Liquid crystal antenna, tiled liquid crystal antenna, and method of making a liquid crystal antenna

Abstract

The application provides a liquid crystal antenna, a spliced liquid crystal antenna and a method for manufacturing the liquid crystal antenna, which comprises a supporting structure, liquid crystal, a first substrate and a second substrate, the first substrate and the second substrate are oppositely arranged, the supporting structure is arranged between the first substrate and the second substrate, the first substrate comprises a first metal layer, the first metal layer is arranged on the side of the first substrate facing the second substrate, the second substrate comprises a second metal layer, the first metal layer is arranged on the side of the second substrate facing the first substrate, the second metal layer comprises a functional part and a spacer, the functional part and the first metal layer are arranged in a stack along a first direction, the first direction is perpendicular to the second substrate, the functional part and the first metal layer at least partially overlap, and the supporting structure is arranged between the spacer and the first metal layer. The supporting structure arranged between the spacer and the first metal layer makes the spacing between the first substrate and the second substrate uniform everywhere, thereby improving the working stability of the liquid crystal antenna and the spliced liquid crystal antenna.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of antenna technology, and in particular to a liquid crystal antenna, a spliced ​​liquid crystal antenna, and a method for manufacturing a liquid crystal antenna. Background Technology

[0002] In existing liquid crystal antenna products, a liquid crystal cell is incorporated. By controlling the state of the liquid crystal molecules within the cell, the dielectric constant is altered, thereby achieving a phase-shifting effect. If the thickness of the liquid crystal cell is uneven throughout, it will significantly impact the antenna performance. Currently, the thickness of the liquid crystal cell in liquid crystal antenna products is typically achieved by incorporating support particles of a specific particle size into the sealant between the upper and lower substrates. However, ensuring uniformity throughout the cell is difficult.

[0003] Especially in some products where copper is used for phase shifter traces and wiring, the limitations of common PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) equipment and processes lead to greater variations in metal thickness at different locations when fabricating large-area metal films. The metal film layers are significantly thicker than conventional films, resulting in poor uniformity and even greater differences in absolute film thickness. Due to the substantial differences in copper film thickness at different locations on the glass substrate, it is necessary to control the cell thickness between the upper and lower substrates to ensure the independent performance of each antenna. Furthermore, maintaining consistent performance across all individual antennas within the same batch of products is crucial. Using a conventional design where the support is placed between the copper and glass, even with consistent support specifications, only ensures a consistent distance between one layer of copper and the glass. However, the distance between the copper layers on both sides of the upper and lower substrates is still affected by the thickness of that single copper layer. Particularly in different individual antennas, the copper thickness at the same location can vary greatly, leading to significant differences in cell thickness even within the same batch of products, which is detrimental to antenna design and use. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, embodiments of the present invention provide a liquid crystal antenna, a spliced ​​liquid crystal antenna, and a method for fabricating a liquid crystal antenna, to solve the problem in the prior art where large fluctuations in copper film thickness affect the uniformity of liquid crystal cell thickness, thereby affecting antenna performance.

[0005] First, this invention provides a liquid crystal antenna, including a support structure, liquid crystal, a first substrate, and a second substrate. The first substrate and the second substrate are disposed opposite to each other, and the support structure is disposed on the first substrate and the second substrate.

[0006] Between the substrates, the first substrate includes a first metal layer disposed on the side of the first substrate facing the second substrate, and the second substrate includes a second metal layer disposed on the side of the second substrate facing the first substrate.

[0007] The second metal layer includes a functional component and a padding component. The functional component and the first metal layer are stacked together along a first direction, which is perpendicular to the second substrate. The functional component and the first metal layer at least partially overlap.

[0008] The support structure is located between the raised component and the first metal layer.

[0009] Secondly, embodiments of the present invention also provide a splicing liquid crystal antenna, comprising: a liquid crystal antenna, a liquid crystal antenna...

[0010] The functional components in the line are arranged along the fourth and fifth directions, and the fourth and fifth directions are orthogonal.

[0011] The distance between functional components in the same liquid crystal antenna along the fourth direction is A1, and adjacent liquid crystal antennas

[0012] The distance between adjacent functional components along the fourth direction is B1, where 1.2B1≥A1≥50.8B1;

[0013] The distance between functional components in the same liquid crystal antenna along the fifth direction is A2, and the distance between adjacent functional components in adjacent liquid crystal antennas along the fifth direction is B2, where 1.2B2≥A2≥

[0014] 0.8B2.

[0015] Furthermore, this embodiment of the invention also provides a method for fabricating a liquid crystal antenna, comprising: providing a first substrate, forming a first metal layer on the first substrate, and obtaining a first substrate;

[0016] A second substrate is provided, and a second metal layer is formed on the second substrate to obtain a second substrate.

[0017] At least two support structures are fabricated on the second substrate, and the support structures are respectively arranged around a portion of the second metal layer;

[0018] Liquid crystal is injected into the space formed by the surrounding supporting structure;

[0019] 5. Align and laminate the first substrate and the second substrate, with the first metal layer facing the second substrate and the second metal layer facing...

[0020] A large antenna is fabricated on the first substrate;

[0021] Cut a large antenna to produce at least two liquid crystal antennas.

