Antenna device, antenna device array, and base station having the antenna device

Abstract

An antenna device includes a substrate, a first radiator, a first balun, and a second radiator. The substrate has a substantially planar shape. The first radiator is configured to radiate a first electromagnetic signal in a first frequency band. The first balun extends between the substrate and the first radiator along a first axis. The first axis is oriented perpendicular to the substrate and the first radiator. The first balun is arranged to support the first radiator. The second radiator is configured to radiate a second electromagnetic signal in a second frequency band. The second radiator includes one or more planar structures that extend along the first axis and are arranged between the substrate and the first radiator. The first radiator and the second radiator operate in different frequency bands without any interference to form a compact multi-band antenna device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to the field of telecommunication devices, and more particularly, to antenna devices, antenna device arrays, and base stations including one or more antenna devices. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, the rapid development of various wireless communication systems has been attributed to the consideration of innovative antenna technologies including diversity antennas, reconfigurable antennas, etc. These systems operate in different frequency bands and thus require separate radiating elements for each frequency band. Typically, in order to provide dedicated antennas for these systems, multiple antennas may be required for each site. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a compact antenna as a single unit that can serve all the required frequency bands. Although the number of required frequency bands has increased and the number of users (i.e., land mobile users) has also increased, there are limitations associated with the number of antennas that can be installed in a particular sector. Typically, there is a strict requirement of one antenna per sector (in some cases, at most two antennas per sector). In addition, there are limitations associated with the size of a given antenna that can be installed at an installation site. For example, in order to facilitate certain activities related to telecommunication services (such as on-site acquisition or reuse of current mechanical support structures), it is desirable that the form factor and wind load of any new antenna to be installed should be similar and comparable to those of existing antennas.

[0003] In some scenarios, neither network densification (i.e., adding new sites) nor installing any additional conventional antennas at the installed sites is allowed. Additionally, significantly increasing the size (i.e., dimensions) of conventional antennas is also not preferred or allowed. Thus, in these scenarios, it becomes technically challenging to design and develop a suitable antenna structure without increasing complexity. Currently, certain attempts have been made to design and develop antenna devices that can integrate one or more radiators and can operate in one or more frequency bands. However, conventional antenna devices have the technical problem of high structural complexity, which also increases the manufacturing complexity of such conventional antenna devices. In one example, a conventional antenna device may have two radiators (e.g., dual-band radiator) integrated into one conventional antenna device. However, such conventional antenna devices require multiple probes to feed current to the radiators. Such probes may need to be soldered to a printed circuit board (PCB), thus increasing the number of components and the complexity of the conventional antenna device. Generally, some conventional antenna devices use several coaxial cables to feed current to different radiators of the conventional antenna device, thus greatly increasing the complexity. Additionally, such conventional antenna devices are resource-intensive, i.e., they require more manpower, skills or effort, and time for installation. Generally, an increase in the number of components results in more contact points, and a larger number of solder joints are required to further electrically couple these contact points. Additionally, for conventional antenna devices operating in more than one frequency band, glitch-free and interference-free communication is always a challenge.

[0004] Therefore, in view of the above discussion, there is a need to overcome the above-mentioned drawbacks associated with conventional antenna devices. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention aims to provide an antenna device, an antenna device array, and a base station including one or more antenna devices. The present invention aims to provide a solution to address the existing problems of structural and manufacturing complexity and installation work associated with conventional antenna devices. The object of the present invention is to provide a solution that at least partially solves the problems encountered in the prior art and provides an improved antenna device that is easy to install and has lower structural and manufacturing complexity. Additionally, the antenna device of the present invention can operate in multiple frequency bands, improving performance.

[0006] The object of the present invention is achieved by the solution provided in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0007] In a first aspect, the present invention provides an antenna device. The antenna device includes a substrate having a substantially planar shape. The antenna device further includes a first radiator for radiating a first electromagnetic signal in a first frequency band. The first radiator has a substantially planar shape parallel to the substrate. The antenna device further includes a first balun extending along a first axis between the substrate and the first radiator. The first axis is perpendicular to the substrate and the first radiator. The first balun is arranged to support the first radiator. The antenna device further includes a second radiator for radiating a second electromagnetic signal in a second frequency band. The second radiator has one or more planar structures extending along the first axis and arranged between the substrate and the first radiator.

[0008] The antenna device of the present invention is a low-profile, lightweight, and compact antenna device that integrates more frequency bands and maintains a small package mode. Compared with conventional antenna devices, the above antenna device is compact in size and low in complexity (i.e., structural and manufacturing complexity). For example, the above antenna device does not use components such as probes or cables to connect the feeder, thereby reducing the overall complexity of the antenna device. In addition, the architecture of the above antenna device allows high-frequency band antenna elements and low-frequency band antenna elements to be integrated on a single printed circuit board (PCB), that is, integrated on the substrate. Accordingly, the feeders of the high-frequency band antenna elements and the low-frequency band antenna elements are printed or etched on the PCB. Therefore, the number of solder joints required for installing the antenna device is reduced. In addition, the architecture of the above antenna device is suitable for implementing additional discrete architectures in multi-band (i.e., having more than two frequency bands) antenna devices. In addition, the relative positioning of the radiating elements (e.g., the first radiator, the second radiator) simplifies the arrangement of the antenna device by having a smaller number of moving parts and thus having a more compact design or structural integrity. Therefore, the overall structural complexity and manufacturing complexity associated with the antenna device are reduced, which in turn reduces the installation work in terms of time, cost, and labor. In one example, for installing the antenna device, the second radiator (integrated with the first balun) is initially soldered to the substrate, and then the first radiator is soldered to the first balun.

[0009] In one implementation, the second radiator is integrally formed with the first balun.

[0010] The second radiator and the first balun are formed into an integral structure, thereby reducing the number of moving parts and solder joints of the antenna device. This in turn provides compactness and improved structural integrity for the antenna device.

[0011] In another implementation, the second radiator includes a grounding capacitor arranged to capacitively ground the second radiator.

[0012] In yet another implementation, the grounding capacitor is formed by a conductive path extending on one or more planar structures of the second radiator.

[0013] The grounding capacitor serves as a filter for the high frequency feed in the antenna device, i.e., to avoid any resonance in multiple frequency bands. Generally, the grounding capacitor enables reduction of the electric field susceptibility (which may be caused by the high frequency feed), which in turn reduces the interference to the output signal of the antenna device. In other words, the grounding capacitor enables the antenna device to perform communication without glitches and interference. Additionally, by using the grounding capacitor as a conductive path, the overall complexity of the antenna device is also reduced.

