Antenna device

Abstract

An antenna device comprises a plurality of antennas. The antennas comprise first antennas forming a first array and second antennas forming a second array. The first antennas comprise two first predetermined antennas arranged along a first line. A longitudinal direction of one of the first predetermined antennas and another longitudinal direction of the remaining one of the first predetermined antennas intersect each other and define a horizontal plane. Each first antenna predominantly radiates horizontally polarized waves parallel to the horizontal plane. Each second antenna predominantly radiates vertically polarized waves perpendicular to the horizontal plane. The second antennas comprise two second predetermined antennas arranged along a second line. The first and second lines intersect each other when projected onto the horizontal plane in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an antenna device comprising multiple antennas. Background Technology

[0002] For example, this type of antenna device is disclosed in JP H06-260835 (Patent Document 1), the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] like Figure 14 As shown, Patent Document 1 discloses an antenna device 90, which includes a plurality of dipole antennas 92. The dipole antennas 92 are divided into a plurality of antenna groups 94 and a plurality of antenna groups 96. The antenna groups 94 and antenna groups 96 are arranged on a horizontal plane 91. As described above, the antenna device 90 includes antenna groups 94 and antenna groups 96.

[0004] from Figure 14 As can be seen from the arrangement of the dipole antennas 92 shown, each dipole antenna 92 ​​is suitable for polarized waves whose electric field oscillates parallel to the horizontal surface 91. Specifically, each dipole antenna 92 ​​in the antenna group 96 is suitable for polarized waves whose electric field oscillates parallel to the horizontal surface 91. Figure 14 The first horizontally polarized wave oscillates in the transverse direction. In Patent Document 1, this first horizontally polarized wave is referred to as a "horizontal polarized wave". Each dipole antenna 92 ​​of the antenna group 94 is suitable for electric fields in... Figure 14 The antenna array 94 and 96 are arranged alternately. This arrangement reduces interference between the first and second horizontally polarized waves, thus achieving good isolation characteristics. Therefore, according to the technology of Patent Document 1, good isolation characteristics can be obtained in the antenna device 90 that transmits and receives two horizontally polarized waves oscillating in two directions parallel to the horizontal plane and perpendicular to each other.

[0005] In antenna devices that transmit and receive two types of polarized waves (i.e., horizontally polarized waves in which the electric field oscillates in a direction parallel to the horizontal plane and vertically polarized waves in which the electric field oscillates in another direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane), improvements in isolation characteristics are also required. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an antenna device that can improve isolation characteristics for two types of polarized waves, including horizontally polarized waves and vertically polarized waves.

[0007] One aspect of the present invention provides an antenna device comprising a plurality of antennas. The antennas include a plurality of first antennas forming a first array and a plurality of second antennas forming a second array. Each first antenna includes two first predetermined antennas. The longitudinal direction of one of the first predetermined antennas and the longitudinal direction of the remaining one of the first predetermined antennas intersect each other and define a horizontal plane. Each first antenna primarily radiates horizontally polarized waves parallel to the horizontal plane. Each second antenna primarily radiates vertically polarized waves perpendicular to the horizontal plane. The second antenna includes two second predetermined antennas. The two first predetermined antennas are arranged along a first line. The two second predetermined antennas are arranged along a second line. When the first line and the second line are projected onto the horizontal plane in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane, the first line and the second line intersect each other.

[0008] According to one aspect of the invention, a first line connects two first antennas that radiate horizontally polarized waves to each other, and a second line connects two second antennas that radiate vertically polarized waves to each other. When the first and second lines are projected onto a horizontal plane in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane, the first and second lines intersect each other. In other words, the two antennas radiating horizontally polarized waves are arranged to intersect with the two antennas radiating vertically polarized waves. This arrangement is effective in preventing each antenna from receiving radio waves radiated from the other antenna. As a result, radio wave interference (electromagnetic coupling) between the two antennas can be reduced, thereby achieving good isolation characteristics. Therefore, one aspect of the invention provides an antenna device that can improve isolation characteristics for both types of polarized waves, including horizontally polarized waves and vertically polarized waves.

[0009] By studying the following description of preferred embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, one can understand the objectives of the invention and its structure more fully. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a perspective view illustrating an antenna device according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the shape of each antenna is schematically shown.

[0011] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 A plan view of the antenna device.

[0012] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 2 A plan view of the antenna arrangement of the antenna device.

[0013] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 1 Front view of the antenna device.

[0014] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 4 A modified side view of the antenna device.

[0015] Figure 6It is shown Figure 4 Another modified front view of the antenna device.

[0016] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the modification of the first antenna.

[0017] Figure 8 It is shown Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the modified second antenna.

[0018] Figure 9 It is shown Figure 1 A modified perspective view of the antenna device, in which the outlines of the first and second antennas are indicated by dashed lines.

[0019] Figure 10 It is shown Figure 9 A plan view of the antenna assembly, in which supporting members are not shown.

[0020] Figure 11 It is shown Figure 9 A three-dimensional view of the modified antenna device.

[0021] Figure 12 It is shown Figure 9 Another modified plan view of the antenna device, in which the supporting members are not shown.

[0022] Figure 13 It is shown Figure 9 Another modified plan view of the antenna device, in which the supporting components are not shown.

[0023] Figure 14 This is a plan view showing the antenna device of Patent Document 1.

[0024] This invention is readily available in various modifications and alternatives, but specific embodiments thereof are illustrated by way of example in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the drawings and their detailed description are not intended to limit the invention to the specific forms disclosed; rather, the invention is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Detailed Implementation

[0025] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 According to an embodiment of the present invention, the antenna device 10 includes a plurality of antennas 12 and a support member 80 made of an insulator. For example, the antenna device 10 of this embodiment is incorporated into and used in a wireless communication device (not shown), such as a wireless local area network (LAN) device.

