Antenna device for a vehicle and method for controlling the same

Abstract

A vehicle antenna apparatus according to an embodiment of the disclosure includes an array antenna including a plurality of antenna devices outputting a plurality of beams identified according to directions in which the plurality of beams are output, and a processor executing at least one instruction. The processor obtains speed information of the vehicle, selects at least one beam from among the plurality of beams such that a shape of a beam pattern formed by the plurality of beams changes according to the speed information, and controls the array antenna such that the selected beam is output.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of this disclosure relate to vehicle antenna devices and control methods thereof.

[0002] Specifically, embodiments of this disclosure relate to a vehicle antenna device including an array antenna capable of controlling the direction of radio waves being transmitted or received, and a method for controlling the vehicle antenna device. Background Technology

[0003] A variety of functions have been developed and implemented to meet the needs of vehicle users and increase their convenience.

[0004] For example, in-vehicle devices have been developed to provide users with various information, including radio broadcasts, television (TV) content, and driving-related information. The information available to the user can be received by the vehicle via wireless communication. Therefore, in order to provide various information to the user, an antenna for performing wireless communication needs to be installed in the vehicle. This antenna can be installed inside or outside the vehicle.

[0005] Vehicle antennas are installed in vehicles traveling at high speeds. Therefore, vehicle antennas need to transmit and receive radio waves to maintain seamless communication even when the vehicle is moving at high speeds. Thus, it is necessary to provide vehicle antenna devices that can stably transmit and receive radio waves even when the vehicle is moving at high or low speeds. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical issues

[0007] Embodiments of this disclosure will provide a vehicle antenna device that maintains seamless communication and a method for controlling the vehicle antenna device.

[0008] Specifically, embodiments of this disclosure will provide a vehicle antenna device capable of stably transmitting and receiving radio waves in response to changes in the vehicle's moving speed, and a method for controlling the vehicle antenna device.

[0009] Technical solutions

[0010] A vehicle antenna device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: an array antenna including a plurality of antenna elements that output a plurality of beams identified by an output direction; and a processor configured to execute at least one instruction. Here, the processor is further configured to: obtain vehicle speed information; select at least one beam from the plurality of beams such that the shape of the beam pattern formed by the plurality of beams changes based on the speed information; and control the array antenna to output the selected beam.

[0011] Furthermore, the processor can: select at least one beam from a plurality of beams based on first information which is information about the radiated power of the array antenna, such that the shape of the beam pattern formed by the plurality of beams changes according to the velocity information; and control the array antenna to output the selected beam.

[0012] Additionally, the first piece of information could be about the equivalent isotropic radiated power (EIRP) of the array antenna.

[0013] Furthermore, based on the speed information, the processor can control the array antenna so that the beam pattern width is wider when the vehicle speed corresponds to a first speed value than when the vehicle speed is equal to or less than a second speed value.

[0014] Furthermore, based on speed information, the processor can control the array antenna so that the beam pattern width is narrower when the vehicle speed corresponds to a first speed value than when the vehicle speed is equal to or greater than a third speed value.

[0015] Furthermore, the processor can adjust at least one of the phase and signal strength applied to each of the multiple antenna elements included in the array antenna, such that at least one of the multiple beams is selectively output.

[0016] Furthermore, the processor can group multiple beams into multiple groups, select at least one beam from each of the multiple groups based on first information as information about the radiated power of the array antenna, and control the array antenna to output the selected beam.

[0017] Furthermore, each of the multiple groups may include at least one adjacent beam. Additionally, the number of beams included in each of the multiple groups may increase proportionally to the vehicle's speed.

[0018] Furthermore, the processor can: classify the vehicle's speed segments into a first speed segment and a second speed segment, the second speed segment including values ​​larger than those included in the first speed segment; group multiple beams such that n beams are included in each of the multiple groups when the vehicle's speed is within the first speed segment; and group multiple beams such that m beams are included in each of the multiple groups when the vehicle's speed is within the second speed segment, where m is greater than n.

[0019] Furthermore, the processor can: classify vehicle speed segments into a first speed segment, a second speed segment, and a third speed segment, wherein the second speed segment includes values ​​larger than those included in the first speed segment, and the third speed segment includes values ​​larger than those included in the second speed segment; when the vehicle speed is within the first speed segment, group multiple beams such that l beams are included in each of the multiple groups; when the vehicle speed is within the second speed segment, group multiple beams such that m beams are included in each of the multiple groups, where m is greater than l; and when the vehicle speed is within the third speed segment, group multiple beams such that n beams are included in each of the multiple groups, where n is greater than m.

[0020] In addition, the processor can group multiple beams into multiple groups, select at least one beam from each group based on the EIRP value of the array antenna, and control the array antenna to output the selected beam.

[0021] Furthermore, the processor can select a beam with the maximum EIRP value from each of the multiple groups and control the array antenna output of the selected beam.

[0022] A method for controlling a vehicle antenna device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is a method for controlling a vehicle antenna device including an array antenna, the array antenna including a plurality of antenna elements that output a plurality of beams identified by an output direction. The method for controlling a vehicle antenna device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: obtaining vehicle speed information; selecting at least one beam from the plurality of beams such that the shape of the beam pattern formed by the plurality of beams changes based on the speed information; and controlling the array antenna to output the selected beam. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing a vehicle equipped with an antenna device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating an antenna device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 3 It shows including Figure 2 A block diagram of vehicle electronics with an antenna device.

[0026] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling an antenna device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing an antenna arrangement according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in more detail.

[0028] Figure 6This is a diagram showing the beam pattern radiated from the array antenna.

[0029] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the phase adjustment operation performed by the array antenna.

[0030] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the phase adjustment operation performed by the array antenna.

[0031] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the phase adjustment operation performed by the array antenna.

[0032] Figure 10 It is a diagram showing in detail the configuration of the array antennas.

[0033] Figure 11 It is a diagram showing the beam pattern formed by radio signals output from the array antenna.

[0034] Figure 12 This is another diagram showing the beam pattern formed by radio signals output from the array antenna.

[0035] Figure 13 This is another flowchart illustrating a method for controlling an antenna device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating the change in the shape of the beam pattern in an antenna device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 15 It is a diagram describing the multiple beams output from the array antenna.

[0038] Figure 16 This is a graph showing the equivalent isotropic radiated power (EIRP) values ​​of multiple beams output from the array antenna.

[0039] Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a beamcodebook used to control the generation and output of multiple beams from an array antenna.

[0040] Figure 18 This is another flowchart illustrating a method for controlling an antenna device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 19 This is a diagram illustrating beam selection and output control operations according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 20 This is another diagram illustrating beam selection and output control operations according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 21 This is another flowchart illustrating a method for controlling an antenna device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 22 This is another diagram illustrating beam selection and output control operations according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 23 This is another diagram illustrating beam selection and output control operations according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 24 This is a diagram illustrating a neural network for performing at least one operation included in a method for controlling a vehicle antenna device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Figure 25 This is a diagram illustrating communication between a vehicle electronic device and a server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Figure 26 This is a block diagram illustrating a server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] Figure 27 This is a diagram showing in detail the processor of a server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0050] The following description, provided with reference to the accompanying drawings, is intended to aid in a comprehensive understanding of the various embodiments of this disclosure as defined by the claims and their equivalents. It includes various specific details that aid in understanding, but these are to be considered exemplary only. Therefore, those skilled in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications can be made to the various embodiments described herein without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions may be omitted for clarity and brevity.

[0051] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the meaning of the references, but are used solely by the inventors to enable a clear and consistent understanding of this disclosure. Therefore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description providing various embodiments of this disclosure is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the purpose of this disclosure as defined in the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0052] It should be understood that the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural indicators unless the context explicitly specifies otherwise. Thus, for example, referring to “component surface” includes referring to one or more such surfaces.

[0053] Throughout this specification, when a component is referred to as being "connected to" another component, it may be "directly connected to" the other component or "electrically connected" to the other component via an intermediate element. Furthermore, when a component is referred to as "comprising" a component, unless otherwise stated otherwise, the component may include other components, rather than exclude them.

[0054] As used herein, phrases such as “in some embodiments” or “in an embodiment” do not necessarily indicate the same embodiment.

[0055] Some embodiments may be represented by functional blocks and various process operations. Some or all functional blocks may be implemented by any number of hardware and / or software elements performing a specific function. For example, the disclosed functional blocks may be implemented using one or more processors or microprocessors or circuit elements for performing the desired function. For example, the disclosed functional blocks may be implemented using various programming or scripting languages. Functional blocks may be implemented using various algorithms executable by one or more processors. Furthermore, the disclosure may employ known techniques for electronic setup, signal processing, and / or data processing. Terms such as “module” or “component” may be used broadly and may not be limited to mechanical and physical elements.

[0056] Furthermore, the connecting lines or connecting components shown in the accompanying drawings are only functional and / or physical or electrical connections. In actual equipment, various alternative or additional functional, physical, or electrical connections may exist.

[0057] Furthermore, the expression "at least one of a, b, or c" means only a, only b, only c, both a and b, both a and c, both b and c, or all of a, b, and c.

[0058] A vehicle antenna device, a method for controlling the vehicle antenna device, and a recording medium thereon having a program for performing the method according to the embodiments disclosed herein will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same elements are shown by the same reference numerals. Furthermore, throughout the detailed description, the same components are described using the same terminology.

[0059] The antenna device according to the disclosed embodiments refers to an electronic device including an array antenna that comprises multiple antenna elements for transmitting and receiving radio waves, and generates and controls the radio waves such that the radio waves are transmitted and received in a desired direction or toward a desired destination. Furthermore, the vehicle antenna device may be referred to as an antenna device, antenna, antenna module, antenna system, etc.

[0060] The following will refer to Figure 1 The location of the antenna device installed according to the disclosed embodiments is described in detail.

[0061] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing a vehicle with an antenna device installed according to a disclosed embodiment.

[0062] The vehicle antenna device according to embodiments of the present disclosure can be arranged on the exterior or interior of a vehicle.

[0063] In detail, the vehicle antenna device can be installed in a shark fin module located on the glass or roof, which is on the exterior of the vehicle.

[0064] Alternatively, the vehicle antenna device according to the disclosed embodiments can be installed inside the vehicle. When the antenna is mounted on the vehicle's glass, the antenna may also be damaged if the glass is damaged by an external impact, and the length of the cable connecting the antenna to the printed circuit board (PCB) module may increase. Furthermore, when two or more antennas are mounted or installed on the glass to support diversity, isolation issues may arise between the antennas. Additionally, because the shark fin module is exposed to the outside of the vehicle, there is a risk of damage due to external impacts. Moreover, due to the small size of the shark fin module, the antenna size is also reduced, which may degrade the antenna's radiation capability (or broadcast reception capability), and the number of shark fin modules may increase if multiple antennas are needed to receive various broadcast signals. When the vehicle antenna device is installed inside the vehicle, unlike antennas mounted on glass or shark fin modules as described above, the vehicle antenna device is not exposed to the outside of the vehicle. Therefore, the risk of damage can be reduced.

[0065] The following will describe and illustrate an example of installing a vehicle antenna device inside a vehicle.