[0014] In yet another implementation, the second balun is integrally formed with the second radiator.

[0015] The second radiator and the second balun are formed as an integral structure, thereby reducing the number of moving parts and solder joints of the second radiator. Generally, the integrated second balun provides overall compactness and improved structural integrity to the antenna device.

[0016] In yet another implementation, the second radiator is formed by any one of a printed circuit board, a board with metal foil deposits, a folded metal sheet, or a molded interconnect device.

[0017] Implementing the second radiator in such a way makes the antenna device compact and reduces the structural complexity and installation work.

[0018] In yet another implementation, the first balun is formed in a cross configuration of two intersecting planar structures.

[0019] The cross configuration of the first balun can effectively support the first radiator on the first balun. Additionally, the cross configuration of the first balun simplifies the connection to the feeder line and also enables the first radiator to have no features such as any slots, connections, etc. This enables improvement of the performance of the antenna device in terms of signal interference and provides the antenna device with the ability to accommodate one or more radiators below the first radiator without degrading the performance.

[0020] In yet another implementation, the first balun includes one or more feeder lines for the first radiator.

[0021] The feeder for the first radiator is integrated with the first balun to eliminate the need for a separate feeder for the first radiator, which reduces the structural complexity of the above antenna device. This also helps to reduce the installation work.

[0022] In yet another implementation, the second radiator includes a plurality of radiating arms, each radiating arm including a first portion extending radially outward from a first axis and a second portion extending in a direction parallel to the first axis from an outer extent of the first portion.

[0023] The radiating arms of the second radiator including the first portion and the second portion form a bent L-shaped structure and enable the radiating arms to be compactly arranged in the second radiator, and greatly contribute to reducing the form factor of the antenna device. The radiating arms are arranged in a planar structure of the second radiator, which enables the second radiator to occupy a smaller footprint while reducing the scattering effect on the first radiator.

[0024] In yet another implementation, the first radiator includes one or more coplanar structures.

[0025] The one or more coplanar structures form a single planar structure of the first radiator, which enables the first radiator to be effectively supported by the cross structure of the first balun. In addition, this planar structure of the first radiator keeps the functional components thereon in a single plane, which reduces the overall functional complexity, structural complexity, and manufacturing complexity associated with the first radiator.

[0026] In yet another implementation, at least the substrate and the first radiator are formed of a printed circuit board.

[0027] The substrate and the first radiator formed of a printed circuit board reduce the overall manufacturing complexity of the antenna device and reduce the installation work. In addition, this enables the overall complexity associated with designing an antenna device that needs to operate in more than one frequency band to be reduced.

[0028] In yet another implementation, the second frequency band does not overlap with the first frequency band.

[0029] The second frequency band does not overlap with the first frequency band to avoid interference or scattering effects on the signals during the operation of the antenna device.

[0030] In yet another implementation, the second frequency band is higher than the first frequency band.

[0031] The second frequency band is higher than the first frequency band so that the antenna device can operate in two different frequency bands or a dual - band configuration of the antenna device. This makes the antenna device of the present invention efficient because, instead of using two different antenna devices, the same antenna device can be used for a specific task or location where signals in two different frequency bands will be transmitted and / or received by the antenna device.

[0032] In yet another implementation, both the first radiator and the second radiator are dual - polarized.

[0033] The dual - polarized first radiator and second radiator enable the antenna device to operate simultaneously in two different polarization orientations. This aspect of being dual - polarized enables polarization diversity, which can increase capacity and reduce installation costs. Generally, this is because using dual - polarization can reduce multipath fading and double the spectral utilization rate.

[0034] In yet another implementation, each radiator includes four radiating elements arranged at + / –45 degrees.

[0035] Arranging four radiating elements at + / –45 degrees enables the first radiator and the second radiator to have similar radiation patterns.

[0036] In yet another implementation, the radiation patterns of the first radiator and the second radiator are parallel to the first axis.

[0037] Since the radiation patterns of the first radiator and the second radiator are parallel to the first axis, the directivity of the antenna device is improved.

[0038] In a second aspect, the present invention provides an antenna device array. The array includes one or more antenna devices of the first aspect.

[0039] The antenna device array of the second aspect achieves all the advantages and effects of the antenna device of the first aspect.

[0040] In yet another implementation, the antenna device array includes one or more additional antenna devices for radiating a third electromagnetic signal in a third frequency band different from the first frequency band and the second frequency band.

[0041] Using one or more additional devices together with the antenna device enables the antenna device to operate in multiple frequency bands (i.e., more than two frequency bands). This can improve the overall capabilities of the antenna device and enables the antenna device to accommodate one or more antenna devices around itself without degrading its performance.

[0042] In a third aspect, the present invention provides a base station, which includes one or more antenna devices according to the first aspect.

[0043] The base station having one or more antenna devices of the first aspect realizes all the advantages and effects of the antenna devices of the first aspect.

[0044] It should be understood that all the implementation manners discussed above can be combined together. It should be noted that all the devices, elements, circuit systems, units and apparatuses described in this application can be implemented by software or hardware elements or any combination thereof. All the steps performed by various entities described in this application and the functions described as being performed by various entities are intended to mean that the corresponding entities are adapted or used to perform the corresponding steps and functions. Although in the following description of specific embodiments, the specific functions or steps to be performed by external entities are not reflected in the description of the specific detailed elements of the entity performing the specific steps or functions, it should be clear to those skilled in the art that these methods and functions can be implemented by corresponding hardware or software elements or any combination thereof. It can be understood that, without departing from the scope of the present invention defined by the appended claims, the features of the present invention can be easily combined in various combinations.

[0045] Other aspects, advantages, features and purposes of the present invention will become apparent according to the accompanying drawings and the detailed description of the illustrative implementation manners interpreted in conjunction with the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] The above invention content and the following detailed description of the illustrative embodiments will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present invention, an exemplary configuration of the present invention is shown in the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the specific methods and means disclosed herein. In addition, those skilled in the art should understand that the drawings are not drawn to scale. Whenever possible, the same elements are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0047] Now refer to the following drawings, and the embodiments of the present invention will be described by way of example only. In the drawings:

[0048] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an antenna device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 2 is according to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 1 a top view of the antenna device in, where the first radiator is removed;

[0050] Figure 3 is according to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 1 a perspective view of the radiation arms of the second radiator of the antenna device in;

[0051] Figure 4 is a perspective view of an antenna device according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0052] Figure 5 is a block diagram of an antenna device array according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

[0053] Figure 6 is a block diagram of a base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] In the drawings, underlined numbers are used to indicate the item on which the underlined number is located or an item adjacent to the underlined number. Non-underlined numbers are associated with the item identified by the line connecting the non-underlined number to the item. When a number is non-underlined and has an associated arrow, the non-underlined number is used to identify the general item to which the arrow points. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0055] The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present invention and ways in which these embodiments can be implemented. Although some modes of implementing the present invention have been disclosed, those skilled in the art will recognize that other embodiments for implementing or practicing the present invention are also possible.

