Phase shifter and base station antenna

Abstract

The present invention relates to the field of communications technology, and discloses a phase shifter and a base station antenna, wherein the phase shifter includes: a fixed line and a movable component that can be movably arranged relative to the fixed line, and also includes a dielectric element, the dielectric element being located on the moving path of the movable component. During the movement of the movable component, the dielectric element has a phase shift state and a detection state relative to the movable component; in the phase shift state, the movement process of the dielectric element and the movable component is independent; in the detection state, there is an overlapping portion between the dielectric element and the movable component, and the detection state is used to detect the correctness of the input port cable connection of the phase shifter. The phase shifter and base station antenna provided by the present invention can detect the correctness of the input port cable connection by providing a dielectric element and making the dielectric element have a phase shift state and a detection state relative to the movable component, thereby preventing incorrect connection between the phase shifter cable and the RRU.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a phase shifter and a base station antenna. Background Art

[0002] With the advancement of mobile communication technology, 4G and 5G converged antennas are a growing trend in communication networks. For example, the long wavelengths of electromagnetic waves in some frequency bands make antenna radiators too large, making it difficult to support large-scale antenna arrays. Therefore, the entire 5G network architecture will still include a baseband processing unit (BBU), a radio remote unit (RRU), and a traditional antenna.

[0003] Phase shifters are key antenna components. They control the relative phase between antenna radiating elements, adjusting the downtilt angle of the array antenna's radiation beam. Phase shifters are connected to the RRU via cables. Multi-band antennas have complex cable layouts, and multiple phase shifters in an array antenna are connected to the RRU via multiple cables, making connection errors very likely. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present invention provides a phase shifter and a base station antenna to solve the problem that the cable layout of the multi-frequency antenna in the prior art is complicated. The multiple phase shifters in the array antenna are connected to the RRU via multiple cables, which is very prone to connection errors. The detection of the phase shifter cable connection is realized.

[0005] The present invention provides a phase shifter, comprising: a fixed circuit and a movable component movably disposed relative to the fixed circuit, wherein the fixed circuit and the movable component form a phase shift unit; and further comprising a dielectric element, wherein the dielectric element is located on a moving path of the movable component, and during movement of the movable component, the dielectric element has a phase shift state and a detection state relative to the movable component.

[0006] In the phase shift state, the dielectric element and the moving part move independently. In the detection state, there is an overlapping portion between the dielectric element and the moving part. The detection state is used to detect the correctness of the cable connection of the input port of the phase shifter.

[0007] According to the phase shifter provided by the present invention, a plurality of fixed circuits are provided, and correspondingly, a plurality of movable components are provided. The plurality of fixed circuits and the plurality of movable components correspond one-to-one to form a plurality of phase shifting units. At least one dielectric element is provided, and the dielectric element corresponds one-to-one to the same number of movable components.

[0008] According to the phase shifter provided by the present invention, the moving path of the moving component is a straight line, and the dielectric element is provided at a starting position or an end position of the moving path of the moving component.

[0009] According to the phase shifter provided by the present invention, the movable component is U-shaped and includes two opposite coupling parts and a connecting part connected between the two coupling parts. In the detection state, the dielectric element overlaps with the connecting part.

[0010] According to the phase shifter provided by the present invention, when the fixed circuit is a stripline structure, the stripline structure is provided on a dielectric substrate, the fixed circuit includes a first stripline and a second stripline provided on both sides of the dielectric substrate, and the dielectric element is provided on one side or both sides of the dielectric substrate.

[0011] The phase shifter provided according to the present invention further includes a detection system. The detection system includes a first detection module. The first detection module is disposed at an input port of the phase shifter and is configured to detect a real-time standing wave value and / or a real-time Smith chart value at the input port. The detection system determines the correctness of the cable connection at the phase shifter input port based on the real-time standing wave value and / or the real-time Smith chart value.

[0012] According to the phase shifter provided by the present invention, the detection system is used to determine that the input port cable is correctly connected if, in the detection state, the real-time standing wave value is greater than a preset standing wave value and / or the real-time Smith chart value is greater than a preset Smith chart value.

[0013] According to the phase shifter provided by the present invention, the detection system further includes a second detection module, which is configured to detect a real-time downtilt angle of the phase shifter. The detection system is configured to determine, in the detection state, that the input port of the phase shifter is correctly connected if the real-time standing wave value is greater than a preset standing wave value and / or the real-time Smith chart value is greater than a preset Smith chart value, and the real-time downtilt angle is consistent with the preset downtilt angle.

[0014] According to the phase shifter provided by the present invention, the detection system further comprises an alarm device, and the alarm device is configured to alarm when it is determined that the input port of the phase shifter is incorrectly connected.

[0015] The present invention also provides a base station antenna, comprising the above-mentioned phase shifter.

[0016] The phase shifter and base station antenna provided by the present invention employ a dielectric element disposed so that the dielectric element has a phase shift state and a detection state relative to a moving component. In the phase shift state, the dielectric element does not interfere with the phase shift adjustment of the moving component, thereby ensuring that the antenna's downtilt angle is adjustable. In the detection state, the dielectric element covers at least a portion of the moving component, causing impedance mismatch in the phase shifter to generate significant reflected energy. This increased reflected energy can then be used to detect the correctness of the input port cable connection, preventing incorrect connection between the phase shifter cable and the RRU. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the following is a brief introduction to the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without paying any creative work.

