arm connected to its corresponding feed point. The helical end of each helical arm can be connected to its corresponding feed point using an open-circuit stub structure, and / or, the end of each helical arm can be coupled to a parasitic patch, and / or, the spacing w between two adjacent helical arms satisfies: w ≤ λ / 10, where λ is the operating wavelength. This design provides four degrees of freedom and widens the antenna bandwidth. Within the limited antenna panel size, this is beneficial for improving system throughput.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of antenna technology, and more specifically, to antennas, antenna arrays, and communication devices. Background Technology

[0002] With the increasing capacity demands of Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) systems, there is a desire to build more degrees of freedom and antenna ports within a limited antenna panel size. Currently, the most common antenna element is the dual-polarized antenna element. A single dual-polarized antenna element can provide two degrees of freedom for antenna ports. To increase antenna ports, more antenna elements are needed, which in turn increases the dimension of the antenna array. However, since the spacing between antenna elements is limited by the operating frequency, the size of the antenna panel also increases. This is detrimental to the deployment of communication equipment (such as base stations). Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides an antenna, an antenna array, and a communication device, with the aim of creating more degrees of freedom and antenna ports within a limited antenna panel size.

[0004] In a first aspect, an antenna is provided, comprising: a plurality of independent feed points; a plurality of spiral arms corresponding one-to-one with the plurality of feed points; and each of the plurality of spiral arms being connected to a corresponding feed point.

[0005] Because these multiple feed points are independent of each other, the multiple spiral arms connected to these feed points can each operate independently based on the feed from the feed point. That is, each spiral arm connected to each feed point can achieve single-port operation. Or, each spiral arm connected to each feed point can provide one port degree of freedom. Multiple spiral arms can provide multiple port degrees of freedom based on the feeds from multiple feed points respectively. This is beneficial for improving system throughput.

[0006] In one possible design, the feed end of each of the plurality of spiral arms is connected to its corresponding feed point using an open-circuit stub structure.

[0007] Open-stub structures can improve antenna matching and broaden antenna bandwidth.

[0008] Optionally, the open-circuit stub structure has a length L in at least one dimension that satisfies: L≤λ / 4, where λ is the operating wavelength.

[0009] In another possible design, the end of each of the plurality of spiral arms is coupled to a parasitic patch.

[0010] By coupling with parasitic patches, the antenna matching can be improved and the antenna bandwidth can be widened.

[0011] Optionally, the antenna further includes an antenna support body disposed on the antenna panel, the spiral arm surrounding the outer wall of the antenna support body, and the parasitic patch disposed on the inner wall of the antenna support body at a position corresponding to the end of the corresponding spiral arm.

[0012] In other words, the end of the spiral arm is indirectly coupled to the parasitic patch.

[0013] Optionally, the parasitic patch is a capacitive parasitic patch.

[0014] That is, the spiral arm and the parasitic patch can be capacitively coupled.

[0015] In another possible design, the spacing w between any two adjacent spiral arms of the plurality of spiral arms satisfies: w ≤ λ / 10, where λ is the operating wavelength.

[0016] By limiting the spacing between the spiral arms, the coupling between the spiral arms can be increased, thereby improving the antenna matching and widening the antenna bandwidth.

[0017] In another possible design, the width of each of the plurality of spiral arms is greater near the connected feed point than the width away from the feed point.

[0018] Further improvements to the shape of the spiral arm can enhance antenna matching and broaden antenna bandwidth.

[0019] Optionally, the spiral arm is a plate-shaped stepped spiral arm.

[0020] It should be understood that the four possible designs listed above can all improve antenna matching and broaden antenna bandwidth. These four designs can be used individually or in combination, and this application does not limit this.

[0021] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the number of turns N of each of the plurality of spiral arms satisfies: 0.5 ≤ N ≤ 2.

[0022] By limiting the number of turns of the spiral arm, the height of the spiral arm can be limited, and the beamwidth of the antenna can be made to meet the requirements of cellular communication.

[0023] Optionally, the number of turns N of each of the plurality of spiral arms is 0.75.

[0024] It should be understood that the number of turns N mentioned here is 0.75, which allows for a certain margin of error. In other words, the number of turns N for each spiral arm is approximately 0.75. Alternatively, the number of turns N for each spiral arm is approximately 0.75.

[0025] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the helical diameter d of each of the plurality of helical arms satisfies: 0.18λ≤d≤0.25λ, where λ is the operating wavelength.

[0026] By limiting the diameter of the spiral arm, the projected area of ​​the antenna on the antenna panel can be limited, meaning the antenna may occupy a smaller area on the antenna panel. Simultaneously, limiting the spiral diameter also allows for normal radiation of the antenna, meeting the requirements of cellular communication.

[0027] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the plurality of spiral arms have the same size specifications.

[0028] For example, the aforementioned multiple spiral arms can have the same length, the same spiral diameter, the same number of turns, etc.

[0029] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the plurality of feed points are four feed points, and the plurality of spiral arms are four spiral arms that correspond one-to-one with the four feed points.

[0030] In this case, the antenna can provide four degrees of freedom for its ports.

[0031] In a second aspect, an antenna array is provided, which includes an antenna as described in any implementation of the first aspect.

[0032] By using the aforementioned antennas in the antenna array, more ports and degrees of freedom can be constructed within a limited antenna panel area, which is beneficial for improving system throughput and gain.

[0033] Thirdly, an antenna is provided, comprising: a plurality of independent feed points; and a plurality of L-shaped arms corresponding one-to-one with the plurality of feed points, wherein each of the plurality of L-shaped arms is connected to one of the plurality of feed points.

[0034] Because these multiple feed points are independent of each other, the multiple L-arms connected to these feed points can each operate independently based on the feed from the feed point. That is, each L-arm connected to each feed point can achieve single-port operation. Or, each L-arm connected to each feed point can provide one port degree of freedom. Multiple L-arms can provide multiple port degrees of freedom based on the feeds from multiple feed points, thereby improving system throughput.

[0035] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, each of the plurality of L-shaped arms includes a first arm and a second arm, the first arm and the second arm intersecting at the feed end to form an L shape; wherein the feed end is connected to the corresponding feed point.

[0036] Optionally, each of the plurality of L-shaped arms is parallel to the antenna panel.

[0037] Designing the L-shaped arm to be parallel to the antenna panel can reduce the height of the antenna.

[0038] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the first arm of each L-shaped arm includes a first portion parallel to the antenna panel and a second portion perpendicular to the antenna panel, and the second arm of each L-shaped arm includes a third portion parallel to the antenna panel and a fourth portion perpendicular to the antenna panel.

[0039] Further improvements to the two arms of the L-shaped arm, such that a portion bends towards the antenna panel, can further reduce the projected area of ​​the antenna on the antenna panel, thus reducing the area occupied by the antenna on the antenna panel and facilitating the creation of a smaller antenna structure.

[0040] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the plurality of L-shaped arms have the same height relative to the antenna panel.

[0041] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the plurality of L-shaped arms are arranged in an alternating spiral around the center of the antenna.

[0042] By arranging multiple L-shaped arms in an alternating spiral around the center of the antenna, the antenna structure can be made compact, which is beneficial for obtaining a smaller antenna structure. In addition, the alternating spiral arrangement of multiple L-shaped arms can correct the antenna radiation pattern and improve the isolation between ports.

[0043] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the plurality of L-shaped arms have the same size specifications.

[0044] That is, the multiple L-shaped arms can have a first arm of the same length, a second arm of the same length, and the same height, etc.

[0045] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the plurality of power supply points are four power supply points, and the plurality of L-shaped arms are four L-shaped arms that correspond one-to-one with the four power supply points.

[0046] Fourthly, an antenna array is provided, which includes an antenna as described in any of the implementations of the third aspect.

[0047] By using the aforementioned antennas in the antenna array, more ports and degrees of freedom can be constructed within a limited antenna panel area, which is beneficial for improving system throughput and gain.

[0048] Fifthly, a communication device is provided, which is equipped with an antenna as described in any implementation of the first aspect, or an antenna as described in any implementation of the third aspect. Alternatively, the communication device is equipped with an antenna array as described in the second or fourth aspect.

[0049] Optionally, the communication device is a base station. Attached Figure Description

[0050] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an application scenario applicable to the antenna unit provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0051] Figures 2 to 7 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0052] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the correspondence between the spiral arm and the radio frequency channel in the antenna unit provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0053] Figures 9 to 19 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna array provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0054] Figure 20 and Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram of an antenna provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figures 22 to 32 This is a schematic diagram of an antenna array provided in another embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0056] The technical solutions in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0057] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, a brief explanation of several terms involved in this application will be given first.

[0058] Antenna port: Also known simply as port. A port can be understood as an independent transceiver unit (TxRU).

[0059] Antenna element: An antenna element can provide one or more degrees of freedom for antenna ports.

[0060] Optionally, an antenna element may include one or more antenna elements, each antenna element corresponding to an independent radio frequency channel (RF channel) and driven by the corresponding RF channel.