[0026] The antenna device 10 in this embodiment includes only the antenna 12 and the support member 80. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the antenna device 10 may include other components besides the antenna 12 and the support member 80. Alternatively, the support member 80 may be provided as needed.

[0027] like Figure 1 As shown, the support member 80 of this embodiment has a base 82 and a protrusion 84. Each of the base 82 and the protrusion 84 has a rectangular shape in a horizontal plane (XY plane) defined by the front-back direction and the left-right direction. The protrusion 84 is located at the center of the base 82 in the horizontal plane and protrudes upward from the base 82 in a vertical direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane.

[0028] In this embodiment, the front-back direction is the X-direction. In this embodiment, "front" refers to the positive X-direction, and "back" refers to the negative X-direction. The left-right direction in this embodiment is the Y-direction. In this embodiment, "right" refers to the positive Y-direction, and "left" refers to the negative Y-direction. The up-down direction in this embodiment is the Z-direction. In this embodiment, "up" refers to the positive Z-direction, and "down" refers to the negative Z-direction.

[0029] The protrusion 84 has a first support portion 86. The first support portion 86 is the upper surface of the protrusion 84. The base 82 has a second support portion 88. The second support portion 88 is the upper surface of the base 82. In this embodiment, both the first support portion 86 and the second support portion 88 are flat surfaces parallel to the horizontal plane and have no protrusions or depressions. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, each of the first support portion 86 and the second support portion 88 may be formed with protrusions and / or depressions. Each of the first support portion 86 and the second support portion 88 may be a flat surface with steps or an inclined surface with steps. Alternatively, each of the first support portion 86 and the second support portion 88 may be a curved surface that is generally parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0030] The antennas 12 in this embodiment have the same linear shape as each other. More specifically, each of the antennas 12 is a dipole antenna. Each antenna 12 has a feed point 122. The feed point 122 of each of the antennas 12 is connected to a transceiver (not shown) via a feed line (not shown). Each of the antennas 12 transmits radio waves based on a signal provided from the transceiver via the feed line, and transmits signals based on received radio waves to the transceiver via the feed line.

[0031] As described above, each of the antennas 12 in this embodiment is a rod-dipole antenna with a linear shape. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, each of the antennas 12 may be an inverted L-shaped antenna composed of linear components, or an inverted F-shaped antenna composed of linear components. Each of the antennas 12 may be a multipole antenna with multiple rods. Alternatively, each of the antennas 12 may be a patch antenna with a planar shape, or a planar inverted F-shaped antenna.

[0032] Antenna 12 includes a plurality of first antennas 32 forming a first array 30 and a plurality of second antennas 52 forming a second array 50. The first array 30 is formed by all the first antennas 32 included in antenna 12. The second array 50 is formed by all the second antennas 52 included in antenna 12. In this embodiment, the first array 30 includes four first antennas 32. In this embodiment, the second array 50 includes four second antennas 52. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the first array 30 may include two or more first antennas 32. The second array 50 may include two or more second antennas 52. Therefore, the number of first antennas 32 may be two, and the number of second antennas 52 may be two. The number of first antennas 32 may be five or more, and the number of second antennas 52 may be five or more.

[0033] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 In this embodiment, the first array 30 is arranged on the first support portion 86 of the support member 80. More specifically, each of the first antennas 32 is located on and extends along the first support portion 86. Each of the first antennas 32 thus arranged has a longitudinal direction extending parallel to the horizontal plane. (See reference...) Figure 2 Each of the first antennas 32 arranged in this way can transmit and receive horizontally polarized waves whose electric field EF oscillates in a direction parallel to the horizontal plane. In other words, each of the first antennas 32 primarily radiates horizontally polarized waves parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0034] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 In this embodiment, the second array 50 is arranged on the second support portion 88 of the support member 80. More specifically, each of the second antennas 52 is located on and extends upward from the second support portion 88. Each of the second antennas 52 thus arranged has a longitudinal direction extending in the vertical direction. (See reference...) Figure 4 Each of the second antennas 52 arranged in this way can transmit and receive vertically polarized waves whose electric field EF oscillates in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane. In other words, each of the second antennas 52 primarily radiates vertically polarized waves perpendicular to the horizontal plane.

[0035] Since each of the antennas 12 in this embodiment has a linear shape, its longitudinal direction is the direction in which the antenna 12 extends. In the case where each of the antennas 12 has multiple rods or planar shapes, an imaginary rectangle circumscribed to the antenna 12 can be defined, and the direction in which the long side of the imaginary rectangle extends can be defined as the longitudinal direction.

[0036] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 4 In this embodiment, all the first antennas 32 are supported by a single part, namely a first support portion 86. The first antennas 32 thus supported lie on their common plane and are parallel to the horizontal plane. Each of the second antennas 52 in this embodiment is supported by a second support portion 88. The lower ends of the second antennas 52 thus supported lie on their common plane and are parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0037] However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the first antenna 32 may be supported by different supporting parts. The second antenna 52 may be supported by different supporting parts. More specifically, the first antenna 32 and the second antenna 52 may each be supported by eight supporting members, instead of a single supporting member 80. The eight supporting members may be separate from each other. The first antenna 32 may be located at different positions in the vertical direction. The lower end of the second antenna 52 may be located at different positions in the vertical direction.

[0038] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 The first antenna 32 includes two first predetermined antennas 32P. The longitudinal direction of one of the first predetermined antennas 32P and the longitudinal direction of the other first predetermined antenna 32P intersect each other and define a horizontal plane.