[0056] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an antenna device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The antenna device 100 includes a substrate 102 having a substantially planar shape. The antenna device 100 further includes a first radiator 104. The first radiator 104 has a substantially planar shape parallel to the substrate 102. The first radiator 104 is supported by a first balun 108 extending along a first axis X between the substrate 102 and the first radiator 104. The first axis X is perpendicular to the substrate 102 and the first radiator 104. The antenna device 100 further includes a second radiator 106. The second radiator 106 includes one or more planar structures. For example, the second radiator 106 includes a first planar structure 114A, a second planar structure 114B, a third planar structure 114C, and a fourth planar structure 114D (collectively referred to as planar structures 114A to 114D below). The planar structures 114A to 114D extend along the first axis X and are arranged between the substrate 102 and the first radiator 104. The first radiator 104 includes one or more coplanar structures, for example, a first coplanar structure 112A, a second coplanar structure 112B, a third coplanar structure 112C, and a fourth coplanar structure 112D (collectively referred to as coplanar structures 112A to 112D below).

[0057] In one embodiment, the coplanar structures 112A to 112D are placed adjacent to each other. For example, the coplanar structures 112A to 112D are arranged in a grid structure and adjacent to each other, such that the coplanar structures 112A to 112D together form a rectangular planar structure. In addition, each of the coplanar structures 112A to 112D includes one or more radiating elements, such as radiating terminals 116. In one example, each of the coplanar structures 112A to 112D includes a plurality of radiating terminals (e.g., four or six radiating elements). For example, the coplanar structure 112A is shown to include six radiating terminals 116, and similarly, the other coplanar structures 112C and 112D also include six radiating terminals. The radiating terminals 116 are arranged on the peripheral regions of the coplanar structures 112A to 112D respectively. Specifically, the radiating terminals 116 are arranged on the peripheral region of the rectangular planar structure formed by the coplanar structures 112A to 112D together. The radiating terminals 116 are essentially two identical conductive elements, for example, coplanar metal wires or metal rods or metal plates. In one example, the radiating terminals 116 are metal traces on a printed circuit board (PCB). Therefore, it should be understood that each of the coplanar structures 112A to 112D is a PCB. In addition, the two conductive elements of each radiating terminal 116 are placed in directions facing each other. It should be understood that, without limiting the scope of the present invention, the number and orientation of the radiating elements in the coplanar structures 112A to 112D can be changed.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the antenna device 100 of the present invention can also be referred to as a radiating element, a radiating device, or an antenna element. The antenna device 100 is generally used for mobile communication. For example, the antenna device 100 can be used in a wireless communication system. In addition, the antenna device 100 can be used alone or jointly as an array of such antenna devices in a communication system. Examples of such wireless communication systems include, but are not limited to, base stations (e.g., Evolved Node B (eNB), gNB, etc.), repeater devices, customer premise equipment, and other customized telecommunication hardware.

[0059] The first radiator 104 is used to radiate a first electromagnetic signal in a first frequency band. It will be apparent that the first electromagnetic signal is radiated when the antenna device 100 is operating. An "electromagnetic signal" includes a signal that propagates through the simultaneous periodic variation of the electric field strength and the magnetic field strength, including radio waves, microwaves, infrared rays, light, ultraviolet rays, X-rays, and gamma rays. The electromagnetic signal must occupy a frequency range that carries most of its energy, and this frequency range is called its bandwidth. A frequency band can represent a communication channel or can be subdivided into various frequency bands according to the implementation, for example, a first frequency band, a second frequency band, and so on. In one example, the first frequency band can be defined by a frequency range (i.e., 690 MHz to 960 MHz).

[0060] According to one embodiment, the first radiator 104 may be a dipole antenna. A "dipole antenna" refers to a type of antenna that produces a radiation pattern approximating that of a basic electric dipole, where the basic electric dipole has a radiation structure supporting a line current that is excited such that the current has only one node at each end. In the present invention, this aspect of the dipole antenna is defined or implemented by the radiation terminals 116 of the coplanar structures 112A to 112D. Generally, a dipole antenna (i.e., the radiation terminals 116) is defined by two identical conductive elements of equal length, which are oriented end-to-end, with a feeder (e.g., a wire for electrical connection) connected therebetween. Generally, the size of each conductive element is approximately one quarter of the wavelength of the desired operating frequency.

[0061] According to one embodiment, as Figure 1 shown, the first radiator 104 has a planar structure that has an opening 110 (or an aperture, not shown) at a substantially central position of the first radiator 104. In one example, the opening is a cross-shaped slot for receiving the end 120 of the first balun 108. However, it is obvious that the shape of the opening can be any other shape, such as circular, elliptical, rectangular, square, or any custom pattern for receiving and accommodating the end 120 of the first balun 108. It should be understood that, according to the shape of the opening, the end (e.g., the end 120) of the first balun 108 can be configured to have a similar shape. The arrangement of the opening and the end 120 of the first balun 108 enables the first balun 108 to support the first radiator 104 thereon. In addition, the first radiator 104 is spaced apart from the substrate 102, which simplifies the arrangement of other radiators (e.g., the second radiator 106) below the first radiator 104, thereby increasing the compactness of the antenna device 100 without degrading the performance of the antenna device 100. The end 120 enables the provision of support and feeding current to the first radiator 104 without any additional components in the antenna device 100.

[0062] As described above, the antenna device 100 includes more than one radiator, e.g., the first radiator 104 and the second radiator 106. In these embodiments, electromagnetic signals are radiated simultaneously by different radiators operating in different frequency bands (e.g., a high frequency band and a low frequency band). The first radiator 104 is a low frequency band radiator, where the first frequency band corresponds to a lower operating frequency compared to the frequency band (e.g., the second frequency band) in which the second radiator 106 operates.