[0018] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a first configuration of the phase shifter provided by the present invention;

[0019] Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the configuration of the phase shift unit provided by the present invention;

[0020] Figure 3 This is a first schematic diagram of the moving process of the moving component provided by the present invention;

[0021] Figure 4 It is a Smith chart schematic diagram of the phase shifter provided by the present invention in the phase shift state and the detection state;

[0022] Figure 5 Schematic diagram of standing wave curves of the phase shifter provided by the present invention in the phase shift state and the detection state;

[0023] Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the detection system provided by the present invention;

[0024] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a second configuration of the phase shifter provided by the present invention;

[0025] Figure 8 is a second schematic diagram of the moving process of the moving component provided by the present invention;

[0026] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of a third configuration of the phase shifter provided by the present invention;

[0027] Figure 10 is a fourth configuration diagram of the phase shifter provided by the present invention;

[0028] Figure 11is a schematic diagram of a phase shifter provided by the present invention having a microstrip line structure;

[0029] Figure 12 is a first schematic diagram of a phase shifter provided by the present invention having a stripline structure;

[0030] Figure 13 is a second schematic diagram of a phase shifter provided by the present invention having a stripline structure;

[0031] Figure 14 It is a schematic diagram of the arrangement of the base station antenna provided by the present invention.

[0032] Reference numerals:

[0033] 10: dielectric substrate; 20: fixed circuit; 201: main power divider; B: dielectric element; B1: dielectric element in the first position; B2: dielectric element in the second position; C: moving component; C1: first moving component; C2: second moving component; g1: first fixed circuit; g11: first circuit; g12: second circuit; g2: second fixed circuit; C11: first coupling part; C12: second coupling part; C13: connection part; 1a: Smith chart in the phase-shifted state; 2a: Smith chart in the detection state when the fixed circuit is a stripline structure and a dielectric element is provided on one side of the dielectric substrate; 3a: The fixed circuit is a stripline structure. 1a: Smith chart in the detection state when the fixed line is a stripline structure and dielectric elements are provided on both sides of the dielectric substrate; 1b: Standing wave curve in the phase-shifted state; 2b: Standing wave curve in the detection state when the fixed line is a stripline structure and dielectric elements are provided on one side of the dielectric substrate; 3b: Standing wave curve in the detection state when the fixed line is a stripline structure and dielectric elements are provided on both sides of the dielectric substrate; 30: Detection system; 21: Microstrip line structure; 22: Stripline structure; 40: Metal layer; 50: Cavity; 60: Radiating element array; 101: First phase shifter; 102: Second phase shifter; 103: Third phase shifter; 104: Fourth phase shifter. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the present invention more clear, the technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the embodiments described are only some of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of them. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts shall fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0035] The following combination Figures 1-14 The phase shifter and base station antenna of the present invention are described.

[0036] refer to Figure 1This embodiment provides a phase shifter, comprising: a fixed line 20 and a movable component C movable relative to the fixed line 20. The fixed line 20 and the movable component C form a phase shifting unit. The movement of the movable component C causes the movable component C to shift relative to the fixed line 20, thereby changing the transmission phase and adjusting the downtilt angle through phase shifting.

[0037] Furthermore, the phase shifter further includes a dielectric element B, which is located on the moving path of the moving component C. During the movement of the moving component C, the dielectric element B has a phase shift state and a detection state relative to the moving component C. In the phase shift state, the movement of the dielectric element B and the moving component C are independent. In the detection state, there is an overlapping portion between the dielectric element B and the moving component C. The detection state is used to detect the correctness of the cable connection at the input port of the phase shifter.

[0038] Dielectric element B and moving component C have a phase shift state and a detection state. The phase shift state is when moving component C and dielectric element B move independently and without interference. In the phase shift state, moving component C moves normally relative to fixed line 20 to adjust the phase shift, ensuring the antenna's downtilt angle is adjustable. The detection state is when moving component C and dielectric element B overlap. In the detection state, the projections of dielectric element B and moving component C on the surface where fixed line 20 is installed overlap, with dielectric element B covering at least a portion of moving component C.

[0039] In this embodiment, when dielectric element B is in a detection state relative to movable component C, the movable component's characteristic impedance decreases due to overlap with dielectric element B, resulting in an impedance mismatch in the phase shifter. This increases the reflected energy of the phase shifter unit. This increased reflected energy can then be used to detect whether the cable connection at the phase shifter input port is correct. Specifically, when dielectric element B is in a detection state relative to movable component C, if increased reflected energy is detected, the cable connection at the phase shifter input port can be determined to be correct; if no increased reflected energy is detected, the cable connection at the phase shifter input port can be determined to be incorrect.

[0040] The phase shifter provided in this embodiment has a dielectric element disposed therein, and the dielectric element has a phase shift state and a detection state relative to the movable component. In the phase shift state, the dielectric element does not interfere with the phase shift adjustment of the movable component, ensuring adjustable downtilt angles of the antenna. In the detection state, the dielectric element covers at least a portion of the movable component, causing impedance mismatch in the phase shifter to generate significant reflected energy. This increased reflected energy can be used to detect the correctness of the input port cable connection, preventing incorrect connections between the phase shifter cable and the RRU.

[0041] According to some embodiments of the present application, the phase shifter includes multiple fixed circuits 20 and, correspondingly, multiple moving components C. The multiple fixed circuits 20 correspond one-to-one with the multiple moving components C to form multiple phase shifting units. At least one dielectric element B is provided, and each dielectric element B corresponds one-to-one with the same number of moving components C. That is, when there is only one dielectric element B, one dielectric element B corresponds to one moving component C. The dielectric element B is disposed along the moving path of the moving component C and forms a phase shift state and a detection state with the moving component C.