[0022] Compared with the prior art, the liquid crystal antenna, the spliced ​​liquid crystal antenna, and the method for preparing the liquid crystal antenna provided in the embodiments of the present invention have the following technical effects:

[0023] Because the first metal layer, the padding component, and the functional components are manufactured using metal processing techniques, significant thickness differences can occur when the metal film area is large, especially between widely spaced liquid crystal antennas in a large-scale antenna. However, the thickness difference is smaller in adjacent areas. Therefore, the thickness of the padding component on the same antenna is essentially consistent, preventing cell thickness fluctuations. Since the thickness difference between the functional components and the padding component within the same liquid crystal antenna is small, the distance between the first metal layer on the first substrate and the functional layer on the second substrate is approximately equal to the distance between the first metal layer and the padding component. By setting the padding component on the second substrate and placing the support structure between the padding component and the first metal layer, this distance is controlled by the specifications of the support structure. When a uniform support structure is used, the distance between the first metal layer and the padding component is fixed equal to the specifications of the support structure, unaffected by the thickness of the padding component and the first metal layer itself. This ensures that the distance between the first metal layer and the functional component is fixed equal to the specifications of the support structure, guaranteeing consistent cell thickness for multiple liquid crystal antennas manufactured using a large-scale antenna.

[0024] Therefore, the liquid crystal antenna in this case avoids the problem that when only a single metal layer is used, the support structure can only control the distance between the first metal layer and the second substrate glass, and is still affected by the thickness of the functional component itself. It also avoids the impact of process thickness fluctuations on the thickness of the liquid crystal layer in different liquid crystal antennas. Since it acts as a phase shifter, the distance between the functional component and the first metal layer affects the performance of the liquid crystal antenna. By controlling the stability of this distance, the performance of each independent liquid crystal antenna is made consistent, facilitating use and improving the performance of the liquid crystal antenna. Attached Figure Description

[0025] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the provided drawings without creative effort.

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a large-format antenna provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a liquid crystal antenna provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure along the middle AA;

[0029] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a liquid crystal antenna provided in another embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 5This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a liquid crystal antenna provided in another embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first substrate provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second substrate provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A magnified view of a portion of region A in the middle;

[0034] Figure 9 yes Figure 7 A magnified view of a portion of region B in the middle;

[0035] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the second substrate structure provided in another embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a splicing liquid crystal antenna provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 12 This is a flowchart of a method for preparing a liquid crystal antenna provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] 10-Liquid crystal antenna; 100-First substrate; 110-First metal layer; 111-Opening; 120-Radiating electrode; 130-Conductive hole; 20-Large antenna; 200-Second substrate; 210-Second metal layer; 211-Elevating component; 2111-Elevating part; 2112-First spacer; 2113-First elevated sub-part; 2114-Second spacer; 2115-Second elevated sub-part; 2116-Light-transmitting part; 212-Functional component; 220-Signal control component; 230-Signal transmission component; 240-Step area; 250-First side; 260-Second side; 270-Third side; 280-Fourth side; 300-Liquid crystal; 400-Support structure; 410-Frame adhesive; 420-Conductive component; 430-Silicon ball; 500-Feeder wire; 600-Adapter port; 20-Spliced ​​liquid crystal antenna. Detailed Implementation

[0039] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0040] The terminology used in the embodiments of this invention is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the invention. The singular forms “a,” “the,” and “the” as used in the embodiments of this invention and the appended claims are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0041] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a large antenna 20 provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Please refer to it. Figure 1 The large antenna 20 includes multiple liquid crystal antennas 10. The large antenna 20 is first prepared and then cut into multiple independent liquid crystal antennas 10 for independent use or splicing.

[0042] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a liquid crystal antenna 10 provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure along the middle AA section. Please refer to the reference. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The liquid crystal antenna 10 includes a support structure 400, a liquid crystal 300, a first substrate 100, and a second substrate 200.

[0043] Substrates 200 are disposed opposite to each other, liquid crystal layer 300 is disposed between first substrate 100 and second substrate 200, and support structure 400 is disposed between first substrate 100 and second substrate 200, and is maintained by support structure 400.

[0044] The distance between the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200.

[0045] The first substrate 100 includes a first metal layer 110, which is disposed on the side of the first substrate 100 facing the second substrate 200. The second substrate 200 includes a second metal layer 210, with the first metal layer 110 disposed on the side of the second substrate 200 facing the first substrate 100. The second metal layer 210 includes a functional component 212 and a padding component 211. The functional component 212 and the first metal layer 110 are stacked together along a first direction.

[0046] The direction is perpendicular to the second substrate 200. The functional component 212 at least partially overlaps with the first metal layer 110, and the support structure 400 is disposed between the padding component 211 and the first metal layer 110. Since the padding component 211 and the functional component 212 are made through the same metal layer, the thicknesses of adjacent padding components 211 and functional components 212 are similar, thus...

[0047] The distance between the shim 211 and the first metal layer 110 is close to the distance between the functional component 212 and the first metal layer 5110, thereby maintaining the distance between the functional component 212 and the first metal layer 110.

[0048] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the first substrate 100 further includes a radiation electrode 120, which is disposed on the side of the first substrate 100 away from the second substrate 200. An opening 111 is provided on the first metal layer 110, and the position of the opening 111 coincides with that of the radiation electrode 120, so as to prevent the first metal layer 110 from completely blocking the transmission of signals between the functional component 212 and the radiation electrode 120 through the opening 111.

