Antenna elements and antenna units

Abstract

The application provides an antenna oscillator and an antenna unit. The antenna oscillator comprises an outer oscillator conductor, and an inner oscillator conductor arranged in the outer oscillator conductor, and the inner oscillator conductor comprises a coupling part configured to be coupled with a feed network in a phase shifter cavity to realize electrical connection, and a pressing part configured to apply pressure to at least one of the coupling part and the feed network, so that the coupling part and the feed network are pressed tightly. In the scheme of the application, the coupling part and the feed network are pressed tightly by the pressure applied by the pressing part, so that the two are coupled, which can simplify the process and significantly reduce the difficulty of realizing the coupling.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Embodiments of the present application generally relate to the field of communication antenna technology, and more particularly to an antenna element and an antenna unit. BACKGROUND

[0002] Antennas are important components in wireless communication systems. In conventional antenna elements and antennas, the electrical connection between the inner conductor of the antenna element and the feed network in the phase shifter is achieved by welding. In order to achieve the welding, the inner conductor of the antenna element must be tinned, and thus the processing and assembly of the antenna are complex and difficult. In particular, when the welding between the inner conductor of the antenna element and the feed network is blocked by other structural members inside the antenna, it is extremely difficult to open a welding window, and even the welding cannot be achieved.

[0003] In summary, in conventional antenna elements and antennas, the electrical connection between the inner conductor of the antenna element and the feed network of the phase shifter is achieved by welding, which is difficult to achieve. SUMMARY

[0004] To solve the above problems, the present application provides an antenna element and an antenna unit, which significantly reduces the difficulty of coupling the inner conductor of the antenna element and the feed network of the phase shifter.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present application, an antenna element is provided. The antenna element comprises: an outer conductor; an inner conductor disposed in the outer conductor, the inner conductor comprising: a coupling portion configured to be coupled to a feed network in a phase shifter cavity to achieve electrical connection; and a pressing portion configured to apply pressure to at least one of the coupling portion and the feed network to compress the coupling portion and the feed network.

[0006] In this scheme, when the antenna element is assembled with the phase shifter, the coupling portion and the feed network are compressed by the pressure applied by the pressing portion, thereby achieving coupling between the two, which can simplify the process and significantly reduce the difficulty of achieving coupling.

[0007] In some embodiments, the pressing portion is configured as a clamping structure, the pressing portion is disposed on the inner conductor, and the coupling portion and the pressing portion form a clamping assembly for clamping the feed network.

[0008] In the scheme, when the feeding network is assembled with the inner conductor of the antenna element, the feeding network can be inserted into the clamping assembly formed by the pressing part and the coupling part, the clamping assembly naturally clamps the feeding network, so that the coupling part and the feeding network are pressed tightly, so that the inner conductor of the antenna element and the feeding network form a preset stable state, and good coupling between the inner conductor of the antenna element and the feeding network is realized. This makes the assembly of the inner conductor of the antenna element and the feeding network simple, significantly reduces the difficulty of coupling the inner conductor of the antenna element and the feeding network, and provides convenience for disassembly of the inner conductor of the antenna element and the feeding network.

[0009] In some embodiments, the antenna element further comprises: an outer conductor fixing member arranged between the outer conductor of the antenna element and the phase shifter cavity and configured to fix the outer conductor of the antenna element and realize coupling between the outer conductor of the antenna element and the phase shifter cavity; and the pressing part is arranged on the outer conductor fixing member and arranged opposite to the coupling part to form a clamping assembly with the coupling part for clamping the feeding network.

[0010] In some embodiments, the inner conductor of the antenna element comprises an elastic arm configured as the pressing part.

[0011] In some embodiments, the pressing part is wavy.

[0012] In the scheme, by virtue of the wavy structure of the pressing part, the pressure borne by the pressing part can be dispersed, so the pressing part is not easily damaged; and the plurality of concave portions respectively contact the feeding network to form a plurality of pressing points, so that the force borne by the feeding network is more uniform, to ensure that the clamping of the clamping assembly formed by the pressing part and the coupling part on the feeding network is more stable and tighter.

[0013] In some embodiments, the end of the pressing part extends away from the coupling part, and the end of the coupling part is provided with a chamfer.

[0014] In the scheme, by virtue of the extension of the end of the pressing part away from the coupling part and the chamfer of the end of the coupling part, the clamping assembly formed by the pressing part and the coupling part forms an opening angle at the opening part thereof, the opening angle has a guiding effect when the feeding network is inserted, and the feeding network can be conveniently loaded into the clamping assembly.

[0015] In some embodiments, the inner conductor of the antenna element is a metal core, the pressing part is configured as an insulator, the pressing part is combined with the inner conductor of the antenna element through an injection molding process to form an integrated structure; or the pressing part and the inner conductor of the antenna element are integrally formed through an injection molding process, and a metal layer is formed on the surface of the inner conductor of the antenna element through an electroplating process; or the pressing part and the inner conductor of the antenna element are integrally formed metal members.

[0016] In some embodiments, the pressing part comprises two elastic buckles, which are arranged in the phase shifter cavity and on both sides of the feed network respectively, so that the coupling part and the feed network are pressed tightly.