[0066] refer to Figure 1 An antenna device (not shown) may be mounted on the lower portion of region 150 of a metal plate 115 forming the body of the vehicle 110. Specifically, region 150 of the metal plate (e.g., 115) may be open, allowing the antenna device (not shown) to be arranged inside the vehicle 110 and on the lower portion of region 150. Furthermore, region 150 may not be formed of a metallic material. Specifically, region 150 on the metal plate (e.g., 115) may be formed of a material that does not obstruct radio waves (e.g., a non-metallic material).

[0067] Furthermore, despite Figure 1 An example is shown where an antenna device (not shown) is installed in a region 150 of the upper part of the vehicle 110 inside the vehicle 110, but the antenna device (not shown) can also be installed in any location, as long as it is installed inside or outside the vehicle 110.

[0068] In detail, the antenna device (not shown) may be installed in the lower or interior area of ​​at least one of the vehicle's engine hood 121, door panel 122, protective panel 123, pillar panel 124, roof panel (i.e., metal panel 115), bumper panel 126 and trunk panel 127.

[0069] Door panel 122 may include not only Figure 1 The driver's seat side front door panel shown may also include a driver's seat side rear door panel, a passenger seat side front door panel, and a passenger seat side rear door panel. Furthermore, the protective panel 123 may include not only... Figure 1 The front protective panel on the driver's seat side shown may also include a rear protective panel on the driver's seat side, a front protective panel on the passenger seat side, and a rear protective panel on the passenger seat side. Furthermore, the pillar plate 124 may include not only... Figure 1 The driver's seat side front pillar plate shown may also include a driver's seat side rear pillar plate, a passenger seat side front pillar plate, and a passenger seat side rear pillar plate. Furthermore, the bumper plate 126 may include not only... Figure 1 The front bumper shown may also include a rear bumper.

[0070] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating an antenna device according to a disclosed embodiment. As referenced above... Figure 1 The above, Figure 2 The antenna device 200 shown can be installed in areas inside or outside the vehicle.

[0071] The vehicle antenna device 200 according to the disclosed embodiments is an antenna device installed in a vehicle for wireless communication between the vehicle and external devices, and transmits and receives radio waves through at least one antenna element.

[0072] Furthermore, the vehicle antenna device 200 according to the disclosed embodiments may be an antenna device that performs wireless communication in a preset frequency band. The frequency band used for wireless communication may vary depending on the communication standard or type of communication to be used.

[0073] In detail, the vehicle antenna device 200 according to the disclosed embodiments can be a directional antenna device supporting millimeter waves (mmWAVE). Millimeter waves are radio signals having a frequency band between 30 GHz and 300 GHz and a wavelength ranging from 1 mm to 10 mm. The vehicle antenna device according to the disclosed embodiments can precisely control the shape and direction of the radio signal being transmitted or received by transmitting or receiving millimeter wave radio waves.

[0074] Furthermore, the vehicle antenna device according to the disclosed embodiments can be integrated with a vehicle communication module (not shown). The vehicle communication module (not shown) can be referred to as a transmit control unit (TCU). The TCU is a component that controls the transmission and reception of data via wireless communication within the vehicle and can be responsible for communication between the vehicle and external electronic devices (e.g., servers, mobile devices, and the like). The antenna device according to the disclosed embodiments can be installed inside the vehicle communication module or can be integrated with the vehicle communication module.

[0075] refer to Figure 2 The vehicle antenna device 200 includes an array antenna 210 and a processor 220.

[0076] The array antenna 210 includes multiple antenna elements that output multiple beams identified by their output directions.

[0077] Each of the plurality of antenna elements can perform at least one of transmitting or receiving radio signals. Specifically, the radio signal output from each of the plurality of antenna elements included in the array antenna 210 can be transmitted or received in a desired direction. As described above, when the array antenna 210 has directivity in transmitting or receiving radio signals in a desired direction, the directional output radio signal can be referred to as a beam. That is, the plurality of antenna elements included in the array antenna 210 can output multiple beams. The shape of the radio waves formed by the multiple beams output from the array antenna 210 can be referred to as a beam pattern.

[0078] In detail, the array antenna 210 can transmit and receive radio signals under the control of the processor 220. These radio signals are radio signals within a specific frequency band. For example, the array antenna 210 transmits and receives millimeter-wave (mmWAVE) radio signals, which have wavelengths ranging from 1 mm to 10 mm and a frequency band between 30 GHz and 300 GHz. Examples of the array antenna 210 transmitting and receiving millimeter-wave radio signals will be described below.

[0079] In detail, the array antenna 210 can be configured as a phased array antenna. A phased array antenna can refer to an antenna in which each of the plurality of antenna elements included in the array antenna 210 is arranged in a straight line, and the phase of the radio signal output from each of the plurality of antenna elements can be adjusted according to the desired direction.

[0080] The following will refer to Figures 5 to 12 The detailed configuration and operation of the array antenna 210 are described in detail.

[0081] According to the disclosed embodiments, processor 220 executes at least one instruction to perform an operation. That is, processor 220 can execute at least one instruction to control the desired operation to be performed.

[0082] In detail, processor 220 executes at least one instruction to obtain vehicle speed information. Then, based on the obtained speed information, processor 220 selects at least one of a plurality of beams, such that the shape of the beam pattern formed by the plurality of beams output from the plurality of antenna elements included in array antenna 210 is changed. Then, processor 220 controls array antenna 210 to output the selected beam. Reference will be made below. Figures 13 to 23 The operation of selecting and output beams performed by processor 220 is described in detail.

[0083] In detail, processor 220 may include internal memory (not shown) and at least one processor (not shown) configured to execute at least one stored program. The internal memory (not shown) of processor 220 may store one or more instructions. Furthermore, processor 220 may execute at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the internal memory (not shown) to perform a specific operation.

[0084] In detail, the processor 220 may include: random access memory (RAM) (not shown) for storing signals or data input from the outside or for use as a storage area corresponding to various tasks performed by the antenna device 200; read-only memory (ROM) (not shown) for storing control programs and / or multiple instructions for controlling the antenna device 200; and at least one processor (not shown).

[0085] Alternatively, processor 220 may be implemented as a system-on-a-chip (SoC) that integrates a core (not shown) and a graphics processing unit (GPU) (not shown). Alternatively, processor 220 may include a single processor core (single-core) or multiple processor cores (multi-core). For example, processor 220 may be dual-core, triple-core, quad-core, hexa-core, octa-core, deca-core, dodecathlon, hexadecimal, and similar.

[0086] In addition, processor 220 may include components for implementing a hardware platform (e.g., a dedicated processor (AP), memory, and the like) and components for implementing a software platform (e.g., an operating system (OS) program, software for phase control of radio signals output from array antenna 210 (e.g., automotive safety software), applications, and the like).

[0087] Furthermore, at least one operation performed by the processor 220 can be performed using artificial intelligence (AI) technology. See below for reference. Figure 24 Describe in detail at least one operation performed using AI technology.

[0088] Figure 3 This illustrates embodiments including, according to the disclosed embodiments. Figure 2 A block diagram of vehicle electronics with an antenna device.

[0089] Figure 3 The vehicle electronic equipment 300 may include the above reference Figure 2 The vehicle antenna device 200 is described. Furthermore, vehicle electronics 300 can refer to a computing device that can be integrated with the vehicle antenna device 200 and then installed in a vehicle. Therefore, when describing vehicle electronics 300, the description of the vehicle antenna device 200 provided above will be omitted. Furthermore, in Figure 3 The vehicle electronic equipment 300 shown above is similar to the one referenced above. Figure 2 Components that are described are shown using the same labels and terms.

[0090] refer to Figure 3 The vehicle electronics 300 may include a processor 220, an input / output unit 230, and a communication unit 240. Specifically, the vehicle electronics 300 includes a vehicle antenna device 200, and the vehicle antenna device 200 may be integrated with the communication unit 240, which is a TCU configured to perform communication within the vehicle.

[0091] Furthermore, the vehicle electronic device 300 can be an electronic device for implementing in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) technology. For example, the vehicle electronic device 300 provides at least one of the following services, information, or content tailored to a specific user based on user location information. Specifically, the vehicle electronic device 300 can perform communication between the vehicle and external devices to obtain information needed for driving or using the vehicle. Alternatively, the vehicle electronic device 300 can perform communication between the vehicle and external devices to provide at least one of the following services, information, or content to the user.

[0092] The processor 220 and input / output unit 230 included in the vehicle electronics 300 can be collectively referred to as the IVI head unit. Furthermore, the vehicle electronics 300 can be arranged between the central front portion of the driver's seat and the central front portion of the passenger seat in the vehicle. In this case, the array antenna 210 included in the vehicle electronics 300 can be mounted at a location spaced apart from other components included in the vehicle electronics 300, and the array antenna 210 can be connected to other components of the vehicle electronics 300 via a wired communication interface (e.g., a cable) or a wireless communication interface.

[0093] In addition, the communication unit 240 can be referred to as a TCU.

[0094] The TCU is a component that controls the sending and receiving of data in a vehicle and can be responsible for communication between the vehicle and external electronic devices (e.g., servers, mobile devices, etc.).

[0095] Processor 220 may include components 340 for implementing a hardware platform (e.g., AP, memory, and the like) and components 350 for implementing a software platform (e.g., OS programs, automotive safety software, applications, and the like).

[0096] In detail, the component 340 for implementing the hardware platform may include at least one AP 341 and a memory 342. An example of including memory 342 in processor 220 is described. Furthermore, memory 420 may not be included in processor 220, but may be included as a separate component in vehicle electronics 300.

[0097] Furthermore, the component 340 used to implement the hardware platform may also include a Universal Serial Bus (USB) module (not shown), an FM / DMB tuner (not shown), and similar components. The USB module (not shown) may include a USB insertion unit (not shown) for reading data from a USB device inserted therein. Additionally, the FM / DMB tuner (not shown) may selectively receive FM / DMB broadcast signals. Specifically, the FM / DMB tuner (not shown) may tune from multiple radio wave components to and select only the frequency of the channel desired to be received by the vehicle's electronic equipment 300 by performing, for example, amplification, mixing, and resonance on the broadcast signal received via wired or wireless means. The broadcast signal received by the FM / DMB tuner (not shown) may include audio, video, and additional information (e.g., Electronic Program Guide (EPG)).

[0098] Components 350 used to implement the software platform may include OS programs, automotive safety software, applications, and the like. OS programs may include QNX, Linux, or Android-based OS programs.

[0099] The input / output unit 230 is a component for providing data to a user or receiving user requests, and may include at least one of a display 331, a camera module 335, an audio output unit 338, and a user interface 339.

[0100] Camera module 335 is a component for acquiring at least one of video or audio data, and may include camera 336 and microphone 337. Furthermore, camera module 335 may include a speaker (not shown) to output operating sounds of camera 336, etc. Alternatively, if camera module 335 does not include a separate speaker (not shown), operating sounds of camera 336, etc., may be output via audio output unit 338.

[0101] For example, camera module 335 can operate as a sensor for recognizing a user's gestures and voice.