[0061] Optionally, an antenna element may also include one or more groups of antenna elements, each group of antenna elements may include multiple antenna elements, and each group of antenna elements may correspond to a radio frequency channel and be driven by the corresponding radio frequency channel.

[0062] Multiple antenna elements can be arranged in an array to form an antenna system. This antenna system can be called an antenna array, or simply an antenna array.

[0063] Antenna element: Abbreviated as "electrode". It is the radiating element that makes up an antenna, and it has the function of guiding and amplifying electromagnetic waves.

[0064] Power supply: In the field of antennas, power supply can refer to supplying power to the antenna, or in other words, providing energy.

[0065] Operating wavelength λ: Inversely proportional to operating frequency f. For example, the operating wavelength λ (unit: meters) can be the reciprocal of the operating frequency f (unit: megahertz (MHz)).

[0066] Antenna bandwidth: Used to describe the range of frequencies within which an antenna can correctly radiate or receive energy.

[0067] Beamwidth: The angle between the two half-power points of a beam.

[0068] Spatial resolution: half the width of the first null beam.

[0069] Specifically, when two antenna elements in an antenna array receive a signal from a certain direction of arrival, the direction of arrival can be identified by the phase difference between the two antenna elements. The trend of the phase difference with the radiation angle (i.e., the slope of the phase pattern difference) reflects the minimum spatial interval that the antenna array can distinguish, that is, it reflects the spatial resolution of the antenna array. Therefore, the spatial resolution of the antenna array in the horizontal direction is related to the maximum slope of the phase pattern difference between any two ports in the horizontal direction (usually the slope of the phase pattern difference between the leftmost and rightmost antenna elements); the spatial resolution of the antenna array in the vertical direction is related to the maximum slope of the phase pattern difference between any two ports in the vertical direction (usually the slope of the phase pattern difference between the topmost and bottommost antenna elements).

[0070] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, firstly, in conjunction with... Figure 1The application scenarios of the antenna unit provided in the embodiments of this application are briefly described. Figure 1 Several possible schematic architecture diagrams of a base station applicable to the antenna elements provided in the embodiments of this application are shown. Figure 1 The evolution of base station architecture is illustrated by the several architectures shown in the order from a) to c). For example... Figure 1 As shown, the architecture of this base station can be a macro base station + antenna architecture, such as... Figure 1 As shown in a) above; it can also be a separate base station + antenna architecture, such as Figure 1 As shown in b) above; or it could be an architecture of active antenna unit (AAU) + baseband unit (BBU), such as... Figure 1 As shown in c) of the document. This application does not limit this application.

[0071] by Figure 1 Taking the split base station + antenna architecture shown in b) as an example, the base station can include an antenna, a base band unit (BBU), and a remote radio unit (RRU). The BBU can be connected to the RRU through a common public radio interface (CPRI) or enhanced CPRI (eCPRI), and the RRU can be connected to the antenna through a feeder. Figure 1 The antenna shown can be a passive antenna, which is separate from the RRU and can be connected to it via a cable.

[0072] The Baseband Unit (BBU) primarily handles baseband signal processing, such as channel encoding / decoding and modulation / demodulation. A single BBU may contain multiple baseband boards. The Remote Receiver Unit (RRU) primarily performs intermediate frequency (IF) processing, radio frequency (RF) processing, and duplexing functions. IF processing includes up-conversion, down-conversion, digital-to-analog (DAC), and analog-to-digital (ADC) conversion, while RF processing includes power amplification of the transmitted and received RF signals. In some scenarios, such as zero-IF systems, the RRU may not include IF processing capabilities.

[0073] It should be understood that Figure 1 The base station architecture shown is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting this application. In another possible design, the base station may include an active antenna system (AAS), in which the antenna and radio frequency module are integrated.

[0074] In another possible design, the base station may also include a centralized unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU). The DU can be used to transmit and receive radio frequency signals, convert radio frequency signals to baseband signals, and perform some baseband processing. The CU can be used for baseband processing, control of the base station, etc. The DU may include at least one antenna. For example, the antenna array provided in the embodiments of this application may be used for the at least one antenna in the DU. The CU and DU may be physically arranged together or physically separated; this application does not limit this.

[0075] It should be understood that the architecture of a base station can refer to various possible base station architectures in existing technologies. For the sake of brevity, they will not be listed and explained one by one here.

[0076] Figure 1 Although not shown, those skilled in the art will understand that the antenna described above may specifically include radiating elements (i.e., antenna elements, vibrators, etc.), reflectors (or base plates), power distribution networks (or feed networks), and radomes.

[0077] Currently, most antennas used in cellular communication networks are dual-polarized antennas, or cross-polarized antennas. A dual-polarized antenna can provide two degrees of freedom at two ports. Compared to a single-polarized antenna, it can increase spatial multiplexing capabilities by increasing polarization degrees of freedom while keeping the area constant, and it also doubles the number of ports, thereby increasing the system throughput.

[0078] To achieve higher system throughput, it is desirable to design the antenna to maximize its spatial resolution. In one possible design, the spacing between antenna elements is set to half the wavelength of the operating frequency. This is because the antenna array exhibits excellent spatial resolution and strong sidelobe suppression capabilities at this setting.

[0079] However, with the development of multi-antenna technology, the dimensions of antenna arrays have increased, the number of antenna elements has increased, the area of ​​antenna arrays has also increased, and the antenna panel has also increased, which is not conducive to the deployment of communication equipment.

[0080] Taking the dual-polarized antenna mentioned above as an example, the spacing between two adjacent dual-polarized antennas is 0.5 wavelengths. If the antenna array has a dimension of 8×8 (8 rows and 8 columns), then the total spacing between the antennas in the array is approximately 3.5 (0.5×7) wavelengths. Considering the area of ​​the antenna itself, the width of this antenna array is approximately 4 wavelengths. In a frequency band with a center frequency of 1.8 GHz, the corresponding width of the antenna array is approximately 667 mm, which greatly exceeds the conventional size of the antenna panel. If the dimension of the antenna array is further increased, such as by increasing the number of rows and / or columns, the size of the corresponding antenna array will further increase. This may lead to an increase in the size of the communication equipment, which is not conducive to deployment.

[0081] Therefore, there is a need to provide an antenna that can offer more ports and degrees of freedom within a limited area.

[0082] This application provides an antenna that, compared to a dual-polarized antenna, offers more degrees of freedom for its ports, and these ports can operate independently. This allows for the deployment of more ports within a limited antenna panel area, improving system throughput without compromising the antenna's spatial resolution.

[0083] The following text combines Figures 2 to 7 as well as Figure 20 and Figure 21 The specific structure of the antenna provided in the embodiments of this application is described in detail. Figures 9 to 19 It includes, for example Figures 2 to 7 The antenna array of antenna 200 shown in any of the attached figures. Figures 22 to 32 It includes, for example Figure 20 or Figure 21 The antenna array of antenna 300 shown. It should be understood that... Figures 2 to 7 The antenna 200 shown and Figure 20 and Figure 21 The antenna 300 shown can be used as an independent antenna unit, or as part of an antenna unit, or as part of an antenna unit composed of one or more antennas 200 or 300 of the same structure. This application does not limit this.

[0084] It should be noted that the following text will refer to the accompanying drawings (such as...). Figures 2 to 7 , Figure 20 and Figure 21When describing antennas, the terms "up" and "down" are used for ease of description. For an antenna, the feed end is at the bottom, and the tip is at the top. The antenna can be positioned above the antenna panel, or the antenna panel can be positioned below the antenna. It should be understood that this is only for ease of description and does not constitute any limitation on this application. For example, if the antenna is rotated 180°, the feed end is at the top, and the tip is at the top. The antenna panel is positioned above the antenna, and the antenna is positioned below the antenna panel. Those skilled in the art will understand that "up" and "down" can be interchanged in the following description.

[0085] It should also be noted that the following text, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings (such as...), Figures 9 to 19 , Figures 22 to 32 When describing antenna arrays, the terms "left," "right," "up," and "down" are introduced for ease of description. When describing columns, "left" and "right" define the positional relationship; when describing rows, "up" and "down" define the positional relationship. "Left," "right," "up," and "down" are all relative to an antenna array with a defined orientation. It's understandable that in practical use, antenna arrays can be deployed in communication devices, such as being mounted on a bracket. During installation, the antenna panel may tilt, flip, or rotate, and the orientation of the antenna array may change, but this will not affect the relative positional relationship between the antenna elements within the array. "Left" and "right" are relative, corresponding to columns; "up" and "down" are relative, corresponding to rows. For example, rotating the antenna array 90° around its center axis allows "left" and "right" to be interchanged with "up" and "down," and "column" to be interchanged with "row"; "up" and "down" can be interchanged with "left" and "right," and "row" to be interchanged with "column." For example, when the antenna array is rotated 180° around its center axis, the "left" and "right" can be swapped, and the "top" and "bottom" can be swapped.

[0086] The antennas and antenna arrays provided in the embodiments of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0087] In the following text, Figures 2 to 7 The diagram shown is a schematic diagram of the antenna 200 provided in an embodiment of this application. Figures 9 to 19 It is an antenna array that includes antenna 200.

