Design and method of composite antenna element for beam width control

Abstract

An antenna system includes: a first antenna element arranged above a ground layer, wherein the first antenna element is operably coupled to a first signal source, and the first antenna element is used to radiate a first signal provided by the first signal source; a second antenna element arranged above the first antenna element, wherein the second antenna element is operably coupled to a second signal source, and the second antenna element is used to radiate a second signal provided by the second signal source, and the first signal and the second signal are adjusted to set the beam width and direction of the beam pattern of a combined beam radiated by the composite antenna element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to antennas and, in particular embodiments, to the design and methods of composite antenna elements for beamwidth control. Background Art

[0002] The shape of a communication device's beam pattern depends on the desired coverage area. For example, for an access node, the shape of the beam pattern can depend on urban or rural deployment (presence of landscape / building structures, etc.) and low-density or high-density coverage, among other considerations. An important factor in beam pattern shaping is the antenna beamwidth.

[0003] Factors that contribute to the beamwidth of an antenna array include the design of the antenna elements, the number of antenna elements in the array, the size of the subarrays, and the element mode shape. Typically, the element mode shape and subarray size are fixed after the antenna array is deployed. Therefore, the antenna's beamwidth and directionality are typically controlled through beamforming and activating or deactivating antenna elements. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to a first aspect, a composite antenna is provided. Typically, a composite antenna element is an antenna element formed from a small number of independently drivable radiating elements that are physically or electrically tightly integrated. The composite antenna includes: a first antenna element disposed above a ground layer, the first antenna element operably coupled to a first signal source providing a first signal, the first antenna element configured to radiate the first signal provided by the first signal source; and a second antenna element disposed above the first antenna element, the second antenna element operably coupled to a second signal source providing a second signal, the second antenna element configured to radiate the second signal provided by the second signal source. The first and second signals are adjusted to set the beam width and direction of a beam pattern of a combined beam radiated by the composite antenna element.

[0005] According to the first aspect, in a first implementation of the composite antenna, the first antenna element comprises a first dipole bow-tie antenna disposed in a first plane parallel to the ground plane, and the second antenna element comprises a second dipole bow-tie antenna disposed in a second plane parallel to the ground plane, with the first plane located between the second plane and the ground plane. Typically, a bow-tie antenna is a dipole antenna, each arm of which is an isosceles triangle with its vertex facing the center of the dipole antenna. The dipole antenna has a bow-tie or hourglass shape.

[0006] According to the first aspect or any of the above-mentioned implementations of the first aspect, in a second implementation of the composite antenna, the first antenna element is coupled to the first signal source through a first signal feed path, and the first signal feed includes: a first supporting structure including two supporting members, wherein each supporting member supports the bow-tie antenna of the first dipole bow-tie antenna; a first electrical conductor arranged in the first supporting member of the first supporting structure, wherein the first electrical conductor is electrically coupled to the first bow-tie antenna of the first dipole bow-tie antenna and the first signal source, and the first electrical conductor is used to provide the first signal to the first bow-tie antenna with a first polarity; a second electrical conductor arranged in the second supporting member of the first supporting structure, wherein the second electrical conductor is coupled to the second bow-tie antenna of the first dipole bow-tie antenna and the first signal source, and the second electrical conductor is used to provide the first signal to the second bow-tie antenna with a second polarity.

[0007] According to the first aspect or any preceding implementation of the first aspect, in a third implementation of the composite antenna, the second antenna element is coupled to the second signal source through a second signal feed path, and the second signal feed includes: a second supporting structure including two supporting members, wherein each supporting member supports the bow-tie antenna of the second dipole bow-tie antenna; a third electrical conductor arranged in a third supporting member of the second supporting structure, wherein the third electrical conductor is electrically coupled to the first bow-tie antenna of the second dipole bow-tie antenna and the second signal source, and the third electrical conductor is used to provide the second signal to the first bow-tie antenna of the second dipole bow-tie antenna with a first polarity; and a fourth electrical conductor arranged in a fourth supporting member of the second supporting structure, wherein the fourth electrical conductor is electrically coupled to the second bow-tie antenna of the second dipole bow-tie antenna and the second signal source, and the fourth electrical conductor is used to provide the second signal to the second bow-tie antenna of the second dipole bow-tie antenna with a second polarity.

[0008] According to the first aspect or any of the above implementations of the first aspect, in a fourth implementation of the composite antenna, the composite antenna further includes an element for reinforcing the first support structure and the second support structure and electrically coupling the first support structure and the second support structure.

[0009] According to the first aspect or any of the above-mentioned implementations of the first aspect, in a fifth implementation of the composite antenna, the first antenna element includes a first dipole antenna arranged in a first plane parallel to the ground layer, and the second antenna element includes a second dipole antenna arranged in a second plane parallel to the ground layer.

[0010] According to the first aspect or any of the above-mentioned implementations of the first aspect, in a sixth implementation of the composite antenna, the first antenna element is coupled to the first signal source through a first signal feed path, the first signal feed path includes a first electrical conductor electrically coupled to the first dipole antenna, and the second antenna element is coupled to the second signal source through a second signal feed path, the second signal feed path includes a second electrical conductor electrically coupled to the second dipole antenna.

[0011] According to the first aspect or any of the above implementations of the first aspect, in a seventh implementation of the composite antenna, the first dipole antenna and the second dipole antenna have the same orientation.

[0012] According to the first aspect or any of the above implementations of the first aspect, in an eighth implementation of the composite antenna, the offset between the first dipole antenna and the second dipole antenna is less than λ / 4, where λ is the wavelength of the expected operating frequency of the composite antenna element.

[0013] According to the first aspect or any above-mentioned implementation manner of the first aspect, in a ninth implementation manner of the composite antenna, the first antenna element is coupled to the first signal source through a first signal feed path, the first antenna element includes a first bow-tie antenna arranged in a first plane parallel to the ground layer, and the second antenna element is coupled to the second signal source through a second signal feed path, the second antenna element includes a second bow-tie antenna arranged in a second plane parallel to the ground layer.

[0014] According to the first aspect or any of the above implementations of the first aspect, in a tenth implementation of the composite antenna, the first signal feed source includes a first electrical conductor electrically coupled to the first bow-tie antenna, and the second signal feed source includes a second electrical conductor electrically coupled to the second bow-tie antenna.

[0015] According to the first aspect or any of the above-mentioned implementations of the first aspect, in the eleventh implementation of the composite antenna, the first antenna element includes a patch antenna arranged in a first plane parallel to the ground layer, and the second antenna element includes a dipole antenna arranged in a second plane parallel to the ground layer.

[0016] According to the first aspect or any of the above-mentioned implementations of the first aspect, in a twelfth implementation of the composite antenna, the first antenna element is coupled to the first signal source through a first signal feed path, the first signal feed includes a first electrical conductor electrically coupled to the patch antenna, and the second antenna element is coupled to the second signal source through a second signal feed path, the second signal feed includes a second electrical conductor electrically coupled to the dipole antenna.

[0017] According to the first aspect or any of the above implementations of the first aspect, in a thirteenth implementation of the composite antenna, the method further includes providing an insulating layer between the first antenna element and the second antenna element.