[0017] In some embodiments, each elastic buckle comprises an elastic cantilever configured to elastically support a rigid arm, the elastic cantilever comprises an arc-shaped part protruding towards the rigid arm, and the rigid arm comprises an arc-shaped surface protruding towards the elastic cantilever.

[0018] In this scheme, by arranging the arc-shaped part and the arc-shaped surface, more sufficient deformation space can be reserved for the elastic cantilever.

[0019] In some embodiments, the elastic buckle further comprises a fixing part configured to be fixed with the feed network, so as to fix the elastic buckle on the feed network.

[0020] In this scheme, by the fixing part, the elastic buckle can be fixed on the feed network first, and then the feed network with the fixed elastic buckle is installed into the phase shifter cavity, which provides convenience for assembly.

[0021] In some embodiments, the end of at least one of the elastic cantilever and the rigid arm is provided with a chamfer.

[0022] In this scheme, by the chamfer structure of the end of the elastic cantilever and the rigid arm, the elastic buckle can be conveniently installed into the phase shifter cavity, and the coupling part of the inner conductor of the vibrator can be conveniently inserted between the elastic buckle and the feed network.

[0023] In some embodiments, the outer conductor of the vibrator is configured to be coupled with the phase shifter cavity.

[0024] According to a second aspect of the present application, an antenna unit is provided. The antenna unit comprises: an antenna vibrator according to the first aspect of the present application; a feed network arranged in the phase shifter cavity; and a phase shifter cavity configured to accommodate the feed network.

[0025] In some embodiments, a dielectric layer is arranged between the coupling part and the feed network.

[0026] In some embodiments, the dielectric layer comprises at least one of: an outer conductor fixing member of the vibrator; an insulating dielectric layer coated on the outer conductor of the vibrator; and an insulating dielectric layer coated on the phase shifter cavity.

[0027] In some embodiments, the phase shifter cavity comprises a top wall, a bottom wall arranged opposite to the top wall, and a side wall between the top wall and the bottom wall; the top wall extends outwardly to form an extension wall coupled with the reflector plate.

[0028] In some embodiments, the phase shifter cavity comprises a top wall, a bottom wall disposed opposite to the top wall, and a side wall between the top wall and the bottom wall; at least one of an intersection of the top wall and the side wall, and an intersection of the bottom wall and the side wall is provided with a stepped portion; a width of the phase shifter cavity at a position corresponding to the stepped portion is less than a distance between the side walls.

[0029] In some embodiments, the number of the stepped portions is two, and the stepped portions are located at an end of the side wall close to the top wall.

[0030] In some embodiments, the phase shifter further comprises a phase shifting medium, which is located between the phase shifter cavity and the feed network, and at a side of the phase shifter cavity close to the bottom wall.

[0031] It should be understood that the description in this section is not intended to identify key or essential features of embodiments of the application, and is not configured to limit the scope of the application. Other features of the application will become apparent from the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0032] The above and other features, advantages and aspects of embodiments of the application will become more apparent upon reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like references refer to like elements. In the drawings:

[0033] Figure 1 A perspective view schematically showing a partial structure of an antenna unit of an embodiment of the application is shown.

[0034] Figure 2 A front view schematically showing a partial structure of an antenna unit of an embodiment of the application is shown.

[0035] Figure 3 A sectional view schematically showing a partial structure of an antenna unit of an embodiment of the application along a direction perpendicular to the Y-axis direction is shown.

[0036] Figure 4 A perspective view schematically showing an inner conductor of a dipole and a pressing portion of an embodiment of the application is shown.

[0037] Figure 5 A front view schematically showing an inner conductor of a dipole and a pressing portion of an embodiment of the application is shown.

[0038] Figure 6 A perspective view schematically showing a partial structure of an antenna unit of an embodiment of the application is shown.

[0039] Figure 7 A front view schematically showing a partial structure of an antenna unit of an embodiment of the application is shown.

[0040] Figure 8 A sectional view schematically showing a partial structure of an antenna unit of an embodiment of the application along a direction perpendicular to the Y-axis direction is shown.

[0041] Figure 9 A perspective view of a vibrator inner conductor of an embodiment of the present application is shown.

[0042] Figure 10 A front view of a vibrator inner conductor of an embodiment of the present application is shown.

[0043] Figure 11 A perspective view of a vibrator outer conductor fixing member of an embodiment of the present application is shown.

[0044] Figure 12 A perspective view of a vibrator outer conductor fixing member of an embodiment of the present application is shown.

[0045] Figure 13 A front view of a vibrator outer conductor fixing member of an embodiment of the present application is shown.

[0046] Figure 14 A perspective view of a partial structure of an antenna unit of an embodiment of the present application is shown.

[0047] Figure 15 A front view of a partial structure of an antenna unit of an embodiment of the present application is shown.

[0048] Figure 16 A sectional view of a partial structure of an antenna unit of an embodiment of the present application is shown.

[0049] Figure 17 A perspective view of a vibrator inner conductor of an embodiment of the present application is shown.

[0050] Figure 18 A front view of a vibrator inner conductor of an embodiment of the present application is shown.

[0051] Figure 19 A perspective view of an elastic clip of an embodiment of the present application is shown.

[0052] Figure 20 A perspective view of an elastic clip of an embodiment of the present application is shown.

[0053] Figure 21 A front view of an elastic clip of an embodiment of the present application is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] Exemplary embodiments of the present application are described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are by way of illustration. Various changes and modifications can be made to the embodiments described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present application. For clarity and conciseness, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions are omitted.