[0039] Specifically, if the two first predetermined antennas 32P of this embodiment are extended along their respective longitudinal directions, they intersect at right angles on a common plane parallel to the horizontal plane. However, the invention is not limited to this. For example, if the two first predetermined antennas 32P are extended along their respective longitudinal directions, they can intersect each other obliquely on a common plane parallel to the horizontal plane. The positions of the two first predetermined antennas 32P in the vertical direction can be different from each other. In this case, the two first predetermined antennas 32P can extend along skew lines. The longitudinal directions of the two first predetermined antennas 32P can intersect each other on a predetermined plane that intersects the horizontal plane of this embodiment. In this case, the predetermined plane should be defined as the horizontal plane, not the horizontal plane of this embodiment.

[0040] The second antenna 52 includes two second predetermined antennas 52P. In this embodiment, the two second predetermined antennas 52P extend parallel to each other in the vertical direction. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, when viewed along a horizontal plane, the vertical directions of the two second predetermined antennas 52P may intersect each other.

[0041] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 Two first predetermined antennas 32P are arranged along a first line 42. Two second predetermined antennas 52P are arranged along a second line 62. In this embodiment, the first line 42 extends through the feed point 122 of the two first predetermined antennas 32P. In this embodiment, the second line 62 extends through the feed point 122 of the two second predetermined antennas 52P. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, when each of the first antennas 32 has multiple rods or planar shapes, a line passing through the geometric center of each pattern obtained by projecting the two first predetermined antennas 32P in the vertical direction onto a horizontal plane can be defined as the first line 42. Similarly, a line passing through the geometric center of each projected pattern obtained by projecting the two second predetermined antennas 52P in the vertical direction onto a horizontal plane can be defined as the second line 62.

[0042] In this embodiment, each of the first line 42 and the second line 62 extends parallel to the horizontal plane. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, each of the first line 42 and the second line 62 may intersect the horizontal plane.

[0043] refer to Figure 2 When the first line 42 and the second line 62 are projected onto the horizontal plane in a vertical direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane, the first line 42 and the second line 62 intersect each other. Therefore, when the first line 42 and the second line 62 are projected onto the horizontal plane in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane, the first line connects the two first antennas 32 that radiate horizontally polarized waves to each other, and the second line connects the two second antennas 52 that radiate vertically polarized waves to each other, and the projected first line 42 and the projected second line 62 intersect each other.

[0044] As described above, two of the two first predetermined antennas 32P or antennas 12 radiating horizontally polarized waves are arranged such that their longitudinal directions intersect each other. Furthermore, the two first predetermined antennas 32P radiating horizontally polarized waves are arranged to intersect with two of the two second predetermined antennas 52P or antennas 12 radiating vertically polarized waves. Hereafter, the above arrangement is referred to as an "intersecting arrangement".

[0045] According to the aforementioned cross arrangement, radio wave interference (electromagnetic coupling) between the two first antennas 32 radiating horizontally polarized waves can be reduced. Furthermore, radio wave interference between the first antenna 32 radiating horizontally polarized waves and the second antenna 52 radiating vertically polarized waves can be reduced. As a result, good isolation characteristics can be obtained. As described above, the antenna device 10 according to this embodiment can improve the isolation characteristics between horizontally polarized waves and also improve the isolation characteristics between horizontally polarized waves and vertically polarized waves. Therefore, this embodiment provides an antenna device 10 whose isolation characteristics can be improved for both types of polarized waves, including horizontally polarized waves and vertically polarized waves.

[0046] According to this embodiment, every two adjacent first antennas 32 are arranged in an interleaved manner relative to any two adjacent second antennas 52. In other words, every two adjacent first antennas 32 can be defined as two first predetermined antennas 32P. Two of the second antennas 52 arranged in an interleaved manner relative to the first predetermined antennas 32P can be defined as two second predetermined antennas 52P. According to this embodiment, better isolation characteristics can be obtained. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, only two of the first antennas 32 can be arranged in an interleaved manner relative to only two of the second antennas 52. In other words, only two of the first antennas 32 can be first predetermined antennas 32P, and only two of the second antennas 52 can be second predetermined antennas 52P.

[0047] refer to Figure 3 According to this embodiment, when the two first predetermined antennas 32P and the two second predetermined antennas 52P are viewed along a vertical direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane, the two first predetermined antennas 32P are located within an imaginary circle 20, one of the two second predetermined antennas 52P is located at the center of the imaginary circle 20, and the remaining one of the two second predetermined antennas 52P is located on the circumference of the imaginary circle 20. In other words, the distance between one of the second predetermined antennas 52P and each of the first predetermined antennas 32P is less than the radius CR of the imaginary circle 20. Therefore, the two first predetermined antennas 32P are arranged close to the two second predetermined antennas 52P. In the following text, this arrangement is referred to as a "close arrangement".

[0048] In this embodiment, the first predetermined antenna 32P is arranged crosswise relative to the second predetermined antenna 52P. Therefore, even if the first predetermined antenna 32P is arranged closely relative to the second predetermined antenna 52P, interference between the polarized waves of the first predetermined antenna 32P and the polarized waves of the second predetermined antenna 52P can be reduced, thereby improving isolation characteristics. For example, even when a large number of antennas 12 are arranged close to each other in a wireless communication device (not shown), radio wave interference between antennas 12 arranged in a crosswise configuration can be reduced. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the two first predetermined antennas 32P may be located outside the imaginary circle 20.