[0018] According to the first aspect or any of the above implementations of the first aspect, in a fourteenth implementation of the composite antenna, the first signal and the second signal are adjusted to a specified phase difference between the first signal and the second signal.

[0019] According to the first aspect or any of the above implementations of the first aspect, in a fifteenth implementation of the composite antenna, the first signal and the second signal are further adjusted to a specified amplitude difference between the first signal and the second signal.

[0020] According to a second aspect, an antenna array is provided, wherein the antenna array includes the composite antenna according to the first aspect or any implementation of the first aspect.

[0021] According to a third aspect, a method implemented by a communication device is provided. The method includes: the communication device determining a beam pattern of a communication beam; the communication device adjusting weighting factors of a first signal and a second signal of an antenna system, wherein antennas of the antenna system are arranged in parallel planes with independent signal feed paths, and the weighting factors are determined based on the beam pattern; the communication device applying the weighting factors to the first signal and the second signal; and the communication device transmitting the weighted first signal using a first independent signal feed path and transmitting the weighted second signal using a second independent signal feed path.

[0022] According to the third aspect, in a first implementation manner of the method, applying the weighting factor includes: the communication device multiplying the first signal by a first weighting factor; and the communication device multiplying the second signal by a second weighting factor.

[0023] According to the third aspect or any of the above implementations of the third aspect, in a second implementation of the method, adjusting the weighting factor includes adjusting the phase difference between the first weighting factor and the second weighting factor to a set value.

[0024] According to the third aspect or any of the above implementations of the third aspect, in a third implementation of the method, adjusting the weighting factor further includes adjusting the amplitude difference between the first weighting factor and the second weighting factor to a set value.

[0025] According to a fourth aspect, a communication device is provided. The communication device includes:

[0026] A composite antenna array, wherein each composite antenna comprises: a first antenna element disposed above a ground plane, the first antenna element operably coupled to a first signal feed path, the first antenna element configured to radiate a first signal provided by the first signal feed path; a second antenna element disposed above the first antenna element, the second antenna element operably coupled to a second signal feed path, the second antenna element configured to radiate a second signal provided by the second signal feed path, the first signal and the second signal being adjusted to set a beam width and direction of a beam pattern of a combined beam radiated by the communication device;

[0027] Non-transitory memory, including instructions; and

[0028] One or more processors in communication with the memory, wherein the one or more processors execute the instructions to cause the device to perform the following operations: determine a beam pattern of a communication beam; adjust weighting factors of a first signal and a second signal of an antenna system, wherein the antennas of the antenna system are arranged in parallel planes with independent signal feed paths, and the weighting factors are determined according to the beam pattern; apply the weighting factors to the first signal and the second signal; and transmit the weighted first signal using a first independent signal feed path and the weighted second signal using a second independent signal feed path through the composite antenna array.

[0029] According to the fourth aspect, in a first implementation of the communication device, the one or more processors further execute the instructions to cause the device to: multiply the first signal by a first weighting factor; and multiply the second signal by a second weighting factor.

[0030] According to the fourth aspect or any of the above-mentioned implementations of the fourth aspect, in a second implementation of the communication device, the one or more processors further execute the instructions to enable the device to adjust the phase difference between the first weighting factor and the second weighting factor to a set value.

[0031] According to the fourth aspect or any of the above-mentioned implementations of the fourth aspect, in a third implementation of the communication device, the one or more processors further execute the instructions so that the device adjusts the amplitude difference between the first weighting factor and the second weighting factor to a set value.

[0032] An advantage of the preferred embodiment is that a composite antenna element with dynamic beamwidth control is provided. The composite antenna element features a small number of independently fed antenna elements, and the beamwidth of the antenna pattern of the composite antenna element is controllable by varying the signals fed to the individual antenna elements. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure and its advantages, reference is now made to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0034] Figure 1 An exemplary antenna pattern for an antenna array is shown;

[0035] 2A and 2B show an antenna element of the prior art;

[0036] Figure 3 shows a side view of a composite antenna element provided by an exemplary embodiment proposed herein;

[0037] Figure 4A A view showing a first antenna element of a composite antenna element having a dual-polarity bow-tie antenna element provided by exemplary embodiments proposed herein;

[0038] Figure 4B A view showing a second antenna element of a composite antenna element having a dual-polarity bow-tie antenna element provided by exemplary embodiments proposed herein;

[0039] Figure 4C A perspective view of a composite antenna element having a dual-polarity bow-tie antenna element provided by an exemplary embodiment proposed herein is shown;

[0040] Figures 5A to 5B The exemplary embodiments provided herein provide Figure 4C A plot of the co-polarity directions or beam patterns of the composite antenna elements wherein the signals have relative phase differences of approximately 60 degrees and 180 degrees;

[0041] Figures 5C to 5D The exemplary embodiments provided herein provide Figure 4C Curves of E-plane and H-plane directions or beam patterns of composite antenna elements with different relative phase differences;

[0042] Figure 6A perspective view of a composite antenna element having parallel dipole antenna elements provided by exemplary embodiments presented herein is shown;

[0043] 7A to 7B The exemplary embodiments provided herein provide Figure 6 A plot of co-polarity directions or beam patterns of composite antenna elements wherein signals have relative phase differences of approximately 200 degrees and 330 degrees;

[0044] Figures 7C to 7D The exemplary embodiments provided herein provide Figure 6 Curves of E-plane and H-plane directions or beam patterns of composite antenna elements with different relative phase differences;

[0045] Figure 8 A perspective view of a composite antenna element with parallel bow-tie antenna elements provided by exemplary embodiments presented herein is shown;

[0046] Figures 9A to 9B The exemplary embodiments provided herein provide Figure 8 A plot of co-polarity directions or beam patterns of composite antenna elements wherein signals have relative phase differences of approximately 190 degrees and 313 degrees;

[0047] Figures 9C to 9D The exemplary embodiments provided herein provide Figure 8 Curves of E-plane and H-plane directions or beam patterns of composite antenna elements with different relative phase differences;

[0048] Figure 10 A perspective view of a composite antenna element having a patch antenna element and a dipole antenna element provided by an exemplary embodiment proposed herein is shown;

[0049] Figures 11A to 11B The exemplary embodiments provided herein provide Figure 10 A plot of the co-polarity directions or beam patterns of the composite antenna elements wherein the signals have relative phase differences of approximately 50 degrees and 210 degrees;

[0050] Figures 11C to 11D The exemplary embodiments provided herein provide Figure 10 Curves of E-plane and H-plane directions or beam patterns of composite antenna elements with different relative phase differences;

[0051] Figure 12 A flowchart illustrating exemplary operations performed in a communication device for dynamically controlling the beam width of a beam pattern of a composite antenna element according to exemplary embodiments disclosed herein;

[0052] Figure 13A and Figure 13B Exemplary devices are shown in which the methods and teachings according to the present disclosure may be implemented. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] The following describes in detail the structure and use of the disclosed embodiments. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure provides many applicable concepts that can be embodied in a variety of specific contexts. The specific embodiments discussed are merely illustrative of the specific structure and use of the embodiments and do not limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0054] Figure 1 An exemplary antenna pattern 100 of an antenna array is shown. Antenna patterns 100 of an antenna array can range from a wide beamwidth pattern 105 having a relatively short range to a narrow beamwidth pattern 110 having a relatively long range. A wide beamwidth pattern generally has a shorter range than a narrow beamwidth pattern at the same amount of transmit power, but has a wider coverage area.