[0055] As used herein, the term "includes" and its variants are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion such that a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements but can include other non-listed elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, system, product, or apparatus. Unless specifically stated, the term "or" as used herein represents a "logical or", that is, it represents "either p or q, or both p and q." The term "based on" is used to represent "based, at least in part, on." The term "one example embodiment" and "an embodiment" represent "at least one example embodiment." The term "another embodiment" represents "at least one additional embodiment." The terms "a first," "a second," etc. are used to represent different or similar objects. Other explicit or implicit definitions can also be included below.

[0056] As described previously, in conventional antennas, the inner conductor of the dipole and the feed network of the phase shifter are electrically connected via a soldering process. In order to achieve soldering, the inner conductor of the dipole must be tinned, which is a complicated process. Moreover, when the soldering between the inner conductor of the dipole and the feed network is blocked by other structural members inside the antenna, it is extremely difficult to open a soldering window, and even causes the soldering to be impossible. Therefore, in conventional antennas, it is difficult to achieve electrical connection between the inner conductor of the dipole and the feed network of the phase shifter.

[0057] To at least partially solve one or more of the above problems and other potential problems, example embodiments of the present application propose an antenna dipole and an antenna unit solution. In the present application solution, a pressing portion is provided in the antenna dipole, which applies pressure to at least one of the coupling portion of the inner conductor of the dipole and the feed network inside the phase shifter cavity, so that the coupling portion and the feed network are pressed tightly. Therefore, when the antenna dipole is assembled with the phase shifter, the coupling portion and the feed network can be tightly pressed by the pressure applied by the pressing portion, so that they are coupled, which can simplify the process and significantly reduce the difficulty of achieving the coupling.

[0058] The antenna dipole and the antenna unit of the embodiments of the present application are described in detail below.

[0059] Embodiments of the present application provide an antenna element. The antenna element includes an outer element conductor, an inner element conductor, and a pressing part. The outer element conductor is configured to be coupled with a phase shifter cavity, and the inner element conductor is disposed in the outer element conductor. Of course, in other embodiments, the outer element conductor can also be configured to be coupled with a reflector plate. The inner element conductor includes a coupling part configured to be coupled with a feed network in the phase shifter cavity to achieve electrical connection. The pressing part is configured to apply pressure to at least one of the coupling part and the feed network so that the coupling part and the feed network are pressed tightly. It should be understood that the feed network includes a signal line, and the side walls of the phase shifter and the signal line between the pair of side walls constitute a strip line.

[0060] In some embodiments, the pressing part is configured as a buckle structure, and the pressing part is disposed on the inner element conductor and forms a clamping assembly with the coupling part to clamp the feed network.

[0061] In some embodiments, the antenna element further includes an outer element conductor fixing part disposed between the outer element conductor and the phase shifter cavity and configured to fix the outer element conductor and achieve coupling between the outer element conductor and the phase shifter cavity. The pressing part is disposed on the outer element conductor fixing part and is disposed opposite to the coupling part to form a clamping assembly with the coupling part to clamp the feed network.

[0062] In some embodiments, the pressing part includes two elastic buckles disposed in the phase shifter cavity and disposed on two sides of the feed network respectively so that the coupling part and the feed network are pressed tightly.

[0063] In some embodiments, the inner element conductor includes an elastic arm configured as the pressing part. For example, the pressing part can be the inner element conductor itself, and the inner element conductor is the elastic arm. When the inner element conductor is inserted into the cavity of the phase shifter, the coupling part elastically abuts against the feed network.

[0064] Embodiments of the present application also provide an antenna unit. The antenna unit includes a feed network, a phase shifter cavity, and an antenna element of an embodiment of the present application. The feed network is disposed in the phase shifter cavity, and the phase shifter cavity is configured to accommodate the feed network.

[0065] In this scheme, the coupling part and the feed network are pressed tightly by the pressure applied by the pressing part, so that the two are coupled, which can omit the step of welding the coupling part and the feed network, greatly simplifying the process and significantly reducing the difficulty of achieving coupling.

[0066] The following will be described in detail Figures 1 to 21 The antenna element and the antenna unit of an embodiment of the present application will be described in detail.

[0067] Figure 1 A perspective view showing a partial structure of the antenna unit 100 of an embodiment of the present application is shown. For ease of illustration, Figure 1 The positive directions of the X-axis, the Y-axis and the Z-axis are shown by arrows. Figure 2 A front view showing a partial structure of the antenna unit 100 of an embodiment of the present application is shown. Figure 3 A sectional view showing a partial structure of the antenna unit 100 of an embodiment of the present application along a direction perpendicular to the Y-axis is shown. Figure 4 A perspective view showing the inner vibrator conductor 114 and the pressing part 116 of an embodiment of the present application is shown. Figure 5 A front view showing the inner vibrator conductor 114 and the pressing part 116 of an embodiment of the present application is shown.