[0049] 0 Optionally, in this embodiment, the liquid crystal antenna 10 further includes a feed line, which is connected to the functional component 212 and provides radio frequency signals to the radiating electrode 120 through the coupling between the functional component 212 and the radiating electrode 120.

[0050] In this embodiment, the first metal layer 110 and the first substrate 100 are provided with conductive holes 130, the feed line passes through the conductive holes 130, the core of the feed line is connected to the power divider network, and the outer ring of the feed line is connected to the first metal layer 110, thereby saving the space occupied by the liquid crystal antenna 10 on the plane of the first substrate 100.

[0051] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the liquid crystal antenna 10 provided in another embodiment of the present invention. Please refer to it. Figure 4 In this embodiment, the feed line can be directly plugged in, soldered, or transferred to the radiation electrode 120 via the adapter port 600, thereby eliminating the need for opening holes in the first metal layer 110 and the first substrate 100, simplifying the process and saving costs.

[0052] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the liquid crystal antenna 10 provided in another embodiment of the present invention. Please refer to it. Figure 5 In this embodiment, an adapter port 600 can be provided on the side of the second substrate 200 away from the first substrate 100. A waveguide feed line is selected to connect to the adapter port 600, thereby transmitting the signal to the radiation electrode 120 after feeding the signal to the functional component 212, which simplifies the fabrication of the first substrate 100.

[0053] Please continue to refer to the reference. Figure 2 and Figure 3 Optionally, in this embodiment, the first metal layer 110 is a ground electrode, the functional component 212 is a phase shifter, and a signal control component 220 and a signal transmission component 230 are disposed on the second substrate 200. The signal control component 220 is electrically connected to the functional component 212 and the ground electrode through the signal transmission component 230. The signal control component 220 provides a phase shift control signal to the functional component 212. By providing a bias voltage to the functional component 212, the rotation direction of the liquid crystal 300 is controlled, the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal 300 is changed, thereby changing the radiation signal of the radiating electrode 120, and thus changing the operating state of the liquid crystal antenna 10.

[0054] In this embodiment, the signal control component 220 is a chip, and the signal transmission component 230 includes bonding pads and signal lines. The chip is connected to the signal lines through the bonding pads and fixed on the second substrate 200, thereby transmitting the phase shift control signal to the functional components 212 located at various locations on the second substrate 200 through the signal lines.

[0055] It is understood that in other alternative embodiments, the signal control component 220 may also include a flexible circuit board to adjust the specific signal input method according to the actual needs such as the application scenario, assembly requirements and cost of the liquid crystal antenna 10, without any particular limitation.

[0056] Optionally, in this embodiment, the support structure 400 includes a conductive element 420, one end of which is connected to a signal line and the other end is connected to a ground electrode, thereby providing the required signal to the ground electrode.

[0057] In this embodiment, the support structure 400 includes a frame adhesive 410, and the conductive element 420 is a gold ball or silver paste, so as to better integrate the conductive element 420 into the support structure 400 and ensure a better conductivity.

[0058] Optionally, in this embodiment, the support structure 400 includes silicon balls 430, which are disposed in the frame adhesive 410, and support the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200 by means of the silicon balls 430 having a certain size. Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first substrate 100 provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second substrate 200 provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Please refer to the diagram for further details. Figure 3 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 A grounding electrode is disposed on the entire surface of the first substrate 100. A functional component 212 is disposed in the central region of the second substrate 200. A shim 211 is disposed in the peripheral region of the second substrate 200, with the peripheral region surrounding the central region. The shim 211 partially overlaps with the grounding electrode. A support structure 400 is disposed between the grounding electrode and the shim 211 to maintain the distance between the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200.

[0059] It should be noted that, due to the large fluctuation in the thickness of the metal layer, without the shim 211, in different liquid crystal antennas 10 of the same large antenna 20, the support structure 400 can only maintain the distance between the first metal layer 110 and the glass substrate of the second substrate 200, while the distance between the functional component 212 and the first metal layer 110...

[0060] The distance cannot eliminate the influence of the thickness of the functional component 212 on the second substrate 200. Furthermore, based on the characteristics of metal deposition processes, the larger the area of ​​the metal layer, the greater the difference in film thickness at different locations; conversely, the smaller the area of ​​the metal layer...

[0061] The smaller the difference in film thickness at different locations, the better. Multiple liquid crystal antennas 10 can be integrated onto a single large antenna 20. The thickness of the second metal layer 210 used in different liquid crystal antennas 10 may vary significantly, resulting in large differences in the cell thickness of each liquid crystal antenna 10. The distance between the functional component 212 and the ground electrode of different liquid crystal antennas 10 is affected not only by the specifications of the silicon sphere 430 but also by the thickness of the functional component 212. Since a shim 211 is provided in this embodiment, and the shim 211 and functional component 212 are located close to each other in the same liquid crystal antenna 10 with a small thickness difference, the distance between the shim 211 maintained by the silicon sphere 430 and the first metal layer 110 is basically equal to the distance between the functional component 212 and the first metal layer 110. Even if the actual thickness of the second metal layer 210 is inconsistent in different liquid crystal antennas 10, as long as the specifications of the silicon sphere 430 are consistent, the distance between the functional component 212 and the first metal layer 110 is equal to the specifications of the silicon sphere 430, thus ensuring that the performance of different liquid crystal antennas 10 is consistent.