[0042] When multiple dielectric elements B are provided, for example, two dielectric elements B are provided, and the two dielectric elements B correspond one-to-one with the two movable components C. Each dielectric element B is provided in the moving path of the corresponding movable component C, and a phase shift state and a detection state are formed between each dielectric element B and the corresponding movable component C. When any dielectric element B and the corresponding movable component C are in the detection state, the input port cable connection can be detected.

[0043] refer to Figure 1 In this embodiment, the movable component C includes a first movable component C1 and a second movable component C2. The fixed circuit 20 includes a main power divider 201, a first fixed circuit g1, a second fixed circuit g2, an input port Pin, a first output port P1, a second output port P2, and a third output port P3. The second output port P2 is a non-phase-shifting port that does not produce a phase change. In practical applications, the second output port P2 can be removed based on the requirements of the array antenna, and only two phase-shifting output ports can be provided. The first movable component C1 and the first fixed circuit g1 constitute the first phase-shifting unit, and the second movable component C2 and the second fixed circuit g2 constitute the second phase-shifting unit.

[0044] like Figure 1 As shown, the first moving part C1 and the second moving part C2 are connected to a transmission device (not shown in the figure). Driven by the transmission device, the moving part C can move along the first direction and the second direction shown in the figure. The first direction is parallel to the second direction in the figure, but in opposite directions. In this embodiment, the moving part C moves along Figure 2 The dashed lines shown in FIG are symmetrically arranged, and their symmetry axes are parallel to the first direction; when the moving component C moves along the first direction or the second direction, the physical length from the port P11 to the port P12 changes, and the transmission phase changes accordingly.

[0045] like Figure 3 As shown, in this embodiment, the phase shifter is in three states: A01, B01 and C01. The phase shifter is in a phase shifting state (i.e., a working state) from state A01 to state B01, and in a detection state from state B01 to state C01.

[0046] In the A01 state, the first movable component C1 of the phase shifter is at the D10 position. At this time, the phase shifter is set to the initial position of the working state, and the electrical downtilt angle of the antenna is the smallest. For example, the downtilt angle of the array antenna is 2 degrees.

[0047] In state B01, the first movable component C1 of the phase shifter is at position D11, which sets the phase shifter to its operational end position. The antenna's electrical downtilt angle is at its maximum. For example, the array antenna's downtilt angle is 12 degrees. In other words, the phase shifter is in its initial detection position.

[0048] In the C01 state, a portion of the second movable component C2 of the phase shifter is covered by the dielectric element B1 in the first position.

[0049] From state A01 to state B01, the phase shifter's travel is set to D1. During this travel, the two moving parts are not covered by the dielectric element, resulting in good impedance matching and low reflection of transmitted energy. From state B01 to state C01, the phase shifter's travel is set to D2. During this travel, a portion of the second moving part C2 is partially covered by the dielectric element B1 in the first position, and the covered area gradually increases. After the second moving part C2 is partially covered by the dielectric element, the characteristic impedance changes. This travel process can be used to detect the correct cable connection of the input port.

[0050] As can be seen, [D10, D11] represents the phase shifter's operating state, ensuring the antenna's downtilt angle is adjustable. The range [D11, D12] represents the phase shifter's detection state. Within this range, impedance mismatch occurs, enabling detection and ensuring input signal accuracy. In this embodiment, when the antenna operates at its minimum downtilt angle, the movable element moves in the first direction. After a certain distance, the second movable element C2 is gradually covered by the dielectric element, and the phase shifter begins its detection function.

[0051] Furthermore, if Figure 1 As shown, in this embodiment, the axes of symmetry of the first movable component C1 and the second movable component C2 are aligned. That is, the movement paths of the multiple movable components are aligned. The phase changes of the first output port P1 and the third output port P3 are equal and opposite. For example, if the phase change of the first output port P1 is 150°, the phase change of the second output port P3 is -150°. This arrangement facilitates the installation of the transmission device, making it easy to simultaneously drive the movement of two movable components C using a single transmission device. In other embodiments, the movement paths of the multiple movable components C may not be aligned, and this is not specifically limited.

[0052] In some embodiments of the phase shifter, the moving path of the moving component C is a straight line, and the dielectric element B is positioned at the starting point or end point of the moving path of the moving component C. This arrangement facilitates better differentiation between the phase shift state and the detection state, thereby achieving both phase adjustment and detection.

[0053] refer to Figure 1 In this embodiment, the dielectric element B1 in the first position is arranged at the end position of the moving path of the second movable component C2. That is, the dielectric element arranged at the end position of the moving path of the movable component C is the dielectric element B1 in the first position. The dielectric element B1 in the first position overlaps with the movable component C at the end position of the moving component C.

[0054] refer to Figure 7 In this embodiment, the dielectric element B2 at the second position is arranged at the starting point of the moving path of the first moving component C1. That is, the dielectric element arranged at the starting point of the moving path of the moving component C is the dielectric element B2 at the second position. The dielectric element B2 at the second position overlaps with the moving component C at the starting point of the moving component C.

[0055] According to the phase shifter of some embodiments of the present application, the moving component C is U-shaped, and includes two opposite coupling parts and a connecting part connected between the two coupling parts. In the detection state, the dielectric element B overlaps with the connecting part.