[0049] See Figure 4 In this embodiment, the first array 30 is located above the second array 50. Since the first array 30 is spaced apart from the second array 50 in the vertical direction, radio wave interference between the first antenna 32 radiating horizontally polarized waves and the second antenna 52 radiating vertically polarized waves can be further reduced. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the first array 30 may be located at the same position as the second array 50 in the vertical direction. Conversely, the first array 30 may be located at a position higher than... Figure 4 The position shown is above the first array 30, or it may be below the second array 50.

[0050] pass Figure 5 and Figure 1 The comparison further explains in more detail that the antenna device 10A shown is a modification of the antenna device 10. Except for the support member 80A, which replaces the support member 80, the antenna device 10A has a structure similar to that of the antenna device 10. The support member 80A has a support portion 88A. The support portion 88A is the upper surface of the support member 80A and is a flat surface extending parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0051] Antenna device 10A includes four first antennas 32 and four second antennas 52, identical to those in antenna device 10. The arrangement of the first antennas 32 and second antennas 52 in the horizontal plane is the same as that in antenna device 10. However, the first antennas 32 and second antennas 52 are supported by their common support 88A. Therefore, the first array 30 is located in the same position in the vertical direction as the second array 50. According to this modification, isolation characteristics can be improved similarly to those in antenna device 10.

[0052] The aforementioned close arrangement of the first predetermined antenna 32P and the second predetermined antenna 52P can be explained from another perspective. (See reference...) Figure 4 as well as Figure 2 When viewed along a direction perpendicular to the second line 62 and parallel to the horizontal plane, one of the two first predetermined antennas 32P is located between the two second predetermined antennas 52P. (Reference) Figure 5 as well as Figure 2 When viewed along a direction perpendicular to the first line 42 and parallel to the horizontal plane, one of the two second predetermined antennas 52P is located between the two first predetermined antennas 32P.

[0053] The first predetermined antenna 32P and the second predetermined antenna 52P in this embodiment are arranged as described above. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, when viewed along a direction perpendicular to the second line 62 and parallel to the horizontal plane, the two first predetermined antennas 32P may be located between the two second predetermined antennas 52P. When viewed along a direction perpendicular to the first line 42 and parallel to the horizontal plane, the two second predetermined antennas 52P may be located between the two first predetermined antennas 32P.

[0054] See Figure 1 In this embodiment, the four first antennas 32 are arranged on a plane parallel to the horizontal plane. In other words, the first array 30 of this embodiment includes four first antennas 32 arranged on a plane parallel to the horizontal plane. Similarly, the four second antennas 52 of this embodiment are arranged on a plane parallel to the horizontal plane. In other words, the second array 50 of this embodiment includes four second antennas 52 arranged on a plane parallel to the horizontal plane. However, the invention is not limited to this. For example, only three of the first antennas 32 may be arranged on a common plane parallel to the horizontal plane, and only three of the second antennas 52 may be arranged on a common plane parallel to the horizontal plane. Therefore, at least one of the first array 30 and the second array 50 may include at least three of the antennas 12 arranged on a plane parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0055] The arrangement for improving the isolation characteristics of the first antenna 32 and the second antenna 52 in this embodiment will then be explained from various further perspectives.

[0056] refer to Figure 2 Each of the first antennas 32, or each of the antennas 12 forming the first array 30 of this embodiment, is located between two adjacent second antennas 52, or between two adjacent antennas 12 forming the second array 50. For example, the first first antenna 32 is located between the first two second second antennas 52. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, each of the second second antennas 52 included in the second array 50 may be located between two of the first antennas 32 included in the first array 30 and adjacent to each other. Therefore, each of the antennas 12 in one of the first array 30 and the second array 50 may be located between two of the antennas 12 included in the remaining one of the first array 30 and the second array 50 and adjacent to each other.

[0057] refer to Figure 3 According to this embodiment, a predetermined line 48 extending along the longitudinal direction of one of the two first predetermined antennas 32P intersects the remaining one of the two first predetermined antennas 32P. However, the invention is not limited thereto, and the predetermined line 48 may be spaced apart from the remaining one of the two first predetermined antennas 32P to a certain extent.

[0058] According to this embodiment, there are four first antennas 32 and four second antennas 52. The four first antennas 32 are respectively arranged at the four corners of an imaginary first rectangle 44. The imaginary first rectangle 44 is located on a plane parallel to the horizontal plane. The four second antennas 52 are respectively arranged at the four corners of an imaginary second rectangle 64. The imaginary second rectangle 64 is located on a plane parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0059] According to this embodiment, when the first rectangle 44 and the second rectangle 64 are viewed vertically, the center of the first rectangle 44 is positioned in the horizontal plane at the same position as the center of the second rectangle 64. Furthermore, the first rectangle 44 is tilted at a predetermined angle relative to the second rectangle 64. The four vertices of the first rectangle 44 are located outside the second rectangle 64, and the four vertices of the second rectangle 64 are located outside the first rectangle 44. Therefore, each of the four sides 46 of the first rectangle 44 is closer to two sides 66 of the second rectangle 64 than the other two sides 66 of the second rectangle 64. The direction along which each of the four sides 46 of the first rectangle 44 intersects the two directions along which the two closest sides 66 of the second rectangle 64 intersect. According to this embodiment, each of the four sides 46 of the first rectangle 44 intersects the two closest sides 66 of the second rectangle 64 that are closer to that side than the other two sides 66 of the second rectangle 64.

[0060] The first antenna 32 and the second antenna 52 in this embodiment are arranged as described above. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, when the first rectangle 44 and the second rectangle 64 are viewed in the vertical direction, the first rectangle 44 may be located within the second rectangle 64, or the second rectangle 64 may be located within the first rectangle 44. The first rectangle 44 and the second rectangle 64 may overlap each other.