[0088] For ease of explanation, the antenna 200, which includes four feed points and four elements, will be used as an example to describe the antenna 200 in detail below. However, it should be understood that this should not constitute any limitation on this application. The antenna 200 may also include more or fewer feed points and be connected to more or fewer elements, thereby achieving more or fewer degrees of freedom in terms of ports.

[0089] Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of the antenna 200 provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 The antenna shown comprises four elements, each element being a helical arm, or in other words, each helical arm being a single element. Each helical arm can correspond to an independent radio frequency channel. Figure 2 As shown, the antenna 200 includes four independent feed points 211-214 and four spiral arms 221-224 corresponding to each of the four feed points. Each spiral arm can be connected to one feed point. As shown in the figure, spiral arm 221 is connected to feed point 211, spiral arm 222 is connected to feed point 212, spiral arm 223 is connected to feed point 213, and spiral arm 224 is connected to feed point 214. Each feed point can provide power to the spiral arm it is connected to.

[0090] Because the four feed points are independent of each other, the four spiral arms connected to these four feed points can each operate independently based on the feed from the feed point. That is, each spiral arm connected to each feed point can achieve single-port operation. Or, each spiral arm connected to each feed point can provide one port degree of freedom. The four spiral arms can provide four port degrees of freedom based on the feeds from the four feed points respectively.

[0091] Because this antenna has four helical arms, it can be called a quadrifilarhelix antenna (QHA). It should be understood that the QHA provides four degrees of freedom for its four ports, enabling independent operation of each port, unlike the traditional QHA's four-port joint feeding mode. In other words, the QHA provided in this embodiment can provide more ports and degrees of freedom within the same antenna area. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the QHA provided in this embodiment can still meet the requirements for antenna structural parameters in traditional QHAs. For example, Among them, L ax L is the axial length of the helix. ele R is the length of the spiral arm, r0 is the radius of the spiral, and N is the number of spiral turns.

[0092] Alternatively, the spiral arm can be made of metal, or it can be made by attaching copper to a printed circuit board (PCB) or by applying a metal plating to the outside of plastic.

[0093] It should be understood that the shape of the spiral arm shown in the figure is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting this application. For example, the spiral arm can have different shapes such as plate-like or tubular. This application includes, but is not limited to, these shapes.

[0094] Figure 3 This is another schematic diagram of the antenna 200 provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 3As shown, the antenna 200 can be deployed on the antenna panel 230 (or reflector). The antenna panel 230 can be, for example, a metal plate or a PCB plated with metal.

[0095] In one possible design, the four feed points 211-214 can be set on the antenna panel 230, and one end of each of the four spiral arms 221-224 can be electrically connected to a feed point set on the antenna panel 230, or in other words, one end of each spiral arm is directly coupled to a feed point.

[0096] This application does not limit the method of electrical connection between each feed point and the spiral arm. For example, the feed point and the spiral arm can be connected by a feed wire; alternatively, the feed point can be designed on the antenna panel, and one end of the spiral arm can be welded to the feed point on the antenna panel to achieve electrical connection; or, the feed point can be designed on the antenna panel, and the spiral arm can be mounted on the antenna panel and contact the feed point to achieve electrical connection. This application does not limit this method.

[0097] For ease of distinction and explanation, the end of each spiral arm electrically connected to the feed point is designated as the feed end, and the other end as the end. It should be understood that the names "feed end" and "end" are merely for ease of distinguishing the two ends of the spiral arm and should not constitute any limitation on this application. For example, one end could also be designated as the first end, and the other as the second end.

[0098] Each of the four spiral arms 221-224 can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise around a central axis, for example, when viewed from the feed end to the end. Optionally, all four spiral arms 221-224 can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise around the same central axis. For ease of understanding and explanation, the common center of the four spiral arms will be referred to as the central axis.

[0099] Optionally, the four spiral arms 221-224 can have the same spiral direction. For example, looking from the feed end to the end, all four spiral arms 221-224 can rotate clockwise, or they can all rotate counterclockwise, as shown. Figure 2 As shown in the image. This application does not limit this.

[0100] Optionally, the four spiral arms 221-224 can have different spiral directions. For example, looking from the feed end to the end, spiral arms 221 and 223 can rotate clockwise, and spiral arms 222 and 224 can rotate counterclockwise; or, spiral arms 221 and 223 can rotate counterclockwise, and spiral arms 222 and 224 can rotate clockwise. Although not shown in the figure, this application does not limit this.

[0101] In order to obtain a more uniform electromagnetic radiation field, the four spiral arms can be evenly wrapped around the central axis.

[0102] If we take cross-sections of the four helical arms along a direction perpendicular to the central axis, we can see that the cross-sections of the four helical arms are evenly distributed around the point corresponding to the central axis on the same plane. If we connect the cross-sections of the four helical arms end to end, we can obtain a circle, the center of which can be the aforementioned central axis. The diameter of this circle can be the helical diameter d of the helical arms.

[0103] Optionally, the feed ends of the four spiral arms 221-224 are evenly distributed around the central axis, as shown in the figure. The four feed ends can be located on a circle with the spiral diameter d of the spiral arm as the diameter, and the phase difference between two adjacent feed ends is π / 2.

[0104] Correspondingly, the four feed points 211-214 are also evenly distributed around the central axis and electrically connected to the four feed terminals.

[0105] Optionally, the antenna element 200 may further include an antenna support 240. The antenna support 240 may be disposed on the antenna panel 230. In one possible design, both the antenna panel 230 and the antenna support 240 are PCBs. The antenna panel 230 and the antenna support 240 may be an integrated design; alternatively, the antenna panel 230 and the antenna support 240 may be independent of each other, with the antenna support 240 connected to the antenna panel 230 by assembly or soldering. This application does not limit the scope of the application to this design.

[0106] Four spiral arms 221-224 can be wound around the outer wall of the antenna support 240. As shown in the figure, the four spiral arms 221-224 spiral upwards around the outer wall of the antenna support 240. Four feed terminals are connected to four feed points on the antenna panel 230. The four ends terminate on the outer wall of the antenna support 230.

[0107] It should be understood that the figures are merely examples and should not be construed as limiting this application. For example, the four feed points 211-214 could also be designed on the antenna support 240, with the four feed terminals electrically connected to the four feed points 211-214 on the antenna support 240. Alternatively, the four terminals could terminate on the upper surface of the antenna support 240. This application does not limit this.

[0108] In one possible design, the antenna support 240 is cylindrical. In another possible design, the antenna support 240 is conical.

[0109] Based on the above design, the projected size of the antenna 200 on the antenna panel is smaller than that of a dual-polarized antenna. This means that the antenna 200 may occupy a smaller area on the antenna panel. Simultaneously, the antenna 200 can provide more degrees of freedom for its ports, enabling more ports to operate independently. Therefore, with a fixed antenna panel area, it can provide more ports and degrees of freedom compared to a dual-polarized antenna, thereby improving system throughput.

[0110] In order to match the four spiral arms with the feed line, so that the power transmitted from the transmitter to the antenna or from the receiver is maximized and no reflected waves occur on the feed line, that is, to improve the antenna matching, this application makes further improvements to the antenna 200.

[0111] In one possible design, the feed end of each spiral arm is connected to its corresponding feed point using an open-circuit stub structure.

[0112] Figure 4 The diagram shows open-circuit stub structures 251-254 between the feed ends and feed points of the four spiral arms 221-224. As shown, taking spiral arm 221 as an example, the spiral arm is viewed to the right from its feed end, and the open-circuit stub structure 251 is viewed to the left from its feed end. This open-circuit stub structure 251 is electrically connected to the feed end of the spiral arm 221.

[0113] It should be understood that the terms "left" and "right" are used here for ease of description only, but this should not constitute any limitation on this application. The relative positional relationship between the open-circuit stub structure and the helical arm is different from different angles. For example, in the figure, the helical arm 223 is located to the left of the open-circuit stub structure to which it is connected.

[0114] Furthermore, the length L of the open-circuit stub structure in at least one dimension satisfies: L≤λ / 4, where λ is the operating wavelength.

[0115] For example, if this open-ended branch structure is unfolded into a plane, an approximate rectangle can be obtained. The length of this rectangle can be L, or the width of the rectangle can be L, or the diagonal length of the rectangle can be L. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the open-path branch structure can satisfy L≤λ / 4 in the spiral direction of its unfolding length L.

[0116] It should be understood that the above constraint on L can also be L < λ / 4. It should also be understood that this application only limits the length of one dimension of the open-stub structure, and does not limit the dimensions of other dimensions.

[0117] By introducing an open-circuit stub structure, the impedance matching between the helical arm and the feed line can be improved, which is beneficial for widening the antenna bandwidth.

[0118] In another possible design, the end of each spiral arm is coupled to a parasitic patch.