[0055] FIG2A illustrates a first antenna element 200 in the prior art. Antenna element 200 is commonly referred to as a Yagi-Uda antenna. Antenna element 200 has a single feed at antenna element 205 and multiple other antenna elements (e.g., antenna element 210 and antenna element 212). Antenna element 210 can be referred to as a reflector, while the other antenna elements (e.g., antenna element 212) are referred to as directors.

[0056] FIG2B illustrates a second antenna element 250 in the prior art. Antenna element 250 is commonly referred to as a stacked patch antenna. As shown in FIG2B , antenna element 250 includes two patch antennas (patch antenna 255 and patch antenna 260) arranged in a vertical stack above a ground plane 265. Antenna array 250 is fed by a signal feed 270 electrically coupled to patch antenna 255, which acts as a director. Ground plane 265 may be provided on a substrate 275, while patch antennas 255 and 260 may be formed on a dielectric layer 280 or in the open air (with appropriate support structures to maintain the orientation and positioning of the antennas of antenna element 250).

[0057] The prior art antenna elements shown in Figures 2A and 2B have a single feed. Furthermore, the beamwidth of the beam pattern of prior art antenna elements is typically fixed by the physical dimensions and material properties of the antenna elements. Changing the beamwidth typically requires deploying multiple such antenna elements in a linear or planar array with multiple feeds, significantly increasing the aperture or area of ​​the total antenna array. In situations where product size is critical, such as communications equipment deployed in space-constrained areas, the overall increase in total antenna array area can make deployment more difficult.

[0058] According to an exemplary embodiment, a composite antenna element having a dynamically controllable beam width and direction of a beam pattern is provided. Typically, a composite antenna element is an antenna element formed from a small number of radiating elements that can be driven independently but are tightly integrated together physically or electrically. The composite antenna element is capable of dynamically controlling the beam width and / or direction of the beam pattern of the composite antenna element. In one embodiment, the composite antenna element includes two parallel antenna elements arranged at different heights above a ground plane, wherein each antenna element is fed with a separate signal. Thus, each antenna element radiates a different separate beam pattern. In one embodiment, the two beam patterns are combined by providing signals with controlled relative phases and weighting factors to independent signal feed sources. The overall beam pattern shape of the composite antenna element, having adaptively controlled beam width and direction, is generated by the combination of the two beam patterns.

[0059] Due to the vertical stacking of antenna elements, embodiment composite antenna elements can save space. Composite antenna elements can be used as antennas for fifth generation (5G) beamwidth steering applications, such as in access node applications. Embodiment composite antenna elements may have advantages in deployments where space is a concern.

[0060] According to exemplary embodiments, an array of composite antenna elements having dynamically controllable beam width and beam pattern direction is provided. The array includes a plurality of composite antenna elements, as described herein. The array includes at least two composite antenna elements. The array can be a linear array, a rectangular array, an irregularly shaped array, or the like.

[0061] While the discussion focuses on a composite antenna element having two independently fed parallel antenna elements, the exemplary embodiments presented herein can operate with two or more antenna elements. Therefore, the discussion of two parallel antenna elements should not be construed as limiting the scope of the exemplary embodiments. Furthermore, the composite antenna element is presented as having only antenna elements fed by a signal. The exemplary embodiments can operate with other antenna elements that are not fed, such as antenna elements operating as reflectors or directors.

[0062] Figure 3 A side view of composite antenna element 300 is shown. Figure 3 A high-level view of a composite antenna element according to the exemplary embodiments presented herein is provided without providing details regarding the type or configuration of the antenna element or the feed system of the antenna element.Details of embodiment antenna element types and configurations and feed systems are provided below.

[0063] Composite antenna element 300 includes first antenna element 305 and second antenna element 310 disposed parallel to each other. First antenna element 305 and second antenna element 310 are disposed above ground plane 315. Supports 320 and 322 maintain separation and orientation of first antenna element 305, second antenna element 310, and ground plane 315.

[0064] In one embodiment, first antenna element 305 and second antenna element 310 may be monopolar antenna elements or dipole antenna elements. Alternatively, first antenna element 305 and second antenna element 310 may have different polarity configurations (e.g., first antenna element 305 is a dipole antenna element and second antenna element 310 is a monopolar antenna element; or first antenna element 305 is a monopolar antenna element and second antenna element 310 is a dipole antenna element).

[0065] In one embodiment, either first antenna element 305 or second antenna element 310 can be any of a variety of different antenna element types, such as a dipole antenna, a bowtie antenna, or a patch antenna. Typically, a bowtie antenna is a dipole antenna, where each arm is an isosceles triangle with its apex facing the center of the dipole. The dipole antenna has a bowtie or hourglass shape. In one embodiment, first antenna element 305 and second antenna element 310 are of the same antenna element type. In another embodiment, first antenna element 305 and second antenna element 310 are of different antenna element types.

[0066] In one embodiment, supports 320 and 322 may be actual structures fabricated to support the antenna element, such as antenna masts. In one embodiment, supports 320 and 322 may be fabricated or 3D-printed layers, such as dielectric layers or some other non-conductive material. Supports fabricated or 3D-printed from dielectric or non-conductive materials are particularly useful in deployments where the composite antenna element is fabricated as a single monolithic unit.

[0067] The first antenna element 305 is fed by a first signal feed 325, and the second antenna element 310 is fed by a second signal feed 330. The signal feed may be located below the ground plane 315, such as Figure 3 Alternatively, one or both of the signal feeds can be located above the ground plane.

[0068] In one embodiment, the signal feeds feed the antenna elements through the supports. In other words, the wiring carrying the signals provided by the first signal feed 325 and the second signal feed 330 is routed through the supports 320 and 322 to their respective antenna elements.

[0069] In one embodiment, one of the signal feeds feeds one of the antenna elements through the support. In other words, the wiring carrying the signal provided by the first signal feed 325 or the second signal feed 330 is routed through the support 320 or 322 to its corresponding antenna element.

[0070] like Figure 3 As shown, composite antenna element 300 is intended to provide a high-level view of an embodiment composite antenna element. Composite antenna element 300 is not intended to provide a detailed view of any one particular embodiment composite antenna element.

[0071] According to an exemplary embodiment, a composite antenna element having a dual-polarity bow-tie antenna element is provided. The dual-polarity bow-tie antenna element is fed by a separate signal to enable dynamic control of the beam width and direction of the composite antenna element's beam pattern. In one embodiment, each antenna element comprises a dual-polarity bow-tie antenna element.

[0072] refer to Figures 4A to 4C , shows a view of the antenna elements of the composite antenna 470, which have a dual-polarity bow-tie antenna element. The composite antenna 470 consists of the first antenna element 400 ( Figure 4A shown) and the second antenna element 430 ( Figure 4B As shown), a stacked array is formed, and Figure 4C A composite antenna 470 is shown. Figure 4A A first antenna element 400 and a support 402 for first antenna element 400 (including antenna rods 410 to 413) are shown. First antenna element 400 includes four antenna sub-elements 405, 406, 407, and 408, with opposing antenna sub-elements forming a bow tie. The two bow ties (formed by the four antenna sub-elements) have orthogonal polarizations. For example, antenna sub-elements 405 and 407 form a first bow tie, and antenna sub-elements 406 and 408 form a second bow tie.