[0061] In addition to the modifications already described, this embodiment can be further modified in various ways. The modifications to this embodiment will then be described.

[0062] Will Figure 6 and Figure 4 In comparison, the modified antenna device 10B includes a reflector 16B, which is not provided to the antenna device 10. The antenna device 10B includes four second antennas 52B instead of the second antenna 52 of the antenna device 10. The antenna device 10B has the same structure as the antenna device 10, except for the differences described above. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, a support member 80 may be provided if necessary.

[0063] refer to Figure 6The modified reflector 16B is a flat plate made of metal. The reflector 16B is located on the second support portion 88 of the support member 80. The reflector 16B extends along a horizontal plane. Therefore, the reflector 16B is arranged parallel to the horizontal plane. In other words, the reflector 16B is arranged along a horizontal plane.

[0064] The modified second antennas 52B have the same linear shape as each other. More specifically, each of the second antennas 52B is a monopole antenna. Each of the second antennas 52B has a feed point 122. The lower end of the feed point 122 is connected to the reflector 16B. Each of the second antennas 52B is arranged on the reflector 16B and extends upward from the reflector 16B in the vertical direction. Therefore, the longitudinal direction of each of the second antennas 52B extends in the vertical direction. As described above, each of the second antennas 52B arranged on the reflector 16B made of metal can transmit and receive vertically polarized waves whose electric field EF oscillates in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane. In other words, each of the second antennas 52B mainly radiates vertically polarized waves perpendicular to the horizontal plane.

[0065] refer to Figure 6 as well as Figure 1 The arrangement of the first antenna 32 and the second antenna 52B in this modification is similar to that of the first antenna 32 and the second antenna 52 of the antenna device 10. This modification provides that the isolation characteristics of the antenna device 10B can be improved for both types of polarized waves, including horizontally polarized waves and vertically polarized waves.

[0066] refer to Figure 6 In this modified second antenna 52B, each antenna is completely positioned between the first array 30 and the reflector 16B in the vertical direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane. Therefore, the second array 50, arranged in this modification, is closer to the reflector 16B than the first array 30. This arrangement improves isolation characteristics. However, the invention is not limited to this. For example, the size of the protrusion 84 in the vertical direction can be reduced, allowing for a reduction in the height of the antenna assembly 10B. For example, the first array 30 can be positioned on the upper surface of the protrusion 84, which is flush with the upper surface of the reflector 16B. Each of the second antennas 52B can be at least partially positioned between the first array 30 and the reflector 16B in the direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane.

[0067] Will Figure 9 and Figure 1 In comparison, another modified antenna device 10C has components that differ from those of antenna device 10. However, as described below, antenna device 10C has a structure similar to that of antenna device 10 and can be modified similarly to antenna device 10.

[0068] refer to Figure 9The antenna device 10C includes a plurality of antennas 12C, a reflector 16C made of metal, and a support member 80C made of an insulator. The reflector 16C can be made of metal. For example, the reflector 16C can be a cut metal plate or a metal plate formed by die casting. Alternatively, the antenna device 10C can be provided with a plate (not shown) as large as the reflector 16C shown. In this case, the plate can have a grounding portion that can be used as the reflector 16C. The antennas 12C include a plurality of first antennas 32C forming a first array 30 and a plurality of second antennas 52C forming a second array 50. The reflector 16C extends along a horizontal plane. Therefore, the reflector 16C is arranged parallel to the horizontal plane. The support member 80C protrudes upward from the reflector 16C. The support member 80C has an upper surface extending parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0069] Each of the first antenna 32C and the second antenna 52C is arranged above the reflector 16C. Each of the second antennas 52C is arranged directly on the reflector 16C. Conversely, each of the first antennas 32C is arranged on the upper surface of the support member 80C. Therefore, each of the first antennas 32C is arranged spaced apart from the reflector 16C.

[0070] The modified antenna device 10C includes the aforementioned components. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, a reflector 16C may be provided as needed. Furthermore, the reflector 16C may be provided in the area corresponding to the second antenna 52C.

[0071] All the first antennas 32C in this modification are located on a common plane parallel to the horizontal plane. All the second antennas 52C in this modification are located on a common plane parallel to the horizontal plane. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the positions of the four first antennas 32C and the four second antennas 52C in the vertical direction may differ from each other. Each of the second antennas 52C may be at least partially located between the first array 30 and the reflector 16C in the vertical direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane.

[0072] refer to Figure 7 Each of the first antennas 32C in this modification is an antenna with a split-ring resonant structure. Each of the first antennas 32C includes a conductive portion 322C made of metal and a plate 328C having a rectangular shape. The plate 328C is made of a material such as glass epoxy resin. The plate 328C has a ground portion (not shown) and a pattern (not shown), each pattern being made of a conductive metal such as copper. The conductive portion 322C is mounted on the plate 328C and connected to the ground portion and the pattern.

[0073] Conductive portion 322C is formed with a split 324C having an interdigitated structure. Conductive portion 322C thus formed serves as a split-ring resonator. Each of the conductive portions 322C is mounted on plate 328C to extend as a whole along a horizontal plane. For example, each of the first antennas 32C is connected to a transceiver (not shown) via a feed line (not shown) disposed on plate 328C. Each of the first antennas 32C arranged as described above primarily radiates a horizontally polarized wave parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0074] When the first antenna 32C is viewed vertically, its geometric center is located near the center of the rectangular plate 328C in the horizontal plane. The longitudinal direction of the first antenna 32C is the direction in which the long side of the plate 328C extends. Figure 7 The longitudinal direction of the first antenna 32C shown extends in the left-right direction.