[0119] The parasitic patch is indirectly coupled to the end of the spiral arm. It should be understood that indirect coupling is in contrast to direct coupling. Indirect coupling can also be called air-gap coupling. That is, there is no direct electrical connection between the parasitic patch and the end of the spiral arm.

[0120] Figure 5 A schematic diagram shows the coupling of the ends of the four helical arms 221-214 to parasitic patches 261-264. (See diagram for reference.) Figure 5 As shown, the ends of the four spiral arms 221-214 are located on the outer wall of the antenna support, and the parasitic patches 261-264 are located on the inner wall of the antenna support at the corresponding positions of the ends of their respective coupled spiral arms.

[0121] The parasitic patch can be capacitively coupled to the end of the spiral arm. Alternatively, the parasitic patch can be a capacitive parasitic patch.

[0122] The coupling allows the parasitic patch to resonate within the antenna, thereby widening the antenna bandwidth.

[0123] In another possible design, the width of each of the spiral arms 221-224 near the connected feed point is greater than the width away from the feed point.

[0124] For example, each spiral arm is a plate-shaped stepped spiral arm. As shown in the figure, each spiral arm is plate-shaped and surrounds the outer wall of the antenna support 240. It is wider near the feed point and narrower away from the feed point, forming a step in the intermediate transition region.

[0125] This allows for better impedance matching, thereby widening the antenna bandwidth.

[0126] In another possible design, the spacing w between the spiral arms satisfies: w ≤ λ / 10.

[0127] As shown in the figure, spiral arms 221 and 222 are adjacent, spiral arms 222 and 223 are adjacent, spiral arms 223 and 224 are adjacent, and spiral arms 224 and 221 are adjacent.

[0128] By limiting the spacing between the spiral arms, the coupling between the spiral arms can be strengthened, thereby widening the antenna bandwidth.

[0129] For ease of understanding, Figure 6 The spacing between two adjacent spiral arms is shown. Figure 6 The diagram shows spiral arm 221 and its adjacent spiral arm 224. The spacing between them is shown in the figure.

[0130] The spacing between the spiral arms can refer to the vertical distance between two adjacent spiral arms in a direction perpendicular to the antenna panel, such as... Figure 6 As shown in w in the diagram. The spacing between the spiral arms can also refer to the shortest distance between two adjacent spiral arms, such as... Figure 6 As shown in w' in the diagram. That is, a perpendicular line is drawn between two adjacent spiral arms, and the vertical distance between the two lines is taken as the spacing between the spiral arms.

[0131] It should be noted that since the distance values ​​obtained by the two methods of determining the distance between the spiral arms listed above are not significantly different, the definition of the distance between the spiral arms in this application can be either of the two definitions listed above. For ease of explanation, the distance between the spiral arms will be denoted as w in the following text.

[0132] In this embodiment of the application, the distance w between two adjacent spiral arms can satisfy: w≤λ / 10.

[0133] By limiting the spacing w between the spiral arms, the distance between them is reduced, thus strengthening the coupling between them. This increases the antenna's transmission power and consequently helps to broaden the antenna bandwidth.

[0134] It should be understood that the open-circuit stub structure between the feed end and feed point of the spiral arm, the coupling between the end of the spiral arm and the parasitic patch, and the limitation on the spacing between adjacent spiral arms, as listed above, all contribute to widening the antenna bandwidth. Therefore, applying one or more of the above three designs to antenna 200 can widen the antenna bandwidth.

[0135] Figure 7 This diagram illustrates yet another schematic of the antenna 200 provided in an embodiment of this application. For ease of understanding, the components are clearly shown. Figure 7 An exploded view of the antenna 200 is shown. Figure 7 In the antenna 200 shown, the feed ends and feed points of each spiral arm 211-214 adopt open stub structures 251-254. The ends of each spiral arm 211-214 are coupled to parasitic patches 261-264, and the spacing w between any two adjacent spiral arms satisfies: w≤λ / 10.

[0136] The antenna 200 provided in this application can be used in cellular communication networks. For example, it can be used in cellular communication base stations. In order to meet the beam requirements of cellular communication networks for base station transmission and to match the conventional size of base stations, the antenna 200 can be further improved.

[0137] For example, cellular communication networks limit the beamwidth of base station antennas to 65° and require normal radiation capability. Both the beamwidth and radiation direction of the base station are related to the antenna design. In this embodiment, if the aforementioned antenna 200 is applied to a base station, its beamwidth is affected by factors such as the number of turns of the helix, the helix diameter, and the helix height.

[0138] Optionally, the number of turns N in each of the four spiral arms satisfies: 0.5 ≤ N ≤ 2. Preferably, N is 0.75.

[0139] It should be understood that the number of turns N mentioned here is 0.75, which allows for a certain margin of error. In other words, the number of turns N for each spiral arm is approximately 0.75. Alternatively, the number of turns N for each spiral arm is approximately 0.75.

[0140] Optionally, the helical diameter d of each of the four helical arms satisfies: 0.18λ≤d≤0.25λ.

[0141] By limiting the number of turns of the helical arm, the antenna height can be restricted; by limiting the helical diameter, the antenna's projected area on the antenna panel can be limited, meaning the antenna occupies a smaller area on the antenna panel. Simultaneously, by limiting the number of turns of the helical arm and the helical diameter, the beamwidth emitted by the antenna 200 can meet the aforementioned 65° limit, while also possessing normal radiation capability. It can also be matched with the conventional dimensions of base stations.

[0142] It should be understood that several limitations on the dimensional parameters of the helical arms have been listed above. In this antenna 200, the dimensional parameters of the four helical arms can be the same. For example, the four helical arms can have the same length, the same helical diameter, the same number of turns, etc. The dimensional parameters of the four helical arms can also be different. For example, the lengths of the four helical arms can be different, the helical diameters can be different, or the number of turns can be different. However, regardless of the design, as long as the limitations on the dimensional parameters listed above are met, it should fall within the protection scope of this application.

[0143] The above text combined Figures 2 to 7 The QHA provided in the embodiments of this application is described in detail. It should be understood that... Figures 2 to 7 The examples shown are merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application. Figures 2 to 7 The QHA shown can be modified by those skilled in the art through equivalent substitutions or modifications to some of its structures to achieve the same function. All such equivalent substitutions or modifications should fall within the scope of protection of this application.

[0144] It should also be understood that, although Figures 2 to 7The antenna shown can provide four degrees of freedom, but since each port can operate independently, the antenna can also provide one, two, or even three ports in different scenarios. This application does not limit this.

[0145] It should also be understood that the above text, in combination with... Figures 2 to 7 The structure of the antenna 200 provided in the embodiments of this application has been described in detail. However, the figures are only examples, and the antenna 200 may also include more or fewer helical arms to achieve more or fewer degrees of freedom for the ports. For example, two, three, six, eight, etc. This application does not limit this.

[0146] In addition, as mentioned earlier, Figures 2 to 7 The antenna shown can be used as an independent antenna unit, with each spiral arm connected to a feed point, corresponding to an independent radio frequency channel. Figures 2 to 7 The antenna shown can also be part of an antenna element, forming an antenna element with more antennas of the same structure. In an antenna element, each of the multiple antennas can have, for example, […]. Figures 2 to 7 The structure shown is as follows. According to the radio frequency channel corresponding to each spiral arm, the spiral arms in these multiple antennas can be divided into four groups of spiral arms. Each group of spiral arms can achieve independent operation of a single port, and the four groups of spiral arms can provide four degrees of freedom for the ports.

[0147] For ease of understanding, Figure 8 The correspondence between the spiral arms and the radio frequency channels in the antenna element is shown. Figure 8 The image shows an antenna element composed of QHAs listed above, hence it can be called a QHA element. For ease of distinction, each black dot in the figure represents a helical arm.

[0148] If each spiral arm in the QHA unit is driven by an independent RF channel, please refer to... Figure 8 As shown in a), the QHA unit can include four oscillators, each driven by an independent RF channel. In this case, the feed point connected to each spiral arm can correspond to one RF channel.

[0149] If each set of spiral arms in the QHA unit is driven by one RF channel, the correspondence between each set of spiral arms and the RF channel in this antenna unit can be referred to... Figure 8 (b) shows that each group of spiral arms in this QHA unit consists of four spiral arms, and each group of spiral arms can be driven by one RF channel. Each group of spiral arms can also be called a subarray. In this case, the feed point connected to each group of spiral arms can correspond to the same RF channel.

[0150] It should be understood that Figure 8The examples shown are merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting this application. Each radio frequency channel may also correspond to two, three, or other numbers of oscillators. This application does not impose any limitations in this regard.

[0151] It should also be understood that Figure 8 The correspondence between the spiral arms and the radio frequency channels shown is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting this application. The antenna arrays listed below do not limit the correspondence between the spiral arms and the radio frequency channels, nor do they limit the correspondence between the ports and the radio frequency channels.

[0152] For ease of explanation, the following description uses antenna elements as the unit of measurement. An antenna element may be, for example, a single antenna 200 as described above, or it may include multiple antennas 200. This application does not impose any limitations on this.