[0068] The antenna unit 100 comprises the antenna vibrator 110 of an embodiment of the present application, the feed network 120 and the phase shifter cavity 130. The feed network 120 is disposed in the phase shifter cavity 130, which is configured to accommodate the feed network 120. The antenna unit 100 further comprises the outer vibrator conductor fixing member 140, which is disposed between the outer vibrator conductor 112 and the phase shifter cavity 130 and is configured to fix the outer vibrator conductor 112. A dielectric element is disposed between the outer vibrator conductor 112 and the phase shifter cavity 130, so that non-contact coupling is achieved between the outer vibrator conductor 112 and the phase shifter cavity 130. Preferably, the dielectric element is a component of the outer vibrator conductor fixing member 140. A phase shifting dielectric 121 is further disposed in the phase shifter cavity 130.

[0069] In some embodiments, the outer vibrator conductor fixing member 140 is an insulator. The outer vibrator conductor fixing member 140 is, for example, a plastic member. The outer vibrator conductor fixing member 140 serves as an insulating medium between the outer vibrator conductor 112 and the phase shifter cavity 130, so that the outer vibrator conductor 112 and the phase shifter cavity 130 are in non-DC contact. The phase shifter cavity 130 comprises a top wall 131, a bottom wall 133 disposed opposite to the top wall 131, and a side wall 135 between the top wall 131 and the bottom wall 133. The top wall 131 extends outwardly to form an extension wall 132 coupled to the reflector plate. The extension wall 132 enables the phase shifter cavity 130 to be coupled to the reflector plate coextensively. The outer vibrator conductor fixing member 140 is provided with a snap rivet 142, which penetrates the extension wall 132 of the phase shifter cavity 130, so that the outer vibrator conductor fixing member 140 is fixed to the phase shifter cavity 130.

[0070] In some embodiments, the phase shifter cavity 130 includes a top wall 131, a bottom wall 133 disposed opposite to the top wall 131, and a side wall 135 between the top wall 131 and the bottom wall 133. At least one of the intersection of the top wall 131 and the side wall 135, and the intersection of the bottom wall 133 and the side wall 135 is provided with a stepped portion 137. The width of the phase shifter cavity 130 at the position corresponding to the stepped portion 137 is less than the distance between the pair of side walls. It is worth mentioning that, compared with a rectangular cavity, the structure of the phase shifter cavity 130 with the stepped portion 137 can increase the resonant frequency of the phase shifter cavity, so that the resonant frequency of the phase shifter cavity falls outside the working frequency band range of the phase shifter.

[0071] In some embodiments, the number of stepped portions is 2, and the stepped portions are located at one end of the side wall 135 close to the top wall 131.

[0072] In some embodiments, a phase shifting medium 121 is located between the phase shifter cavity 130 and the feed network 120, and at one side of the phase shifter cavity 130 close to the bottom wall 133. By providing the phase shifting medium 121, the resonant frequency of the phase shifter cavity 130 can be increased, so that the resonant frequency of the phase shifter cavity 130 falls outside the working frequency band range of the phase shifter.

[0073] In some embodiments, an insulating medium layer is provided between the outer vibrator conductor 112 and the phase shifter cavity 130. The insulating medium layer can be a plastic layer or an oxide film. The insulating medium layer can make the outer vibrator conductor 112 and the phase shifter cavity 130 not in direct current contact.

[0074] The antenna vibrator 110 includes an outer vibrator conductor 112, an inner vibrator conductor 114, and a pressing portion 116. The outer vibrator conductor 112 is configured to be coupled with the phase shifter cavity 130, and the inner vibrator conductor 114 is disposed in the outer vibrator conductor 112. The inner vibrator conductor 114 includes a coupling portion 118 configured to be coupled with the feed network 120 in the phase shifter cavity 130 to achieve electrical connection. The pressing portion 116 is configured to apply pressure to at least one of the coupling portion 118 and the feed network 120, so that the coupling portion 118 and the feed network 120 are pressed tightly. It should be understood that the outer vibrator conductor 112 and the phase shifter cavity 130 are grounded by coupling. The antenna vibrator 110 further includes a radiating arm 111.

[0075] Regarding the pressing part 116, it is configured as a clasp structure. The pressing part 116 is arranged on the inner vibrator conductor 114 and forms a clamping assembly with the coupling part 118 to clamp the feed network 120. It should be understood that the clamping assembly formed by the pressing part 116 and the coupling part 118 has a receiving groove for accommodating the end region of the feed network 120, and the opening of the receiving groove faces the feed network 120 for inserting the end region of the feed network 120 into the receiving groove. The width of the receiving groove matches the thickness of the end region of the feed network 120, so that after the end region of the feed network 120 is inserted into the receiving groove, the clamping assembly formed by the pressing part 116 and the coupling part 118 clamps the end region of the feed network 120. In this scheme, when the feed network 120 is assembled with the inner vibrator conductor 114, the feed network 120 can be inserted into the clamping assembly formed by the pressing part 116 and the coupling part 118, and the clamping assembly naturally clamps the feed network 120, so that the coupling part 118 and the feed network 120 are pressed tightly, so that the inner vibrator conductor 114 and the feed network 120 form a predetermined stable state, and good coupling between the inner vibrator conductor 114 and the feed network 120 is achieved. This makes the assembly of the inner vibrator conductor 114 and the feed network 120 simple, significantly reduces the difficulty of coupling the inner vibrator conductor 114 and the feed network 120, and provides convenience for disassembling the inner vibrator conductor 114 and the feed network 120.