[0056] refer to Figure 1 In this embodiment, the first moving part C1 and the second moving part C2 are U-shaped. Figure 2 Taking the first moving part C1 as an example, the first moving part C1 includes a first coupling part C11, a second coupling part C12, and a connecting part C13. Figure 1 As shown in the dotted box, the fixed circuit 20 is provided with a first fixed circuit g1 electrically coupled to the first moving component C1, and a second fixed circuit g2 electrically coupled to the second moving component C2. Figure 2 As shown, the first fixed line g1 includes a first line g11 and a second line g12. Specifically, the first line g11 couples to the first coupling portion C11, and the second line g12 couples to the second coupling portion C12. The first line g11 and the second line g22 are parallel transmission lines arranged vertically and generally have equal lengths. The coupling principle between the second fixed line g2 and the second movable component C2 is the same as above.

[0057] In this embodiment, the connection portion C13 of the moving component is provided to be covered, and the coverage includes full coverage or partial coverage. The connection portion C13 of the U-shaped moving component is very sensitive to impedance matching, and a smaller mismatch will cause a larger reflection, which is beneficial for detection. In this embodiment, the dielectric element B is provided to cover the connection portion C13 of the U-shaped moving component, which is more sensitive to impedance matching. When the dielectric element B covers the U-shaped moving component, the characteristic impedance of the connection portion C13 of the U-shaped moving component is reduced, and an impedance mismatch occurs in the phase shifter. As the coverage area increases, the mismatch becomes larger. The reflected energy of the phase shifter gradually increases with the stroke, and therefore the reflected energy of the entire phase shifter also gradually increases synchronously.

[0058] In other embodiments, a connecting portion C13 of the U-shaped moving component C may be provided, and both the first coupling portion C11 and the second coupling portion C12 may be covered by the dielectric element B. Alternatively, the dielectric element B may cover only the first coupling portion C11 and / or the second coupling portion C12 of the U-shaped moving component C. In the detection state, the specific overlapping portion and the size of the overlapping area between the dielectric element and the moving component can be flexibly adjusted according to needs.

[0059] According to the phase shifter of some embodiments of the present application, when the fixed circuit 20 is a stripline structure 22, the stripline structure 22 is provided on the dielectric substrate 10, the fixed circuit 20 includes a first stripline and a second stripline provided on both sides of the dielectric substrate 10, and the dielectric element B is provided on one side or both sides of the dielectric substrate 10.

[0060] The phase shifter provided in this embodiment can be configured as a microstrip line structure or a stripline structure containing a cavity. Figure 11 As shown, in this embodiment, when the fixed circuit of the phase shifter is set as a microstrip line structure 21, the microstrip line structure 21 is provided on the dielectric substrate 10. The dielectric substrate 10 is copper-clad on both sides, with one side being the microstrip line structure 21, i.e., the signal layer, and the other side being the metal ground layer 40. The microstrip line structure 21, the dielectric substrate 10, and the metal ground layer 40 together constitute a microstrip line feed line. The microstrip line structure 21, the dielectric substrate 10, and the metal ground layer 40 can be formed using a printed circuit board (PCB) process. A moving component C is provided above the microstrip line structure 21, and a dielectric element B is provided above the moving component C. The dielectric element B is provided on the side of the dielectric substrate 10 where the microstrip line structure 21 is provided; and can be located on the side of the moving component C facing away from the dielectric substrate 10.

[0061] like Figure 12As shown, in this embodiment, the fixed circuit of the phase shifter is configured as a stripline structure 22. The stripline structure 22 can be disposed on a dielectric substrate 10, or it can be a sheet metal stripline structure. When the stripline structure 22 is disposed on the dielectric substrate 10, the phase shifter also includes a cavity 50, which is pultruded. The dielectric substrate 10 is copper-clad on both sides. The stripline structure 22 on one side of the dielectric substrate 10 is a first stripline, and the stripline structure 22 on the other side of the dielectric substrate 10 is a second stripline. The first and second striplines are symmetrically arranged about the dielectric substrate and connected vertically via metallized vias (the metallized vias are not shown).

[0062] The dielectric substrate 10 and the stripline structures 22 on both sides together form a stripline feed circuit. A moving component C is provided on one or both sides of the dielectric substrate 10. Figure 12 As shown, a dielectric element B may be provided on one side of the dielectric substrate 10, and a moving component C may be provided on the side of the dielectric substrate 10 where the dielectric element B is provided. Figure 13 As shown, dielectric elements B may be provided on both sides of the dielectric substrate 10 , and the dielectric elements B on both sides may be fastened together by snaps. In this case, the movable component C may be provided on one side or both sides of the dielectric substrate 10 .

[0063] When the stripline structure 22 is a sheet metal stripline structure, the dielectric substrate 10 may not be provided. In this case, the dielectric element B may be provided on one side or both sides of the sheet metal stripline structure.

[0064] The phase shifter provided in this embodiment can be applied to both microstrip and stripline lines. Microstrip line phase shifters have high losses and are shielded on only one side, resulting in poor shielding effectiveness and weak anti-interference capabilities, making them susceptible to interference from surrounding electromagnetic signals. Stripline phase shifters have low losses and are shielded on both sides, resulting in excellent shielding effectiveness and low susceptibility to surrounding electromagnetic signals, making them suitable for environments with high anti-interference requirements. Both types of phase shifters can be applied in different scenarios.