[0063] The second radiator 106 is configured to radiate a second electromagnetic signal in a second frequency band. The second radiator 106 includes one or more planar structures, e.g., a first planar structure 114A, a second planar structure 114B, a third planar structure 114C, and a fourth planar structure 114D (collectively referred to as planar structures 114A through 114D). The planar structures 114A through 114D extend along a first axis X and are disposed between the substrate 102 and the first radiator 104. Further, as shown, the length of the planar structures 114A through 114D (along the first axis X) is less than the length of the first balun 108, such that the planar structures 114A through 114D are spaced apart from the first radiator 104 (specifically, spaced apart from the coplanar structures 112A through 112D). Further, as shown, the planar structures 114A through 114D are coupled to the substrate 102. In one example, each of the planar structures 114A through 114D includes at least one connecting tab extending from the planar structures 114A through 114D, e.g., one or two connecting tabs, and the substrate 102 includes corresponding holes for receiving at least one of the connecting tabs therethrough to enable snap-fit coupling between the planar structures 114A through 114D and the substrate 102. Alternatively, the planar structures 114A through 114D and the substrate 102 may be connected using connectors such as brackets and screws, or may be integrally coupled to each other. The planar structures 114A through 114D are also coupled to the first balun 108, which is described in detail later.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the planar structures 114A through 114D may be configured to have a rectangular shape. However, it is apparent that the shape of the planar structures 114A through 114D may be varied without limiting the scope of the present invention. For example, the planar structures 114A through 114D may be configured to have a square, oval, or any polygonal shape.

[0065] In one embodiment, the second radiator 106 is formed of any one of a printed circuit board, a board with a metal foil deposit, a folded metal sheet, or a molded interconnect device. Generally, the planar structures 114A to 114D of the second radiator 106 can be formed using a printed circuit board (PCB), which may include at least a feeder line, a radiation line, an impedance matching line, etc. In one example, the second radiator 106 (i.e., the planar structures 114A to 114D) can be implemented as a single-layer PCB, a multi-layer PCB, a flexible PCB, or a rigid-flex PCB. In addition, the second radiator 106 can be formed using a folded metal sheet, such as a metal sheet made of copper, aluminum, iron, etc. In addition, the second radiator 106 can be formed using a board / plate with a metal foil deposit. The board / plate with a metal foil deposit is formed by metallization achieved by printing conductive traces or paths on one or both sides of the board. The board can be a thermoplastic component, a metal plate, a semiconductor wafer, etc. In addition, the printing of the conductive traces is performed using at least one of aerosol jetting, inkjet printing, or screen printing. In addition, the second radiator 106 can be formed using a molded interconnect device. A molded interconnect device refers to an injection-molded thermoplastic component integrated with an electrical network. A molded interconnect device (MID) employs a thermoplastic substrate having an integrated circuit system formed by metallization. The MID includes at least a circuit board, a housing, a connector, and a connecting cable combined into a fully functional compact device.

[0066] It will be apparent that the antenna device 100 is mainly made of a PCB, that is, the substrate 102, the first radiator 104, the second radiator 106, and the first balun 108 are generally all made of a PCB. In one example, such a PCB can be a multi-layer printed circuit board. In addition, such a multi-layer PCB can be provided with a filtering device and a power combiner to distribute power to different radiators.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the planar structures 114A to 114D of the second radiator 106 are arranged between the substrate 102 and the first radiator 104 in such a manner that the electromagnetic signals (e.g., the first electromagnetic signal, the second electromagnetic signal) radiated by each of the two radiators (i.e., the first radiator 104 and the second radiator 106) during operation do not interfere with each other. It is noted that each of the planar structures 114A to 114D includes the radiation elements of the second radiator 106 (detailed later). The planar structures 114A to 114D are arranged perpendicular to each other to achieve 180-degree out-of-phase radiation. In addition, the second radiator 106 includes dipole metallization for each of the planar structures 114A to 114D extending along the first balun 108. "Dipole metallization" refers to a conductive coating or metal deposition on a non-metallic surface. The metal of the conductive coating or metal deposition includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: copper, stainless steel, aluminum, galvanized steel, silicon, and other such metals. Generally, each of the planar structures 114A to 114D serves as a high-frequency radiation component of the second radiator 106, which is detailed later.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the substrate 102 is a flat metal sheet or metal plate or printed circuit board for supporting one or more elements in the antenna device 100 (e.g., the first balun 108 or the second radiator 106). The substrate 102 can be implemented as a single-layer printed circuit board, or can be implemented as a multi-layer printed circuit board, such as a double-layer PCB, a multi-layer PCB. Additionally, the substrate 102 can be a flexible PCB or a rigid-flex PCB. Furthermore, the substrate 102 can be formed using a folded metal sheet, such as a metal sheet made of copper, aluminum, iron, etc. In addition, the substrate 102 can be formed using a board / plate having a metal foil deposition thereon. In one embodiment, the metal foil deposition in the substrate 102 can be formed using metallization achieved by printing conductive traces or paths on the surface of the board. The board can be a thermoplastic component, a metal plate, a semiconductor wafer, etc. The substrate 102 includes the circuitry of the antenna device, including but not limited to feed lines, feed nodes, and similar electrical components.

[0069] As shown in the figure, the first balun 108 extends along a first axis X between the substrate 102 and the first radiator 104. The first axis X is perpendicular to the substrate 102 and the first radiator 104, and the first balun 108 is arranged to support the first radiator 104 thereon. The first balun 108 is also capable of supporting the second radiator 106. According to one embodiment, the second radiator 106 is integrally formed with the first balun 108. The first balun 108 extends perpendicular to the substrate 102 to form an integral structure with the second radiator 106. For example, the second radiator 106 may be coupled to the first balun 108 by an integral molding process. Alternatively, the second radiator 106 may be detachably coupled to the first balun 108.

[0070] As shown in the figure, the first balun 108 is formed in a cross configuration having two intersecting planar structures arranged orthogonally to each other, namely a first intersecting planar structure 120A and a second intersecting planar structure 120B. The first intersecting planar structure 120A and the second intersecting planar structure 120B are integrally formed with the planar structures 114A to 114D of the second radiator 106. In one embodiment, the first balun 108 includes a slot or opening (not shown) for receiving at least connection portions extending from each of the planar structures 114A to 114D, such that snap-fit coupling therebetween is enabled. Alternatively, the planar structures 114A to 114D may include slots or openings, and the first balun 108 may include complementary connection portions that extend to effect snap-fit coupling therebetween. Additionally, the first balun 108 may be coupled to the planar structures 114A to 114D using brackets, screws, etc. As shown in the figure, the first planar structure 112A and the third planar structure 112C are coupled to the first intersecting structure 120A, and the second planar structure 112B and the fourth planar structure 112D are coupled to the second intersecting structure 120B.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the first balun 108 in the antenna device 100 is a balancing unit for converting an unbalanced signal into a balanced signal. In operation, the first balun 108 provides a balanced signal as the output of the radiation terminal 116. It should be understood that, at a basic level, the first balun 108 is implemented by metal deposition on the first intersecting plane structure 120A and the second intersecting plane structure 120B. In other words, the first intersecting plane structure 120A and the second intersecting plane structure 120B are PCBs where metal deposition exists, which enables the first balun 108 to provide a balanced signal as the input to the radiation terminal 116. Generally, the first balun 108 is operable to provide currents with the same magnitude and opposite phases to the radiation terminal 116. The first balun 108 may also include one or more electrical components or electrical connections or feeders having a certain amount of capacitance and inductance, and the certain amount of capacitance and inductance generate a frequency that makes the reactance caused by the self-inductance and self-capacitance of the first balun 108 in a resonant state. It should be understood that the first balun 108 may operate at this resonant frequency or at a frequency greater than or less than this resonant frequency.