[0062] Optionally, in this embodiment, the thickness of the shim 211 along the first direction is H1, and the thickness of the functional component 212 along the first direction is H2, where H1 equals H2. By making the thicknesses of the shim 211 and the functional component 212 within the same liquid crystal antenna 10 consistent, the distances between the shim 211 and the functional component 212 and the ground electrode are consistent, thereby further improving antenna performance.

[0063] It is understood that in other alternative embodiments, 1.2H2 is equal to H1, and the thickness of the shim 211 and the functional part 212 differs in some areas but is similar overall.

[0064] It is also understandable that in other alternative embodiments, H1 equals 0.8H2, and the thickness of the shim 211 and the functional part 212 differs in some areas but is similar overall.

[0065] Optionally, in this embodiment, some functional components 212 overlap with the grounding electrode, the distance from the grounding electrode to the functional component 212 along the first direction is D1, and the thickness of the grounding electrode to the padding layer along the first direction is D2, where D1 equals D2, so that the padding component 211 and the functional component 212 are at the same distance from the grounding electrode.

[0066] It is understood that in other alternative embodiments, D1 equals 1.2D2.

[0067] It is also understood that in other alternative embodiments, D1 equals 0.8D2.

[0068] Optionally, in this embodiment, the second substrate 200 includes a stepped region 240, a signal control component 220 and a pad are disposed in the stepped region 240, and the projection of the first substrate 100 on the second substrate 200 along a first direction covers the area of ​​the second substrate 200 other than the stepped region 240, so as to facilitate the installation of the signal control component 220.

[0069] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the second substrate 200 includes a first side 250, a second side 260, a third side 270, and a fourth side 280 connected in sequence. A stepped area 240 is disposed on the first side 250, and a shim 211 is disposed on the second side 260, the third side 270, and the fourth side 280, thereby providing sufficient space for the installation of the signal control component 220 and the signal transmission component 230, while supporting the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200 from at least three directions.

[0070] It is understood that, in other alternative embodiments, the shim 211 may also be disposed on the second side 260, the third side 270, the fourth side 280, a portion of the first side 250 adjacent to the second side 260, and a portion of the first side 250 adjacent to the fourth side 280, thereby providing support for the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200 in more directions.

[0071] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the second substrate 200 includes a fan-out region 290, which is disposed on the first side 250 of the second substrate 200. The second metal layer 200 includes multiple fan-out lines, which are disposed in the fan-out region 290. The two ends of the fan-out lines are respectively connected to the functional component 212 and the signal transmission component 230. This allows for the connection of the signal transmission component 230 and the functional component 212 within the second metal layer 200 via fan-out lines, with the fan-out lines positioned adjacent to the signal transmission component 230, thereby simplifying the wiring.

[0072] Optionally, in this embodiment, the thickness of the fan-out line along the first direction is H3, and the thickness of the shim along the first direction is H1, where H3 equals H1. Since the fan-out line is made of the second metal layer 210 and is disposed on one side of the second substrate 200, if the shims 211 are only disposed on the second side 260, the third side 270, and the fourth side 280, the first side 250 will lack corresponding support. Therefore, the fan-out line is disposed on the first side 250, also made of the second metal layer 210, with a thickness consistent with the functional component 212, thus avoiding uneven thickness at each edge within the same liquid crystal antenna 10 and improving the support effect.

[0073] It is understood that in other alternative embodiments, H1 can also be equal to 1.2H3 to avoid excessive local thickness of the first side 250, which would cause uneven overall thickness of the liquid crystal antenna 10, and improve the support uniformity of the second side 260, the third side 270 and the fourth side 280, while the first side 250 is only used to avoid the thickness of that side being too low.

[0074] It is understood that in other alternative embodiments, H1 may also be equal to 0.8H3 to improve the local support effect on the first side 250.

[0075] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Please refer to the enlarged view of region A in the middle. Figure 7 and Figure 8 .

[0076] Optionally, in this embodiment, the shim 211 and the functional component 212 are disconnected. The functional component 212 is used to receive phase shift control signals and control the state of the liquid crystal layer 300, while the shim 211 does not receive electrical signals. Therefore, disconnecting the shim 211 and the functional component 212 avoids the shim 211 from affecting the electrical performance of the functional component 212.

[0077] In this embodiment, the shim 211 includes multiple shims 2111, which are disposed near at least one edge of the second substrate 200. The second direction is from the edge to the center area. There is at least one first interval 2112 between the multiple projections formed by the multiple shims 2111 towards the edge along the second direction. If the shim 211 is a metal ring that completely surrounds the functional component 212, it will hinder the transmission of the liquid crystal antenna 10 signal and affect the performance of the liquid crystal antenna 10. Therefore, in this embodiment, the first interval 2112 is provided to facilitate the transmission of the liquid crystal antenna 10 signal.