[0102] In detail, camera 336 can receive images (e.g., consecutive frames) corresponding to the user's movements (including gestures) within its recognition range. For example, the recognition range of camera 336 can be within a distance of 0.1m to 5m between camera 336 and the user. The user's movements can include, for example, the posture or movement of the user's body parts (such as face, facial expressions, hands, fists, or fingers). Under the control of processor 220, camera 336 can convert the received images into electrical signals to perform recognition, and can select menus displayed on vehicle electronics 300, or perform controls corresponding to the movement recognition results by using the recognition results corresponding to the user's movements. For example, processor 220 can control channel selection, channel changing, volume adjustment, available service execution, and similar functions in FM / DMB by using the recognition results obtained from camera 336.

[0103] Camera 336 can be integrated with or separated from vehicle electronics 300. A standalone camera 336 can be electrically connected to the processor 220 of vehicle electronics 300 via communication unit 240 or input / output unit 230. For example, when camera 336 is separated from vehicle electronics 300, it is positioned corresponding to the front of the driver's face and upper body to capture images corresponding to the driver's face and upper body.

[0104] Microphone 337 can receive audio signals, such as voice signals. Microphone 337 can receive a user's voice signal, and processor 220 can recognize control commands corresponding to the voice received from microphone 337 and execute the control, causing the operation corresponding to the voice to be performed. Furthermore, microphone 337 can be included as a separate module in vehicle electronics 300, rather than within camera module 335.

[0105] User interface 339 can receive user input for controlling vehicle electronic equipment 300. User interface 339 may include buttons, scroll wheels, keyboards, micro dials, touch panels, tactile sensors, etc. for receiving user input.

[0106] The communication unit 240 may include at least one communication module configured to perform wireless communication. Specifically, the communication unit 240 may include an array antenna 210. More specifically, the communication unit 240 may include at least one of the following: array antenna 210, Bluetooth module 361, Wi-Fi module 362, Global Positioning System (GPS) module 363, Radio Frequency (RF) module 364, or Communication Processor (CP) module 365. The CP module is a modem chipset and can perform communication with external electronic devices via a communication network conforming to third-generation (3G), fourth-generation (4G), fifth-generation (5G), or sixth-generation (6G) communication standards. Furthermore, the communication unit 240 may also include at least one communication module (not shown) configured to perform communication according to communication standards such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Near Field Communication (NFC) / Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), Wi-Fi Direct, Ultra Wideband (UWB), and / or Zigbee.

[0107] Furthermore, the array antenna 210 may be included in at least one of the RF module 364 and the CP module 365 to perform the transmission and reception of radio waves by each of the RF module 364 and the CP module 365.

[0108] Furthermore, components included in the vehicle electronics 300 (e.g., processor 220, input / output unit 230, and communication unit 240) communicate with each other via a vehicle network. Additionally, the vehicle electronics 300 and other components (not shown) included in the vehicle can communicate with each other via the vehicle network. The vehicle network can be a Controller Area Network (CAN) based network and / or a Media-Oriented System Transmission (MOST) network.

[0109] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling an antenna device according to a disclosed embodiment.

[0110] also, Figure 4 The above references can be shown. Figures 1 to 3 A flowchart describing the operations performed by the vehicle antenna device 200 or vehicle electronic device 300 according to the disclosed embodiments. In detail, the method 400 for controlling the vehicle antenna device can be performed by the vehicle antenna device 200 or vehicle electronic device 300. Therefore, in the description... Figure 4 When the method 400 for controlling the vehicle antenna device shown is used, the above reference can be omitted. Figures 1 to 3 Description provided for vehicle antenna device 200 or vehicle electronic equipment 300.

[0111] In addition, it will describe the work of Figure 2 The vehicle antenna device 200 shown performs... Figure 4An example of a method 400 for controlling a vehicle antenna device is shown.

[0112] refer to Figure 4 The method 400 for controlling a vehicle antenna device is a method for controlling a vehicle antenna device 200 including an array antenna 210, the array antenna 210 including multiple antenna elements that output multiple beams identified by their output directions.

[0113] The vehicle antenna device 200 obtains vehicle speed information during operation S410. (See below for reference.) Figure 5 The operation of S410 is described in more detail.

[0114] Furthermore, the method 400 for controlling the vehicle antenna device includes selecting at least one of a plurality of beams such that the shape of the beam pattern formed by the plurality of beams is changed based on the speed information obtained in operation S410 (S420). Operation S420 can be executed by processor 220.

[0115] Subsequently, the method 400 for controlling the vehicle antenna device includes controlling the array antenna 210 to output the beam selected in operation S420 (S430). Operation S430 can be executed by processor 220.

[0116] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the antenna device according to the disclosed embodiments in more detail. Figure 5 The vehicle antenna device 500 shown can be equivalently corresponding to Figure 2 The vehicle antenna device 200. The vehicle antenna device 500 includes components related to... Figure 2 The same components shown are indicated using the same reference numerals, and therefore their detailed descriptions are omitted. Furthermore, the above references... Figure 4 The method 400 for controlling the vehicle antenna device described herein can be executed by the vehicle antenna device 500.

[0117] refer to Figure 5 The array antenna 210 may include an array 205 comprising multiple antenna elements and a radio transceiver 215 for generating, processing, and / or outputting signals transmitted and received through the array 205. Furthermore, the array antenna 210 may be referred to as an antenna module.

[0118] Array 205 refers to an arrangement of multiple antenna elements for transmitting or receiving radio signals. Since array 205 is a collection of arranged antenna elements, it can be called an array antenna.

[0119] Each of the plurality of antenna elements included in array 205 receives an input of a radio signal having a specific signal amplitude (or gain), a specific phase, and a specific frequency from radio transceiver 215, and radiates a radio wave corresponding to the input radio signal. Therefore, each of the plurality of antenna elements can output at least one beam identified by its output direction, distinguishing it from the other beams.

[0120] Furthermore, each of the multiple antenna elements included in array 205 can receive radio waves corresponding to a specific signal amplitude (or gain), a specific phase, and a specific frequency, and transmit radio wave signals corresponding to the received radio waves to radio wave transceiver 215.

[0121] In the disclosed embodiments, array 205 may include 4*4 = 16 antenna elements in subarray elements 510, 520, 530, and 540, including 4 antenna elements arranged in the row direction and 4 antenna elements arranged in the column direction. Furthermore, as another example, array 205 may include 8*8 = 64 antenna elements. The number and arrangement of antenna elements included in array 205 can vary.

[0122] Multiple antenna elements arranged together in at least one of the row and column directions can be referred to as an "antenna element group". Array 205 may include the aforementioned multiple antenna element groups. For example, array 205 may include four antenna element groups, each comprising 4*4 = 16 antenna elements arranged together. Alternatively, array 205 may include one antenna element group comprising 8*8 = 64 antenna elements. Figure 2 In the example, as an example, the case where array 205 includes a group of antenna elements containing 8*8=64 antenna elements will be described and shown.

[0123] Radio transceiver 215 can generate, process, and / or output signals transmitted and received via array 205. Specifically, radio transceiver 215 can generate radio signals with a specific phase and frequency. The radio signals generated by radio transceiver 215 can be output via array 205. Furthermore, when array 205 receives radio waves with a specific phase and frequency, radio transceiver 215 can receive and process signals corresponding to the radio waves received by array 205.

[0124] In detail, the radio transceiver 215 can process radio signals with a specific phase and frequency. Specifically, to transmit radio signals, the radio transceiver 215 can perform transmit beamforming (Tx beamforming) to generate radio signals with a specific gain, specific phase, and specific frequency. Furthermore, to receive radio signals, the radio transceiver 215 can perform receive beamforming (Rx beamforming) to receive and process radio waves corresponding to specific phases and frequencies. Beamforming can refer to the operation of radiating or receiving a beam with a specific shape. Specifically, beamforming can refer to the operation of outputting or receiving a beam with a specific direction and gain (or signal strength).

[0125] In detail, when multiple antenna elements are arranged, beamforming can refer to the operation of adjusting the radiation direction of all beams by adjusting the phase of the signal applied to the arranged antenna elements. The distribution pattern of radio waves formed by "all beams" can be called a beam pattern.

[0126] In the disclosed embodiments, the radio transceiver 215 can generate phase-adjusted radio signals under the control of the processor 220. Specifically, the processor 220 can determine the phase of the radio signal and control the array antenna 210, including the radio transceiver 215, to transmit and receive radio signals having the determined phase.

[0127] In addition, the vehicle antenna device 500 may also include the above reference. Figure 3 The communication unit 240 is described above. (Refer to the above.) Figure 3 The communication unit 240 has been described in detail, so a detailed description of it will be omitted.

[0128] In addition to the components of the vehicle antenna device 200, the vehicle antenna device 500 may also include a sensor 250.

[0129] Sensor 250 may include a sensor for detecting the vehicle's speed. Specifically, sensor 250 may be a speed sensor, such as a speedometer. When the vehicle antenna device 500 includes sensor 250, processor 220 may perform operation S410 based on the detection results of sensor 250. Specifically, processor 220 may receive the detection results obtained by sensor 250 in real time and calculate the vehicle's speed based on those results. Alternatively, if sensor 250 directly detects the vehicle's speed in real time, the vehicle speed information obtained by sensor 250 may be sent to processor 220.

[0130] Specifically, sensor 250 can monitor the vehicle's speed in real time and send the monitoring results to processor 220. Alternatively, sensor 250 can monitor changes in the vehicle's speed in real time and send the detected speed changes to processor 220. Processor 220, receiving the detection results from sensor 250, can obtain information about the vehicle's speed.

[0131] Furthermore, if the vehicle antenna device 500 does not include the sensor 250, the vehicle speed information can be transmitted externally to the processor 220 via the communication unit 240 of the vehicle antenna device 500. For example, a GPS server (not shown) providing navigation services sends the vehicle speed information to the GPS module 363. In this case, the processor 220 can receive the vehicle speed information via the GPS module 363 and then execute operation S420.

[0132] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the beam pattern radiated from the array antenna according to a disclosed embodiment.

[0133] refer to Figure 6 The beam pattern can vary depending on the number of antenna elements included in the array antenna 210, and the beam pattern is derived from the reference above. Figure 2 and Figure 5 The distribution of the beam output from the array antenna 210 is described. The beam pattern may include at least one beam that is identified by its output direction to distinguish it from other beams. Furthermore, the beam output from the array antenna 210 may include a beam 603 formed in the direction in which radio waves are to be transmitted and a beam 604 formed in the opposite direction.

[0134] refer to Figure 6 The reference point serving as the intersection of the X-axis 601 and the Y-axis 602 can be the center position of the array antenna 210. Furthermore, the Y-axis 602 can indicate the frontal vertical direction of the plane on which the array 205 of the array antenna 210 is arranged. Additionally, the Y-axis 602 can represent the beam output value or gain value.

[0135] For example, beam pattern 610 represents the output beam distribution when the number of antenna elements included in the array antenna 210 is one. Furthermore, beam pattern 620 represents the output beam distribution when the number of antenna elements included in the array antenna 210 is two. Furthermore, beam pattern 630 represents the output beam distribution when the number of antenna elements included in the array antenna 210 is four. Furthermore, beam pattern 640 represents the output beam distribution when the number of antenna elements included in the array antenna 210 is eight. Additionally, beam pattern 650 represents the output beam distribution when the number of antenna elements included in the array antenna 210 is eight.