[0076] In some embodiments, a dielectric layer is arranged between the coupling part 118 and the feed network 120. The dielectric layer includes at least one of the following, for example: a vibrator outer conductor fixing member, an insulating dielectric layer coated on the vibrator outer conductor, and an insulating dielectric layer coated on the phase shifter cavity.

[0077] In some embodiments, the inner vibrator conductor 114 is a metal inner core, and the pressing part 116 is configured as an insulator. The pressing part 116 is combined with the inner vibrator conductor 114 to form an integrated structure through an injection molding process. The pressing part 116 is a plastic clasp structure, for example. In the processing process, the inner vibrator conductor 114 can be formed based on metal material processing first, and then the pressing part 116 is combined with the inner vibrator conductor 114 to form an integrated structure through an injection molding process. For example, the corresponding plastic clasp structure of the pressing part 116 is embedded in the inner vibrator conductor 114 formed by metal material processing during the molding process of the plastic clasp structure, so as to realize the integrated structure of the pressing part 116 and the inner vibrator conductor 114. For another example, after the corresponding plastic clasp structure of the pressing part 116 is molded, it is pressed into the inner vibrator conductor 114 formed by metal material processing, so as to realize the integrated structure of the pressing part 116 and the inner vibrator conductor 114.

[0078] In some embodiments, the pressing portion 116 and the inner vibrator conductor 114 are integrally formed via an injection molding process, and a metal layer is formed on the surface of the inner vibrator conductor 114 via an electroplating process. For example, during the processing, a body structure, such as an integrally formed plastic piece, is first processed to form the pressing portion 116 and the inner vibrator conductor 114. Then, for the part of the body structure corresponding to the inner vibrator conductor 114, a metal layer is formed on the surface of the part via an electroplating process in the target area thereof, so that the inner vibrator conductor 114 has a corresponding coupling function. In this scheme, the performance of the antenna vibrator 110, such as radio frequency loss, can be ensured, and the inner vibrator conductor 114 has a predetermined thickness, which is beneficial to product processing and molding.

[0079] In some embodiments, the pressing portion 116 and the inner vibrator conductor 114 are integrally formed via an injection molding process, and a metal layer is formed on the surface of the inner vibrator conductor 114 via an electroplating process. For example, during the processing, a body structure, such as an integrally formed plastic piece, is first processed to form the pressing portion 116 and the inner vibrator conductor 114. Then, for the part of the body structure corresponding to the inner vibrator conductor 114, a metal layer is formed on the surface of the part via an electroplating process in the target area thereof, so that the inner vibrator conductor 114 has a corresponding coupling function. In this scheme, the performance of the antenna vibrator 110, such as radio frequency loss, can be ensured, and the inner vibrator conductor 114 has a predetermined thickness, which is beneficial to product processing and molding.

[0080] It should be noted that, in some embodiments, the pressing portion 116 is wavy. It should be understood that the pressing portion 116 includes a plurality of continuous concave portions and convex portions to form a wavy shape. By virtue of the wavy configuration, the pressure borne by the pressing portion 116 can be dispersed, and thus the pressing portion 116 is not easily damaged. In addition, the plurality of concave portions are respectively in contact with the feed network 120 to form a plurality of pressing points, so that the force borne by the feed network 120 is more uniform, thereby ensuring that the clamping of the feed network 120 by the clamping assembly formed by the pressing portion 116 and the coupling portion 118 is more stable and more compact.

[0081] In some embodiments, the end of the pressing portion 116 extends away from the coupling portion 118, and the end of the coupling portion 118 is provided with a chamfer. It should be understood that one end (fixed end) of the pressing portion 116 is fixed to the inner vibrator conductor 114, and the other end of the pressing portion 116 is a free end. The end of the free end of the pressing portion 116 extends away from the coupling portion 118, i.e., it is raised relative to the coupling portion 118. The end of the coupling portion 118 is provided with a chamfer. In this way, the clamping assembly formed by the pressing portion 116 and the coupling portion 118 has an opening with an opening angle, which has a guiding effect when the feed network 120 is inserted, and the feed network 120 can be conveniently loaded into the clamping assembly.

[0082] Figure 6 A perspective view of a partial structure of an antenna unit 200 of an embodiment of the application is shown. For ease of illustration, Figure 6 The positive directions of the X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis are shown by arrows. Figure 7 A front view of a partial structure of an antenna unit 200 of an embodiment of the application is shown, in which, for example, a phase-shifting medium is not shown. Figure 8A cross-sectional view of the antenna unit 200 of an embodiment of the present application is shown. Figure 9 A perspective view of the inner conductor 214 of an embodiment of the present application is shown. Figure 10 A front view of the inner conductor 214 of an embodiment of the present application is shown. Figure 11 A perspective view of the outer conductor fixing member 240 of an embodiment of the present application is shown. Figure 12 A perspective view of the outer conductor fixing member 240 of an embodiment of the present application is shown. Figure 13 A front view of the outer conductor fixing member 240 of an embodiment of the present application is shown.

[0083] The antenna unit 200 comprises an antenna element 210, a feed network 220 and a phase shifter cavity 230 of an embodiment of the present application. The feed network 220 is disposed in the phase shifter cavity 230, which is configured to accommodate the feed network 220.