[0078] Please refer to the reference. Figure 3 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 Optionally, in this embodiment, the raised portions 2111 arranged along the same edge and adjacent to each other are spaced apart from each other in the multiple projections formed towards the edge in the second direction. By setting a gap between each raised portion 2111, the emission of signals from the liquid crystal antenna 10 is further facilitated. Meanwhile, since the frame adhesive 410 used in the support structure 400 requires ultraviolet light irradiation to cure and provide support and fixation, and since the frame adhesive 410 is provided corresponding to the raised portions 2111, a gap is set between each raised portion 2111 to facilitate light transmission and achieve a better curing effect on the frame adhesive 410.

[0079] In this embodiment, the first interval 2112 is rectangular, and the length of the first interval 2112 along the second direction is greater than the length along the third direction, wherein the third direction is perpendicular to the second direction. By setting the first interval 2112 as a rectangle and perpendicular to the edge, it is convenient for the signal to be transmitted through the first interval 2112 to the edge, thereby improving the signal transmission effect. At the same time, it can also take into account the need for ultraviolet light to irradiate the frame adhesive 410.

[0080] It is understood that in other alternative embodiments, the first interval 2112 may also extend along a third direction to narrow the width of the border and achieve the effect of a narrow border.

[0081] Optionally, in this embodiment, the projected area of ​​the raised portion 2111 on the second substrate 200 along the first direction is S1, and the projected area of ​​the frame adhesive 410 on the second substrate 200 along the first direction is S2, where S1 equals 0.6S2. Since if the area occupied by the raised portion 2111 on the frame adhesive 410 is too small, the support structure 400 cannot be accurately positioned between the raised portion 2111 and the ground electrode, while if the area occupied by the raised portion 2111 on the frame adhesive 410 is too large, it will block light from illuminating the frame adhesive 410 and hinder the transmission of the liquid crystal antenna 10 signal. Therefore, in this embodiment, S1 is chosen to equal 0.6S2 to balance various performance aspects.

[0082] It is understood that in other alternative embodiments, S1 / S2 equals 0.75, thereby enhancing the stability of the support and the uniformity of the thickness of the liquid crystal 300 by increasing the area ratio of the raised portion 2111.

[0083] Similarly, it is understood that in other alternative embodiments, S1 / S2 equals 0.5. By reducing the area ratio of the raised portion 2111, it is easier for light to irradiate the frame adhesive 410 and for the transmission of signals from the liquid crystal antenna 10. However, it is ensured that the raised portion 2111 occupies at least half of the frame adhesive area to ensure the stability of the support.

[0084] Optionally, in this embodiment, the length of a portion of the raised portion 2111 along the second direction is equal to the width of the frame adhesive 410 along the second direction. This is to wrap and protect the metal material of the raised portion 2111 with the frame adhesive 410, preventing the raised portion 2111 from contacting the liquid crystal 300 material on the side close to the liquid crystal 300, thus avoiding interference with the control of the liquid crystal 300 material state by the functional component 212. It also prevents the raised portion 2111 from contacting water and oxygen in the air on the side away from the liquid crystal 300, thus preventing corrosion of the metal material of the raised portion 2111. Simultaneously, it avoids the frame adhesive 410 from being too wide in the second direction, achieving a narrow bezel for the entire liquid crystal antenna 10.

[0085] Figure 9 yes Figure 7 Please refer to the enlarged view of region B in the middle. Figure 7 and Figure 9 It is understood that, in this embodiment, the length of the raised portion 2111 along the second direction may be less than the width of the frame adhesive 410 along the second direction, and the frame adhesive 410 is disposed on one or both sides of the raised portion 2111 along the second direction, so that the frame adhesive 410 can better wrap the raised portion 2111.

[0086] Optionally, in this embodiment, at least a portion of the raised portion 2111 includes a plurality of first raised sub-portions 2113, which are arranged along a second direction, and a second interval 2114 is provided between the first raised sub-portions 2113 within the same raised portion 2111. By setting the second interval 2114, more pathways are provided for light irradiation, and the distribution of irradiation pathways is more uniform than that of setting only the first interval 2112, which can better irradiate the frame adhesive 410, achieve the curing of the frame adhesive 410, and improve the stability of support and sealing.

[0087] In this embodiment, the projection of a portion of the raised sub-part onto the second substrate 200 along the first direction is rectangular, which facilitates design and manufacturing.

[0088] Optionally, in this embodiment, the projection of some of the raised sub-parts onto the second substrate 200 along the first direction can also be circular or elliptical, thereby improving light transmission performance through a more loose arrangement.

[0089] It is understandable that the projection of some of the raised sub-parts onto the second substrate 200 along the first direction can also be in the form of triangles or hexagons, and the edges of the raised sub-parts are parallel and close to each other, thereby improving the support performance through a relatively tight arrangement.

[0090] Similarly, it is understandable that the raised sub-parts can be a combination of various forms to adjust the shape and specifications of the first interval 2112 and the second interval 2114 as needed to obtain an optimal balance between support performance and light transmission performance.

[0091] In this embodiment, a portion of the raised portion 2111 includes a second raised sub-portion 2115, and the shape of the first raised sub-portion 2113 is different from the shape of the second raised sub-portion 2115. The sum of the areas of the first raised sub-portions 2113 in any raised portion 2111 is M1, and the sum of the areas of the second raised sub-portions 2115 in any raised portion 2111 is M2, where M1 equals M2. By providing first raised sub-portions 2113 and second raised sub-portions 2115 with different shapes in the raised portion 2111, but keeping their areas consistent, the size and shape of the first interval 2112 and the second interval 2114 can be adjusted while ensuring that the light transmission area remains unchanged, thereby changing the support performance and light transmission performance of the support structure 400.