[0136] In other words, such as Figure 6 As shown, as the number of antenna elements included in the array antenna 210 increases, the shape of the beam can become sharper, and the shape of the beam pattern formed by at least one beam can also become sharper. Furthermore, as the number of antenna elements included in the array antenna 210 increases, the maximum output value or gain value of the beam increases.

[0137] In other words, by increasing the number of antenna elements included in the array antenna 210, the directivity that enables the transmission and reception of strong radio waves with greater gain in a specific direction can be enhanced.

[0138] The following will refer to Figures 7 to 10 The operation and detailed configuration of the control array antenna 210 are described in detail.

[0139] Figure 7 This is a diagram used to describe the phase adjustment operation performed by the array antenna according to the disclosed embodiments.

[0140] refer to Figure 7 The array 205 included in the array antenna 210 may include multiple antenna elements 501, 502, 503, and 504. The arrangement spacing between antenna elements 501, 502, 503, and 504 may be d. The output direction of the array antenna 210 may be represented by a value 720 relative to a direction 730 perpendicular to the plane in which the array 205 is arranged. That is, when the direction of each beam output from the individual antenna elements 501, 502, 503, and 504 is represented by the value 720, the wavefront may be represented by a plane 710.

[0141] Figure 8 This is a diagram used to describe the phase adjustment operation performed by the array antenna according to the disclosed embodiments.

[0142] In detail, Figure 8 It is used to describe applications in Figure 2 and Figure 5 A graph showing the phase or delay values ​​of each of the multiple antenna elements included in the array 205.

[0143] Processor 220 can perform control to generate multiple radio signals, each corresponding to one of the multiple antenna elements included in array 205. Furthermore, processor 220 can individually control the phase values ​​of the multiple radio signals corresponding to the multiple antenna elements. For ease of description, as an example, Figure 8 Only show the applications applied to each Figure 5 The radio signals 801 and 802 of the antenna elements 501 and 502 shown are respectively.

[0144] refer to Figure 8 The X-axis of a graph showing a radio signal (e.g., 801) can represent time, while the Y-axis can represent the amplitude or gain of the signal.

[0145] refer to Figure 8 The processor 220 can adjust the phase of the radio signal 801 applied to the antenna element 501 and the phase of the radio signal 802 applied to the antenna element 502 arranged adjacent to the antenna element 501 to be different from each other. Specifically, the phase value of the radio signal 802 can be set by applying a set phase delay 803 to the phase of the radio signal 801.

[0146] Furthermore, to ensure that the beam output from array 205 is directed in a desired direction, processor 220 can control array antenna 210 such that multiple radio signals applied to multiple antenna elements (e.g., 501 and 502) arranged in the same direction have phase values ​​differing from each other by a set phase delay 803. For example, processor 220 can set phase values ​​such that the difference between the phase of radio signal 801 applied to antenna element 501 and the phase of radio signal 802 applied to antenna element 502 is equal to the set phase delay 803. Furthermore, processor 220 can set phase values ​​such that the difference between the phase of radio signal 802 applied to antenna element 502 and the phase of radio signal (not shown) applied to antenna element 503 is equal to the set phase delay 803. Furthermore, processor 220 can set phase values ​​such that the difference between the phase of radio signal (not shown) applied to antenna element 503 and the phase of radio signal (not shown) applied to antenna element 504 is equal to the set phase delay 803.

[0147] As another example, processor 220 can control array antenna 210 such that each of a plurality of radio wave signals applied to a plurality of antenna elements (e.g., 501 and 502) arranged in the same direction has a phase value that differs from each other by a separately set phase delay (e.g., 803). That is, the phase difference between the plurality of radio signals applied to the plurality of antenna elements (e.g., 501 and 502) arranged in the same direction can have different values.

[0148] As described above, multiple radio signals applied to multiple antenna elements (e.g., 501 and 502) can have a set phase delay (e.g., 803). Each of the multiple radio signals can be an RF carrier signal. That is, by giving the multiple RF carrier signals a preset phase delay, a "phase-coherent signal" with a stable phase relationship can be generated. As described above, by applying a preset phase difference between the multiple RF carrier signals, the direction of all beams output from the multiple antenna elements can be adjusted to a desired direction. As described above, adjusting the direction of all beams to a desired direction can be called "beam steering". Reference will be made below. Figure 9 and Figure 10 A detailed description of beam manipulation operations.

[0149] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating a phase adjustment operation performed by an array antenna according to a disclosed embodiment.

[0150] Figure 9 A table showing phase delay values ​​is provided, which are set for multiple radio signals applied to multiple antenna elements (e.g., 501 and 502) arranged in the same direction, such that the direction of all beams is adjusted to the desired direction.

[0151] refer to Figure 9 The beam angle can correspond to the above. Figure 7 The value is 720, while the phase shifter value can correspond to the above reference. Figure 8 The phase delay between the described antenna elements is 803. Furthermore... Figure 9 The angle values ​​shown can be in degrees. For example, if the output direction of the beam, which is the desired transmission direction of the radio wave, is a beam angle of -30 degrees, the phase delay value applied to antenna element (Ant1) 501 can be set to 0 degrees, the phase delay value applied to antenna element (Ant2) 502 can be set to -90 degrees, the phase delay value applied to antenna element (Ant3) 503 can be set to -180 degrees, and the phase delay value applied to antenna element (Ant4) 504 can be set to -270 degrees.

[0152] As described above, the directional array antenna 210 can precisely control the output direction of the beam to the desired direction by adjusting the phase delay values ​​applied to multiple antenna elements respectively.

[0153] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing in detail the configuration of an array antenna according to a disclosed embodiment.

[0154] Figure 10 The configuration of the array antenna 210 is shown. Furthermore, in Figure 10 In, with Figure 2 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 The same components are shown using the same reference numerals.

[0155] Furthermore, as an example, Figure 10 Only the antenna elements arranged in the same array among the multiple antenna elements included in array 205 are shown. More specifically, in Figure 10 The eight antenna elements included in the array 205 shown can be equivalently corresponding to those in Figure 5 The row 515 shown includes eight antenna elements.

[0156] refer to Figure 10 The radio transceiver 215 may include a phase control unit 1020 and a transmit beamformer 1010. The transmit beamformer 1010 can generate radio signals that will be applied to multiple antenna elements respectively. Specifically, the transmit beamformer 1010 can generate radio signals with specific gain and specific frequency. Additionally, the phase control unit 1020 can perform control such that the phase of the radio signals to be applied to the multiple antenna elements included in the array 205 has specific values. The radio signals generated by the transmit beamformer 1010 are applied to multiple antenna elements 501, 502, 503, and 504 respectively, and the phase of each of the multiple antenna elements 501, 502, 503, and 504 can be controlled by the phase control unit 1020. Therefore, a radio signal with a preset phase difference among the multiple antenna elements 501, 502, 503, and 504 can be output.

[0157] When there is no phase difference between multiple radio signals applied to multiple antenna elements 501, 502, 503, and 504 respectively, the radiation direction of the main beam can be a straight line 730, such as... Figure 10 As shown. Furthermore, the phase difference between the multiple antenna elements 501, 502, 503, and 504 is equal to that described in the reference above. Figure 8 and Figure 9 In the case of the preset phase delay 803, the radiation direction of the main beam can be tilted at a certain angle 1050 from the straight direction 730, such as... Figure 10 As shown. The degree of tilt of direction 1050 can vary depending on the phase value applied to the radio signals applied to the multiple antenna elements 501, 502, 503 and 504.

[0158] In the disclosed embodiment, the processor 220 may perform control based on the vehicle speed information obtained in operation S410 by adjusting at least one of the phase and gain of each of the plurality of radio signals to be output from the plurality of antenna elements included in the array antenna 210, such that the shape of the beam pattern formed by the beam output from the array antenna 210 changes.

[0159] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating a beam pattern formed by radio signals output from an array antenna according to a disclosed embodiment. In detail, Figure 11 This is a diagram showing the beam output from an array antenna 210 comprising 8*8=64 antenna elements.

[0160] refer to Figure 11 An array antenna 210 is arranged on plane 1110, and the gain value of at least one beam output from the array antenna 210 is in dB and is distinguished from each other by color. In detail, Table 1101 shows the colors corresponding to the gain values.

[0161] As an example, Figure 11 The diagram illustrates a beam pattern representing the distribution of multiple beams output from the array antenna 210 when the desired beam radiation direction is direction 1105. Each of the sub-beam patterns 1120, 1130, 1140, 1150, and 1160 included in beam pattern 1100 may include at least one beam.

[0162] Figure 12 This is another diagram illustrating a beam pattern formed by radio signals output from an array antenna according to a disclosed embodiment. In detail, Figure 12 It is shown Figure 11 A diagram of the vertical cross section 1102 of the beam pattern 1100 shown.

[0163] refer to Figure 12 The gain value 1210 of the sub-beam pattern 1120 output in the same direction as the desired beam radiation direction 1105 can be the maximum gain value. Furthermore, as the gain value 1210 of the sub-beam pattern 1120 increases, the width 1220 of the sub-beam pattern 1120 can decrease. Specifically, as the number of output beams is increased by increasing the number of antenna elements included in the array antenna 210, the gain value (e.g., 1210) of the beam pattern formed by the output beams increases, while the width of the beam pattern (e.g., 1120) decreases.

[0164] When using an array antenna 210 comprising multiple antenna elements to transmit and receive strong radio signals in a desired direction by increasing the directivity of the antenna's radio waves, the transmission and reception of radio waves may become unstable when the vehicle's speed changes rapidly. Specifically, the array antenna 210 can output a beam pattern with a high gain and a low beamwidth, thus possessing directivity. In this case, at high vehicle speeds, the output direction of the beam transmitted and received by the counterpart communicating with the vehicle may not match the output direction corresponding to the beam pattern of the array antenna 210. In this situation, the transmission and reception of radio waves may be interrupted.

[0165] Therefore, in the disclosed embodiments, by flexibly adjusting the shape of the beam pattern according to the vehicle's speed of movement, radio signals can always be transmitted and received seamlessly, regardless of the vehicle's speed of movement.

[0166] The following will refer to Figures 13 to 23 This describes in detail the operation of the vehicle antenna device, which flexibly controls the vehicle's antenna device based on the vehicle's speed.

[0167] Figure 13 This is another flowchart illustrating a method for controlling an antenna device according to a disclosed embodiment.

[0168] refer to Figure 13 ,and Figure 4 The same operations are indicated by the same reference numerals. Therefore, in the description Figure 13 When describing the method 1300 for controlling the vehicle antenna device, the above-mentioned information will be omitted. Figure 4 The method 400 for controlling a vehicle antenna device is described above. Furthermore, the method 1300 for controlling a vehicle antenna device corresponds to the method described above. Figures 1 to 12 The method described is for controlling a vehicle antenna device 200 or 500 and a vehicle electronic device 300.

[0169] In addition to the operations included in the method 400 for controlling the vehicle antenna device, the method 1300 for controlling the vehicle antenna device may also include operation S415. Furthermore, operation S421 included in the method 1300 for controlling the vehicle antenna device may correspond to operation S420 included in the method 400 for controlling the vehicle antenna device.

[0170] In the following text, a method 1300 for controlling a vehicle antenna device will be described. Figure 5 An example of a vehicle antenna device 500 is shown.