[0153] Based on the antenna elements provided above (i.e., the QHA elements described above), this application also provides an antenna array. The antenna array may include one or more QHA elements.

[0154] Figures 9 to 19 Several examples of antenna arrays provided in embodiments of this application are shown. It should be understood that... Figures 9 to 19 The antenna array shown can be a complete antenna array or a part of it. This application does not limit this.

[0155] like Figures 9 to 19 As shown, the antenna array may include the QHA unit described above.

[0156] Figure 9 The diagram shows an 8x8 antenna array. All antenna elements in this array can be QHA elements. Therefore, this antenna array can be called a QHA array. Each "○" in the diagram represents a QHA element.

[0157] In this antenna array, horizontally, the leftmost and rightmost antenna elements are QHA elements. When all ports of the array generate phase patterns under the same reference coordinates, the slope of the difference between the phase patterns of the leftmost and rightmost QHA elements is larger than the slope of the difference when both sides are dual-polarized antenna elements. Therefore, the spatial resolution of this antenna array is improved in the horizontal direction. Similarly, vertically, the topmost and bottommost antenna elements are also QHA elements. When all ports of the array generate phase patterns under the same reference coordinates, the slope of the difference between the phase patterns of the topmost and rightmost QHA elements is larger than the slope of the difference when both the top and bottom are dual-polarized antenna elements. Therefore, the spatial resolution of this antenna array is improved in the vertical direction. In summary, the improved spatial resolution of this antenna array is beneficial for improving system throughput and significantly increasing gain.

[0158] It should be understood that Figure 9 The dimensions of the antenna array shown are merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application. The antenna array may also include more or fewer rows and columns. For example, the antenna array may have 12 rows and 8 columns, 16 rows and 8 columns, 12 rows and 12 columns, 16 rows and 12 columns, 16 rows and 16 columns, and so on. For the sake of brevity, these are not listed here.

[0159] Figure 10 The image shows an 8x12 antenna array. This array can include multiple dual-polarized antenna elements and multiple QHA elements, meaning it combines two different antenna structures. Therefore, this antenna array can be called a hybrid array.

[0160] In the figure, each "×" represents a dual-polarized antenna element, and each "○" represents a QHA element. As shown in the figure, the left two columns and right two columns of the antenna array are QHA elements, and the middle eight columns are dual-polarized antenna elements. It should be understood that the dual-polarized antenna element is an example of a two-port antenna element, and can be replaced with other two-port antenna elements. This application does not limit this.

[0161] Because the leftmost and rightmost antenna elements in this antenna array are QHA elements in the horizontal direction, when all ports of the array generate phase patterns under the same reference coordinates, the slope of the difference between the phase patterns of the leftmost and rightmost QHA elements is larger than the slope of the difference between the phase patterns when both sides are dual-polarized antenna elements. Therefore, the spatial resolution of this antenna array in the horizontal direction is improved. This is beneficial for improving the system throughput and resulting in significant gain.

[0162] It should be noted that the system throughput is related to the spatial resolution of the antenna array; therefore, the system throughput can be improved by maximizing the spatial resolution of the antenna array. The phase pattern of all ports in the antenna array can be obtained using the same reference point. Subsequently, the spatial resolution of the antenna array in a certain direction (such as the horizontal or vertical direction) is related to the maximum slope of the difference between the phase patterns of any two antenna elements in the same direction (i.e., the slope as the radiation angle changes).

[0163] With the same panel size, the maximum slope of the phase pattern difference between the ports of a four-port antenna element is greater than that of a two-port antenna element. Therefore, the spatial resolution of a four-port antenna element is greater than that of a two-port antenna element. However, when antenna elements are arrayed, the angular region between the phase radiation patterns of the ports of two adjacent four-port antenna elements may overlap.

[0164] If all antenna elements in an antenna array are configured as QHA elements, the array can be called a QHA array. The phase patterns of the QHA elements in the middle region of this array overlap significantly, thus limiting the gain provided by the QHA array. However, if the antenna elements in the middle region are configured as two-port antenna elements, such as the dual-polarized antenna elements mentioned above, while the edge elements are configured as QHA elements, the gain is comparable to that of a completely QHA array. From a port perspective, configuring the antenna elements in the middle region as two-port antenna elements reduces the number of ports, thus reducing antenna cost and pilot overhead. Therefore, QHA elements and two-port antenna elements can be mixed and arranged in the antenna array to achieve greater gain.

[0165] It should be understood that the gain mentioned above can specifically refer to the gain relative to an antenna array of the same dimension composed of dual-polarized antenna elements.

[0166] It should be understood that Figure 10 The dimensions of the antenna array shown are merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application. The antenna array may also include more or fewer rows and columns. For example, the antenna array could be 12 rows and 12 columns, such as... Figure 11 As shown; the antenna array can also be 16 rows and 12 columns, such as... Figure 12 As shown. For the sake of simplicity, not all of them will be listed and explained in detail here.

[0167] Based on the same principle described above Figures 10 to 12 The antenna array shown can also be rotated 90° clockwise or counterclockwise to improve the spatial resolution in the vertical direction.

[0168] The above text combined Figures 10 to 12 The hybrid array shown is merely an example. The number of columns for the QHA elements and the number of columns for the two-port antenna elements can also be adjusted.

[0169] Figure 13 The diagram shows an 8x10 antenna array. This array is also a hybrid array; each "×" represents a dual-polarized antenna element, and each "○" represents a QHA element. As shown, the left three columns and right three columns are QHA elements, and the middle four columns are dual-polarized antenna elements. It should be understood that the dual-polarized antenna element is an example of a two-port antenna element, but it can be replaced with other two-port antenna elements. This application does not limit this.

[0170] Figure 14 The image shows a 12x10 antenna array, meaning the array's dimensions are 12×10. This antenna array is also a hybrid array. The arrangement of each row in this array is... Figure 13 The same as shown, except the number of rows has increased.

[0171] Figure 15 The image shows a 16x10 antenna array, meaning the array's dimensions are 16×10. This antenna array is also a hybrid array. The arrangement of each row in this array is... Figure 13 The same as shown, except the number of rows has increased.

[0172] Figures 13 to 15 The antenna array shown is Figures 10 to 12 The antenna array shown is similar. Improving the spatial resolution of this antenna array in the horizontal direction can significantly increase the system's throughput and gain. Regarding... Figures 13 to 15 For detailed explanations, please refer to the above text. Figures 10 to 12 The relevant explanations are omitted here for the sake of brevity.

[0173] It should be understood that Figures 13 to 15 The dimensions of the antenna array shown are merely illustrative; the array may include more or fewer rows and columns. This application does not impose any limitations on this. For the sake of brevity, detailed illustrations are not provided here.

[0174] Furthermore, based on the same principle, Figures 13 to 15 The antenna array shown can also be rotated 90° clockwise or counterclockwise to improve the spatial resolution in the vertical direction.

[0175] The antenna array described above can be further modified.

[0176] Figure 16 The diagram shows an 8x10 antenna array. This array is also a hybrid array. Each "×" in the diagram represents a dual-polarized antenna element, and each "○" represents a QHA element. As shown, the left five columns of this array are formed by alternating three QHA elements and two dual-polarized antenna elements, and the right five columns are also formed by alternating three QHA elements and two dual-polarized antenna elements. Therefore, both the left and right sides of the hybrid array consist of QHA elements.

[0177] Figure 17 The image shows a 12x10 antenna array, meaning the array's dimensions are 12×10. This antenna array is also a hybrid array. The arrangement of each row in this array is... Figure 16 The same as shown, except the number of rows has increased.

[0178] Figure 18 The image shows a 16x10 antenna array, meaning the array's dimensions are 16×10. This antenna array is also a hybrid array. The arrangement of each row in this array is... Figure 16The same as shown, except the number of rows has increased.

[0179] Figures 16 to 18 The antenna array shown is Figures 10 to 12 The antenna array shown is quite similar. Based on the same principle described above, the horizontal spatial resolution of this antenna array can be improved, which is beneficial for increasing system throughput and significantly increasing gain. Regarding... Figures 16 to 18 For detailed explanations, please refer to the above text. Figures 10 to 12 The relevant explanations are omitted here for the sake of brevity.

[0180] It should be understood that Figures 16 to 18 The dimensions of the antenna array shown are merely illustrative; the array may include more or fewer rows and columns. This application does not impose any limitations on this. For the sake of brevity, detailed illustrations are not provided here.

[0181] Furthermore, based on the same principle, Figures 16 to 18 The antenna array shown can also be rotated 90° clockwise or counterclockwise to improve the spatial resolution in the vertical direction.

[0182] Figure 19 The diagram shows an 8x8 antenna array. All antenna elements in this array are QHA elements. As shown, the QHA elements in this array exhibit two different radiation characteristics. These radiation characteristics refer to the spatial radiation characteristics of an antenna element when it is positioned within the array, without considering the potential influence of surrounding antenna elements. In other words, it ignores the changes in its spatial radiation characteristics caused by the influence of surrounding antenna elements.