[0084] In some embodiments, an insulating medium layer is disposed between the outer conductor 212 and the phase shifter cavity 230. The insulating medium layer can be a plastic layer or an oxide film. The insulating medium layer can make the outer conductor 212 and the phase shifter cavity 230 not in direct current contact.

[0085] The antenna element 210 comprises an outer conductor 212, an inner conductor 214, a pressing portion 216 and an outer conductor fixing member 240. The outer conductor fixing member 240 is disposed between the outer conductor 212 and the phase shifter cavity 230, and is configured to fix the outer conductor 212 and achieve coupling between the outer conductor 212 and the phase shifter cavity 230.

[0086] In some embodiments, the outer conductor fixing member 240 is an insulator. For example, the outer conductor fixing member 240 is a plastic member. The outer conductor fixing member 240 serves as an insulating medium between the outer conductor 212 and the phase shifter cavity 230, and can make the outer conductor 212 and the phase shifter cavity 230 not in direct current contact. The outer conductor fixing member 240 is provided with a clamping rivet 242, which passes through a clamping portion of the phase shifter cavity 230, so that the outer conductor fixing member 240 is fixed with the phase shifter cavity 230.

[0087] The outer conductor 212 of the dipole is configured to be coupled with the phase shifter cavity 230, and the inner conductor 214 of the dipole is arranged in the outer conductor 212. The inner conductor 214 of the dipole includes a coupling portion 218 configured to be coupled with the feed network 220 in the phase shifter cavity 230 to achieve electrical connection. The pressing portion 216 is configured to apply pressure to at least one of the coupling portion 218 and the feed network 220, so that the coupling portion 218 and the feed network 220 are pressed tightly. The pressing portion 216 is arranged on the outer conductor fixing member 240 and is arranged opposite to the coupling portion 218 to form a clamping assembly with the coupling portion 218 to clamp the feed network 220.

[0088] It should be noted that when the inner conductor 214 of the dipole is combined with the outer conductor fixing member 240, the pressing portion 216 on the outer conductor fixing member 240 and the coupling portion 218 of the inner conductor 214 of the dipole form a clamping assembly. The gap between the pressing portion 216 and the coupling portion 218 constitutes a receiving groove of the clamping assembly, which is used to accommodate the end region of the feed network 220. The opening of the receiving groove faces the feed network 220, so that the end region of the feed network 220 is inserted into the receiving groove. The width of the receiving groove matches the thickness of the end region of the feed network 220, so that after the end region of the feed network 220 is inserted into the receiving groove, the end region of the feed network 220 is clamped by the clamping assembly formed by the pressing portion 216 and the coupling portion 218.

[0089] Regarding the assembly of the antenna unit 200, in some optional embodiments, the inner conductor 214 of the dipole can be first installed into the outer conductor 212, and then the outer conductor 212 is fixed with the outer conductor fixing member 240. At this time, the pressing portion 216 arranged on the outer conductor fixing member 240 and the coupling portion 218 of the inner conductor 214 of the dipole form a clamping assembly. Next, the phase shifter cavity 230 with the feed network 220 installed is fixed with the outer conductor fixing member 240. In this process, the feed network 220 is inserted into the clamping assembly formed by the pressing portion 216 and the coupling portion 218 of the inner conductor 214 of the dipole, so that the clamping assembly clamps the feed network 220, that is, the coupling portion 218 and the feed network 220 are pressed tightly, so that the inner conductor 214 of the dipole and the feed network 220 form a predetermined stable state, and good coupling between the inner conductor 214 of the dipole and the feed network 220 is achieved. This makes the assembly of the inner conductor 214 of the dipole and the feed network 220 simple, significantly reduces the difficulty of coupling the inner conductor 214 of the dipole and the feed network 220, and provides convenience for disassembly of the inner conductor 214 of the dipole and the feed network 220.

[0090] As to the assembly of the antenna unit 200, the dipole outer conductor 212 can be first fixed to the dipole outer conductor fixing member 240, and then the dipole outer conductor fixing member 240 is fixed to the phase shifter cavity 230 in which the feed network 220 is installed. Then, the dipole inner conductor 214 is inserted into the dipole outer conductor 212, and the coupling portion 218 of the dipole inner conductor 214 extends into the phase shifter cavity 230. Thus, the pressing portion 216 and the coupling portion 218 of the dipole inner conductor 214 form a clamping assembly that clamps the feed network 220, i.e. the coupling portion 218 and the feed network 220 are pressed, so that the dipole inner conductor 214 and the feed network 220 form a predetermined stable state, and good coupling between the dipole inner conductor 214 and the feed network 220 is achieved.

[0091] In some embodiments, the dipole inner conductor 214 is further provided with a limiting portion 219. The limiting portion 219 is, for example, a limiting rib protruding from the surface of the dipole inner conductor 214. The limiting portion 219 is located at a position matched with the pressing portion 216 of the dipole outer conductor fixing member 240 and the coupling portion 218 of the dipole inner conductor 214, so as to form a semi-enclosed structure with the pressing portion 216 of the dipole outer conductor fixing member 240 and the coupling portion 218 of the dipole inner conductor 214 to form a containing groove. It should be noted that when the dipole inner conductor 214, the dipole outer conductor fixing member 240 and the feed network 220 are assembled, the limiting portion 219 abuts against the end of the feed network 220, so as to exert a longitudinal (i.e. along the length direction of the feed network 220) pressure on the feed network 220, to help fix the feed network 220 in the phase shifter cavity 230.