[0171] In the disclosed embodiments, the radio waves transmitted and received by the array antenna 210 can be millimeter waves. Specifically, in the disclosed embodiments, to optimize millimeter-wave (mmWAVE) beamforming in response to the vehicle's speed while the vehicle is moving, the millimeter-wave (mmWAVE) beamforming can be optimized based on first information, which is information about the radiated power of the array antenna 210. Therefore, the transmission and reception of radio waves required for communication can always remain seamless, regardless of changes in vehicle speed.

[0172] refer to Figure 13 In operation S415, the method 1300 for controlling the vehicle antenna device may include obtaining first information about the radiated power of the array antenna. The first information may be information indicating the power radiated in the propagation direction of the beam with maximum intensity in the output beam. Information indicating the power radiated from the antenna includes equivalent isotropic radiated power (EIRP), effective radiated power (ERP), and similar parameters.

[0173] In the disclosed embodiments, the first information may be information about the EIRP of the array antenna 210. Specifically, the first information may include information including EIRP values ​​corresponding to multiple beams, each output from multiple antenna elements included in the array antenna 210, and identified by their output directions to distinguish them from one another.

[0174] In the following text, for ease of description, examples of information where the first piece of information concerns EIRP will be described and shown. Additionally, references will be made to... Figure 15 and Figure 16 Describe the first piece of information in detail.

[0175] EIRP can be expressed as the value obtained by multiplying the power supplied to the antenna by the antenna's absolute gain. In other words, EIRP can be expressed as the device's output power P. t and antenna gain G t The product of is shown below.

[0176] EIR = Device output power P t x Antenna gain G t = (Device output power) dB + (Antenna gain) dB

[0177] For example, assuming the antenna device's output power is 100mW (20dBm) and the antenna gain is 20dBi, EIRP = device output power P t × Antenna gain G t = (device output power) dB + (antenna gain) dB = 20 dBm + 20 dBi = 40 dBm.

[0178] Antenna gain Gt It can be expressed as (antenna gain + chain gain + array gain). Furthermore, considering the losses caused by radiated power, EIRP can be expressed as follows.

[0179] EIRP = P out +Antenna gain +Chain gain +Array gain +Total loss

[0180] P out The total output power of the device can be represented by the antenna gain, the gain of the antenna element can be represented by the chain gain, a chain is an array of antenna elements arranged in the same column, and the array gain can be represented by the gain of the array 205 included in the array antenna 210. In addition, the total loss can be represented by the total loss that occurs in the output of the antenna device.

[0181] The definition of EIRP is self-evident to those skilled in the field of antennas for transmitting and receiving radio waves, so its detailed description will be omitted.

[0182] Figure 13 An example is shown where the first information is EIRP. Therefore, in operation S415, the EIRP values ​​corresponding to the multiple beams output from the array antenna 210 can be obtained respectively in operation S415. Additionally, although... Figure 13 Operation S415 is shown to occur after operation S410, but operation S415 can be executed before operation S421. Therefore, operation S415 can be executed concurrently with operation S410 or before operation S410. Furthermore, operation S415 can be executed by processor 220.

[0183] The method 1300 for controlling a vehicle antenna device may include: selecting at least one of a plurality of beams based on first information, such that the shape of the beam pattern formed by the plurality of beams output from the array antenna 210 is changed according to speed information obtained in operation S410 (S421), the first information being information about the radiated power of the array antenna 210. Operation S421 may be executed by processor 220.

[0184] Subsequently, the method 1300 for controlling the vehicle antenna device may include controlling the array antenna 210 to output a beam selected in operation S421 (S430). Operation S430 may be executed by processor 220. Specifically, processor 220 may adjust at least one of the phase and signal strength applied to each of the plurality of antenna elements included in the array antenna 210, such that at least one of the plurality of beams is selectively output, the plurality of beams being distinguished from each other by their output directions. Reference will be made below. Figure 17 The phase and signal strength adjustment operations described above are described in detail.

[0185] Reference Figure 5 The vehicle antenna device 500 shown is described by its various components. Figures 14 to 23 .

[0186] Figure 14 It is a diagram illustrating the change in the shape of the beam pattern in an antenna device according to a disclosed embodiment.

[0187] In the disclosed embodiment, based on the speed information obtained in operation S410, the processor 220 can control the array antenna 210 such that the width of the beam pattern when the vehicle speed corresponds to a first speed value is wider than the width of the beam pattern when the vehicle speed is equal to or less than the first speed value. Specifically, based on the speed information obtained in operation S410, the processor 220 can select at least one of a plurality of beams and control the array antenna 210 to output the selected beam such that the width of the beam pattern when the vehicle speed corresponds to the first speed value is wider than the width of the beam pattern when the vehicle speed is equal to or less than the first speed value.

[0188] Furthermore, based on the speed information obtained during operation S410, the processor 220 can control the array antenna 210 such that the width of the beam pattern when the vehicle speed corresponds to a first speed value is narrower than the width of the beam pattern when the vehicle speed is equal to or greater than a third speed value.

[0189] refer to Figure 14 The speed of a vehicle can be classified into multiple segments. For example, the speed of a vehicle increases in the first direction 1405, and the speed of the vehicle satisfies the condition "first speed segment < second speed segment < third speed segment".

[0190] exist Figure 14 In this system, the first speed range and the second speed range can be distinguished from each other by a first reference value. The first reference value can be set differently depending on the vehicle's driving environment. For example, the first reference value can be used to distinguish between driving in urban areas and driving in suburban areas (e.g., national highways). As another example, the first reference value can be used to distinguish between driving in busy traffic areas and driving on roads with low traffic volume. Alternatively, the first reference value can be used to distinguish between driving in school zones and driving in non-school zones. For example, the first reference value can be set to 30 km / h, 50 km / h, 60 km / h, etc.

[0191] Furthermore, the second and third speed zones can be distinguished from each other by a second reference value. Similar to the first reference value, the second reference value can be set differently depending on the vehicle's driving environment. For example, the first reference value is used to distinguish between driving on suburban roads (e.g., national highways) and driving on expressways or dedicated motor vehicle lanes. As another example, the second reference value could be used to distinguish between driving in areas with almost no traffic and driving on roads with absolutely no traffic. For example, the second reference value could be set to 80 km / h, 100 km / h, 120 km / h, etc.

[0192] The following will describe an example where the first reference value is 60 km / h and the second reference value is 100 km / h.

[0193] In the disclosed embodiments, as an example, Figure 14 Beam pattern 1410 is shown as the distribution of multiple beams output from array antenna 210 when the vehicle speed corresponds to the first speed segment, beam pattern 1420 is shown as the distribution of multiple beams output from array antenna 210 when the vehicle speed corresponds to the second speed segment, and beam pattern 1430 is shown as the distribution of multiple beams output from array antenna 210 when the vehicle speed corresponds to the third speed segment.

[0194] In other words, when the vehicle is moving slowly, the beam pattern can be formed with a low beamwidth and high gain, as in beam pattern 1410. Furthermore, when the vehicle is moving quickly, the beamwidth of beam pattern 1430 can be greater than that of beam pattern 1410, and the gain of beam pattern 1430 can be lower than that of beam pattern 1410.

[0195] Specifically, the width 1421 of beam pattern 1420 can be greater than the width 1411 of beam pattern 1410, and the width 1431 of beam pattern 1430 can be greater than the width 1421 of beam pattern 1420. Furthermore, as the width of the beam pattern increases, the maximum output gain of the beam included in beam pattern 1410 decreases. Specifically, the maximum output gain of beam pattern 1410 output in the first velocity segment can be the highest, while the maximum output gain of beam pattern 1430 output in the second velocity segment can be the lowest.

[0196] refer to Figure 14 By changing the shape of the beam pattern according to changes in vehicle speed, communication can be maintained seamlessly in response to changes in vehicle speed.

[0197] Figure 15 It is a diagram used to describe multiple beams output from an array antenna according to a disclosed embodiment.

[0198] Each of the multiple antenna elements included in the array antenna 210 receives multiple radio signals and transmits corresponding radio waves. The radio waves radiated from each of the multiple antenna elements can have the shape of a beam output in a specific direction; therefore, the multiple antenna elements can be considered as outputting multiple output beams. The multiple beams radiated from the array antenna 210 are identified by their output directions to distinguish them from each other, and can be represented by identification numbers distinguished according to the output directions. The identification number of the beam can be called a beam identifier (ID).

[0199] refer to Figure 15 The multiple beams output from array antenna 210 are represented as beam IDs. In the following text, the table representing the multiple beams output from array antenna 210 as beam IDs will be referred to as beam ID mapping 1500. Specifically, beam ID mapping 1500 can represent the beam distribution observed from a cross-section perpendicular to the desired transmission / reception direction of the radio wave. For example, beam ID mapping 1500 represents the beam distribution observed from... Figure 7 The distribution of beams seen from plane 710. Therefore, adjacent regions in beam ID mapping 1500 can be regarded as indicators of beams output from adjacent regions.

[0200] Furthermore, the beam ID mapping 1500 defines the beam distribution area along the X and Y axes and can be represented as degree values. For example, a point with a value of 90 degrees on both the X and Y axes is the center point of the radiation area and can correspond to... Figure 11 The origin is shown as 1190.

[0201] An antenna element can output multiple beams, each corresponding to a plurality of beam IDs. Furthermore, when the output directions of at least one beam output from the first antenna element and at least one beam output from the second antenna element are the same or similar to each other, the at least one beam output from the first antenna element and at least one beam output from the second antenna element can be represented by the same beam ID value.

[0202] In beam ID mapping 1500, the represented color can correspond to the gain value of a beam with a specific beam ID, such as... Figure 11 As shown in Table 1101.

[0203] For example, in beam ID mapping 1500, approximately 200 beams are output from an array antenna 210 comprising 8*8 = 64 antenna elements. These 200 beams can refer to the effective beams that can actually be used for transmitting and receiving radio waves. However, the number of beam IDs output from an array antenna comprising a certain number of antenna elements can vary depending on the array antenna's product specifications. Specifically, the array antenna's product specifications can include the total number of antenna elements, the array antenna's gain, the frequency band of the radio signals to be transmitted and received by the array antenna, and the like. The number of beam IDs output from the array antenna can vary according to the aforementioned product specifications and is not limited. Furthermore, beam ID values ​​can be represented using numbers, letters, and the like in various ways. Figure 15 The example shown is an integer representing the beam ID as a number between 0 and 238.

[0204] refer to Figure 15 In region 1510, there may be four different beams with beam IDs represented by values ​​40, 28, 148 and 147.

[0205] Figure 16 This is a graph showing the EIRP values ​​of multiple beams output from an array antenna according to a disclosed embodiment.

[0206] Figure 16 Showing instructions and Figure 15 EIRP map 1600 shows the EIRP values ​​corresponding to beam ID mapping 1500. Specifically, EIRP map 1600 can indicate the EIRP value corresponding to each beam ID and can be expressed in dB. Region 1610 corresponds equivalently to... Figure 15 Region 1510. That is, region 1610 represents the EIRP values ​​of four different beams, where the beam IDs in region 1510 are represented by values ​​of 40, 28, 148, and 147, respectively. (Reference) Figure 15 Area 1510 and Figure 16 In region 1610, the EIRP of the beam with beam ID 40 is 38.5, the EIRP of the beam with beam ID 28 is 38.3, the EIRP of the beam with beam ID 148 is 39.3, and the EIRP of the beam with beam ID 147 is 39.3.