[0072] It should be understood that the radiators (e.g., the first radiator 104, the second radiator 106) operate at a given impedance value or reactance value of the electrical network for transmitting input signals and output signals. Impedance matching of the antenna device 100 is necessary to avoid signal loss and glitches during operation. Herein, a ground capacitor in the antenna device 100 is employed to perform antenna matching.

[0073] In one embodiment, the second frequency band does not overlap with the first frequency band. In other words, the first frequency band may be different from the second frequency band, and this difference between the two may be substantial or non-substantial. Thus, the antenna device 100 is a dual-band antenna device, that is, for radiating electromagnetic signals simultaneously in two frequency bands. In one example, any two frequency bands can be selected from the following ranges: for example, 690 MHz to 960 MHz and 1.4 GHz to 2.2 GHz, which can be radiated simultaneously. In addition, the first radiator 104 and the second radiator 106 can simultaneously radiate electromagnetic signals in two frequency bands, as well as electromagnetic signals in two different frequency bands within the operating range of millimeter wave frequencies, or a combination thereof.

[0074] In one embodiment, the second frequency band is higher than the first frequency band, that is, the operating range of the second frequency band is greater than that of the first frequency band. Accordingly, the first radiator 104 operates in the low frequency band, while the second radiator 106 operates in the high frequency band. For example, the first radiator 104 may operate in the range of 690 MHz to 960 MHz, while the second radiator 106 may operate in the range of 1.4 GHz to 2.2 GHz.

[0075] According to one embodiment, each of the first radiator 104 and the second radiator 106 is dual-polarized. The term "dual-polarized" means that each of the first radiator 104 and the second radiator 106 can simultaneously respond to horizontally polarized radio waves and vertically polarized radio waves. For example, each of the first radiator 104 and the second radiator 106 can simultaneously transmit or receive polarized radio waves in the horizontal direction and the vertical direction (i.e., along two mutually perpendicular directions). In other words, each of the first radiator 104 and the second radiator 106 includes a pair of orthogonal radiation patterns, and this pair of orthogonal radiation patterns can be excited by separate ports in a single configuration. In addition, this aspect of dual polarization enables the first radiator 104 and the second radiator 106 to be used as transmitters or receivers simultaneously, which increases the communication channel capacity.

[0076] In one embodiment, each radiator (i.e., the first radiator 104 and the second radiator 106) includes four radiation terminals arranged at + / –45 degrees. The term "radiating element" refers to the unit in the antenna device 100 that is used to radiate or receive electromagnetic signals. As Figure 1 shown, the first radiator 104 includes four coplanar structures 112A to 112D, and the second radiator 106 includes four planar structures 114A to 114D. Therefore, each coplanar structure among the four coplanar structures 112A to 112D in the first radiator 104 and each planar structure among the four planar structures 114A to 114D in the second radiator 106 can be regarded as a radiation terminal. However, each of the coplanar structures 112A to 112D and the planar structures 114A to 114 can include one or more radiation terminals. For example, each of the coplanar structures 112A to 112D respectively includes six radiation terminals 116, and each of the planar structures 114A to 114D respectively includes a single radiation terminal, that is, radiation arms 302A to 302D. In addition, it is obvious that the term "radiating element" and the term "radiation terminal" can generally be referred to as the unit in the antenna device 100 that is used to radiate or receive electromagnetic signals.

[0077] The radiating terminals are arranged at + / –45 degrees. As described above, the four coplanar structures 112A to 112D and the four planar structures 114A to 114D are regarded as radiating terminals. Therefore, the coplanar structures 112A to 112D are arranged at + / –45 degrees relative to each other, and similarly, the planar structures 114A to 114D are arranged at + / –45 degrees relative to each other. Generally, for the first radiator 104 to be dual-polarized, the coplanar structures 112A to 112D are arranged at +45 degrees and –45 degrees relative to the first axis X (as Figure 1 shown, i.e., the vertical direction). In this case, the coplanar structures 112A and 112C that are diagonally positioned with respect to each other can be regarded as constituting a pair of dipoles for single polarization, and the coplanar structures 112B and 112D that are diagonally positioned with respect to each other can be regarded as another pair of dipoles for providing dual polarization to the first radiator 104. Similarly, for the second radiator 106 to be dual-polarized, the planar structures 114A to 114D are arranged at +45 degrees and –45 degrees relative to the first axis X (i.e., the vertical direction, which can alternatively also be the horizontal direction). The coplanar structures 114A and 114C that are diagonally positioned with respect to each other can be regarded as constituting a pair of dipoles for single polarization, and the coplanar structures 114B and 114D that are diagonally positioned with respect to each other can be regarded as another pair of dipoles for providing dual polarization to the second radiator 106. Therefore, the positioning or orientation of the four radiating elements (i.e., the coplanar structures 112A to 112D and the planar structures 114A to 114D) of the first radiator 104 and the second radiator 106 respectively enables the antenna device 100 to operate simultaneously in two different polarization orientations.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the radiation directions of the first radiator 104 and the second radiator 106 are parallel to the first axis X. The term "radiation direction" refers to the direction in which the antenna device 100 propagates (i.e., transmits or receives) electromagnetic signals. As shown in the figure, the first radiator 104 (i.e., the coplanar structures 112A to 112D) is arranged along a plane perpendicular to the first axis X, and considering keeping the antenna device 100 in an upright direction (as Figure 1As shown, the first radiator 104 is configured to radiate in a direction parallel to (or along) the first axis X (i.e., in the vertical direction). The second radiator 106 (i.e., the planar structures 114A to 114D) is arranged along a plane parallel to the first axis X and is also configured to radiate in a direction parallel to (or along) the first axis X (i.e., in the vertical direction). It will be apparent that depending on the orientation of the antenna device 100, the radiation direction of the antenna device 100 can be changed. For example, the antenna device 100 can be arranged to radiate in the horizontal direction. In addition, the antenna device 100 (i.e., the first radiator 104 and the second radiator 106) can be configured to radiate in a direction perpendicular to the first axis X. Further, the antenna device 100 can be configured to radiate in two directions (i.e., a direction perpendicular to the first axis X and a direction parallel to the first axis X). In this case, the first radiator 104 and the second radiator 106 are configured to radiate perpendicular to each other.