[0092] Optionally, the distance between adjacent first raised sub-parts 2113 in the third direction is L1, and the distance between adjacent second raised sub-parts 2115 in the third direction is L2, where L2 ≥ L1. Simultaneously, the distance between the second raised sub-parts 2115 along the second direction is less than the distance between the first raised sub-parts 2113 along the second direction. By setting the second raised sub-parts 2115 closely arranged in the second direction, the support effect is improved.

[0093] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the second raised portion 2115 overlaps with the functional member 212 in the second direction, while the first raised portion 2113 overlaps with the functional member 212 in the second direction at intervals. Since the radiated signal mainly propagates outward from the functional member 212 and the radiating electrode 120 along the second direction, the second raised portion 2115, which is more loosely arranged in the third direction, allows the radiated signal to pass through more easily, improving the signal transmission effect. Conversely, the first raised portion 2113, which is more densely arranged in the third direction, has less signal propagation due to the intervals between the corresponding functional member 212 or the radiating electrode 120 along the third direction, thus having a smaller impact on the overall signal. Overall, by designing raised portions with different densities along the third direction, both support and signal transmission effects are balanced.

[0094] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, referring to a portion of the raised portion as the second raised portion 2115 is to describe that the sum of the areas of the raised portions in different raised portions 2111 is consistent. However, when describing other features of the raised portion, any second raised portion 2115 has all the features of the first raised portion 2113.

[0095] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second substrate 200 provided in another embodiment of the present invention. Please refer to it. Figure 8 The shim 211 is provided with a light-transmitting part 2116 that extends through the shim 211 in the first direction. The parts of the shim 211 without the light-transmitting part 2116 are connected to each other as a whole, so that ultraviolet light can be transmitted through the light-transmitting part 2116 to cure the frame adhesive 410. At the same time, the shim 211, which is connected as a whole, can provide better support stability.

[0096] Optionally, in this embodiment, the second substrate 200 may also include a grounding wire, and the shim 211 is connected to the grounding wire to release static electricity through the grounding wire and reduce the risk of static electricity in the panel.

[0097] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a splicing liquid crystal antenna 20 provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Please refer to it for details. Figure 1 , 2In this embodiment, the spliced ​​liquid crystal antenna 20 includes four liquid crystal antennas 10. The second substrate 200 includes a first side 250, a second side 260, a third side 270, and a fourth side 280 connected in sequence. A stepped area 240 is disposed on the first side 250, and a shim 211 is disposed on the second side 260, the third side 270, or the fourth side 280. Adjacent liquid crystal antennas 10 are spliced ​​together through the second side 260, the third side 270, or the fourth side 280. Through the shims 211 disposed on the second side 260, the third side 270, or the fourth side 280, the signal of the liquid crystal antenna 10 can propagate through the first gap between the shims 211, which facilitates signal propagation. At the same time, the stepped area 240 is left on the outer periphery of the spliced ​​liquid crystal antenna 20 as a whole, which facilitates assembly and testing.

[0098] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the number of functional components 212 and radiating electrodes 120 in any liquid crystal antenna 10 is equal to obtain a better phase shifting effect. It is understood that the specific number of functional components 212 and radiating electrodes 120 can be selected according to actual needs, such as 4 of each, 16 of each, 25 of each, 42 of each, 64 of each, 256 of each, etc., without specific limitations.

[0099] Optionally, in this embodiment, the functional components 212 in the liquid crystal antenna 10 are arranged along a fourth direction and a fifth direction, the fourth direction and the fifth direction are orthogonal, and the distance between the functional components 2125 in the same liquid crystal antenna 10 along the fourth direction is A1. The functional components 2125 in adjacent liquid crystal antennas 10 that are adjacent to each other along the fourth direction...

[0100] The distance between the functional components 212 along the fourth direction is B1, where B1 is equal to A1, so that the distances between the various functional components 212 in the spliced ​​liquid crystal antenna 20 in the fourth direction are consistent, so as to facilitate better signal control.

[0101] It is understood that in other alternative embodiments, 1.2B1 is equal to A1, through adjacent liquid crystals.

[0102] The smaller spacing of the functional components 212 in the antenna 10 reduces the frame spacing, which is more conducive to achieving seamless splicing of the entire liquid crystal antenna 20.

[0103] It is understood that in other alternative embodiments, A1 equals 0.8B1, and by setting a larger spacing between the functional components 212 in adjacent liquid crystal antennas 10, the assembly process and design difficulty are simplified.

[0104] Optionally, in this embodiment, the functional components 212 in the same liquid crystal antenna 10 are positioned along the fifth direction.

[0105] The distance between them is A2, and the distance between adjacent functional components 212 along the fifth direction in the adjacent liquid crystal antenna 10 is B2, where B2 is equal to A2, so that the distance between each functional component 212 in the spliced ​​liquid crystal antenna 20 in the fifth direction is consistent, so as to facilitate better signal control.

[0106] It is understood that in other alternative embodiments, 1.2B2 is equal to A2. By setting the spacing of the functional components 212 in adjacent liquid crystal antennas 10 to be smaller, the bezel spacing is reduced, which is more conducive to achieving seamless splicing of the entire splicing liquid crystal antenna 20.