[0073] Each antenna element is supported by an antenna rod. For example, antenna element 405 is supported by antenna rod 410, antenna element 406 is supported by antenna rod 411, antenna element 407 is supported by antenna rod 412, and antenna element 408 is supported by antenna rod 413. These antenna rods keep the antenna elements connected to the ground plane (480, which will be discussed below). Figure 4C Discussion) separation and maintaining the relative position and orientation of the antenna sub-elements.

[0074] In one embodiment, the antenna poles 410 and 411 are hollow rectangular or square poles, and the conductive wiring is routed in the interior (i.e., inside) of the antenna poles. The conductive wiring carries signals that feed the antenna elements. For example, a first signal destined for the first antenna port 415 is carried in the conductive wiring 420 of the antenna pole 410, and a second signal destined for the second antenna port 416 is carried in the conductive wiring 421 of the antenna pole 411. Typically, an antenna port is an opening in the ground plane through which the conductive wiring passes to provide signals to the antenna elements. However, the signals carried in the conductive wiring within a particular antenna pole are not necessarily intended to feed the antenna elements connected to the antenna pole. For example, a first signal carried in the conductive wiring 420 in the antenna pole 410 is carried in the conductive wiring 421 of the antenna pole 411. Figure 4A 4. Antenna sub-element 407 is shown as being fed instead of antenna sub-element 405 (which is connected to antenna mast 410). Similarly, a second signal carried in conductive trace 421 located within antenna mast 411 feeds antenna sub-element 408.

[0075] In one embodiment, notches are formed in the hollow square post to allow the conductive traces to exit the antenna mast and make electrical contact with the corresponding antenna element. For example, notch 425 allows the conductive traces 420 to exit the antenna mast 410 and make electrical contact with the antenna element 407.

[0076] In one embodiment, the conductive traces exiting the antenna mast are protected within a contact structure. For example, conductive traces 420 exiting antenna mast 410 are protected within contact structure 427. The contact structure can provide electrical shielding to prevent interference with signals carried in the conductive traces and to prevent signals carried in the conductive traces from interfering with signals carried in nearby conductive traces.

[0077] In one embodiment, antenna rods 412 and 413 are also hollow rectangular or square columns. However, antenna rods 412 and 413 are not hollow, and antenna rods 460 and 461 (hereinafter referred to as Figure 4B Discussion) passes through antenna rods 412 and 413.

[0078] Figure 4B A view of the second antenna element 430 of a composite antenna 470 having a dual polarity bow-tie antenna element is shown. Figure 4B The second antenna element 430 and a support 432 for the second antenna element 430 are shown. The second antenna element includes four antenna elements 450, 451, 452, and 453. Each antenna element is supported by an antenna rod. For example, antenna element 450 is supported by antenna rod 462, antenna element 451 is supported by antenna rod 463, antenna element 452 is supported by antenna rod 460, and antenna element 453 is supported by antenna rod 461. These antenna rods keep the antenna elements connected to the ground plane (480, which will be discussed below). Figure 4CDiscussion) separation and maintaining the relative position and orientation of the antenna sub-elements.

[0079] However, not all four antenna rods extend to the ground plane. Figure 4B As shown, antenna rods 460 and 461 extend to the ground plane 480, while antenna rods 462 and 463 do not extend to the ground plane 480. Antenna rods 462 and 463 extend downward to the first antenna element 400 (as shown in FIG. Figure 4A As shown), but not in electrical or physical contact with the first antenna element 400. Figure 4B As shown, the reinforcing structural element 469 provides structural rigidity to the composite antenna 470, as well as electrical conductivity between the antenna rods. In other words, the reinforcing structural element 469 mechanically strengthens the composite antenna 470, as well as electrically couples the antenna rods.

[0080] In one embodiment, antenna rods 460 and 461 pass through the interior of antenna rods 412 and 413 and down to ground plane 480 .

[0081] In one embodiment, the antenna masts (e.g., antenna masts 460 and 461) are hollow rectangular or square poles, and the conductive wiring is routed in the interior (i.e., inside) of the antenna masts. The conductive wiring carries signals that feed the antenna elements. For example, a third signal for the third antenna port 455 is carried in the conductive wiring 465 of the antenna mast 460, and a fourth signal for the fourth antenna port 456 is carried in the conductive wiring 466 of the antenna mast 461. However, the signals carried in the conductive wiring located within a particular antenna mast are not necessarily intended to feed the antenna elements connected to the antenna mast. For example, the third signal carried in the conductive wiring 465 in the antenna mast 460 is carried in the conductive wiring 466 of the antenna mast 461. Figure 4B 4. A fourth signal is shown feeding antenna element 450, rather than antenna element 452 (which is connected to antenna mast 460). Similarly, a fourth signal carried in conductive trace 466 in antenna mast 461 feeds antenna element 451.

[0082] In one embodiment, a notch is formed in the hollow rectangular or square post to allow the conductive trace to exit the antenna rod and make electrical contact with the corresponding antenna element. For example, notch 467 allows conductive trace 466 to exit antenna rod 461 and make electrical contact with antenna element 451.

[0083] In one embodiment, the conductive traces exiting the antenna rod are protected within a contact structure. For example, conductive trace 466 exiting antenna rod 461 is protected within a contact structure 468. The contact structure can provide electrical shielding to prevent interference with signals carried in the conductive traces and to prevent signals carried in the conductive traces from interfering with signals carried in nearby conductive traces.

[0084] Although the discussion focuses on the antenna mast being a hollow rectangular or square column, the antenna mast can be other shapes, such as triangular, circular, elliptical, pentagonal, hexagonal, and other shapes. Therefore, the discussion of rectangular or square columns should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the exemplary embodiments.

[0085] Figure 4C Shown is a perspective view of composite antenna 470. The perspective view of composite antenna 470 also shows ground plane 480. Figure 4A and Figure 4B The ports shown in Figure 4C Not shown, but the port passes through the ground plane 480 and the wiring is routed inside the antenna mast.

[0086] An exemplary composite antenna 470 may be configured as follows:

[0087] - There is a λ / 4 spacing between the two bipolar bow-tie antenna elements (antenna sub-elements 405 to 408 and antenna sub-elements 450 to 453, such as Figure 4C ), for example, about 25 mm at 3 GHz, where λ is the wavelength of the intended operating frequency of the composite antenna element.

[0088] - There is a ~λ / 4 spacing between the first dipole bow-tie antenna element and the ground plane 480 (e.g. Figure 4C ), for example, approximately 27 mm at 3 GHz.

[0089] —The input impedance of all ports is 50 ohms.

[0090] In one embodiment, the conductive traces are external to the antenna mast supporting the antenna elements.