[0079] According to one embodiment, since the first radiator 104 and the second radiator 106 are arranged on the same printed circuit board, i.e., on the substrate 102, the complexity (i.e., structural complexity and manufacturing complexity) and size of the antenna device 100 are significantly reduced. Further, this compact arrangement of the first radiator 104 and the second radiator 106 on the same printed circuit board does not degrade the performance of any of the radiators and provides the antenna device 100 with the ability to simultaneously support an increased number of frequency bands, which can contribute to an increase in the number of users.

[0080] Now referring to Figure 2 , Figure 2 is a top view of the antenna device 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, where the first radiator 104 (as Figure 1 shown) has been removed. Specifically, Figure 1 shows the inclusion of means for Figure 2 Figure 1 ​Top view of the second radiator 106 of the feeding arrangement 200 of the antenna device 100 in []. As shown, planar structures 114A to 114D are arranged on the substrate 102. In addition, as shown, the feeding arrangement 200 includes a first feeding node 202, and the first feeding node 202 is electrically coupled to the first planar structure 114A and the third planar structure 114C via a first feeder 204. The first feeder 204 branches (through a T-joint) and is connected to the first planar structure 114A and the third planar structure 114C through feeder connectors 204A and 204B. Similarly, a second feeding node 206 is electrically coupled to the second planar structure 114B and the fourth planar structure 114D via a second feeder 208. The second feeder 208 branches (through a T-joint) and is connected to the second planar structure 114B and the fourth planar structure 114D through feeder connectors 210A and 210B. It should be understood that the first feeding node 202 and the second feeding node 206, the first feeder 204 and the second feeder 208, and the feeder connectors 204A and 204B and 210A and 210B are associated with the second radiator 106, that is, used to supply electrical energy to the second radiator 106 to radiate a second electromagnetic signal in a second frequency band. The feeding arrangement 200 further includes a third feeding node 212 and a fourth feeding node 214. The third feeding node 212 and the fourth feeding node 214 are respectively connected to a first intersecting planar structure 120A and a second intersecting planar structure 120B of the first balun 108. Specifically, the third feeding node 212 is coupled to the first intersecting planar structure 120A via a third feeder 216 and a feeder connector 218. Similarly, the fourth feeding node 214 is coupled to the second intersecting planar structure 120B via a fourth feeder 220 and a feeder connector 222. It should be understood that the third feeding node 212 and the fourth feeding node 214, the third feeder 216 and the fourth feeder 220, and the feeder connectors 218 and 222 are associated with the first radiator 104 (as Figure 1 shown) and are used to supply electrical energy to the first radiator 104 via the first balun 108 to radiate a first electromagnetic signal in a first frequency band.

[0081] In one embodiment, the feed arrangement 200, particularly the first to fourth feeders 204, 208, 216, 220 and the feeder connectors 204A, 204B, 210A, 210B, 218 and 222, is made of a conductive material such as copper or aluminum. Advantageously, the first to fourth feeders 204, 208, 216, 220 and the feeder connectors 204A, 204B, 210A, 210B, 218 and 222 are laid on the substrate 102 to simplify the structural complexity of the antenna device 100. This eliminates the need for additional components for the feed arrangement 200 that may cause unwanted intersections when supplying electrical energy to the first radiator 104 and the second radiator 106. For example, the additional components are coaxial cables, flexible circuit traces, conductive housing structures, springs, screws, welded connections, solder joints, brackets, metal plates or other conductive structures.

[0082] It will be apparent that the first balun 108 includes one or more feeders (not shown) for the first radiator 104. Each of the one or more feeders is a conductive path (e.g., metal wiring or trace) laid on the first balun 108 for supplying the required electrical energy or signal to the first radiator 104. As Figure 2 shown, it will be apparent that the third feed node 212 and the fourth feed node 214, particularly the third feeder 216 and the fourth feeder 220 and the feeder connectors 218 and 222 (similarly as Figure 3 shown), are electrically coupled to one or more feeders of the first balun 108 for supplying the required power to the first radiator 104 (as Figure 1 shown).

[0083] Now referring to Figure 3 , Figure 3 a perspective view of the radiating arms of the second radiator 106 of the antenna device 100 in Figure 1 an embodiment of the present invention is shown. As shown, the second radiator 106 includes a plurality of radiating arms, namely a first radiating arm 302A, a second radiating arm 302B, a third radiating arm 302C and a fourth radiating arm 302D, which are collectively referred to as the radiating arms 302A to 302D. It will be apparent that the radiating arms 302A to 302D are respectively associated with (i.e., disposed on or carried by) planar structures 114A to 114D (as Figure 1 shown). As shown, each of the plurality of radiating arms 302A to 302D includes two parts. For example, the radiating arms 302A to 302D each include a portion extending away from a first axis X (as Figure 1a first portion extending radially outwardly (as shown) and a second portion extending from the outer edge of the first portion in a direction parallel to the first axis X. For example, the radiating arm 302A includes a first portion 304A that extends radially outwardly away from the first axis X (as Figure 1 shown) and a second portion 306A that extends from the first portion 304A in a direction parallel to the first axis X. It is noted that the first portion 304A and the second portion 306A of the radiating arm 302A together form an L-shaped structure to occupy less overall space and reduce the physical space occupied by the antenna device 100. Similarly, each of the radiating arms 302B to 302D includes a first portion 304B to 304D and a second portion 306B to 306D, respectively. It will be apparent that the radiating arms 302A to 302D act as radiating elements of the second radiator 106.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the second radiator 106 includes a ground capacitor arranged to capacitively ground the second radiator. In addition, the ground capacitor is formed by a conductive path extending on one or more planar structures 114A to 114D (as Figure 1 shown) of the second radiator 106 (as Figure 1 shown). As Figure 3 shown, each of the radiating arms 302A to 302D of the second radiator 106 is respectively coupled to a ground capacitor, such as ground capacitors 308A to 308D. As shown, the ground capacitors 308A to 308D are formed by conductive paths and are electrically coupled to the feeding arrangement 200 described and illustrated in conjunction with Figure 2 shown.