[0065] like Figure 4 The figure shows the Smith chart of the moving parts and fixed circuits in the phase shifter under different coupling effects. Figure 1 a. Smith circle under detection when the fixed circuit is a stripline structure and a dielectric element is provided on one side of the dielectric substrate Figure 2 The Smith circle under the detection state when the a and fixed lines are stripline structures and dielectric elements are provided on both sides of the dielectric substrate Figure 3 It can be seen that no matter the dielectric element B is arranged on one side of the dielectric substrate 10 or on both sides of the dielectric substrate 10, the Smith chart of the phase shifter in the detection state is significantly different from that in the phase shifting state.

[0066] Correspondingly, if Figure 5 The figure shows the standing wave curves of the moving parts and the fixed circuit in the phase shifter under different coupling effects. Here, standing wave is the abbreviation of Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR). Comparing the standing wave curve 1b in the phase shift state, the standing wave curve 2b in the detection state when the fixed circuit is a stripline structure and a dielectric element is provided on one side of the dielectric substrate, and the standing wave curve state 3b in the detection state when the fixed circuit is a stripline structure and dielectric elements are provided on both sides of the dielectric substrate, it can be seen that whether the dielectric element B is provided on one side of the dielectric substrate 10 or on both sides of the dielectric substrate 10, the standing wave of the phase shifter in the detection state is significantly different from the standing wave in the phase shift state.

[0067] from Figure 4 and Figure 5 As can be seen, the Smith chart's shape varies significantly in different states, as does the input port's impedance. Furthermore, in the detection state, although the Smith chart moves away from the center, the standing wave remains relatively stable, which helps protect subsequent microwave communication equipment. In other words, the phase shifter provided in this embodiment, by providing a dielectric element and establishing both a phase-shift state and a detection state, can achieve both phase shifting and cable connection detection. Furthermore, this detection structure also helps protect subsequent microwave communication equipment during detection.

[0068] like Figure 7 FIG2 shows another schematic diagram of a phase shifter according to this embodiment. The phase shifter includes a feeder circuit (i.e., a fixed circuit 20), a dielectric element B2 in a second position, a first movable component C1, a second movable component C2, a third movable component C03, and a fourth movable component C04. The feeder circuit includes an input port Pin, a first output port P01, a second output port P02, a third output port P03, a fourth output port P04, and a fifth output port P05, as well as a first phase shifter S1, a second phase shifter S2, a third phase shifter S3, and a fourth phase shifter S4. In the detection state, the dielectric element B2 in the second position partially covers the first movable component C1.

[0069] Optionally, the axes of symmetry of the first movable component C1, the second movable component C2, the third movable component C03, and the fourth movable component C04 are aligned to facilitate external force driving. The phase shift ratio of the first output port P01, the second output port P02, the third output port P03, the fourth output port P04, and the fifth output port P05 can be set, for example, to 2:1:0:-1:-2. In practical applications, the phase shift ratio can be varied based on the unit spacing of the radiating elements to meet beamforming requirements, and the specific ratio is not limited.

[0070] like Figure 8 As shown, in this embodiment, the dielectric element is arranged between the first movable part C1 and the second movable part C2. The phase shifter is in three states, A02, B02, and C02, respectively. The phase shifter is in the detection state from state A02 to state B02, and is in the phase shifting working state from state B02 to state C02. The phase shifter is in the first stroke from state A02 to state B02, that is, the first movement range. Within this stroke, the first movable part C1 moves from position D20 to position D21, and the phase shifter realizes the detection function. The phase shifter is in the second stroke from state B02 to state C02. Within this stroke, the first movable part C1 moves from position D21 to position D22, and the phase shifter realizes the tilt adjustable function.

[0071] During the first stroke, the dielectric element B2 in the second position partially covers the first movable component C1, resulting in a slightly mismatched phase shifter. The reflected energy at the input port Pin is high, the standing wave is high, the Smith chart moves away from the center, and the curve diverges. During the second stroke, the dielectric element B2 in the second position does not cover the first movable component C1, resulting in a normal phase shifter operation. The reflected energy at the input port Pin is low, the standing wave is low, the Smith chart moves toward the center, and the curve converges.

[0072] In this embodiment, the dielectric element B2 in the second position is set between the first movable part C1 and the second movable part C2, and covers or does not cover the first movable part C1. The number of dielectric elements is one. In this embodiment, when the phase shifter is at the minimum downtilt angle, the first movable part C1 is gradually covered by the dielectric element and enters the detection state. Figure 1 In contrast to the embodiment shown, Figure 1 The embodiment shown enters the detection state at the maximum downward tilt angle.

[0073] It should be noted that the phase shifter provided in this application is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment. For example, the number of phase shift units can be set to three on the left and three on the right with respect to the non-phase shift port. In engineering applications, it can be increased or decreased according to actual needs. The number of dielectric elements can also be set to two, and the two dielectric elements can both be dielectric elements B2 in the second position. The two dielectric elements B2 in the second position are set in a one-to-one correspondence with the first movable part C1 and the second movable part C2, such as Figure 9 As shown, at this time, the detection states of the two dielectric elements are performed synchronously, that is, the two dielectric elements enter the detection state and leave the detection state at the same time.