[0075] According to the first antenna 32C of this modification, various components such as inductors, capacitors, and registers can be mounted onto board 328C. The impedance of the first antenna 32C can be adjusted by the inductors, capacitors, and registers thus mounted. Therefore, this modification provides a first antenna 32C that can be adjusted to have a predetermined impedance for a predetermined frequency as needed.

[0076] refer to Figure 8 The modified second antenna 52C is an antenna with a split-ring resonant structure. Each of the second antennas 52C includes a conductive portion 522C made of metal and a plate 528C having a rectangular shape. The plate 528C is made of a material such as glass epoxy resin. The plate 528C has a ground portion (not shown) and a pattern (not shown), each pattern being made of a conductive metal such as copper. The conductive portion 522C is mounted on the plate 528C and connected to the ground portion and the pattern. When each of the second antennas 52C is arranged on the reflector 16C (see...), Figure 9 The ground portion of plate 528C is connected to reflector 16C. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, when the ground portion (not shown) of plate (not shown) is used as reflector 16C as described above, conductive portion 522C can be mounted on the plate and can be directly connected to the ground portion of the plate.

[0077] Conductive portion 522C is formed with splits 524C. Conductive portion 522C thus formed serves as a split-ring resonator. Each of the conductive portions 522C is mounted on plate 528C, thus extending as a whole along a plane perpendicular to the horizontal plane. For example, each of the second antennas 52C is connected to a transceiver (not shown) via a feed line (not shown) disposed on plate 528C. Each of the second antennas 52C arranged as described above primarily radiates a vertically polarized wave perpendicular to the horizontal plane.

[0078] When the second antenna 52C is observed vertically, its geometric center is located near the center of the rectangular plate 528C in the horizontal plane. The longitudinal direction of the second antenna 52C is the direction in which the long side of the plate 528C extends. Figure 8 The longitudinal direction of the second line 52C shown extends in the left-right direction.

[0079] According to this modified second antenna 52C, various components such as inductors, capacitors, and registers can be mounted onto board 528C. The impedance of the second antenna 52C can be adjusted by the inductors, capacitors, and registers thus mounted. Therefore, this modification provides a second antenna 52C that can be adjusted as needed to have a predetermined impedance for a predetermined frequency.

[0080] refer to Figure 7 Antennas similar to the first antenna 32C are disclosed in JP2020-145541A and WO2019 / 198588A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. References Figure 8 An antenna similar to the second antenna 52C was disclosed in Japanese Patent Application No. JP 2021-004233, filed on January 14, 2021, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0081] refer to Figure 10 The first antenna 32C of the antenna device 10C includes two first predetermined antennas 32P. The second antenna 52C of the antenna device 10C includes two second predetermined antennas 52P. The longitudinal direction of one of the first predetermined antennas 32P and the longitudinal direction of the remaining one of the first predetermined antennas 32P intersect each other and define a horizontal plane.

[0082] Two first predetermined antennas 32P are arranged along a first line 42. Two second predetermined antennas 52P are arranged along a second line 62. When the first line 42 and the second line 62 are projected onto the horizontal plane in a vertical direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane, the first line 42 and the second line 62 intersect. Therefore, with antenna device 10 (reference...) Figure 1 Similarly, the first predetermined antenna 32P and the second predetermined antenna 52P are arranged in a cross configuration. This modification provides an antenna device 10C whose isolation characteristics can be improved for both types of polarized waves, including horizontally polarized waves and vertically polarized waves.

[0083] refer to Figure 10The modified first antenna 32C has the same shape as each other. The modified second antenna 52C has the same shape as each other. Two of the first antennas 32C that are adjacent to each other in the first array 30 are arranged in different orientations. Two of the second antennas 52C that are adjacent to each other in the second array 50 are arranged in different orientations. Specifically, two of the second antennas 52C that are adjacent to each other are arranged such that their longitudinal directions intersect each other.

[0084] The four first antennas 32C in this modification are arranged such that their corresponding portions face directions that intersect each other at approximately 90° angles. Each of these corresponding portions of the four first antennas 32C is Figure 7 The rear end of the conductive portion 322C is shown. The four secondary antennas 52C of this modification are arranged such that their corresponding portions face a direction that intersects each other at an angle of approximately 90°. Each of these corresponding portions of the four secondary antennas 52C is... Figure 8 The front surface of the conductive portion 522C is shown. The four first antennas 32C of this modification are arranged in a quadruple overall symmetrical shape on the horizontal plane. The second antenna 52C of this modification is arranged in a quadruple overall symmetrical shape on the horizontal plane.

[0085] According to the modified antenna device 10C, radio wave interference between antennas 12C can be further reduced. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the first antennas 32C can be arranged in the same orientation. The second antennas 52C can be arranged in the same orientation. The four first antennas 32C can be arranged such that their corresponding portions face a direction that intersects each other at a predetermined angle, or they can be arranged asymmetrically in the horizontal plane. The second antennas 52C can be arranged such that their corresponding portions face a direction that intersects each other at a predetermined angle, or they can be arranged asymmetrically in the horizontal plane.

[0086] The first antenna 32C, including a first predetermined antenna 32P, and the second antenna 52C, including a second predetermined antenna 52P, are connected to the antenna assembly 10 (see [link to antenna assembly 10]). Figure 1 The arrangement of the first antenna 32C and the second antenna 52C can be modified similarly to that of the antenna device 10. The modified arrangement of the first antenna 32C and the second antenna 52C will be described below.