[0085] The ground capacitors 308A to 308D are operable to ground unwanted high-frequency band signals via capacitive coupling. Generally, the capacitive coupling of the ground capacitors 308A to 308D refers to providing a low-impedance path to ground unwanted high-frequency band signals. Generally, the ground capacitors 308A to 308D enable reduction of electric field sensitivity (which may be caused by a high-frequency feed), which in turn reduces interference with the output signal of the antenna device 100. For example, the ground capacitors 308A to 308D act as filters for the high-frequency feed in the antenna device 100, that is, to avoid any resonance in multiple frequency bands. In other words, the ground capacitors 308A to 308D enable the antenna device 100 to perform communication without glitches and interference.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the second balun is integrally formed with the second radiator 106. As Figure 3As shown, the second radiator 106 includes a second balun formed integrally with the second radiator 106, such as second baluns 310A, 310B, 310C, and 310D (collectively referred to hereinafter as second baluns 310A to 310D). The second baluns 310A to 310D are elongated planar structures arranged to extend along the X axis (as Figure 1 shown). The second baluns 310A to 310D are coupled to the radiating arms 302A to 302D at one end thereof and to the ground capacitors 308A to 308D at the other end thereof. The second baluns 310A to 310D are operable to provide a balanced signal as an input to the radiating arms 302A to 302D, that is, to provide currents having the same magnitude and opposite phases to the radiating arms 302A to 302D. The second baluns 310A to 310D typically include metal deposition, that is, they can be implemented by a PCB having such metal deposition, and this metal deposition enables the PCB to provide a balanced input signal to the radiating terminals 116. It will be apparent that the second baluns 310A to 310D are operable to provide (or carry) the electrical connections or operations required for the second radiator 106.

[0087] Referring again to Figure 1 , the planar structures 114A to 114D of the second radiator 106 are shown as rectangular structures carrying the radiating arms 302A to 302D, the ground capacitors 308A to 308D, and the second baluns 310A to 310D. It will be apparent that the respective portions of the planar structures 114A to 114D other than the radiating arms 302A to 302D, the ground capacitors 308A to 308D, and the second baluns 310A to 310D will serve as support portions, thereby achieving the structural rigidity or integrity of the second radiator 106. In this case, the support portions can be made of only a base material for providing only structural rigidity or integrity. In other cases, these support portions can also carry electrical components or electronic components required for the operation of the second radiator 106.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the feeders 204, 208 (as Figure 2As best shown, all can be regarded as power combiners. As shown in the figure, the feeder (or power combiner) 204 is connected to the radiating arms 302A and 302C, and the feeder (or power combiner) 208 is connected to the radiating arms 302B and 302D. In addition, the radiating arms 302A and 302C are located in the same plane and spaced apart from each other, which enables the radiating arms 302A and 302C to achieve 180° out-of-phase radiation. Accordingly, the radiating arms 302A and 302C can be operated to have a specific polarization, such as a first polarization, that is, the direction of the electric field oscillation of the radio wave when the radio wave propagates through the medium. Similarly, the radiating arms 302B and 302D are located in the same plane and spaced apart from each other, which enables the radiating arms 302B and 302D to also achieve 180° out-of-phase radiation and can be operated to have a specific polarization, such as a second polarization. This enables the second radiator 106 to have dual polarization. During operation, the feeders (or power combiners) 204 and 208 are configured with a 180° delay to achieve in-phase radiation of the propagating electromagnetic signal.

[0089] In one embodiment, the radio-frequency (RF) performance of the antenna device 100 can be understood according to various performance parameters (e.g., Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR) parameter and beam width). In one example, the simulation results for the RF performance of the first radiator 104 in the antenna device 100 can include the following results: from 690 MHz to 960 MHz, VSWR < 1.5; horizontal 3 dB beam width = 65° + 3°. In addition, the simulation results for the RF performance of the second radiator 106 can include the following results: from 1427 MHz to 1535 MHz, VSWR < 1.53, where at 1427 MHz, the peak is 2, the horizontal 3 dB beam width is 60° at 1427 MHz, and 58° at 2200 MHz.

[0090] Now refer to Figure 4 , Figure 4 which shows a perspective view of an antenna device 400 according to another embodiment of the present invention. It needs to be combined (combined Figure 1The antenna device 400 can be understood with reference to the antenna device 100 (shown and described). The antenna device 400 is substantially similar to the antenna device 100 in structure and function. For example, the antenna device 400 also includes a substrate 102, a first radiator 104, and a second radiator 106. However, the antenna device 400 further includes one or more additional antenna devices, such as antenna devices 402, 404, and 406 (which may be referred to as third radiators). In the present embodiment, the antenna device 400 is shown as including three antenna devices 402, 404, and 406. Alternatively, the antenna device 400 may be configured to include more or fewer such antenna devices, such as four or two antenna devices. In one embodiment, the antenna devices 402, 404, and 406 may be supported by the substrate 102 or, alternatively, may be arranged adjacent to the substrate 102.

[0091] The antenna devices 402, 404, and 406 are configured to radiate a third electromagnetic signal in a third frequency band that is different from the first and second frequency bands. Generally, the antenna devices 402, 404, and 406 are respectively configured to radiate electromagnetic signals in a frequency band that is different from the first frequency band of the first radiator 104 and the second frequency band of the second radiator 106. In one example, the third frequency band may be higher than the second frequency band. For example, the third frequency band may include a range from 1.6 GHz to 2.7 GHz. Thus, the antenna device 400 is configured to operate in multiple frequency bands (i.e., even more than two frequency bands), such as the first, second, and third frequency bands, without generating any interference in these operating frequency bands. The multi-band configuration enables a smaller footprint of the antenna device 400 and allows such a configuration to be integrated in a multi-band environment, where the third frequency band can be set without degrading the radiation and coupling performance. It should be understood that the antenna device 400 is a low-profile antenna, easy to assemble, and has low coupling between different frequency bands. In addition, the antenna device 400 is not limited to any specific combination of frequency bands. For example, one, two, or more than two frequency bands of the antenna device 400 may work together to have multiple (e.g., high, medium, and low) frequency bands that are interleaved between the first, second, and third electromagnetic signals.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the simulation results for the RF performance of the antenna devices 402, 404, and 406 (e.g., third radiators) in the antenna device 400 may include the following results: from 1695 MHz to 2700 MHz, VSWR < 1.53, with a peak of 2.26 at 1890 MHz.