[0091] Figure 5A Curve 500 shows the co-polarity direction or beam pattern of composite antenna 470 with approximately a 60 degree relative phase difference between signals Curve 500 shows the co-polarity direction or beam pattern of composite antenna element 400 with approximately a 60 degree relative phase difference between signals at the first and third ports. Figure 5B Curve 520 shows the co-polarity direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna 470, with a relative phase difference of approximately 180 degrees between the signals. Curve 520 shows the co-polarity direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna 470, with a relative phase difference of approximately 180 degrees between the signals at the first port and the third port. Figure 5A and Figure 5B The co-polarity directions or beam patterns shown in FIG are expressed in dB, with different shading representing different dB value ranges. Figure 5A and Figure 5BThe difference in the maximum and minimum values ​​shown in is due to the different antenna beams shown in the figures. Comparing curves 500 and 520, as the relative phase difference increases to approximately 180 degrees, the co-polarity direction or beam pattern becomes wider and less directional. The actual value is not as important as the change in beam shape (since different beams are shown), which shows that as the relative phase difference increases to approximately 180 degrees, the direction or beam pattern becomes less directional.

[0092] Figure 5C The curve 540 shows the E-plane direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna element 400 with different relative phase differences. The E-plane is the plane including the electric field vector and is the direction of maximum radiation. Figure 5C As shown, as the relative phase difference increases from about 60 degrees to about 180 degrees, the E-plane direction or beam pattern becomes flatter, with fewer and more gradual troughs. Figure 5D The curve 560 shows the H-plane direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna element 400 with different relative phase differences. The H-plane is a plane including the magnetic field vector and is the direction of maximum radiation. Figure 5D As shown, as the relative phase difference increases from approximately 60 degrees to approximately 180 degrees, the H-plane direction or beam pattern flattens, with fewer and fewer troughs and a flatter, more gradual pattern. Therefore, as the relative phase difference approaches approximately 180 degrees, the beam pattern of composite antenna element 400 becomes wider. The flattening of the E-plane and H-plane directions or beam patterns means that the direction of the beam becomes smaller as the relative phase difference approaches 180 degrees. Therefore, if a beam with a smaller direction is desired, a signal with a relative phase difference of approximately 180 degrees can be fed to composite antenna 470. Meanwhile, if a beam with a larger direction is desired, a signal with a relative phase difference of approximately 60 degrees can be fed to composite antenna 470. Therefore, the direction of composite antenna 470 can be controlled by varying the relative phase difference of the signals fed to composite antenna 470.

[0093] In one embodiment, to increase the co-polarity direction or beamwidth of the beam pattern of composite antenna 470, the relative phase difference between the signals is increased to a maximum of approximately 180 degrees.

[0094] In one embodiment, the signal fed to the composite antenna element is conditioned in the digital domain, where both the phase and amplitude of the signal can be adjusted. For example, digital signal processing can be used to adjust the phase or amplitude of the signal, or both. In one embodiment, the signal fed to the composite antenna element is conditioned in the analog domain, where the phase of the signal can be adjusted. For example, a phase shifting circuit can be used to adjust the phase of the signal.

[0095] According to an exemplary embodiment, a composite antenna element having parallel dipole antenna elements is provided. In one embodiment, each antenna element comprises a dipole antenna element. The parallel dipole antenna elements are fed with separate signals to enable control of the beam width and direction of the beam pattern of the composite antenna element. In one embodiment, the parallel dipole antenna elements are parallel to each other. In one embodiment, the dipole antenna elements are offset from each other. In other words, one dipole antenna element is shifted parallel to the ground plane relative to the other dipole antenna element. For example, the upper dipole antenna element is offset from the other dipole antenna element by less than λ / 4. In one embodiment, the parallel dipole antenna elements are physically identical.

[0096] Figure 6 A perspective view of a composite antenna 600 having parallel dipole antenna elements is shown. Composite antenna 600 includes two parallel dipole antenna elements 605 and 606 disposed on a ground layer 610. The two parallel dipole antenna elements 605 and 606 are fed by signal feeds 615 and 616, respectively. Support members 620 maintain separation of the dipole antenna elements from the ground layer 610 and maintain the relative position and orientation of the dipole antenna elements. In one embodiment, signal feeds 615 and 616 may penetrate the ground layer 610 (with routing associated with the signal feed from one side of the ground layer to the other side of the ground layer). In one embodiment, signal feeds 615 and 616 are located above the ground layer 610. In one embodiment, one of signal feeds 615 or 616 is located above the ground layer 610, while the other signal feed penetrates the ground layer 610.

[0097] The exemplary composite antenna 600 may be configured as follows:

[0098] - The two dipole antenna elements have a λ / 4 spacing between them, for example, about 25 mm at 3 GHz.

[0099] - There is a 0.2λ spacing between the first double dipole antenna element and the ground plane, for example, about 20 mm at 3 GHz.

[0100] —The input impedance at the two dipole antenna elements is 26 ohms and 36 ohms respectively.

[0101] Figure 7A Curve 700 shows the co-polarity direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna 600, with about a 200 degree relative phase difference between the signals. Curve 700 shows the co-polarity direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna 600, with about a 200 degree relative phase difference between the signals at the two ports. Figure 7BCurve 720 shows the co-polarity direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna 600, with a relative phase difference of approximately 330 degrees between the signals. Curve 720 shows the co-polarity direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna 600, with a relative phase difference of approximately 330 degrees between the signals at the two ports. Figure 7A and Figure 7B The co-polarity directions or beam patterns shown in FIG are expressed in dB, with different shading representing different dB value ranges. Figure 7A and Figure 7B The difference in the maximum and minimum values ​​shown in is due to the different antenna beams shown in the figures. Comparing curves 700 and 720, as the relative phase difference increases to approximately 330 degrees, the co-polarity direction or beam pattern becomes wider and less directional. The actual value is not as important as the change in beam shape (since different beams are shown), which shows that as the relative phase difference increases to approximately 330 degrees, the direction or beam pattern becomes less directional.

[0102] Figure 7C Graph 740 shows the E-plane direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna 600 with different relative phase differences. Figure 7C As shown, as the relative phase difference increases from about 220 degrees to about 330 degrees, the E-plane direction or beam pattern becomes flatter, with fewer and more gradual troughs. Figure 7D Graph 760 shows the H-plane direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna 600 with different relative phase differences. Figure 7D As shown, as the relative phase difference increases from approximately 220 degrees to approximately 330 degrees, the H-plane direction or beam pattern flattens, with fewer and fewer troughs and a more gradual flattening. Therefore, as the relative phase difference approaches approximately 330 degrees, the co-polarity direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna 600 becomes wider. The flattening of the E-plane and H-plane directions or beam patterns means that the direction of the beam becomes smaller as the relative phase difference approaches 330 degrees. Therefore, if a beam with a smaller direction is desired, a signal with a relative phase difference of approximately 330 degrees can be fed to the composite antenna 600. Meanwhile, if a beam with a wider direction is desired, a signal with a relative phase difference of approximately 200 degrees can be fed to the composite antenna 600. Therefore, the direction of the composite antenna 600 can be controlled by changing the relative phase difference of the signals fed to the composite antenna 600.

[0103] In one embodiment, to increase the co-polarity direction or beamwidth of the beam pattern of composite antenna 600, the relative phase difference between the signals is increased to a maximum of approximately 330 degrees.