[0087] from Figure 10 It can be seen that, when viewed along a direction perpendicular to the second line 62 and parallel to the horizontal plane, one of the two first predetermined antennas 32P is located between the two second predetermined antennas 52P. When viewed along a direction perpendicular to the first line 42 and parallel to the horizontal plane, one of the two second predetermined antennas 52P is located between the two first predetermined antennas 32P.

[0088] When the two first predetermined antennas 32P and the two second predetermined antennas 52P are observed along the vertical direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane, the two first predetermined antennas 32P are located in the imaginary circle 20, one of the two second predetermined antennas 52P is located at the center of the imaginary circle 20, and the remaining one of the two second predetermined antennas 52P is located on the circumference of the imaginary circle 20.

[0089] The first antenna 32C is arranged on a plane parallel to the horizontal plane. The second antenna 52C is arranged on a plane parallel to the horizontal plane. In other words, the first array 30 includes four antennas 12C (or the first antenna 32C) arranged on a plane parallel to the horizontal plane. The second array 50 includes four antennas 12C (or the second antenna 52C) arranged on a plane parallel to the horizontal plane. Therefore, at least one of the first array 30 and the second array 50 includes at least three antennas 12C arranged on a plane parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0090] Each of the first antennas 32C or each of the antennas 12C forming the first array 30 is located between two adjacent second antennas 52C, or between two adjacent antennas 12C forming the second array 50. Therefore, each of the antennas 12C in one of the first array 30 and the second array 50 is located between two adjacent antennas 12C included in the remaining one of the first array 30 and the second array 50.

[0091] According to this modification, the predetermined line 48 extending along the longitudinal direction of one of the two first predetermined antennas 32P is spaced apart from the remaining one of the two first predetermined antennas 32P. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, each of the first antennas 32C may be located in Figure 10 The position is indicated by the dashed line in the diagram. In this case, the predetermined line 48 intersects with the remaining one of the two first predetermined antennas 32P.

[0092] There are four first antennas 32C and four second antennas 52C. The four first antennas 32C are located at the four corners of an imaginary first rectangle 44. The imaginary first rectangle 44 lies on a plane parallel to the horizontal plane. The first rectangle 44 is a rectangle circumscribed by the four first antennas 32C and is not equal to the outline of the supporting member 80C (see...). Figure 9 The four second antennas 52C are located at the four corners of the imaginary second rectangle 64. The imaginary second rectangle 64 lies on a plane parallel to the horizontal plane. The second rectangle 64 is a rectangle circumscribed by the four second antennas 52C and is not equal to the outline of the reflector 16C. Each side 46 of the first rectangle 44 is closer to two of the remaining two sides 66 than the other two sides 66. The direction of extension of each side 46 of the first rectangle 44 intersects the two directions of extension of the two closest sides 66, respectively.

[0093] Will Figure 11 and Figure 9 In comparison, based on the modification of antenna device 10C, antenna device 10D includes multiple shielding plates 18D, which are not provided to antenna device 10C. The structure of antenna device 10D is the same as that of antenna device 10C, but with this difference.

[0094] The modified shielding plates 18D are provided to correspond to the first antennas 32C respectively. Each of the shielding plates 18D is a metal plate. Each of the shielding plates 18D is connected to the reflector 16C. Each of the shielding plates 18D is located between one of the first antennas 32C and a second antenna 52C that is closest to or near said one of the first antennas 32C. More specifically, each of the shielding plates 18D is located between the corresponding first antenna 32C and the second antenna 52C that is closest to or near the corresponding first antenna 32C. The shielding plates 18D provided thereby can further improve isolation characteristics.

[0095] The modified shielding plates 18D surround the second antenna 52C. The shielding plates 18D are provided to position the second antenna 52C in a hidden area on the reflector 16C. Each of the shielding plates 18D is disposed only on the upper surface of the reflector 16C. Each of the shielding plates 18D extends upward from the reflector 16C. Each of the shielding plates 18D has a protrusion 182D. The protrusion 182D is located at the upper end of the shielding plate 18D and protrudes towards the second antenna 52C. Each of the modified shielding plates 18D has the above-described structure. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the structure of each of the shielding plates 18D and the arrangement of the shielding plates 18D can be modified as needed. The antenna device 10D may include one or more shielding plates 18D.

[0096] In this modified shielding plate 18D, each plate is directly fixed to the upper surface of the reflector 16C. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, as... Figure 11 As shown in the enlarged view, each of the shielding plates 18D can be indirectly fixed to the upper surface of the reflector 16C via a gap member 188D made of an insulator. In other words, a gap can be formed between each of the shielding plates 18D and the reflector 16C in the vertical direction.

[0097] Will Figure 12 and Figure 11In comparison, another modified antenna device 10E includes a shield 18E that differs from the shield 18D of antenna device 10D. The arrangement of the first antenna 32C in antenna device 10E differs slightly from that in antenna device 10D. Apart from the aforementioned differences, antenna device 10E has a structure similar to that of antenna device 10D, and its operating principle is similar to that of antenna device 10D. This modification provides antenna device 10E whose isolation characteristics can be improved for both horizontally polarized and vertically polarized waves.

[0098] refer to Figure 12 The modified shielding plate 18E is via the gap member 188D (see... Figure 11 Indirectly fixed to the upper surface of the reflector 16C, each gap member is formed by the shielding plate 18D (see... Figure 11 It is made of a similar insulator. Shielding plates 18E extend upward from reflector 16C, similar to shielding plate 18D. Each of the shielding plates 18E is located between one of the first antennas 32C and a second antenna 52C that is closest to or near said one of the first antennas 32C. According to this modification, two shielding plates 18E are arranged separately from each other between the first antennas 32C and the second antennas 52C. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, three or more shielding plates 18E, separately from each other, can be arranged between the first antennas 32C and the second antennas 52C. Each of the shielding plates 18E can be directly fixed to reflector 16C without gap members 188D.