[0107] It is understood that in other alternative embodiments, A2 equals 0.8B2, through adjacent liquid crystals.

[0108] The spacing between the functional components 212 in the antenna 10 is relatively large, which simplifies the assembly process and reduces design difficulty.

[0109] Figure 12 This is a flowchart of a method for fabricating a liquid crystal antenna 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Please refer to it. Figure 1 , 2 And 12. The method for fabricating the liquid crystal antenna 10 includes:

[0110] S100: Provide a first substrate, form a first metal layer 110 on the first substrate, and obtain a first substrate 100.

[0111] In this embodiment, a patterned first metal layer 110 is prepared by fabricating a complete metal film, then coating it with photoresist, and finally etching it after exposure.

[0112] It should be noted that after the first metal layer 110 is formed on one side of the first substrate, a radiation electrode 120 is also formed on the other side of the first substrate to obtain the first substrate 100. By preparing the radiation electrode 120 in advance, the formation of the radiation electrode 120 after subsequent assembly processes can be avoided, which would cause process difficulties.

[0113] It is understood that in other alternative embodiments, the radiation electrode 120 may not be prepared in this step, but may be attached separately in a subsequent process to match different process and performance requirements.

[0114] S200: A second substrate is provided, and a second metal layer 210 is formed on the second substrate to obtain a second substrate 200.

[0115] In this embodiment, a patterned second metal layer 210 is prepared by fabricating a complete metal film, then coating it with photoresist, and finally etching it after exposure.

[0116] S300: At least two support structures 400 are fabricated on the second substrate, and the support structures 400 are respectively arranged around a portion of the second metal layer 210.

[0117] In this embodiment, an array of annular support structures 400 are fabricated on the second substrate. Each support structure 400 surrounds a portion of the second metal layer 210 to accommodate the liquid crystal 300 in subsequent processes and to support the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200.

[0118] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, an alignment layer needs to be fabricated on the second substrate 200 before fabricating the support structure 400 in order to achieve effective control over the subsequently injected liquid crystal 300.

[0119] S400: Liquid crystal 300 is injected into the space formed by the support structure 400.

[0120] Optionally, in this embodiment, before injecting liquid crystal 300 into the space formed by the support structure 400, the support structure 400 needs to be pre-cured by irradiating ultraviolet light to better maintain the shape of the support structure 400 and prevent the liquid crystal 300 from leaking out.

[0121] In this process, at least a portion of the ultraviolet light is irradiated from the side of the second substrate 200 where the second metal layer 210 is not disposed to the side where the second metal layer 210 is disposed, so as to better control the degree of curing.

[0122] S500: Align and press the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200 together, with the first metal layer 100 facing the second substrate 200 and the second metal layer 200 facing the first substrate 100, to obtain a large antenna 20.

[0123] In this embodiment, after the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200 are pressed together, ultraviolet light needs to be irradiated again to fix the shape of the support structure 400, so as to support the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200.

[0124] S600: Cut the large antenna 20 to produce at least two liquid crystal antennas 10.

[0125] Optionally, in this embodiment, the individual liquid crystal antennas 10 can be spliced ​​together after they are manufactured.

[0126] It is understood that, in other alternative embodiments, the liquid crystal antenna 10 may also be used alone.

[0127] The above description of the disclosed embodiments enables those skilled in the art to make or use the invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Therefore, the invention is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A liquid crystal antenna, comprising a support structure, liquid crystal, a first substrate, and a second substrate, wherein the first substrate and the second substrate are disposed opposite to each other, the support structure is disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate, the first substrate includes a first metal layer disposed on the side of the first substrate facing the second substrate, and the second substrate includes a second metal layer disposed on the side of the second substrate facing the first substrate, characterized in that, The second metal layer includes a functional component and a padding component. The functional component is stacked with the first metal layer along a first direction, which is perpendicular to the second substrate. The functional component at least partially overlaps with the first metal layer. The support structure is disposed between the raised component and the first metal layer; The second substrate includes a central region and a peripheral region, the peripheral region being disposed around the central region, the functional component being disposed in the central region, and the shim being disposed in the peripheral region; The shim includes a plurality of shims, which are disposed adjacent to at least one edge of the second substrate; The support structure includes frame adhesive.

2. A liquid crystal antenna as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The thickness of the shim along the first direction is H1, and the thickness of the functional component along the first direction is H2, where 1.2H2≥H1≥0.8H2.

3. A liquid crystal antenna as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The shim is disconnected from the functional component.

4. A liquid crystal antenna as described in claim 1, characterized in that, There is at least one first interval between the multiple projections formed by the multiple raised portions toward the edge along a second direction, the second direction being the direction from the edge toward the central area.

5. A liquid crystal antenna as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The raised portions arranged adjacent to each other along the same edge, and the plurality of projections formed by them along the second direction toward the edge, are spaced apart from each other.

6. A liquid crystal antenna as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The first interval is rectangular, and the length of the first interval along the second direction is greater than the length along the third direction, wherein the third direction is perpendicular to the second direction.

7. A liquid crystal antenna as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The frame adhesive is disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate, and at least a portion of the frame adhesive is disposed in the first gap.