[0183] To obtain different radiation characteristics, the QHA elements in the antenna array can be divided into two parts, with these two parts positioned differently within the antenna array. They are distinguished by "○" and "●" in the diagram.

[0184] It should be noted that the different orientations of the two QHA elements can refer to the fact that when the centers of two QHA elements with different orientations coincide, for example, when two QHAs overlap, one antenna element has a deflection angle relative to the other antenna element. This is as if one part of the QHA elements was obtained by rotating its center relative to the other part of the QHA elements.

[0185] For ease of distinction, a subset of QHA units with the same orientation can be designated as the first QHA unit, and another subset of QHA units with a deflection angle relative to the first QHA unit can be designated as the second QHA unit. It is understood that the second QHA unit may also include multiple QHA units with the same orientation.

[0186] When QHA elements in the same orientation (such as the first QHA element) are arranged adjacently in an antenna array, their spatial phase distribution may not be uniform, resulting in gaps in certain areas. Introducing a QHA element with a deflection angle (such as the second QHA element) can compensate for these gaps, thus making the spatial phase distribution between the first and second antenna elements more uniform. This helps suppress sidelobes and improves system performance.

[0187] Optionally, the deflection angle is 45°.

[0188] Simulations show that when the deflection angle between the first QHA unit and the second QHA unit is designed to be 45°, the phase pattern distribution corresponding to each port in the array is the most uniform. This maximizes the sidelobe suppression capability while maintaining the same maximum resolution of the antenna array, thereby improving system performance.

[0189] Optionally, in each row of the antenna array, first QHA elements and second QHA elements are arranged alternately; in each column of the antenna array, first QHA elements and second QHA elements are also arranged alternately. In other words, in the antenna array, the four antenna elements adjacent to each first QHA element are all second QHA elements, and the four antenna elements adjacent to each second QHA element are all first QHA elements.

[0190] Since swapping two rows or two columns in an antenna array does not change the spatial resolution of the antenna array, therefore... Figure 19 The antenna array shown improves spatial resolution in both the vertical and horizontal directions. Furthermore, the alternating arrangement of the first and second QHA elements ensures a uniform phase pattern distribution across all ports of the antenna array, maximizing sidelobe suppression and enhancing system performance.

[0191] It should be understood that Figure 19 The dimensions of the antenna array shown are merely illustrative. Antenna arrays may also include more or fewer rows and columns. This application does not limit this. For the sake of brevity, detailed illustrations are not provided here.

[0192] It should also be understood that the above examples of several antenna arrays are provided for ease of understanding only. However, these examples should not be construed as limiting this application in any way. For example, the dimensions, orientation, etc., of the antenna array can be adjusted according to communication requirements, etc. This application does not limit this.

[0193] Figure 20 and Figure 21 The diagram shown is a schematic diagram of an antenna 300 provided in another embodiment of this application. Figures 22 to 32It is an antenna array that includes antenna 300.

[0194] For ease of explanation, the antenna 300, which includes four feed points and four elements, will be used as an example to describe the antenna 300 in detail below. However, it should be understood that this should not constitute any limitation on this application. The antenna 300 may also include more or fewer feed points and be connected to more or fewer elements, thereby achieving more or fewer degrees of freedom in terms of ports.

[0195] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of an antenna 300 provided in another embodiment of this application. Figure 20 The antenna 300 shown includes four elements, each of which is an L-shaped arm, or in other words, each L-shaped arm is a single element. Each L-shaped arm can correspond to an independent radio frequency channel. Figure 20 As shown, the antenna 300 may include four independent feed points 311-314 and four L-shaped arms 321-324 corresponding to each of the four feed points. Each helical arm can be connected to one feed point. As shown in the figure, L-shaped arm 321 is connected to feed point 311, L-shaped arm 322 is connected to feed point 312, L-shaped arm 323 is connected to feed point 313, and L-shaped arm 324 is connected to feed point 314. Each feed point can provide power to the helical arm it is connected to.

[0196] Since the four feed points are independent of each other, the four L-shaped arms connected to these four feed points can each operate independently based on the feed from the feed point. That is, each L-shaped arm connected to each feed point can achieve single-port operation. Or, each L-shaped arm connected to each feed point can provide one port degree of freedom. The four L-shaped arms can provide four port degrees of freedom based on the feeds from the four feed points respectively.

[0197] In this embodiment, each L-shaped arm may include a first arm and a second arm. The first arm and the second arm intersect at a point, forming an "L" shape. The intersection of the first arm and the second arm can serve as a feed terminal and be connected to the feed point. It should be understood that the names "first arm" and "second arm" are used for ease of description and should not constitute any limitation on this application.

[0198] The first arm and the second arm are electrically connected. This electrical connection can be achieved, for example, through welding or assembly. This application does not limit the specific method by which the first arm and the second arm are electrically connected.

[0199] Alternatively, the L-shaped arm can be made of metal, or it can be obtained by attaching copper to the PCB or by metal plating on the outside of the plastic.

[0200] It should be understood that the L-shaped arm shown in the figure is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting this application. For example, the L-shaped arm can have different shapes such as tubular or sheet-like. This application includes, but is not limited to, these shapes.

[0201] Optionally, the four L-shaped arms are arranged in an alternating spiral around the center of the antenna 300. As shown in the figure, the second arm 3212 of L-shaped arm 321 is adjacent to the first arm 3221 of L-shaped arm 322, the second arm 3222 of L-shaped arm 322 is adjacent to the first arm 3231 of L-shaped arm 323, the second arm 3232 of L-shaped arm 323 is adjacent to the first arm 3241 of L-shaped arm 324, and the second arm 3242 of L-shaped arm 324 is adjacent to the first arm 3211 of L-shaped arm 321.

[0202] The resulting antenna 300 is square in shape and can be called a square spiral antenna.

[0203] Because the four L-shaped arms can tightly surround the center of the antenna 300, the antenna 300 has a compact structure and small size. In addition, the staggered spiral arrangement of the four L-shaped arms can correct the antenna pattern and improve the isolation between ports.

[0204] Figure 21 This is another schematic diagram of the antenna 300 provided in another embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 21 As shown, the antenna 300 can be deployed on the antenna panel 330. The antenna panel 330 can be, for example, a metal plate or a PCB plated with metal. This application does not limit this.

[0205] Optionally, the first and second arms of each of the four L-shaped arms 321-324 are parallel to the antenna panel. Designing the first and second arms of each L-shaped arm to be parallel to the antenna panel can reduce the size of the antenna 300 in the direction perpendicular to the antenna panel, that is, reduce the height of the antenna 300.

[0206] Alternatively, the four L-shaped arms are at the same height relative to the antenna panel. In other words, the first and second arms of the four L-shaped arms can be located on the same plane. In other words, the four L-shaped arms are at the same height relative to the antenna panel.

[0207] Designing the four L-shaped arms to be at the same height as the antenna panel 330 further reduces the dimensions of the antenna 300 in the direction perpendicular to the antenna panel, i.e., reduces the height of the antenna 300. The resulting antenna 300 has four L-shaped arms that are almost in the same plane; therefore, this antenna can also be called a planar square spiral antenna. It can be understood that the planar square spiral antenna is a special case of the tetrahedral spiral antenna.

[0208] Although not shown in the figure, it can be understood that the heights of the four L-shaped arms relative to the antenna panel can also be different.

[0209] To further reduce the size of antenna 300, further improvements can be made to each L-shaped arm.

[0210] Since the length of each arm of the antenna is related to the operating frequency, in this embodiment, the L-shaped arms can be further bent without changing their length. The antenna 300 obtained by bending can be as shown in the figure. The first arm of each L-shaped arm in the antenna 300 includes a first portion a parallel to the antenna panel 330 and a second portion b perpendicular to the antenna panel 330. The second arm of each L-shaped arm includes a third portion c parallel to the antenna panel 330 and a second portion d perpendicular to the antenna panel 330.

[0211] The first part a of the first arm 3211 of the L-shaped arm 321 is parallel to the antenna panel 330, and the second part b of the first arm 3211 is perpendicular to the antenna panel 330. The third part c of the second arm 3212 of the L-shaped arm is parallel to the antenna panel 330, and the fourth part d of the second arm 3212 is perpendicular to the antenna panel 330. Similarly, the first part a of the first arm 3221 of the L-shaped arm 322 is parallel to the antenna panel 330, and the second part b of the first arm 3221 is perpendicular to the antenna panel 330. The third part c of the second arm 3222 of the L-shaped arm is parallel to the antenna panel 330, and the fourth part d of the second arm 3222 is perpendicular to the antenna panel 330. The first part a of the first arm 3231 of the L-shaped arm 323 is parallel to the antenna panel 330, and the second part b of the first arm 3231 is perpendicular to the antenna panel 330; the third part c of the second arm 3232 of the L-shaped arm is parallel to the antenna panel 330, and the fourth part d of the second arm 3232 is perpendicular to the antenna panel 330. The first part a of the first arm 3241 of the L-shaped arm 324 is parallel to the antenna panel 330, and the second part b of the first arm 3241 is perpendicular to the antenna panel 330; the third part c of the second arm 3242 of the L-shaped arm is parallel to the antenna panel 330, and the fourth part d of the second arm 3242 is perpendicular to the antenna panel 330.