[0099] Will Figure 13 and Figure 11 In comparison, another modified antenna device 10F includes a shield 18F that differs from the shield 18D of antenna device 10D. The arrangement of the first antenna 32C in antenna device 10F differs slightly from that in antenna device 10D. Aside from the aforementioned differences, antenna device 10F has a structure similar to that of antenna device 10D, and its operating principle is similar to that of antenna device 10D. This modification provides antenna device 10F whose isolation characteristics can be improved for both horizontally polarized and vertically polarized waves.

[0100] refer to Figure 13 The modified shielding plate 18F is via gap member 188D (see...) Figure 11 The gap member is indirectly fixed to the upper surface of the reflector 16C, and is made of a material similar to the shielding plate 18D (see...). Figure 11The shielding plate 18F is made of an insulator. Similar to shielding plate 18D, shielding plate 18F extends upward from reflector plate 16C. Shielding plate 18F is located between each of the first antennas 32C and the second antenna 52C closest to or near each of the first antennas 32C. Thus, shielding plate 18F is located between one of the first antennas 32C and the second antenna 52C closest to or near said one of the first antennas 32C. According to this modification, the first antennas 32C and the second antennas 52C are separated from each other by a single shielding plate 18F. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the first antennas 32C and the second antennas 52C can be separated from each other by two shielding plates 18F formed separately from each other. Each of the shielding plates 18F can be directly fixed to reflector plate 16C without gap member 188D.

Claims

1. An antenna device comprising a plurality of antennas, wherein: The antenna includes a plurality of first antennas forming a first array and a plurality of second antennas forming a second array; The first antenna includes two first predetermined antennas; The longitudinal direction of one of the first predetermined antennas and the other longitudinal direction of the remaining one of the first predetermined antennas intersect each other and define a horizontal plane; Each of the first antennas in the first antenna primarily radiates horizontally polarized waves parallel to the horizontal plane; Each of the second antennas primarily radiates vertically polarized waves that are perpendicular to the horizontal plane; The second antenna includes two second predetermined antennas; The two first predetermined antennas are arranged along the first line; The two second predetermined antennas are arranged along the second line; When the first line and the second line are projected onto the horizontal plane in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane, the first line and the second line intersect each other. Each first antenna is an antenna with a split-ring resonant structure and includes: a first plate, parallel to a horizontal plane and having a rectangular shape; and a first conductive portion mounted on the first plate. Each second antenna is an antenna with a split-ring resonant structure and includes: a second plate, parallel to the horizontal plane and having a rectangular shape; and a second conductive portion mounted on the second plate. In each second antenna, the second plate is formed with a grounding portion and a pattern, each pattern being made of conductive metal. The second conductive portion is mounted on the second plate in such a way that it extends along a plane perpendicular to the horizontal plane, and the second conductive portion is connected to the grounding portion.

2. The antenna device according to claim 1, wherein: When viewed along a direction perpendicular to the second line and parallel to the horizontal plane, one of the two first predetermined antennas is located between the two second predetermined antennas; and When viewed along a direction perpendicular to the first line and parallel to the horizontal plane, one of the two second predetermined antennas is located between the two first predetermined antennas.

3. The antenna device according to claim 1, wherein when the two first predetermined antennas and the two second predetermined antennas are viewed along a direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane, the two first predetermined antennas are located in an imaginary circle, one of the two second predetermined antennas is located at the center of the imaginary circle, and the remaining one of the two second predetermined antennas is located on the circumference of the imaginary circle.

4. The antenna device according to claim 1, wherein: Two of the first antennas in the first array that are adjacent to each other are arranged in different orientations. and In the second array, two of the second antennas that are adjacent to each other are arranged in different orientations.

5. The antenna device according to claim 1, wherein: The antenna device includes a reflector; The reflector is arranged along the horizontal plane; and Each of the second antennas is located at least partially between the first array and the reflector in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane.

6. The antenna device according to claim 1, wherein: The antenna device includes one or more shielding plates; and Each of the shielding plates is located between one of the first antennas and a second antenna close to the first antenna.

7. The antenna device of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first array and the second array comprises at least three antennas of the antenna arranged on a plane parallel to the horizontal plane.

8. The antenna device according to claim 1, wherein: The first antenna is arranged on a plane parallel to the horizontal plane; and The second antenna is arranged on a plane parallel to the horizontal plane.

9. The antenna device of claim 1, wherein each antenna of one of the first array and the second array is located between two antennas that are adjacent to each other in the remaining array included in the first array and the second array.

10. The antenna device according to claim 1, wherein a predetermined line extending along the longitudinal direction of one of the two first predetermined antennas intersects the remaining one of the two first predetermined antennas.

11. The antenna device according to claim 1, wherein: The first array includes four of the first antennas; The four antennas in the first antenna are respectively arranged at the four corners of an imaginary first rectangle; The imaginary first rectangle is located on a plane parallel to the horizontal plane; The second array includes four of the second antennas; The four antennas in the second antenna are respectively arranged at the four corners of the imaginary second rectangle; The imaginary second rectangle is located on a plane parallel to the horizontal plane; Each of the four sides of the first rectangle is closer to the other two sides of the second rectangle than any two of the four sides of the second rectangle; and The direction in which each of the four sides of the first rectangle extends intersects the two directions in which the two nearest sides of the second rectangle extend.

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