[0093] Now refer to Figure 5 , Figure 5 FIG. shows a block diagram of an antenna device array 500 according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is necessary to combine (combine Figures 1 to 3The antenna device array 500 can be understood with reference to the antenna device 100 (shown and described). The antenna device array 500 includes a plurality of antenna devices arranged in an array or grid form. For example, the antenna device array 500 includes a first antenna device 502, a second antenna device 504, a third antenna device 506, and a fourth antenna device 508 similar to the antenna device 100. The antenna devices 502 to 508 can be connected to a single receiver or transmitter via feeders, and these feeders supply power to the antenna devices 502 to 508 that are in a specific phase relationship to operate together as a single antenna. As described herein, the antenna device 100 operates at dual frequencies, so the antenna device array 500 can operate at one of the dual frequencies or simultaneously at both frequencies. Accordingly, the antenna device array 500 can act as a single antenna or two antennas based on the selection of one or two frequencies.

[0094] In another embodiment, the antenna device array 500 can include a plurality of antenna devices, such as the antenna device 100 and (combined with Figure 4 the antenna device 400 shown and described). In this case, the antenna device array 500 is capable of operating at one or more frequency bands (e.g., a first frequency band, a second frequency band, and a third frequency band), i.e., having one frequency band, two frequency bands, or more than two frequency bands. In addition, the plurality of antenna devices 502 to 508 in the antenna device array 500 can be connected to a plurality of receivers or transmitters via feeders, and these feeders supply power to the plurality of antenna devices that are in a specific phase relationship to operate together as a single antenna or multiple antennas.

[0095] Now refer to Figure 6 , Figure 6 FIG. shows a block diagram of a base station 600 including one or more antenna devices according to an embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment, the base station 600 includes one or more antenna devices similar to the antenna device 100 (combined with Figures 1 to 3 shown and described), such as the antenna device 602. It will be apparent that the base station 600 also includes components or elements operably associated with the antenna device 602. In one example, such components or elements may include suitable logic, circuits, and / or interfaces that can be used to communicate with a plurality of wireless communication devices via the antenna device 602 in a cellular network (e.g., 2G, 3G, 4G, or 5G). Examples of the base station 600 may include, but are not limited to, an evolved NodeB (eNB), a Next Generation NodeB (gNB), etc.

[0096] In one embodiment, the base station 600 can include an antenna device array (e.g., combined with Figure 5An antenna device array 500 is shown and described, which is used as an antenna system to communicate with a plurality of wireless communication devices in uplink communication and downlink communication. Additionally, it will be apparent that the antenna device array 500 may include antenna device 100 and antenna device 400. Further, examples of the plurality of wireless communication devices include, but are not limited to, user equipment (e.g., a smart phone), customer premise equipment, repeater devices, fixed wireless access nodes, or other communication devices or telecommunication hardware.

[0097] Embodiments of the invention described above may be modified without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Expressions used to describe and claim the invention such as "comprising", "including", "incorporating", "having", "is" are intended to be interpreted in a non-exclusive manner, i.e., to allow for the presence of items, components or elements not explicitly described. References to the singular should also be construed as referring to the plural. The term "exemplary" as used herein means "serving as an example, instance, or illustration". Any embodiment described as "exemplary" need not be construed as more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments, and / or exclude features from combination with features from other embodiments. The term "optionally" as used herein means "provided in some embodiments but not in other embodiments". It should be understood that certain features of the invention described in the context of different embodiments for clarity may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, the various features of the invention described in the context of a single embodiment for brevity may also be provided separately or in any suitable combination or as appropriately in any other described embodiment of the invention.

Claims

1. An antenna device (100), characterized in that, the antenna device (100) comprises: a substrate (102) having a substantially planar shape; a first radiator (104) for radiating a first electromagnetic signal in a first frequency band, wherein the first radiator has a substantially planar shape parallel to the substrate (102); a first balun (108) extending along a first axis (X) between the substrate (102) and the first radiator (104), wherein the first axis (X) is perpendicular to the substrate (102) and the first radiator (104), and the first balun (108) is arranged to support the first radiator (104); and a second radiator (106) for radiating a second electromagnetic signal in a second frequency band different from the first frequency band, wherein the second radiator (106) has one or more planar structures (114A - 114D) extending along the first axis (X) and arranged between the substrate (102) and the first radiator (104); wherein the first balun (108) is configured to supply current to the first radiator (104), and the first balun (108) is further arranged to be coupled to and support the second radiator (106); wherein the planar structures (114A - 114D) in the second radiator (106) extend along the same plane as the planar structures in the first balun (108).

2. The antenna device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, the feeder lines of the radiating arms on one planar structure of the second radiator (106) and the feeder lines of the radiating arms on another planar structure of the second radiator (106) are configured with a 180° delay.

3. The antenna device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, the second radiator (106) is integrally formed with the first balun (108).

4. The antenna device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, the second radiator (106) includes ground capacitors (308A - 308D) arranged to capacitively ground the second radiator (106).

5. The antenna device (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that, the ground capacitors (308A - 308D) are formed by conductive paths extending on one or more planar structures (114A - 114D) of the second radiator (106).

6. The antenna device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, second baluns (310A - 310D) are integrally formed with the second radiator (106).

7. The antenna device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second radiator (106) is formed by any one of a printed circuit board, a board with a metal foil deposit, a folded metal sheet, or a molded interconnect device.

8. The antenna device (100) according to claim 1, wherein, the first balun (108) is formed in a cross configuration of two intersecting planar structures (120A, 120B).

9. The antenna device (100) according to claim 1, wherein, the first balun (108) includes one or more feed lines for the first radiator (104).

10. The antenna device (100) according to claim 1, wherein, the first radiator (104) includes one or more coplanar structures (112A - 112D).

11. The antenna device (100) according to claim 1, wherein, at least the substrate (102) and the first radiator (104) are formed by a printed circuit board.

12. The antenna device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, the second frequency band does not overlap with the first frequency band.

13. The antenna device (100) according to claim 12, wherein, the second frequency band is higher than the first frequency band.

14. The antenna device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, both the first radiator (104) and the second radiator (106) are dual - polarized.

15. The antenna device (100) according to claim 14, wherein, each radiator (104, 106) includes four radiating elements arranged at + / –45 degrees.

16. The antenna device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, the radiation directions of the first radiator (104) and the second radiator (106) are parallel to the first axis (X).

17. An antenna device array (500), wherein, the array (500) includes one or more antenna devices (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

18. The array (500) according to claim 17, wherein, the array (500) further includes one or more additional antenna devices (402, 404, 406) for radiating a third electromagnetic signal in a third frequency band different from the first and second frequency bands.

19. A base station (600), wherein, the base station (600) includes one or more antenna devices (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

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