[0212] By bending the ends of each arm of the L-shaped arm perpendicularly toward the antenna panel, the size of each L-shaped arm in its plane can be further reduced, thereby reducing the planar size of the antenna 300. Thus, by effectively utilizing space, the size of the antenna 300 can be further reduced.

[0213] Furthermore, all four L-shaped arms are the same size.

[0214] That is, the four L-shaped arms can have the same length for the first arm, the same length for the second arm, and the same height, etc. Furthermore, the lengths of the first portions on the four first arms can also be the same, as can the lengths of the second portions; the lengths of the third portions on the four second arms can also be the same, as can the lengths of the fourth portions. This minimizes the size of the antenna 300. For example, the projected size of the antenna 300 on the antenna panel obtained by this method is less than 0.36λ.

[0215] Based on the above design, the projected size of antenna 300 on the antenna panel is smaller than that of a dual-polarized antenna. This means that antenna 300 may occupy less area on the antenna panel while providing more degrees of freedom for ports. Therefore, with a fixed antenna panel area, it can provide more ports and degrees of freedom compared to a dual-polarized antenna, thus improving system throughput.

[0216] It should be understood that, although Figure 20 and Figure 21 The antenna shown can provide four degrees of freedom, but since each port can operate independently, the antenna can also provide one, two, or even three ports in different scenarios. This application does not limit this.

[0217] It should also be understood that the above text, in combination with... Figure 20 and Figure 21 The structure of the antenna 300 provided in the embodiments of this application has been described in detail. However, the figures are only examples, and the antenna 300 may also include more or fewer L-shaped arms to achieve more or fewer degrees of freedom for ports. For example, two, three, six, eight, etc. This application does not limit this.

[0218] It should also be understood that the above text, in combination with... Figure 20 and Figure 21 The antenna 300 provided in the embodiments of this application is described in detail. It should be understood that... Figure 20 and Figure 21 The examples shown are merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application. Figure 20 and Figure 21 The antenna 300 shown can be modified by those skilled in the art to achieve the same function through equivalent substitutions or modifications to some of its structures. All such equivalent substitutions or modifications should fall within the scope of protection of this application.

[0219] In addition, as mentioned earlier, Figure 20 and Figure 21 The antenna shown can be used as an independent antenna unit, with each L-shaped arm connected to a feed point, corresponding to an independent radio frequency channel. Figure 20 and Figure 21The antenna shown can also be part of an antenna element, forming an antenna element with more antennas of the same structure. In an antenna element, each of the multiple antennas can have, for example, […]. Figure 20 and Figure 21 The structure shown is as follows. According to the radio frequency channel corresponding to each L-arm, the L-arms in these multiple antennas can be divided into four groups of L-arms. Each group of L-arms can achieve independent operation of a single port, and the four groups of L-arms can provide four degrees of freedom for the ports.

[0220] It should be understood that the above description of each L-shaped arm corresponding to one radio frequency channel can be referenced in conjunction with the above text. Figure 8 The relevant description in section a) above, and the case where each group of L-shaped arms corresponds to one RF channel, can be referred to in conjunction with the above text. Figure 8 For the sake of b), the relevant descriptions are not repeated here.

[0221] For ease of explanation, the following description uses antenna elements as the unit of measurement. To distinguish it from the QHA element described above, the antenna element comprising one or more antennas 300 described above is referred to as a square spiral antenna element. It is understood that a square spiral antenna element may consist of a single antenna 300 as described above, or it may include multiple antennas 300. This application does not limit this.

[0222] Based on the quadrangular spiral antenna element provided above, this application also provides an antenna array. The antenna array may include one or more quadrangular spiral antenna elements.

[0223] Figures 22 to 32 Several examples of antenna arrays provided in another embodiment of this application are shown. It should be understood that... Figures 22 to 32 The antenna array shown can be a complete antenna array or a part of it. This application does not limit this.

[0224] like Figure 22 As shown, the antenna array may include the quadrangular spiral antenna element described above. (See figure) Each represents a quadrangular spiral antenna element.

[0225] Figure 22The image shows an 8x8 antenna array. In this array, the leftmost and rightmost antenna elements in the horizontal direction are quadrangular spiral antenna elements. When all ports of the array generate phase patterns under the same reference coordinates, the slope of the difference between the phase patterns of the leftmost and rightmost quadrangular spiral antenna elements is larger than the slope of the difference when both sides are dual-polarized antenna elements. Therefore, the spatial resolution of this antenna array is improved in the horizontal direction. Similarly, in the vertical direction, the topmost and bottommost antenna elements are also quadrangular spiral antenna elements. When all ports of the array generate phase patterns under the same reference coordinates, the slope of the difference between the phase patterns of the topmost and rightmost quadrangular spiral antenna elements is larger than the slope of the difference when both the top and bottom are dual-polarized antenna elements. Therefore, the spatial resolution of this antenna array is improved in the vertical direction. In summary, the spatial resolution of this antenna array is improved, which is beneficial to increasing the system throughput and resulting in significant gain.

[0226] It should be understood that Figure 22 The dimensions of the antenna array shown are merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application. The antenna array may also include more or fewer rows and columns. For example, the antenna array may have 12 rows and 8 columns, 16 rows and 8 columns, 12 rows and 12 columns, 16 rows and 12 columns, 16 rows and 16 columns, and so on. For the sake of brevity, these are not listed here.

[0227] Figure 23 The image shows an antenna array with 8 rows and 12 columns, meaning the antenna array has a dimension of 8×12. Figure 24 The image shows a 12x12 antenna array. That is, the antenna array has a dimension of 12×12. Figure 25 The image shows a 16x12 antenna array. That is, the antenna array has a dimension of 16×12.

[0228] Figures 23 to 25 The antenna array shown may include multiple dual-polarized antenna elements and multiple four-sided spiral antenna elements. That is, it is a hybrid antenna array combining two different structures. Therefore... Figures 23 to 25 The antenna array shown can be called a hybrid array.

[0229] Specifically Figures 23 to 25 The antenna array shown consists of two columns on the left and two columns on the right, which are quadrangular spiral antenna elements, and eight columns in the middle, which are dual-polarized antenna elements. It should be understood that the dual-polarized antenna elements are an example of two-port antenna elements, and can be replaced with other two-port antenna elements. This application does not limit this.

[0230] Because the leftmost and rightmost antenna elements in this antenna array are quadrangular spiral antenna elements in the horizontal direction, when all ports of the array generate phase patterns under the same reference coordinates, the slope of the difference between the phase patterns of the leftmost and rightmost quadrangular spiral antenna elements is larger than the slope of the difference between the phase patterns when both sides are dual-polarized antenna elements. Therefore, the spatial resolution of this antenna array in the horizontal direction is improved. This is beneficial for improving the system throughput and significantly increasing the gain.

[0231] It should be noted that the system throughput is related to the spatial resolution of the antenna array; therefore, the system throughput can be improved by maximizing the spatial resolution of the antenna array. The phase pattern of all ports in the antenna array can be obtained using the same reference point. Subsequently, the spatial resolution of the antenna array in a certain direction (such as the horizontal or vertical direction) is related to the maximum slope of the difference between the phase patterns of any two antenna elements in the same direction (i.e., the slope as the radiation angle changes).

[0232] With the same panel size, the maximum slope of the phase pattern difference between the ports of a four-port antenna element is greater than that of a two-port antenna element. Therefore, the spatial resolution of a four-port antenna element is greater than that of a two-port antenna element. However, when antenna elements are arrayed, the angular region between the phase radiation patterns of the ports of two adjacent four-port antenna elements may overlap.

[0233] If all antenna elements in an antenna array are configured as square spiral antenna elements, the array can be called a square spiral antenna array. The phase patterns of the square spiral antenna elements in the middle region of this array overlap significantly, thus limiting the gain. However, if the antenna elements in the middle region are configured as two-port antenna elements, such as the dual-polarized antenna elements mentioned above, while the edge elements are configured as square spiral antenna elements, the gain is comparable to that of a completely square spiral antenna array. From a port perspective, configuring the middle region antenna elements as two-port antenna elements reduces the number of ports, thus reducing antenna cost and pilot overhead. Therefore, square spiral antenna elements and two-port antenna elements can be mixed and arranged in an antenna array to achieve greater gain.

[0234] It should be understood that the gain mentioned above can specifically refer to the gain relative to an antenna array of the same dimension composed of dual-polarized antenna elements.

[0235] It should be understood that Figures 23 to 25The dimensions of the antenna array shown are merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application. The antenna array may also include more or fewer rows and columns. For the sake of brevity, a complete illustration is not provided here.

[0236] Furthermore, based on the same principle, Figures 23 to 25 The antenna array shown can also be rotated 90° clockwise or counterclockwise to improve the spatial resolution in the vertical direction.