[0104] According to an exemplary embodiment, a composite antenna element having parallel bow-tie antenna elements is provided. In one embodiment, each antenna element comprises a bow-tie antenna element. The parallel bow-tie antenna elements are fed by separate signals to enable control of the beam width and direction of the beam pattern of the composite antenna element. In one embodiment, the parallel bow-tie antenna elements are parallel to each other. In one embodiment, the parallel bow-tie antenna elements are offset from each other. In other words, one parallel bow-tie antenna element is shifted parallel to the ground plane relative to the other parallel bow-tie antenna element. For example, the upper parallel bow-tie antenna element is offset from the other parallel bow-tie antenna element by less than λ / 4. In one embodiment, the parallel bow-tie antenna elements are of the same physical size.

[0105] Figure 8 A perspective view of a composite antenna 800 having parallel bow-tie antenna elements is shown. Composite antenna 800 includes two parallel bow-tie antenna elements 805 and 806 disposed on a ground plane 810. The two parallel bow-tie antenna elements 805 and 806 are fed by signal feeds 815 and 816, respectively. Support members 820 maintain separation of the bow-tie antenna elements from the ground plane 810 and maintain the relative position and orientation of the bow-tie antenna elements. In one embodiment, signal feeds 815 and 816 may penetrate the ground plane 810. In one embodiment, signal feeds 815 and 816 are located above the ground plane 810. In one embodiment, one of signal feeds 815 or 816 is located above the ground plane 810, while the other signal feed penetrates the ground plane 810.

[0106] The exemplary composite antenna 800 may be configured as follows:

[0107] - The two dipole antenna elements have a λ / 4 spacing between them, for example, about 25 mm at 3 GHz.

[0108] - The first double dipole antenna element has a λ / 4 spacing from the ground plane, for example, about 25 mm at 3 GHz.

[0109] —The input impedance at the two dipole antenna elements is 32 ohms and 28 ohms respectively.

[0110] Figure 9A Curve 900 shows the co-polarity direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna 800, with approximately a 190 degree relative phase difference between the signals. Curve 900 shows the co-polarity direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna 800, with approximately a 190 degree relative phase difference between the signals at the two ports. Figure 9BCurve 920 shows the co-polarity direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna 800, with a relative phase difference of approximately 313 degrees between the signals. Curve 920 shows the co-polarity direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna 800, with a relative phase difference of approximately 313 degrees between the signals at the two ports. Figure 9A and Figure 9B The co-polarity directions or beam patterns shown in FIG are expressed in dB, with different shading representing different dB value ranges. Figure 9A and Figure 9B The difference in the maximum and minimum values ​​shown in is due to the different antenna beams shown in the figures. Comparing curves 900 and 920, as the relative phase difference increases to approximately 313 degrees, the co-polarity direction or beam pattern becomes wider and less directional. The actual value is not as important as the change in beam shape (since different beams are shown), which shows that as the relative phase difference increases to approximately 313 degrees, the direction or beam pattern becomes less directional.

[0111] Figure 9C Graph 940 shows the E-plane direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna 800 with different relative phase differences. Figure 9C As shown, as the relative phase difference increases from about 190 degrees to about 313 degrees, the E-plane direction or beam pattern becomes flatter, with fewer and more gradual troughs. Figure 9D Graph 960 shows the H-plane direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna 800 with different relative phase differences. Figure 9D As shown, as the relative phase difference increases from approximately 190 degrees to approximately 313 degrees, the H-plane direction or beam pattern flattens, becoming more gradual with fewer troughs. Therefore, as the relative phase difference approaches approximately 313 degrees, the co-polarity direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna 800 becomes wider. The flattening of the E-plane and H-plane directions or beam patterns means that the direction of the beam becomes increasingly smaller as the relative phase difference approaches 313 degrees. Therefore, if a beam with a smaller direction is desired, a signal with a relative phase difference of approximately 313 degrees can be fed to the composite antenna 800. Meanwhile, if a beam with a larger direction is desired, a signal with a relative phase difference of approximately 190 degrees can be fed to the composite antenna 800. Therefore, the direction of the composite antenna 800 can be controlled by changing the relative phase difference of the signals fed to the composite antenna 800.

[0112] In one embodiment, to increase the co-polarity direction or beamwidth of the beam pattern of composite antenna 800, the relative phase difference between the signals is increased to a maximum of approximately 313 degrees.

[0113] According to an exemplary embodiment, a composite antenna element is provided that includes a patch antenna element and a dipole antenna element. The patch antenna element and the dipole antenna element are fed by separate signals to control the beam width and direction of the composite antenna element's beam pattern. In one embodiment, the first antenna element comprises a patch antenna element, and the second antenna element comprises a dipole antenna element. In one embodiment, the dipole antenna element moves parallel to a ground plane relative to the patch antenna element.

[0114] Figure 10 A perspective view of a composite antenna 1000 having a patch antenna element and a dipole antenna element is shown. Composite antenna 1000 includes a patch antenna element 1005 and a dipole antenna element 1006 disposed on a ground plane 1010. Patch antenna element 1005 and dipole antenna element 1006 are fed by signal feeds 1015 and 1016, respectively. Support 1020 maintains the patch antenna element separated from ground plane 1010. Support 1020 can be a dielectric layer or some other form of support. Support 1021 holds dipole antenna element 1006 and patch antenna element 1005 together. Supports 1020 and 1021 also help maintain the relative position and orientation of the antenna elements. In one embodiment, signal feeds 1015 and 1016 can penetrate ground plane 1010. In one embodiment, signal feeds 1015 and 1016 are located above ground plane 1010. In one embodiment, one of the signal feeds 1015 or 1016 is located above the ground layer 1010 , while the other signal feed penetrates the ground layer 1010 .

[0115] The exemplary composite antenna 1000 may be configured as follows:

[0116] - The patch antenna element and the dipole antenna element have a λ / 4 spacing between them, for example, about 25 mm at 3 GHz.

[0117] - The patch antenna element and the ground plane have a λ / 4 spacing, for example, about 25 mm at 3 GHz.

[0118] —The input impedance at the two antenna elements is 68.2 ohms and 23.5 ohms respectively.

[0119] Figure 11A Curve 1100 shows the co-polarity direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna 1000, with about a 50 degree relative phase difference between the signals. Curve 1100 shows the co-polarity direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna 1000, with about a 50 degree relative phase difference between the signals at the two ports. Figure 11BCurve 1120 shows the co-polarity direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna 1000, with a relative phase difference of approximately 210 degrees between the signals. Curve 1120 shows the co-polarity direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna 1000, with a relative phase difference of approximately 210 degrees between the signals at the two ports. Figure 11A and Figure 11B The co-polarity directions or beam patterns shown in FIG are expressed in dB, with different shading representing different dB value ranges. Figure 11A and Figure 11B The difference in the maximum and minimum values ​​shown in is due to the different antenna beams shown in the figures. Comparing curves 1100 and 1120, as the relative phase difference increases to approximately 210 degrees, the co-polarity direction or beam pattern becomes narrower and more directional. The actual value is not as important as the change in beam shape (since different beams are shown), which shows that as the relative phase difference increases to approximately 210 degrees, the direction or beam pattern becomes less directional.