[0074] refer to Figure 10When two dielectric elements are provided, one dielectric element can be set as dielectric element B1 in the first position and the other dielectric element can be set as dielectric element B2 in the second position. In this case, dielectric element B2 in the second position enters the detection state at the minimum downtilt angle, and dielectric element B1 in the first position enters the detection state at the maximum downtilt angle. Thus, the phase shifter has two detection states, and cable connection detection can be performed in both detection states.

[0075] That is, when multiple dielectric elements are provided, the detection states of the multiple dielectric elements may be synchronized or asynchronous, without specific limitation, so that the phase shifter can have two states, a phase shift state and a detection state, to achieve the purpose of phase shifting and detection.

[0076] According to some embodiments of the present application, the phase shifter, Figure 6 The phase shifter further includes a detection system 30, which includes a first detection module. The first detection module is provided at the input port of the phase shifter and is used to detect a real-time standing wave value and / or a real-time Smith chart value of the input port. The detection system determines the correctness of the cable connection at the phase shifter input port based on the real-time standing wave value and / or the real-time Smith chart value.

[0077] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 It can be seen that when the phase shifter is in the phase shift state and the detection state, the standing wave and Smith chart values will undergo significant changes. Therefore, a first detection module can be provided to detect the real-time standing wave value and / or the real-time Smith chart value at the input port, and determine whether the cable connection at the input port is correct based on the changes in the real-time standing wave value and / or the real-time Smith chart value. Specifically, the correctness of the input port cable connection can be determined based on the real-time standing wave value, the correctness of the input port cable connection can also be determined based on the real-time Smith chart value, or the correctness of the input port cable connection can also be determined based on both the real-time standing wave value and the real-time Smith chart value.

[0078] According to some embodiments of the phase shifter of the present application, the detection system is configured to determine that the input port cable connection is correct if, in the detection state, the real-time standing wave value is greater than a preset standing wave value and / or the real-time Smith chart value is greater than a preset Smith chart value. That is, if the input port cable connection is correct, when the phase shifter is in the detection state, a large amount of reflected energy will be generated at the input port due to impedance mismatch, resulting in an increase in the standing wave and Smith chart value. Therefore, in the detection state, if the real-time standing wave value is detected to be greater than the preset standing wave value and / or the real-time Smith chart value is greater than the preset Smith chart value, it can be determined that the input port cable connection is correct.

[0079] Furthermore, the position of the moving component in the detection state can be known in advance, and then the moving component is moved to the detection state to compare the real-time standing wave value with the preset standing wave value, and / or, compare the real-time Smith chart value with the preset Smith chart value to determine the correctness of the cable connection.

[0080] The moving component can also be moved along the entire path, that is, the moving component is moved from the starting position to the end position, and the larger real-time standing wave value and / or real-time Smith chart value when the real-time standing wave value and / or the real-time Smith chart value jumps is detected, and then the real-time standing wave value is compared with the preset standing wave value, and / or the real-time Smith chart value and the preset Smith chart value, and the correctness of the cable connection is judged based on the comparison result.

[0081] According to the phase shifter of some embodiments of the present application, the detection system further includes a second detection module, which is used to detect a real-time downtilt angle of the phase shifter. The detection system is used to determine, in the detection state, that the input port of the phase shifter is correctly connected if the real-time standing wave value is greater than a preset standing wave value and / or the real-time Smith chart value is greater than a preset Smith chart value, and the real-time downtilt angle is consistent with the preset downtilt angle.

[0082] This embodiment adds a comparison and determination of the downtilt angle, further improving the accuracy of input port cable connection determination. Specifically, based on the standing wave value and / or Smith chart value determination, a determination is made as to whether the real-time downtilt angle under detection is consistent with the preset downtilt angle. If the real-time standing wave value is greater than the preset standing wave value and / or the real-time Smith chart value is greater than the preset Smith chart value, and the real-time downtilt angle is consistent with the preset downtilt angle, the input port of the phase shifter is determined to be correctly connected.

[0083] The real-time downtilt angle is consistent with the preset downtilt angle, that is, the difference between the real-time downtilt angle and the preset downtilt angle is within the preset threshold range. Because when the dielectric element B is set, the theoretical downtilt angle value when the moving part C enters the detection state is known in advance according to the setting position, for example Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, when entering the detection state, the downtilt angle should theoretically be near the maximum downtilt angle, and the value of the theoretical downtilt angle can be set as the preset downtilt angle. Figure 1 The antenna in the embodiment shown does not have mismatch near the minimum tilt angle, and the standing wave jump occurs near the maximum tilt angle of the antenna, or in other words, the threshold of the standing wave corresponds to the maximum downtilt angle of the antenna. Figure 7 In the illustrated embodiment, no mismatch occurs near the maximum tilt angle, and the standing wave jump occurs near the minimum tilt angle of the antenna. In other words, the threshold of the standing wave corresponds to the minimum downtilt angle of the antenna.

[0084] During actual testing, when the phase shifter enters the detection state and the standing wave and Smith chart values jump, the real-time downtilt angle can be detected and its consistency with the preset downtilt angle can be determined, thereby confirming the correctness of the cable connection. The second detection module is used to detect the antenna downtilt angle and can be a scale for the electrically adjustable antenna, from which the tilt angle value can be read. The second detection module can also be other structures capable of detecting antenna tilt angle, and the specific structure is not limited.