[0092] It should be noted that the pressing portion 216 is wave-shaped. It should be understood that the pressing portion 216 includes a plurality of continuous concave portions and convex portions to form a wave shape. By virtue of the wave-shaped structure, the pressure borne by the pressing portion 216 can be dispersed, and thus the pressing portion 216 is not easy to be damaged; and the plurality of concave portions respectively contact the feed network 220 to form a plurality of pressing points, so that the force borne by the feed network 220 is more uniform, to ensure that the clamping of the feed network 220 by the clamping assembly formed by the pressing portion 216 and the coupling portion 218 is more stable and tighter.

[0093] In some embodiments, the end of the pressing portion 216 extends towards the direction away from the coupling portion 218, and the end of the coupling portion 218 is provided with a chamfer. It should be understood that one end (fixed end) of the pressing portion 216 is fixed to the inner conductor 214 of the antenna element, and the other end of the pressing portion 216 is a free end. The end of the free end of the pressing portion 216 extends towards the direction away from the coupling portion 218, i.e. is raised relative to the coupling portion 218. The end of the coupling portion 218 is provided with a chamfer. In this way, the clamping assembly formed by the pressing portion 216 and the coupling portion 218 forms an opening angle at the opening thereof, which has a guiding effect when the feed network 220 is inserted, and can facilitate the installation of the feed network 220 into the clamping assembly.

[0094] Figure 14 A perspective view schematically showing a partial structure of the antenna unit 300 according to an embodiment of the present application is shown. For ease of illustration, Figure 14 The positive directions of the X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis are schematically shown by arrows. Figure 15 A front view schematically showing a partial structure of the antenna unit 300 according to an embodiment of the present application is shown, wherein, for example, a phase-shifting medium is not shown. Figure 16 A cross-sectional view schematically showing a partial structure of the antenna unit 300 according to an embodiment of the present application is shown, wherein the direction is perpendicular to the Y-axis direction. Figure 17 A perspective view schematically showing the inner conductor 314 of the antenna element 310 according to an embodiment of the present application is shown. Figure 18 A front view schematically showing the inner conductor 314 of the antenna element 310 according to an embodiment of the present application is shown. Figure 19 A perspective view schematically showing the elastic buckle 360 according to an embodiment of the present application is shown. Figure 20 A perspective view schematically showing the elastic buckle 360 according to an embodiment of the present application is shown. Figure 21 A front view schematically showing the elastic buckle 360 according to an embodiment of the present application is shown.

[0095] The antenna unit 300 comprises the antenna element 310 according to an embodiment of the present application, the feed network 320 and the phase shifter cavity 330. The feed network 320 is arranged in the phase shifter cavity 330, and the phase shifter cavity 330 is configured to accommodate the feed network 320. The antenna unit 300 further comprises the outer conductor fixing member 340 arranged between the outer conductor 312 and the phase shifter cavity 330, and configured to fix the outer conductor 312 and realize the coupling between the outer conductor 312 and the phase shifter cavity 330.

[0096] In some embodiments, the outer conductor fixing member 340 is an insulator. The outer conductor fixing member 340 is, for example, a plastic member. The outer conductor fixing member 340 serves as an insulating medium between the outer conductor 312 and the phase shifter cavity 330, so that the outer conductor 312 and the phase shifter cavity 330 are not in direct current contact. The outer conductor fixing member 340 is provided with a clamping rivet 342, which passes through the clamping portion of the phase shifter cavity 330, so that the outer conductor fixing member 340 is fixed to the phase shifter cavity 330.

[0097] In some embodiments, an insulating medium layer is provided between the outer conductor 312 and the phase shifter cavity 330. The insulating medium layer can be a plastic layer or an oxide film. The insulating medium layer can make the outer conductor 312 and the phase shifter cavity 330 not in direct current contact.

[0098] The antenna element 310 includes an outer conductor 312, an inner conductor 314, and a pressing portion 316. The outer conductor 312 is configured to be coupled to the phase shifter cavity 330, and the inner conductor 314 is arranged in the outer conductor 312. The inner conductor 314 includes a coupling portion 318, which is configured to be coupled to the feed network 320 in the phase shifter cavity 330 to achieve electrical connection. The pressing portion 316 is configured to apply pressure to at least one of the coupling portion 318 and the feed network 320, so that the coupling portion 318 and the feed network 320 are pressed tightly.

[0099] The pressing portion 316 includes two elastic clamps 360, which are arranged in the phase shifter cavity 330 and on both sides of the feed network 320, so that the coupling portion 318 and the feed network 320 are pressed tightly. In this scheme, by applying pressure from both sides through the two elastic clamps 360, a predetermined stable state of the inner conductor 314 and the feed network 320 can be ensured, and good coupling between the inner conductor 314 and the feed network 320 can be achieved, so that the predetermined radio frequency loss performance and the like can be achieved. Of course, it can be understood that in other embodiments, the elastic clamp 360 can be arranged on only one side of the feed network 320, and the other side can be a non-elastic member.