[0120] Figure 11C A curve 1140 is shown showing the E-plane direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna 1000 with different relative phase differences. Figure 11C As shown, as the relative phase difference increases from about 50 degrees to about 210 degrees, the E-plane direction or beam pattern exhibits more troughs and steeper peaks. Figure 11D Graph 1160 shows the H-plane direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna 1000 with different relative phase differences. Figure 11D As shown, as the relative phase difference increases from approximately 50 degrees to approximately 210 degrees, the H-plane direction or beam pattern exhibits more troughs and steeper peaks. Therefore, as the relative phase difference approaches approximately 210 degrees, the co-polarity direction or beam pattern of the composite antenna 1000 becomes narrower. The non-flattening of the E-plane and H-plane directions or beam patterns means that the directionality of the beam becomes increasingly smaller as the relative phase difference approaches 210 degrees. Therefore, if a beam with a smaller directionality is desired, a signal with a relative phase difference of approximately 210 degrees can be fed to the composite antenna 1000. Meanwhile, if a beam with a wider directionality is desired, a signal with a relative phase difference of approximately 50 degrees can be fed to the composite antenna 1000. Therefore, the directionality of the composite antenna 1000 can be controlled by varying the relative phase difference of the signals fed to the composite antenna 1000.

[0121] In one embodiment, to reduce the co-polarity direction or beamwidth of the beam pattern of the composite antenna 1000, the relative phase difference between the signals is increased to a maximum of about 210 degrees.

[0122] According to an exemplary embodiment, the beamwidth of the beam pattern of the composite antenna is dynamically controllable by adjusting weighting factors of the feed signals provided to the antenna elements. The weighting factors can be adjusted to change the relative phase, relative amplitude, or relative phase and amplitude of the feed signals provided to the antenna elements.

[0123] Figure 12 A flow diagram illustrates example operations 1200 performed in a communication device in dynamically controlling a beamwidth of a beam pattern of a composite antenna. Operations 1200 may be indicative of operations performed in a communication device as the communication device controls the beamwidth of a beam pattern of a composite antenna.

[0124] Operation 1200 begins with the communications device determining the beam width or direction of the beam pattern of the composite antenna (block 1205). The beam width or direction of the beam pattern may depend on coverage requirements, such as urban or rural deployment, low-density or high-density coverage, etc. The communications device adjusts weighting factors for the signals feeding the composite antenna (block 1207). The weighting factors may be adjusted for the signals feeding the individual antenna elements of the composite antenna. For example, the weighting factors may be adjusted so that the relative phase difference between the signals satisfies a desired relative phase difference, so that the composite antenna will produce a beam pattern with a desired beam width or direction. For example, the weighting factors may be adjusted so that the relative amplitude difference between the signals satisfies a desired relative amplitude difference, so that the composite antenna will produce a beam pattern with a desired beam width or direction. For another example, the weighting factors may be adjusted so that the relative phase difference and relative amplitude difference between the signals satisfies a desired relative phase difference and relative amplitude difference, so that the composite antenna will produce a beam pattern with a desired beam width or direction. The communications device applies the weighting factors to the signals (block 1209). For example, the communications device may multiply the signals by the weighting factors. For example, a communication device may apply weighting factors to analog circuits to condition signals in the analog domain.

[0125] Figure 13A and Figure 13B Exemplary devices are shown that can implement the methods and teachings according to the present disclosure. In particular, Figure 13A An exemplary electronic device (ED) 1310 is shown. Figure 13B An exemplary base station 1370 is shown. These components may be used in the system.

[0126] like Figure 13AAs shown, ED 1310 includes at least one processing unit 1300. Processing unit 1300 implements various processing operations of ED 1310. For example, processing unit 1300 may perform signal encoding and decoding, data processing, power control, input / output processing, or any other function that enables ED 1310 to operate in the system. Processing unit 1300 also supports the methods and teachings described in detail above. Each processing unit 1300 includes any suitable processing or computing device for performing one or more operations. For example, each processing unit 1300 may include a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor, a field programmable gate array, or an application-specific integrated circuit.

[0127] ED 1310 also includes at least one transceiver 1302. Transceiver 1302 is used to modulate data or other content for transmission via at least one antenna or network interface controller (NIC) 1304. At least one antenna 1304 can be a composite antenna with separately fed parallel antenna elements, as described herein. Transceiver 1302 is also used to demodulate data or other content received by at least one antenna 1304. Each transceiver 1302 includes any suitable structure for generating signals for wireless or wired transmission or for processing signals received wirelessly or via a wired connection. Each antenna 1304 includes any suitable structure for transmitting or receiving wireless or wired signals. One or more transceivers 1302 can be used in ED 1310, and one or more antennas 1304 can be used in ED 1310. Although shown as a single functional unit, transceiver 1302 can also be implemented using at least one transmitter and at least one separate receiver.

[0128] ED 1310 also includes one or more input / output devices 1306 or interfaces (e.g., a wired interface to the Internet). Input / output devices 1306 facilitate interaction with users or other devices on a network (network communications). Each input / output device 1306 includes any suitable structure for providing information to or receiving information from a user, such as a speaker, microphone, keypad, keyboard, display, or touch screen, including network interface communications.

[0129] In addition, ED 1310 includes at least one memory 1308. Memory 1308 stores instructions and data used, generated, or collected by ED 1310. For example, memory 1308 may store software or firmware instructions executed by one or more processing units 1300, as well as data used to reduce or eliminate interference in input signals. Each memory 1308 includes any suitable one or more volatile or non-volatile storage and retrieval devices. Any suitable type of memory may be used, such as random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), a hard disk, an optical disk, a subscriber identity module (SIM) card, a memory stick, a secure digital (SD) memory card, etc.

[0130] like Figure 13B As shown, base station 1370 includes at least one processing unit 1350, at least one transceiver 1352 (including transmitter and receiver functionality), one or more antennas 1356, at least one memory 1358, and one or more input / output devices or interfaces 1366. At least one antenna 1356 may be a composite antenna element with separately fed parallel antenna elements, as described herein. A scheduler, as understood by those skilled in the art, is coupled to processing unit 1350. The scheduler may be included within base station 1370 or operate independently of base station 1370. Processing unit 1350 implements various processing operations for base station 1370, such as signal encoding and decoding, data processing, power control, input / output processing, or any other functions. Processing unit 1350 may also support the methods and teachings detailed above. Each processing unit 1350 includes any suitable processing or computing device for performing one or more operations. For example, each processing unit 1350 may include a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor, a field programmable gate array, or an application-specific integrated circuit.

[0131] Each transceiver 1352 includes any suitable structure for generating signals for wireless or wired transmission to one or more EDs or other devices. Each transceiver 1352 also includes any suitable structure for processing signals received wirelessly or via wired transmission from one or more EDs or other devices. Although the transmitter and receiver are shown combined as a transceiver 1352, they can be separate components. Each antenna 1356 includes any suitable structure for transmitting or receiving wireless or wired signals. Although a shared antenna 1356 is shown coupled to the transceiver 1352, one or more antennas 1356 can be coupled to one or more transceivers 1352, thereby enabling separate antennas 1356 to be coupled to the transmitter and receiver (when the transmitter and receiver are separate components). Each memory 1358 includes any suitable one or more volatile or non-volatile storage and retrieval devices. Each input / output device 1366 facilitates interaction with users or other devices on a network (network communications). Each input / output device 1366 includes any suitable structure for providing information to a user or receiving / providing information from a user, including network interface communications.