[0085] According to some embodiments of the present application, in a phase shifter under detection conditions, if at least one of the following occurs: a real-time standing wave value is less than a preset standing wave value, a real-time Smith chart value is less than a preset Smith chart value, and the difference between the real-time downtilt angle and the preset downtilt angle is greater than a preset threshold range, the phase shifter's input port cable connection is determined to be incorrect. The detection system also includes an alarm device configured to issue an alarm when an input port connection error is determined. The alarm device may specifically send a message to a management personnel, issue an alarm using a signal light, or issue an audible alarm using a speaker, etc., and the specific alarm method is not limited.

[0086] like Figure 6 As shown, in actual use of the phase shifter provided in this embodiment, a detection system can be provided at the input port. This detection system includes a first detection module, a second detection module, and a memory, which stores standing wave and / or Smith chart data of the phase shifter in different states. Furthermore, a determination program is provided within the detection system. This determination program can inform engineering personnel whether there is an error in the cable connection between the antenna input port and the RRU based on the standing wave and / or Smith chart value range at the operating frequency.

[0087] In practical engineering applications, a standing wave threshold can be pre-set, or the Smith chart threshold of the phase shifter can be stored in memory and a determination program can be set. Obviously, the Smith chart values in the operating state and the detection state differ significantly. The determination program can similarly make decisions based on the threshold. The preset Smith chart threshold can be the value of the real or imaginary part of the impedance on the Smith chart.

[0088] According to some embodiments of the present application, a base station antenna includes the phase shifter described in any of the above embodiments. The base station antenna also includes a radiating element array 60, which is connected to multiple phase shifters, which are connected to the RRU, which is connected to the BBU. Each output port of the phase shifter is connected to one or more radiating elements, and each input port of the phase shifter is connected to a remote radio unit (RRU).

[0089] Furthermore, the base station antenna also includes other configuration structures of the base station, such as a housing and other structures. Other specific configurations of the base station antenna are clear to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here.

[0090] refer to Figure 14 The radiating element array 60 of the base station antenna shown in this embodiment includes two side-by-side radiating element subarrays. Each subarray includes at least three dual-polarized or single-polarized radiating elements. Optionally, each subarray is dual-polarized at ±45°. The radiating element array 60 is connected to four phase shifters: a first phase shifter 101, a second phase shifter 102, a third phase shifter 103, and a fourth phase shifter 104.

[0091] Specifically, each phase shifter includes at least two dielectric elements B, one of which is positioned at the starting point of the movement path of the corresponding moving part C, and the other at the end point of the movement path of the corresponding moving part C. The phase shifter can form four physical states by adjusting the position of the dielectric elements B, namely:

[0092] In state 1, the dielectric element B does not overlap with the moving component C, and the antenna standing wave does not jump.

[0093] State 2: The dielectric element B is set at the starting point of the moving path of the moving component C. At this time, the antenna standing wave jump occurs at the minimum tilt angle.

[0094] State 3: The dielectric element B is set at the end position of the moving path of the moving component C. At this time, the antenna standing wave jump occurs at the maximum tilt angle.

[0095] State 4: Dielectric elements B are respectively set at the starting position and the end position of the moving path of the moving component C. At this time, the antenna standing wave jump occurs at the maximum tilt angle and the minimum tilt angle, that is, the standing wave jump occurs at the maximum tilt angle and the minimum tilt angle.

[0096] Figure 14 In the illustrated embodiment, the four phase shifters can be set to different states. The memory of the detection system 30 stores the standing wave, reflection coefficient, or Smith chart values for each state, as well as the real-time tilt angle of the antenna. The judgment program sets different thresholds, and based on the thresholds and tilt angles, it can be determined whether the cable at the phase shifter input port is correctly connected to the RRU, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the transmitted signal.

[0097] In this embodiment, the setting states of the four phase shifters can be different, that is, the setting states of any two phase shifters are different. The four phase shifters correspond to the four polarizations of the two subarrays, so each polarization can be distinguished, ensuring the correctness of the signal transmitted between the antenna and the RRU.

[0098] Optional, reference Figure 14The antenna is a dual-polarized antenna. The phase shifters corresponding to the same polarization mode in the two subarrays can have the same setting state; the phase shifters corresponding to different polarization modes in the two subarrays can have different setting states. That is, the first phase shifter 101 and the fourth phase shifter 104 can have the same setting state, the second phase shifter 102 and the third phase shifter 103 can have the same setting state, and the first phase shifter 101 and the second phase shifter 102 can have different settings states, so that different polarizations can be distinguished.

[0099] On the basis of the above embodiments, further referring to Figure 1 This embodiment provides a phase shifter, comprising a feeder line, i.e., a fixed line, a movable feeder component, i.e., a movable component, and a dielectric element. Signals are transmitted between the movable component and the feeder line through coupling. The movable component moves relative to the feeder line along a first direction or a second direction, and the movement range includes a first movement range and a second movement range. Within the first movement range or the second movement range, the movable component is covered by the dielectric element and transmits a reflected signal to an input port of the phase shifter. The correctness of the connection is determined based on the magnitude of the signal reflection at the input port, thereby resolving the problem of signal errors occurring between the multi-frequency antenna and the RRU in the base station system.

[0100] If the phase shifter is in an operating state within the first range of motion, it is in a detection state within the second range of motion; alternatively, if the phase shifter is in a detection state within the first range of motion, it is in an operating state within the second range of motion. In the detection state, at least a portion of the moving component is covered by the dielectric element. In the operating state, the moving component is not covered by the dielectric element. The characteristic impedance of the moving component is different in the covered and uncovered states.