8. A liquid crystal antenna as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The projected area of ​​the raised portion on the second substrate along the first direction is S1, and the projected area of ​​the frame adhesive on the second substrate along the first direction is S2, wherein 0.75≥S1 / S2≥0.

5.

9. A liquid crystal antenna as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The length of the raised portion along the second direction is less than or equal to the width of the frame adhesive along the second direction, and at least a portion of the frame adhesive is disposed on at least one side of the raised portion along the second direction.

10. A liquid crystal antenna as described in claim 1, characterized in that, At least a portion of the raised portion includes a plurality of first raised sub-portions arranged along a second direction, with a second interval between the first raised sub-portions within the same raised portion, the second direction being a direction from the edge toward the center area.

11. A liquid crystal antenna as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The projection of the first raised portion onto the second substrate along the first direction is rectangular, circular, elliptical, triangular, or hexagonal, etc.

12. A liquid crystal antenna as described in claim 10, characterized in that, At least a portion of the raised portion includes a second raised sub-portion, the shape of which is different from that of the first raised sub-portion; The sum of the areas of the first raised sub-parts in any of the raised portions is M1, and the sum of the areas of the second raised sub-parts in any of the raised portions is M2, where M1 equals M2.

13. A liquid crystal antenna as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The distance between adjacent first raised sub-parts in the third direction is L1, and the distance between adjacent second raised sub-parts in the third direction is L2, where L2≥L1, and the third direction is perpendicular to the second direction.

14. A liquid crystal antenna as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The support structure includes silicon spheres.

15. A liquid crystal antenna as described in claim 1, characterized in that, At least a portion of the functional components are projected onto the second substrate along the first direction, which overlaps with the projection of the first metal layer onto the second substrate along the first direction; The distance from the first metal layer to the functional component along the first direction is D1, and the thickness of the first metal layer to the padding layer along the first direction is D2, where 1.2D2≥D1≥0.8D2.

16. A liquid crystal antenna as described in any one of claims 1, characterized in that, The liquid crystal antenna includes a signal control component and a signal transmission component, and the second substrate includes a stepped region, wherein the signal control component and the signal transmission component are disposed in the stepped region; The projection of the first substrate onto the second substrate along the first direction covers the area of ​​the second substrate other than the stepped area.

17. A liquid crystal antenna as described in claim 16, characterized in that, The first substrate includes a radiating layer, which is disposed on the side of the first substrate away from the second substrate; The signal control component is electrically connected to the functional component, and the signal control component is electrically connected to the first metal layer.

18. A liquid crystal antenna as described in claim 16, characterized in that, The second substrate includes a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side connected in sequence. The stepped area is disposed on the first side, and the raised member is disposed on the second side, the third side, and the fourth side.

19. A liquid crystal antenna as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The shim is provided with a light-transmitting part that extends through the shim along a first direction, and the parts of the shim without the light-transmitting part are connected to each other as a whole.

20. A liquid crystal antenna as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The second substrate includes a fan-out region disposed on at least one side of the second substrate, and the second metal layer includes a fan-out line disposed in the fan-out region.

21. A liquid crystal antenna as described in claim 20, characterized in that, The liquid crystal antenna includes a signal control component and a signal transmission component, and the second substrate includes a stepped region, wherein the signal control component and the signal transmission component are disposed in the stepped region; The projection of the first substrate onto the second substrate along the first direction covers the area of ​​the second substrate other than the stepped area. The two ends of the fan-out line are respectively connected to the functional component and the signal transmission component.

22. A liquid crystal antenna as described in claim 20, characterized in that, The thickness of the fan-out line along the first direction is H3, and the thickness of the shim along the first direction is H1, where 1.2H3≥H1≥0.8H3.

23. A modular liquid crystal antenna, characterized in that, The liquid crystal antenna includes any one of claims 1-22, wherein the functional elements in the liquid crystal antenna are arranged along a fourth direction and a fifth direction, and the fourth direction and the fifth direction are orthogonal; The distance between the functional components in the same liquid crystal antenna along the fourth direction is A1, and the distance between adjacent functional components in adjacent liquid crystal antennas along the fourth direction is B1, where 1.2B1≥A1≥0.8B1; The distance between the functional components in the same liquid crystal antenna along the fifth direction is A2, and the distance between adjacent functional components in adjacent liquid crystal antennas along the fifth direction is B2, where 1.2B2≥A2≥0.8B2.

24. A splicing liquid crystal antenna as described in claim 23, characterized in that, The second substrate includes a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side connected in sequence. The second substrate includes a stepped area, which is disposed on the first side. The shim is disposed on the second side, the third side, or the fourth side. The adjacent liquid crystal antennas are spliced ​​together via the second side, the third side, or the fourth side.

25. A method for preparing a liquid crystal antenna as described in any one of claims 1-22, characterized in that, include: A first substrate is provided, and a first metal layer is formed on the first substrate to obtain a first substrate. A second substrate is provided, and a second metal layer is formed on the second substrate to obtain a second substrate. At least two support structures are fabricated on the second substrate, and the support structures are respectively arranged around a portion of the second metal layer; Liquid crystal is injected into the space formed around the supporting structure. The first substrate and the second substrate are aligned and laminated together, with the first metal layer facing the second substrate and the second metal layer facing the first substrate, to obtain a large-format antenna. Cut the large antenna to obtain at least two liquid crystal antennas.

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