[0207] Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a beamcodebook for controlling the generation and output of multiple beams from an array antenna, according to a disclosed embodiment.

[0208] The beamcodebook can be used to control a specific beam to be output. Specifically, the processor 220 can use the phase and amplitude values ​​defined in the beamcodebook to control the array antenna 210 to output a specific beam.

[0209] A beamcodebook defines which phase and amplitude values ​​to set for a radio signal applied to a specific antenna element in order to output a specific beam. The antenna elements corresponding to a specific beam, and the corresponding phase and amplitude values, defined in the beamcodebook, can be optimized and set experimentally. For example, to output a beam in a specific direction, the phase and amplitude values ​​of the radio signal applied to each specific antenna element are optimized through experimentation and experience.

[0210] refer to Figure 17 Table 1700, region 1710 indicates certain regions included in beam ID mapping 1500. Furthermore, in the case of grouping multiple beams, region 1710 can indicate the region corresponding to a group. Region A can refer to... Figure 15 The region 1510 is shown. That is, the beam ID 1720 included in region 1510, which is region A, can be 40, 28, 148, and 147. Ant_Feed 1730 indicates the antenna element that outputs the beam corresponding to the corresponding beam ID, amplitude 1740 defines the amplitude value of the radio signal applied to the corresponding antenna element, and phase 1750 defines the phase value of the radio signal applied to the corresponding antenna element.

[0211] For example, the antenna elements used to generate the beam with beam ID value 40 included in region 1510, which is region A, are antenna elements 1, 2, 3, and 4, and the amplitude values ​​of the radio signals corresponding to antenna elements 1, 2, 3, and 4 can have values ​​a25, a26, a27, and a28, respectively. Furthermore, the phase values ​​of the radio signals corresponding to antenna elements 1, 2, 3, and 4 can have values ​​25, 26, 27, and 28, respectively.

[0212] As described in the example above, processor 220 can control array antenna 210 to output a specific beam using a beamcodebook, which is optimized for the antenna elements that output the beam and their corresponding phase and amplitude values.

[0213] Back Figures 13 to 17 As mentioned above Figure 14 The processor 220 can select at least one of a plurality of beams based on first information, which is information about the radiated power (e.g., EIRP value) of the array antenna 210, and the processor 220 controls the array antenna 210 to output the selected beam, such that the shape of the beam pattern formed by the plurality of beams output from the plurality of antenna elements changes according to the velocity information.

[0214] In detail, as the vehicle speed increases, the processor 220 can increase the number of beams selected from all beams, all of which are identified by their output direction (e.g., represented by different beam IDs depending on the output direction).

[0215] Furthermore, when selecting a beam in operation S421, the processor 220 can group multiple beams into groups corresponding to adjacent regions, and select at least one of the at least one beams included in the group. Specifically, the processor 220 can group multiple beams into multiple groups, select at least one beam from each of the multiple groups based on the EIRP value of the array antenna 210, and control the array antenna 210 to output the selected beam.

[0216] In detail, the processor 220 can select a beam with the maximum EIRP value from each of the multiple groups and control the array antenna 210 to output the selected beam.

[0217] The following will refer to Figures 16 to 23 The grouping and beam selection for each group are described in detail.

[0218] In the disclosed embodiments, in the section where the vehicle speed is slowest (e.g., Figure 14 In the first speed band, the vehicle speed is low, thus reducing the likelihood of missing radio signal transmission and reception due to vehicle movement. Therefore, processor 220 can perform control such that all beams output from multiple antenna elements are output to increase directivity and output the beam with maximum output power. That is, processor 220 can select all of the multiple beams output from multiple antenna elements and control array antenna 210 to output all selected beams based on the beamcodebook.

[0219] For example, in the section where the vehicle speed is slowest (e.g., Figure 14 In the first speed segment, processor 220 performs control, enabling... Figure 15 All beams included in the beam ID mapping 1500 shown are selected and output. In this case, the above groups can each correspond to a single beam.

[0220] Figure 18 This is another flowchart illustrating a method for controlling an antenna device according to a disclosed embodiment. Figure 18 In, with Figure 4 and Figure 13 The same operations are indicated by the same reference numerals. Therefore, in the description Figure 18 When describing the method 1800 for controlling the vehicle antenna device, the above-mentioned information will be omitted. Figure 4 and Figure 13The methods 400 and 1300 for controlling the vehicle antenna device are described. Furthermore, method 1800 for controlling the vehicle antenna device corresponds to the above-mentioned reference. Figures 1 to 17 The method described is for controlling a vehicle antenna device 200 or 500 and a vehicle electronic device 300.

[0221] refer to Figure 18 Operation S420 may include: classifying the vehicle's speed segments into multiple speed segments in operation S1820; selecting a beam according to the corresponding speed segment among the multiple speed segments in operations S1822 and S1826; and controlling the output of the selected beam in operations S1831 and S1832. Figure 18 An example is shown where speed segments are classified into a first speed segment and a second speed segment with a value greater than that of the first speed segment.

[0222] In the following text, it will be described Figure 18 The first velocity segment of operation S1821 and the second velocity segment of operation S1825 respectively correspond to Figure 14 Examples of the first and second speed segments are shown.

[0223] Specifically, in operations S1822 and S1826, when selecting a beam according to the corresponding velocity segment, a beam can be selected from groups of different sizes according to the corresponding velocity segment. The different sizes of the groups can mean that the number of beams included in each group is different from the others.

[0224] Specifically, when the vehicle's speed is within a first speed segment, the processor 220 can group multiple beams such that n beams are included in each of the multiple groups. Furthermore, when the vehicle's speed is within a second speed segment, the processor 220 can group the multiple beams into multiple groups such that m beams greater than n are included in each of the multiple groups. Additionally, based on the first information, the processor 220 can select a beam from the groups obtained by grouping according to different speed segments.

[0225] The following will refer to Figures 19 to 20 The details describe how to select the beam according to the corresponding velocity segment in operations S1822 and S1826.

[0226] Figure 19 This is a diagram illustrating beam selection and output control operations according to a disclosed embodiment. Figure 18 In, with Figure 15 and Figure 16 The same components are shown using the same reference numerals.

[0227] Figure 20This is another diagram illustrating beam selection and output control operations according to a disclosed embodiment.

[0228] refer to Figure 20 ,and Figure 17 The same components are shown using the same reference numerals.

[0229] refer to Figure 19 Region 1910, which is a portion of the area included in beam ID mapping 1500, may include 16 beams, including those referenced above. Figure 15 The described region is 1510. In a magnified view of region 1910, magnified region 1930 may include four beam groups, each beam group comprising four beams. Additionally, referring to magnified region 1930, the four groups are shown as A, B, C, and D, respectively.

[0230] Referring to magnified region 1930, the beam IDs included in group A1931 are 40, 28, 148 and 147, the beam IDs included in group B1932 are 30, 31, 151 and 160, the beam IDs included in group C1933 are 37, 25, 54 and 163, and the beam IDs included in group D1934 are 24, 161, 162 and 177.

[0231] Additionally, region 1920, which is a partial area included in EIRP diagram 1600, corresponds to region 1910 and represents the EIRP value of each beam included in region 1910.

[0232] For example, in the case where multiple beams are grouped into groups of four beams each, and thus region 1910 comprises four beam groups, processor 220 selects the beam with the largest EIRP value among the beams included in each group.

[0233] For example, when classifying the vehicle speed into a first speed segment in operation S1821, in operation S1822, processor 220 can group multiple beams into groups of l beams each, and select the beam with the maximum EIRP value from each group. Then, processor 220 can control array antenna 210 to output the beam selected in operation S1822 (S1831). For example, l can be 1. For example, as referenced above... Figure 16 and Figure 17 The processor 220 selects all of the multiple beams output from multiple antenna elements and controls the array antenna 210 to output all of the selected beams based on the beam codebook.

[0234] Furthermore, when classifying the vehicle speed into a second speed segment in operation S1825, in operation S1826, the processor 220 can group multiple beams into groups of m beams, each group consisting of more than 1 beams, and select the beam with the maximum EIRP value from each group. Then, the processor 220 can control the array antenna 210 to output the beam selected in operation S1826 (S1832).

[0235] For example, m can be 4. For example, see the reference above. Figure 19 The processor 220 selects the beam with the largest EIRP value from the four beams and controls the array antenna 210 to output the selected beam based on the beam codebook.

[0236] For details, please refer to Figure 19 In group A1931, the beam with the highest EIRP is the beam corresponding to beam ID 147, and this beam has an EIRP value of 39.3. Therefore, processor 220 can select beam ID 147 with the highest EIRP from group A1931 and execute control to output the selected beam. (Reference) Figure 20 In order to output the beam corresponding to beam ID=147, which is the beam with the maximum EIRP in region A corresponding to group A, processor 220 can perform control by using data 2010 corresponding to beam ID=147 in beam codebook 2000, so that the beam corresponding to beam ID=147 is output.

[0237] Additionally, refer to Figure 19 In group B 1932, the beam with the highest EIRP is the beam corresponding to beam ID 160, and this beam has an EIRP value of 39.6. Therefore, processor 220 can select beam ID 160 with the highest EIRP from group B 1932 and execute control to output the selected beam. (Reference) Figure 20 In order to output the beam corresponding to beam ID = 147, which is the beam with the maximum EIRP in region B corresponding to group B, processor 220 can perform control by using data 2020 corresponding to beam ID = 147 in beam codebook 2000, so that the output beam corresponding to beam ID = 160 is produced.

[0238] Additionally, refer to Figure 19 In group C 1933, the beam with the highest EIRP is the beam corresponding to beam ID25, and this beam has an EIRP value of 38.6. Therefore, processor 220 can select beam ID25 with the highest EIRP from group C 1933 and execute control to output the selected beam. (Reference) Figure 20In order to output the beam corresponding to beam ID=25, which is the beam with the maximum EIRP in region C corresponding to group C, processor 220 can perform control by using data 2030 corresponding to beam ID=25 in beam codebook 2000 to output the beam corresponding to beam ID=25.

[0239] Additionally, refer to Figure 19 In group D 1934, the beam with the highest EIRP is the beam corresponding to beam ID 177, and this beam has an EIRP value of 39.6. Therefore, processor 220 can select beam ID 177 with the highest EIRP from group D 1934 and execute control to output the selected beam. (Reference) Figure 20 In order to output the beam corresponding to beam ID = 177, which is the beam with the maximum EIRP in region D corresponding to group D, processor 220 can perform control by using data 2040 corresponding to beam ID = 147 in beam codebook 2000, so that the beam corresponding to beam ID = 177 is output.

[0240] Furthermore, in the disclosed embodiments, the processor 220 can perform control such that beams not selected in operations S1822 and S1826 are not output. Figure 20 "Disable" in BeamCodebook 2000 can mean not using the amplitude and phase values ​​of the radio signal corresponding to the corresponding beam in that segment of the dataset in BeamCodebook 2000, thus not outputting the unselected beam.

[0241] Figure 21 This is another flowchart illustrating a method for controlling an antenna device according to a disclosed embodiment.