[0101] When the first range of motion is the operating range and the second range of motion is the testing range, the dielectric element does not cover the moving part within the first range, the phase shifter is in operation, and the antenna's downtilt angle is adjustable. When the first range of motion is the testing range and the second range of motion is the operating range, the dielectric element covers at least a portion of the moving part within the first range, the phase shifter is in the testing state, and the correct connection between the antenna and the RRU can be determined.

[0102] The dielectric element may be in any of the following shapes: rectangular, cylindrical, polygonal, or irregular, without limitation. The dielectric element may be a plastic component, such as polyphenylene ether (PPO) or polycarbonate (PC), without limitation.

[0103] Furthermore, the dielectric element may be fixedly connected to the dielectric substrate or movably connected to the dielectric substrate. When the dielectric element is movably provided, the movement path of the dielectric element and the movement path of the movable component are configured to overlap, thereby establishing a detection state at the overlapping location. The size, shape, number, and relative dielectric constant of the dielectric element are not limited.

[0104] The phase shifter provided in this embodiment generates a standing wave in the signal at the phase shifter's input port. This signal can then be used to determine whether the cable at that input port is correctly connected, ensuring the accuracy of the antenna transmission signal. Specifically, when the dielectric element covers at least a portion of the moving component, the standing wave undergoes a jump. A threshold value can be set based on the jump value and the normal value. The threshold value and the angle at which it occurs vary. This signal can then be used to determine whether the cable at that input port is correctly connected, ensuring proper cable connection between the antenna and the RRU and the accuracy of the antenna transmission signal.

[0105] This embodiment employs a technique called impedance matching, generating significantly less reflected energy than conventional solutions that ground the transmission line. The phase shifter in this embodiment generates low reflected energy, making it detectable by detection equipment while effectively protecting downstream communication equipment or reducing the need for downstream microwave attenuation components. Furthermore, the structural design is simple, making it easier for dielectric components to achieve the same function.

[0106] Furthermore, the description of the dielectric element covering the movable component in the above-mentioned embodiments does not limit the dielectric element to being disposed on the side of the movable component facing away from the fixed circuit. In the embodiments according to the present invention, the description of "covering" primarily indicates that the dielectric element and the movable component have an overlapping portion. The dielectric element may be disposed on the side of the movable component facing away from the fixed circuit or on the side of the movable component facing the fixed circuit. The specific location of the dielectric element is not limited. The purpose is to generate an impedance mismatch effect when the dielectric element and the movable component have an overlapping portion.

[0107] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, rather than to limit it. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the aforementioned embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the aforementioned embodiments, or make equivalent replacements for some of the technical features therein. However, these modifications or replacements do not deviate the essence of the corresponding technical solutions from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the various embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A phase shifter, characterized in that: include: A fixed circuit and a movable component movably disposed relative to the fixed circuit, wherein the fixed circuit and the movable component form a phase shifting unit, further comprising a dielectric element, the dielectric element being located on a moving path of the movable component, and wherein during movement of the movable component, the dielectric element has a phase shifting state and a detection state relative to the movable component; In the phase shift state, the dielectric element and the moving part move independently, and there is no overlapping portion between the dielectric element and the moving part. In the detection state, there is an overlapping portion between the dielectric element and the moving part. The detection state is used to detect the correctness of the cable connection of the input port of the phase shifter.

2. The phase shifter according to claim 1, wherein: There are multiple fixed lines, and correspondingly, there are multiple moving parts. The multiple fixed lines correspond to the multiple moving parts in a one-to-one manner to form multiple phase shifting units. There is at least one dielectric element, and the dielectric element corresponds to the same number of moving parts in a one-to-one manner.

3. The phase shifter according to claim 2, wherein: The moving path of the moving component is a straight line, and the dielectric element is arranged at a starting position or an end position of the moving path of the moving component.

4. The phase shifter according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The movable component is U-shaped and includes two opposite coupling parts and a connecting part connected between the two coupling parts. In the detection state, the dielectric element overlaps with the connecting part.

5. The phase shifter according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: When the fixed circuit is a stripline structure, the stripline structure is provided on a dielectric substrate, the fixed circuit includes a first stripline and a second stripline provided on both sides of the dielectric substrate, and the dielectric element is provided on one side or both sides of the dielectric substrate.

6. The phase shifter according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The system further includes a detection system, which includes a first detection module. The first detection module is arranged at the input port of the phase shifter and is used to detect a real-time standing wave value and / or a real-time Smith chart value of the input port. The detection system determines the correctness of the cable connection at the input port of the phase shifter based on the real-time standing wave value and / or the real-time Smith chart value.

7. The phase shifter according to claim 6, wherein: The detection system is used to determine that the input port cable is correctly connected if the real-time standing wave value is greater than a preset standing wave value and / or the real-time Smith chart value is greater than a preset Smith chart value in the detection state.

8. The phase shifter according to claim 7, wherein: The detection system further includes a second detection module, which is configured to detect a real-time downtilt angle of the phase shifter. The detection system is configured to determine, in the detection state, that the input port of the phase shifter is correctly connected if the real-time standing wave value is greater than a preset standing wave value and / or the real-time Smith chart value is greater than a preset Smith chart value, and the real-time downtilt angle is consistent with the preset downtilt angle.

9. The phase shifter according to claim 6, wherein: The detection system further comprises an alarm device, which is used to alarm when it is determined that the input port of the phase shifter is incorrectly connected.

10. A base station antenna, characterized in that: The phase shifter comprises the phase shifter according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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