[0237] Figure 26 The image shows an antenna array with 8 rows and 10 columns. That is, the antenna array has a dimension of 8×10. Figure 27 The image shows a 12x10 antenna array. That is, the antenna array has a dimension of 12×10. Figure 28 The image shows a 16x10 antenna array. That is, the antenna array has a dimension of 16×10.

[0238] Figures 26 to 28 The antenna array shown can include multiple dual-polarized antenna elements and multiple quadrature spiral antenna elements, and is therefore a hybrid array.

[0239] Figures 26 to 28 In the antenna array shown, the three columns on the left and three columns on the right are quadrangular spiral antenna elements, and the four columns in the middle are dual-polarized antenna elements. It should be understood that the dual-polarized antenna elements are an example of two-port antenna elements, and can be replaced with other two-port antenna elements. This application does not limit this.

[0240] Figures 26 to 28 The antenna array shown is Figures 23 to 25 The antenna array shown is similar. Improving the spatial resolution of this antenna array in the horizontal direction can significantly increase the system's throughput and gain. Regarding... Figures 26 to 28 For detailed explanations, please refer to the above text. Figures 23 to 25 The relevant explanations are omitted here for the sake of brevity.

[0241] It should be understood that Figures 26 to 28 The dimensions of the antenna array shown are merely illustrative; the array may include more or fewer rows and columns. This application does not impose any limitations on this. For the sake of brevity, detailed illustrations are not provided here.

[0242] Furthermore, based on the same principle, Figures 26 to 28 The antenna array shown can also be rotated 90° clockwise or counterclockwise to improve the spatial resolution in the vertical direction.

[0243] The antenna array described above can be further modified.

[0244] Figure 29The image shows an antenna array with 8 rows and 10 columns. That is, the antenna array has a dimension of 8×10. Figure 30 The image shows a 12x10 antenna array. That is, the antenna array has a dimension of 12×10. Figure 31 The image shows an antenna array with 18 rows and 10 columns. That is, the antenna array has a dimension of 16×10.

[0245] Figures 29 to 31 The antenna array shown can include multiple dual-polarized antenna elements and multiple quadrature spiral antenna elements, and is therefore a hybrid array.

[0246] Figures 29 to 31 In the antenna array shown, the five columns on the left are formed by alternating three columns of square spiral antenna elements and two columns of dual-polarized antenna elements, and the five columns on the right are also formed by alternating three columns of square spiral antenna elements and two columns of dual-polarized antenna elements. Therefore, the left and right sides of the resulting array are both composed of square spiral antenna elements.

[0247] Figures 29 to 31 The antenna array shown is Figures 23 to 25 The antenna array shown is quite similar. Based on the same principle described above, the horizontal spatial resolution of this antenna array can be improved, which is beneficial for increasing system throughput and significantly increasing gain. Regarding... Figures 29 to 31 For detailed explanations, please refer to the above text. Figures 23 to 25 The relevant explanations are omitted here for the sake of brevity.

[0248] It should be understood that Figures 29 to 31 The dimensions of the antenna array shown are merely illustrative; the array may include more or fewer rows and columns. This application does not impose any limitations on this. For the sake of brevity, detailed illustrations are not provided here.

[0249] Furthermore, based on the same principle, Figures 29 to 31 The antenna array shown can also be rotated 90° clockwise or counterclockwise to improve the spatial resolution in the vertical direction.

[0250] Figure 32 The diagram shows an 8x8 antenna array. That is, the array's dimensions are 8×8. All antenna elements in this array are square spiral antenna elements. As shown, these square spiral antenna elements exhibit two different radiation characteristics. The radiation characteristics described here refer to the spatial radiation characteristics of an antenna element when it is positioned within the array, without considering the potential influence of surrounding antenna elements. In other words, it ignores the changes in its spatial radiation characteristics caused by the influence of surrounding antenna elements.

[0251] To obtain different radiation characteristics, the four-sided spiral antenna elements in the antenna array can be divided into two parts, with these two parts having different azimuths within the array. (See figure for example.) and To distinguish them.

[0252] It should be noted that the different orientations of the two tetrahedral antenna elements can mean that when the centers of two tetrahedral antenna elements with different orientations coincide, for example, when two tetrahedral antennas coincide, one antenna element has a deflection angle relative to the other antenna element. This is as if one part of the tetrahedral antenna elements is obtained by rotating the center of the other part of the tetrahedral antenna elements.

[0253] For ease of distinction, a portion of the tetrahedral antenna elements with the same azimuth can be designated as the first tetrahedral antenna element, and another portion of the tetrahedral antenna elements with a deflection angle relative to the first tetrahedral antenna element can be designated as the second tetrahedral antenna element. It can be understood that the second tetrahedral antenna element may also include multiple tetrahedral antenna elements with the same azimuth.

[0254] When four-sided spiral antenna elements (such as the first four-sided spiral antenna element) are arranged adjacently in an antenna array, their spatial phase distribution may not be uniform, resulting in gaps in certain areas. Introducing a four-sided spiral antenna element with a deflection angle (such as the second four-sided spiral antenna element) can compensate for these gaps. This makes the spatial phase distribution between the first and second antenna elements more uniform. This helps suppress sidelobes and thus improves system performance.

[0255] Optionally, the deflection angle is 45°.

[0256] Simulations show that when the deflection angle between the first and second square spiral antenna elements is designed to be 45°, the phase pattern distribution corresponding to each port in the array is the most uniform. This maximizes the sidelobe suppression capability while maintaining the same maximum resolution of the antenna array, thereby improving system performance.

[0257] Optionally, in each row of the antenna array, first quadrangular spiral antenna elements and second quadrangular spiral antenna elements are arranged alternately; in each column of the antenna array, first quadrangular spiral antenna elements and second quadrangular spiral antenna elements are also arranged alternately. In other words, in this antenna array, the four antenna elements adjacent to each first quadrangular spiral antenna element are all second quadrangular spiral antenna elements, and the four antenna elements adjacent to each second quadrangular spiral antenna element are all first quadrangular spiral antenna elements.

[0258] Since swapping two rows or two columns in an antenna array does not change the spatial resolution of the antenna array, therefore... Figure 32 The antenna array shown improves spatial resolution in both the vertical and horizontal directions. Furthermore, the alternating arrangement of the first and second square spiral antenna elements ensures a uniform phase pattern distribution across all ports of the antenna array, maximizing sidelobe suppression and enhancing system performance.

[0259] It should be understood that Figure 32 The dimensions of the antenna array shown are merely illustrative. Antenna arrays may also include more or fewer rows and columns. This application does not limit this. For the sake of brevity, detailed illustrations are not provided here.

[0260] It should also be understood that the above examples of several antenna arrays are provided for ease of understanding only. However, these examples should not be construed as limiting this application in any way. For example, the dimensions, orientation, etc., of the antenna array can be adjusted according to communication requirements, etc. This application does not limit this.

[0261] It should also be understood that the antennas and antenna arrays provided in embodiments of this application have been illustrated above with reference to several accompanying drawings. However, these schematic diagrams are merely examples and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application. These embodiments and drawings are intended to help those skilled in the art better understand the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit the technical solutions of this application. Many improvements and other embodiments of this application will be conceived by those skilled in the art based on the guidance and teachings presented in the foregoing description and related drawings. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed.

[0262] This application also provides a communication device. This communication device may include the antenna shown in any of the embodiments described above, for example... Figures 2 to 5 , Figure 7 Antenna 200 shown in any of the attached figures, or Figure 20 or Figure 21 The antenna 300 is shown. This communication device may also include the antenna array shown in any of the above embodiments, for example... Figures 9 to 19 Any of the antenna arrays shown in the attached figures, or Figures 22 to 32 The antenna array is shown in any of the attached figures. Optionally, the communication device is a base station.

[0263] 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. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An antenna, characterized by include: Multiple independent power supply points; Multiple L-shaped arms that correspond one-to-one with the multiple feed points, each of the multiple L-shaped arms being connected to one of the multiple feed points; Each of the plurality of L-shaped arms includes a first arm and a second arm, the first arm and the second arm intersecting at the feed end to form an L shape; wherein, the feed end is connected to the corresponding feed point.

2. The antenna of claim 1, wherein The first and second arms of each of the plurality of L-shaped arms are parallel to the antenna panel.

3. The antenna of claim 1, wherein The first arm of each L-shaped arm includes a first portion parallel to the antenna panel and a second portion perpendicular to the antenna panel, and the second arm of each L-shaped arm includes a third portion parallel to the antenna panel and a fourth portion perpendicular to the antenna panel.

4. The antenna as described in claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The multiple L-shaped arms have the same height relative to the antenna panel.

5. The antenna as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The plurality of L-shaped arms are arranged in an alternating spiral around the center of the antenna.

6. The antenna as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The plurality of power supply points are four power supply points, and the plurality of L-shaped arms are four L-shaped arms that correspond one-to-one with the four power supply points.

7. An antenna array, characterized in that, include: The antenna as described in any one of claims 1-6.

8. A communication device, characterized in that, include: The antenna as described in any one of claims 1-6.

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