[0242] exist Figure 21 In, with Figure 18 The same operations are indicated by the same reference numerals. Therefore, in the description Figure 21 When describing the method 2100 for controlling the vehicle antenna device, the above-mentioned information will be omitted. Figure 18 The method 1800 for controlling a vehicle antenna device is described above. Furthermore, the method 2100 for controlling a vehicle antenna device corresponds to the above-mentioned reference. Figures 1 to 20 The method described is for controlling a vehicle antenna device 200 or 500 and a vehicle electronic device 300. Figure 21 This illustrates an example where, in operation S1820, when classified into multiple speed segments, the multiple speed segments include three speed segments.

[0243] refer to Figure 21Operation S420 may include: classifying the vehicle's speed segments into a first speed segment, a second speed segment, and a third speed segment in operation S1820, wherein the second speed segment includes values ​​larger than those of the first speed segment, and the third speed segment includes values ​​larger than those of the second speed segment; selecting a beam according to the corresponding speed segment in operations S1822, S1826, and S1827; and controlling the output of the selected beam in operations S1831, S1832, and S1830.

[0244] In addition to the above references Figure 18 In addition to the provided description, when the vehicle speed in operation S1827 corresponds to the third speed segment, the processor 220 can group multiple beams into multiple groups, such that n beams greater than m are included in each of the multiple groups. Furthermore, based on the first information, the processor 220 can select a beam from the groups obtained by grouping them differently according to the speed segment.

[0245] Here, l, m, and n can be optimized and set according to at least one of the vehicle's moving speed, the product specifications of the array antenna 210, and the shape of the beam pattern corresponding to the vehicle's moving speed. Furthermore, l, m, and n can be optimized and set through experimentation or by training using AI technology.

[0246] The following describes an example of an antenna device comprising 64 antenna elements configured with l=1, m=4, and n=16.

[0247] Additionally, the following will be referenced Figure 22 and Figure 23 The operation of grouping and selecting beams in the third velocity band is described in detail.

[0248] Figure 22 This is another diagram illustrating beam selection and output control operations according to a disclosed embodiment.

[0249] exist Figure 22 In, with Figure 19 The same components are shown using the same reference numerals.

[0250] Figure 23 This is another diagram illustrating beam selection and output control operation according to a disclosed embodiment. Figure 23 In, with Figure 17 The same components are shown using the same reference numerals.

[0251] refer to Figure 22 Region 1910, which is a portion of the area included in beam ID mapping 1500, may include 16 beams, including those referenced above. Figure 15The described region is 1510. In a magnified view of region 1910, magnified region 1930 may include a beam group containing 16 beams. Additionally, referring to magnified region 1930, this group is designated AA.

[0252] For example, in operation S1827, if the vehicle speed corresponds to the third speed segment, and multiple beams are grouped into groups of 16 beams each, and therefore region 1910 includes one beam group, namely group AA, in operation S1828, processor 220 can select the beam with the maximum EIRP value from the beams included in group AA. Then, in operation S1833, processor 220 can control array antenna 210 to output the beam selected in operation S1828.

[0253] refer to Figure 22 In the magnified region 1930, the beam with the highest EIRP among the beams included in group AA corresponds to beam ID 160, and this beam has an EIRP value of 39.6. Therefore, processor 220 can select beam ID 160 with the highest EIRP from group AA and execute control to output the selected beam. (Reference) Figure 23 In order to output the beam corresponding to beam ID=160, which is the beam with the largest EIRP in the group AA, the processor 220 can perform control by using the data 2310 corresponding to beam ID=147 in the beam codebook 2300, so that the output beam corresponding to beam ID=160 is made.

[0254] Furthermore, in the disclosed embodiments, the processor 220 can perform control such that beams not selected in operation S1828 are not output. Figure 23 "Disable" in the beam codebook 2300 can mean not using the amplitude and phase values ​​of the radio signal corresponding to the corresponding beam in that segment of the dataset in the beam codebook 2300, thus not outputting the unselected beam.

[0255] Figure 24 This is a diagram illustrating a neural network that performs at least one operation included in a method for controlling a vehicle antenna device according to a disclosed embodiment.

[0256] In the disclosed embodiments, at least one operation performed by the processor 220 can be performed using AI technology. Reference will be made below. Figure 24 Describe in detail at least one operation performed using AI technology.

[0257] Specifically, at least one of the following operations performed by processor 220 can be performed by using AI technology that performs computations via a neural network: i) obtaining first information, specifically calculating EIRP; ii) classifying into the above reference. Figure 18 The description includes multiple speed segments and / or setting reference values ​​for differentiation between multiple segments; iii) predicting the beam pattern corresponding to the vehicle's speed; iv) determining the number of beams in the beam group corresponding to the vehicle's speed; and v) obtaining the beam codebook.

[0258] AI technology is used to obtain desired results by performing computations via neural networks and by processing input data (such as analysis and / or classification).

[0259] AI technology can be implemented using algorithms. An algorithm or set of algorithms that implements AI technology is called a neural network. A neural network can receive input data, perform calculations for analysis and classification, and output result data. Therefore, in order for a neural network to accurately output result data corresponding to the input data, it is necessary to train the neural network. Here, "training" can refer to training the neural network so that it can discover or learn methods for analyzing various data input into the neural network, methods for classifying multiple data inputs, and / or methods for extracting features needed to generate result data from multiple data inputs. Specifically, through the training process, the neural network can be trained based on training data (e.g., multiple different images) to optimize and set the weight values ​​in the neural network. Then, the neural network with optimized weight values ​​can learn to output the desired result by itself using input data.

[0260] In detail, a neural network that includes multiple hidden layers for performing computations (i.e., high depth for performing computations) can be classified as a deep neural network. Examples of neural networks include, but are not limited to, deep neural networks (DNNs), convolutional neural networks (CNNs), recurrent neural networks (RNNs), restricted Boltzmann machines (RBMs), deep belief networks (DBNs), bidirectional recurrent DNNs (BRDNNs), and deep Q-networks. Furthermore, neural networks are subdivided. For example, CNNs can be subdivided into deep CNNs (DCNNs), capsule neural networks (CapsNets) (not shown), etc.

[0261] In the disclosed embodiments, "AI model" can refer to a neural network including at least one layer that operates to receive input data and output a desired result. "AI model" can also refer to an algorithm or a set of algorithms that performs computations via a neural network to output a desired result, a processor for executing the algorithm or the set of algorithms, software for executing the algorithm or the set of algorithms, or hardware for executing the algorithm or the set of algorithms.

[0262] refer to Figure 24 The neural network 2410 can be trained by receiving training data as input. The trained neural network 2410 can then receive input data 2411 through input terminal 2420 and perform calculations to analyze the input data 2411 and output output data 2415 as the desired result through output terminal 2440. The calculations through the neural network can be performed through hidden layers 2430. Although for the sake of description... Figure 1 The hidden layer 2430 is shown as a simplified single layer, but multiple hidden layers 2430 can be provided.

[0263] In detail, in the disclosed embodiments, the neural network 2410 can learn the shape of a beam pattern such that the transmission and reception of radio signals are kept seamless in response to the vehicle's speed. Specifically, the neural network 2410 can learn criteria regarding which shape of the beam pattern maintains seamlessness for each vehicle speed, and learn the shape of the beam pattern corresponding to each vehicle speed. Furthermore, the neural network 2410 can learn the beam pattern corresponding to the output beam. Alternatively, the neural network 2410 can learn criteria for grouping beams into beam groups to output a desired beam pattern shape according to the vehicle's moving speed. Alternatively, the neural network 2410 can learn criteria regarding which beam to select from the beam groups to output the desired beam pattern shape.

[0264] The trained neural network 2410 can receive vehicle speed input and multiple beams output from multiple antenna elements included in the array antenna 210, select at least one of the multiple beams, and output the selected result.

[0265] Alternatively, the trained neural network 2410 can receive input of vehicle speed and multiple beams output from multiple antenna elements included in the array antenna 210, select at least one of the multiple beams, and calculate information for controlling the output of the selected beam (e.g., information in the beam codebook regarding the required phase and amplitude of the output selected beam). The trained neural network 2410 can then output the calculated value.

[0266] In the disclosed embodiments, the neural network described above can be implemented in a processor (e.g., Figure 2 It can be achieved within 220).

[0267] Alternatively, the neural network can be separated from the vehicle antenna device (e.g., 200 or 500) and can be implemented in a separate electronic device (not shown) or processor (not shown) located in the vehicle.

[0268] Furthermore, the aforementioned calculations via the neural network can be performed by a server (not shown) capable of communicating via a wireless communication network with a vehicle antenna device (e.g., 200 or 500) according to the disclosed embodiments. Reference will be made below. Figure 25 and Figure 26 The communication between the vehicle antenna device (e.g., 200 or 500) and the server (not shown) is described in detail.

[0269] Figure 25 This is a diagram illustrating communication between a vehicle electronic device and a server according to a disclosed embodiment. Figure 25 The vehicle antenna device 2500 shown can correspond to the one described above. Figures 1 to 24 The vehicle antenna device 200 or 500 or vehicle electronic device 300 described in the disclosed embodiments are therefore omitted from the above description.

[0270] For ease of description, the above references will be used in the following text. Figure 4 , Figure 13 and Figure 18 The information describing the beam selected in operation S420 will be referred to as "beam selection information".

[0271] refer to Figure 25 The beam selection information can be calculated by server 2510 and then sent to vehicle antenna device 2500 located in vehicle 110. In addition, server 2510 may include a server, server system, server-based device, etc., that sends data to and receives data from electronic devices (e.g., vehicle antenna device 2500) via a communication network and processes the data.

[0272] Furthermore, the vehicle antenna device 2500 can be a separate electronic device located in the vehicle 110 and capable of wired / wireless communication with another vehicle antenna device (e.g., 200 or 500). In the vehicle antenna device 2500 and another vehicle antenna device ( Figure 25 In the case of separation (not shown in the image) (e.g., 200 or 500), the vehicle antenna device 2500 can direct power to another vehicle antenna device ( Figure 25 (not shown) (e.g., 200 or 500) transmits beam selection information obtained through a neural network.

[0273] In the disclosed embodiments, server 2510 may include the above-mentioned reference. Figure 24 The neural network 2410 is described. In detail, the neural network 2410 included in the server 2510 can be a trained neural network, and can receive input data and perform calculations to output the desired result.

[0274] Server 2510 can transmit information obtained by performing calculations via a neural network, such as beam selection information and at least one of a beam codebook, to vehicle antenna device 2500 via wireless communication network 2501.

[0275] Then, the vehicle antenna device (e.g., 200 or 500) according to the disclosed embodiments can select at least one of a plurality of beams based on beam selection information sent from server 2510, and control array antenna 210 to output the selected beam.

[0276] Alternatively, server 2510 can generate a beamcodebook corresponding to the vehicle's speed by performing calculations via a neural network. Server 2510 can then send the obtained beamcodebook to vehicle antenna device 2500. Vehicle antenna device (e.g., 200 or 500) according to the disclosed embodiments can then control array antenna 210 to output the beam selected in operation S420 based on the beamcodebook received from server 2510.

[0277] Figure 26 This is a block diagram illustrating a server according to a disclosed embodiment.