[0132] It should be understood that one or more steps of the embodiment method provided herein can be performed by corresponding units or modules. For example, a signal can be sent by a sending unit or a sending module. A signal can be received by a receiving unit or a receiving module. A signal can be processed by a processing unit or a processing module. Other steps can be performed by a determination unit or a module, an adjustment unit or a module, an application unit or a module, or a multiplication unit or a module. Each unit or module can be hardware, software, or a combination thereof. For example, one or more of these units or modules can be an integrated circuit, such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0133] Although the present disclosure and its advantages have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made herein without departing from the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A composite antenna, characterized in that: include: A first antenna element is disposed above the ground layer, the first antenna element is operably coupled to a first signal feed source providing a first signal, and the first antenna element is used to radiate the first signal provided by the first signal feed source; a second antenna element disposed above the first antenna element, the second antenna element being operably coupled to a second signal feed providing a second signal, the second antenna element being used to radiate the second signal provided by the second signal feed, the first signal and the second signal being adjusted to set a beam width and direction of a beam pattern of a combined beam radiated by the composite antenna element; the first signal feed and the second signal feed being independent signal feeds; The first antenna element comprises a first dipole bow-tie antenna arranged in a first plane parallel to the ground layer, the second antenna element comprises a second dipole bow-tie antenna arranged in a second plane parallel to the ground layer, and the first plane is located between the second plane and the ground layer; The first antenna element is coupled to the first signal feed through a first signal feed path, and the first signal feed path includes: a first support structure comprising two support members, wherein each support member supports a bow-tie antenna of the first dual-polarity bow-tie antenna; a first electrical conductor disposed within a first support member of the first support structure, wherein the first electrical conductor is electrically coupled to a first bow-tie antenna of the first dual-polarity bow-tie antenna and the first signal feed, the first electrical conductor being configured to provide the first signal to the first bow-tie antenna at a first polarity; A second electrical conductor disposed within a second support member of the first support structure, wherein the second electrical conductor is coupled to a second bow-tie antenna of the first dual-polarity bow-tie antenna and the first signal feed, the second electrical conductor being configured to provide the first signal to the second bow-tie antenna with a second polarity.

2. The composite antenna according to claim 1, characterized in that: The second antenna element is coupled to the second signal feed through a second signal feed path, and the second signal feed path includes: a second support structure comprising two support members, wherein each support member supports a bow-tie antenna of the second dual-polarity bow-tie antenna; a third electrical conductor disposed within a third support member of the second support structure, wherein the third electrical conductor is electrically coupled to the first bow-tie antenna of the second dipole bow-tie antenna and the second signal feed, the third electrical conductor being used to provide the second signal with a first polarity to the first bow-tie antenna of the second dipole bow-tie antenna; a fourth electrical conductor disposed within a fourth support member of the second support structure, wherein the fourth electrical conductor is electrically coupled to a second bow-tie antenna of the second dipole bow-tie antenna and the second signal feed, the fourth electrical conductor being used to provide the second signal with a second polarity to the second bow-tie antenna of the second dipole bow-tie antenna.

3. The composite antenna according to claim 2, characterized in that: Also includes: An element for reinforcing the first support structure and the second support structure and electrically coupling the first support structure and the second support structure.

4. The composite antenna according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: Also includes: An insulating layer is disposed between the first antenna element and the second antenna element.

5. The composite antenna according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The first signal and the second signal are adjusted to a specified phase difference between the first signal and the second signal.

6. The composite antenna according to claim 5, characterized in that: The first signal and the second signal are further adjusted to a specified amplitude difference between the first signal and the second signal.

7. An antenna array, characterized in that: include: The composite antenna according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

8. A method implemented by a communication device, characterized in that: The communication device comprises an antenna array according to claim 7, and the method comprises: The communication device determines a beam pattern of a communication beam; The communication device adjusts weighting factors of a first signal and a second signal of an antenna system, wherein antennas of the antenna system having independent signal feeds are arranged in parallel planes, and the weighting factors are determined according to the beam pattern; The communication device applies the weighting factor to the first signal and the second signal; The communication device transmits a weighted first signal using a first independent signal feed path and a weighted second signal using a second independent signal feed path through the antenna array.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that The applying the weighting factor comprises: The communication device multiplies the first signal by a first weighting factor; The communication device multiplies the second signal by a second weighting factor.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that Adjusting the weighting factor includes: adjusting the phase difference between the first weighting factor and the second weighting factor to a set value.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that The adjusting the weighting factor further includes: adjusting the amplitude difference between the first weighting factor and the second weighting factor to a set value.

12. A communication device, characterized in that: include: A composite antenna array, wherein each composite antenna comprises: a first antenna element disposed above a ground layer, the first antenna element being operably coupled to a first signal feed source, the first antenna element being used to radiate a first signal provided by the first signal feed source; a second antenna element disposed above the first antenna element, the second antenna element being operably coupled to a second signal feed source, the second antenna element being used to radiate a second signal provided by the second signal feed source, the first signal and the second signal being adjusted to set a beam width and direction of a beam pattern of a combined beam radiated by the communication device; the first antenna element comprising a first dipole bow-tie antenna disposed in a first plane parallel to the ground layer, the second antenna element comprising a second dipole bow-tie antenna disposed in a second plane parallel to the ground layer, the first plane being located between the second plane and the The first antenna element is coupled to the first signal feed through a first signal feed path, wherein the first signal feed path comprises: a first support structure comprising two support members, wherein each support member supports a bow-tie antenna of the first dipole bow-tie antenna; a first electrical conductor disposed in a first support member of the first support structure, wherein the first electrical conductor is electrically coupled to a first bow-tie antenna of the first dipole bow-tie antenna and the first signal feed, and the first electrical conductor is used to provide the first signal to the first bow-tie antenna with a first polarity; a second electrical conductor disposed in a second support member of the first support structure, wherein the second electrical conductor is coupled to a second bow-tie antenna of the first dipole bow-tie antenna and the first signal feed, and the second electrical conductor is used to provide the first signal to the second bow-tie antenna with a second polarity; Non-transitory memory, including instructions; and One or more processors are in communication with the memory, wherein the one or more processors execute the instructions to cause the device to perform the following operations: determining a beam pattern of a communication beam; adjusting weighting factors of a first signal and a second signal of an antenna system, wherein antennas of the antenna system having independent signal feeds are arranged in parallel planes, and the weighting factors are determined according to the beam pattern; applying the weighting factor to the first signal and the second signal; Through the composite antenna array, a weighted first signal is transmitted using a first independent signal feed path and a weighted second signal is transmitted using a second independent signal feed path.

13. The communication device according to claim 12, characterized in that The one or more processors also execute the instructions to cause the device to: multiply the first signal by a first weighting factor; and multiply the second signal by a second weighting factor.

14. The communication device according to claim 13, characterized in that The one or more processors further execute the instructions to cause the device to adjust a phase difference between the first weighting factor and the second weighting factor to a set value.

15. The communication device according to claim 14, characterized in that The one or more processors further execute the instructions to cause the device to adjust the magnitude difference between the first weighting factor and the second weighting factor to a set value.

Images