[0278] refer to Figure 26 The vehicle antenna device 2500 may correspond to a vehicle antenna device (e.g., 200 or 500) according to a disclosed embodiment. Furthermore, the vehicle antenna device 2500 may correspond to a vehicle electronic device 300 according to a disclosed embodiment. Figure 26 In, with Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 25 The same elements are shown using the same reference numerals. Therefore, the descriptions already provided above will be omitted.

[0279] The vehicle antenna device 2500 may include an array antenna 210, a processor 220, and a communication unit 240. Furthermore, the array antenna 210 may be integrated with the communication unit 240.

[0280] The communication unit 240 communicates with an external device (e.g., a server 2510) via at least one wireless communication network 2501. The external device (not shown) may be a server (e.g., 2510) capable of performing at least one of the calculations performed by the vehicle antenna device 2500 or transmitting and receiving data required by the vehicle antenna device 2500.

[0281] Furthermore, the communication unit 240 includes at least one communication module, such as a short-range communication module, a wired communication module, a mobile communication module, or a broadcast receiving module. The at least one communication module refers to a tuner that performs broadcast reception or a communication module capable of performing data transmission / reception via a network conforming to communication standards such as Bluetooth, Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) (e.g., Wi-Fi), Wireless Broadband (WiBro), Global Microwave Access Interoperability (WiMax), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Wideband CDMA (WCDMA), the Internet, 3G, 4G, 5G, and / or communication schemes using millimeter wave (mmWave).

[0282] For example, when communication unit 240 performs communication using millimeter wave (mmWAVE), large amounts of data can be sent and received rapidly. Specifically, the vehicle rapidly receives large amounts of data, thereby quickly providing data necessary for vehicle safety (e.g., data required for autonomous driving, data required for navigation services, and the like) and user content (e.g., movies, music, and the like), thereby improving vehicle safety and / or user convenience.

[0283] In detail, the mobile communication module included in the communication unit 240 can communicate with another device (e.g., a server (not shown)) located at a remote location via a communication network conforming to communication standards (e.g., the Internet, 3G, 4G, and / or 5G). The communication module communicating with a remote server (not shown) can be referred to as a "remote communication module".

[0284] In addition, although Figure 3 The communication unit 240 and the array antenna 210 are shown to be separate from each other, but the communication unit 240 may include the array antenna 210. In detail, at least one communication module included in the communication unit 240 may include the array antenna 210 for transmitting and receiving radio waves.

[0285] Furthermore, server 2510 includes a communication unit 2530 configured to communicate with a vehicle antenna device installed inside the vehicle, and a processor 2550 configured to execute at least one instruction. Additionally, server 2510 may also include a database (DB) 2540.

[0286] The communication unit 2530 may include one or more components that enable communication with the vehicle antenna device 2500. The detailed configuration of the communication unit 2530 corresponds equivalently to the configuration of the communication unit 240 described above, therefore, its detailed description will be omitted.

[0287] For example, communication unit 2530 includes at least one communication module configured to communicate with another device (e.g., vehicle antenna device 2500) located at a remote location via a communication network conforming to communication standards (e.g., Internet, 3G, 4G and / or 5G).

[0288] Processor 2550 controls the overall operation of server 2510. For example, processor 2550 performs the required operation by executing at least one instruction or program of server 2510.

[0289] The processor 2550 can obtain at least one of the aforementioned beam selection information and beam codebook by performing calculations via the neural network described above. Furthermore, the processor 2550 can control the communication unit 2530 to transmit the obtained information to the vehicle antenna device 2500.

[0290] In detail, the processor 2550 can train a neural network as an AI model and store the trained neural network. Additionally, the server 2510 can obtain at least one of the aforementioned beam selection information and beam codebook by using the trained neural network.

[0291] Typically, compared to server 2510, vehicle antenna device 2500 may have limited storage capacity, computational processing speed, and training dataset collection capabilities. Therefore, operations requiring large data storage and computational complexity can be performed by server 2510, which can then send the required data and / or the AI ​​model or trained neural network to vehicle antenna device 2500 via a communication network. Vehicle antenna device 2500 can then quickly and easily perform the required operations without the need for large-capacity memory and high-speed processors by receiving and using the required data and AI model from the server.

[0292] Figure 27 This is a diagram showing in detail the processor of a server according to a disclosed embodiment.

[0293] Figure 27 The processor 2700 shown may correspond to a processor (e.g., 220) included in a vehicle electronic device or as described above. Figure 25 and Figure 26 The server 2510 described has a processor 2550. Furthermore, the processor 2700 can be configured as described above (see reference above). Figure 24 A processor that uses a neural network to perform computations.

[0294] refer to Figure 27 The processor 2700 may include a data learning unit 2710 and a data recognition unit 2720.

[0295] The data learning unit 2710 can learn standards for performing data analysis or judgment on input data to obtain desired results. The data learning unit 2710 can learn standards for determining situations by acquiring data to be used for learning and applying the acquired data to a data recognition model.

[0296] The data recognition unit 2720 can determine a situation based on input data. The data recognition unit 2720 can identify a situation based on specific data by using a trained data recognition model. The data recognition unit 2720 can obtain data according to predefined criteria learned, and use the obtained data as input to use the data recognition model to determine a specific situation based on specific data. Furthermore, the output value of the data recognition model using the obtained data as input can be used to improve the data recognition model.

[0297] At least one of the data learning unit 2710 or the data recognition unit 2720 may be manufactured in the form of at least one hardware chip and then installed on an electronic device. For example, at least one of the data learning unit 2710 and the data recognition unit 2720 may be manufactured in the form of a dedicated hardware chip for AI, or as part of an existing general-purpose processor (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU) or an application processing unit (AP)) or a dedicated graphics processor (e.g., a GPU), and then installed on the various electronic devices described above.

[0298] In this configuration, the data learning unit 2710 and the data recognition unit 2720 can be mounted on a single electronic device or on separate electronic devices. For example, one of the data learning unit 2710 and the data recognition unit 2720 may be included in a vehicle antenna device, while the other may be included in a server. Furthermore, the data learning unit 2710 and the data recognition unit 2720 can be connected to each other via wired or wireless means, so that the model information generated by the data learning unit 2710 can be provided to the data recognition unit 2720, and the data input to the data recognition unit 2720 can be provided to the data learning unit 2710 as additional training data.

[0299] Simultaneously, at least one of the data learning unit 2710 and the data recognition unit 2720 can be implemented as a software module. When at least one of the data learning unit 2710 and the data recognition unit 2720 is implemented as a software module (or a program module including instructions), the software module can be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium. Furthermore, in this case, at least one software module can be provided by an OS or a specific application. Alternatively, a portion of at least one software module can be provided by an OS, while other portions can be provided by a specific application.

[0300] The method for controlling a vehicle antenna device according to embodiments of the present disclosure can be embodied as program instructions executable by various computer devices and recorded on a computer-readable medium. Furthermore, the disclosed embodiments can be implemented on a computer-readable recording medium having one or more programs recorded thereon, the one or more programs including instructions for performing the method of controlling the vehicle antenna device.

[0301] Computer-readable media can include, individually or in combination, program instructions, data files, data structures, etc. The program instructions to be recorded on the medium may be specially designed and configured for public use, or may be well-known and available to those skilled in the art of computer software. Examples of computer-readable recording media include: magnetic media, such as hard disks, floppy disks, or magnetic tapes; optical media, such as compact ROM (CD-ROM) or digital video discs (DVDs); magneto-optical media, such as optical floppy disks; and hardware devices specifically configured to store and execute program instructions, such as ROM, RAM, and flash memory. Examples of program instructions include not only machine code (e.g., code generated by a compiler) but also high-level language code executable by a computer using an interpreter or similar tool.

[0302] Machine-readable storage media may be provided in the form of non-transitory storage media. The term "non-transitory storage media" refers to tangible devices excluding signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term "non-transitory storage media" does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently in the storage medium and cases where data is temporarily stored. For example, non-transitory storage media include buffers for temporarily storing data.

[0303] According to embodiments, methods for controlling a vehicle antenna device according to various embodiments disclosed herein may be included in and provided in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a commodity between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., CD-ROM) or may be available through an app store (e.g., the Play Store). TM The computer program product may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable application) may be temporarily stored in a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., the memory of a manufacturer's server, an app store's server, or a relay server).

[0304] In detail, there may be a computer program product that includes a recording medium on which a program for performing a method for controlling a vehicle antenna device according to a disclosed embodiment is recorded.

[0305] While the disclosure has been shown and described with reference to various embodiments thereof, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An antenna device for a vehicle, comprising: An array antenna comprising multiple antenna elements that output multiple beams to form a beam pattern; as well as At least one processor configured to execute at least one instruction. The at least one processor is further configured to: Obtain the speed information of the vehicle. Based on the vehicle's speed information, multiple beams are grouped into at least one group, and each of the at least one group is used to form a beam pattern. Based on the equivalent isotropic radiated power (EIRP) value of the array antenna, at least one beam is selected from each of the at least one group, and The array antenna is controlled to output at least one selected beam for forming a beam pattern. The number of beams included in each of the at least one group increases with the increase of the vehicle's speed. The at least one processor is further configured to control the plurality of antenna elements based on speed information, such that the width of the beam pattern when the vehicle speed corresponds to a first speed value is narrower than the width of the beam pattern when the vehicle speed corresponds to a second speed value, wherein the second speed value is greater than the first speed value.

2. The antenna device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The at least one processor is further configured to control the plurality of antenna elements based on speed information, such that the width of the beam pattern when the vehicle speed corresponds to a third speed value is wider than the width of the beam pattern when the vehicle speed corresponds to a second speed value, the second speed value being less than the third speed value.

3. The antenna device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, In order to control the plurality of antenna elements to output at least one selected beam, the at least one processor is further configured to: adjust at least one of the phase and signal strength applied to each of the plurality of antenna elements such that at least one of the plurality of beams is selectively output.

4. The antenna device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, Each of the at least one group includes at least one adjacent beam.

5. The antenna device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The at least one processor is further configured to: The vehicle's speed range is classified into a first speed range and a second speed range, with the second speed range including values ​​larger than those included in the first speed range. When the vehicle's speed is within a first speed range, the plurality of beams are grouped such that n beams are included in each of the at least one group, and When the vehicle's speed is within the second speed range, the plurality of beams are grouped such that m beams are included in each of the at least one group, where m is greater than n.

6. A method for controlling an antenna device of a vehicle including an array antenna, the array antenna including a plurality of antenna elements that output a plurality of beams to form a beam pattern, the method comprising: Obtain vehicle speed information; Based on the vehicle's speed information, multiple beams are grouped into at least one group, and each of the at least one group is used to form a beam pattern. Based on the equivalent isotropic radiated power (EIRP) value of the array antenna, at least one beam is selected from each of the at least one group, and The array antenna is controlled to output at least one selected beam for forming a beam pattern. The number of beams included in each of the at least one group increases with the increase of the vehicle's speed. Selecting at least one beam pattern includes: controlling the plurality of antenna elements based on speed information such that the width of the beam pattern when the vehicle speed corresponds to a first speed value is narrower than the width of the beam pattern when the vehicle speed corresponds to a second speed value, wherein the second speed value is greater than the first speed value.

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