[0100] In some embodiments, each elastic clamp 360 includes an elastic cantilever 362 and a rigid arm 364. The elastic cantilever 362 is configured to elastically support the rigid arm 364, and the elastic cantilever 362 includes an arc-shaped portion 366 protruding towards the rigid arm 364. One side of the rigid arm 364 facing the elastic cantilever 362 includes an arc-shaped surface 368 protruding towards the elastic cantilever 362. By this structure, more sufficient deformation space can be reserved for the elastic cantilever 362.

[0101] In some embodiments, the elastic clip 360 further comprises a fixing portion configured to be fixed with the feed network 320 so as to fix the elastic clip 360 on the feed network 320. By means of the fixing portion, the elastic clip 360 can be fixed on the feed network 320 first, and then the feed network 320 with the elastic clip 360 fixed thereon is installed into the phase shifter cavity 330. Then, the coupling portion 318 of the inner conductor 314 of the transducer is inserted into the phase shifter cavity 330 for coupling. The fixing portion comprises, for example, a latch 363 and a clip 365 arranged on the back surface (i.e. the surface away from the elastic cantilever 362) of the rigid arm 364. The feed network 320 is provided with mounting holes corresponding to the latch 363 and the clip 365 respectively. The latch 363 and the clip 365 are inserted into the corresponding mounting holes respectively, so as to fix the elastic clip 360 on the feed network 320. It should be noted that the clip 365 is compressed when it is inserted into the mounting hole, and the clip 365 restores to its original shape after it passes through the mounting hole, so as to clamp the elastic clip 360 and the feed network 320. The latch 363 and the clip 365 are arranged on the diagonal lines of the back surface of the rigid arm 364.

[0102] It should be understood that after the feed network 320 with the elastic clip 360 fixed thereon is installed into the phase shifter cavity 330, the elastic clip 360 exerts pressure on the inner wall of the phase shifter cavity 330 and the feed network 320. When the coupling portion 318 of the inner conductor 314 of the transducer is inserted into the phase shifter cavity 330, the coupling portion 318 overcomes the pressure exerted by the elastic clip 360 on the feed network 320, and is inserted between the elastic clip 360 and the feed network 320. Thus, the elastic clip 360 exerts pressure on the coupling portion 318.

[0103] In some embodiments, the end of at least one of the elastic cantilever 362 and the rigid arm 364 is provided with a chamfer. By means of the chamfer structure of the end of the elastic cantilever 362 and the rigid arm 364, it is convenient to install the elastic clip 360 into the phase shifter cavity 330, and it is convenient to insert the coupling portion 318 of the inner conductor 314 of the transducer between the elastic clip 360 and the feed network 320.

[0104] The above has described the embodiments of the present application, and the above description is exemplary, not exhaustive, and is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Many modifications and changes are obvious to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The selection of the terms used herein is intended to best explain the principles, practical application or technical improvement in the art of the market, or to enable other ordinary skilled persons in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0105] The above merely describes optional embodiments of the present application, and is not configured to limit the present application, and the present application can have various changes and variations for those skilled in the art. Any modification, equivalent replacement, improvement, etc. made within the spirit and principle of the present application shall be included in the protection scope of the present application.

Claims

1. An antenna element, characterized by The antenna element comprises: an outer conductor; an inner conductor arranged in the outer conductor, the inner conductor comprising: a coupling portion configured to be coupled with a feed network in a phase shifter cavity to realize electrical connection; and the antenna element further comprises a pressing portion configured to apply pressure to at least one of the coupling portion and the feed network, so that the coupling portion and the feed network are pressed tightly; the antenna element further comprises: an outer conductor fixing member arranged between the outer conductor and the phase shifter cavity and configured to fix the outer conductor and realize coupling between the outer conductor and the phase shifter cavity; the pressing portion is arranged on the outer conductor fixing member and arranged opposite to the coupling portion to form a clamping assembly with the coupling portion for clamping the feed network.

2. The antenna element of claim 1, wherein, The pressing portion is configured as a buckle structure, and the pressing portion is further arranged on the inner conductor and forms a clamping assembly with the coupling portion for clamping the feed network.

3. The antenna element of claim 1, wherein, The inner conductor comprises an elastic arm configured as the pressing portion.

4. The antenna element according to any of claims 1 to 3, c h a r a c t e r i z e d b y The pressing portion is wave-shaped.

5. The antenna element of claim 4, wherein, Ends of the pressing portion extend away from the coupling portion, and ends of the coupling portion are provided with chamfers.

6. The antenna element of claim 2, wherein, The inner conductor is a metal inner core, the pressing portion is configured as an insulator, and the pressing portion is combined with the inner conductor through an injection molding process to form an integrated structure; or The pressing portion and the inner conductor are integrally formed through an injection molding process, and a surface of the inner conductor is formed with a metal layer through an electroplating process; or The pressing portion and the inner conductor are integrally formed metal members.

7. The antenna element of claim 1, wherein, The pressing portion further comprises two elastic buckles arranged in the phase shifter cavity and arranged on two sides of the feed network respectively, so that the coupling portion and the feed network are pressed tightly.

8. The antenna element of claim 7, wherein, Each elastic buckle comprises: an elastic cantilever configured to elastically support a rigid arm, the elastic cantilever comprising an arc-shaped portion protruding towards the rigid arm, and the rigid arm comprising an arc-shaped surface protruding towards the elastic cantilever on a side of the rigid arm facing the elastic cantilever.

9. The antenna element of claim 7, wherein, The elastic buckle further comprises a fixing portion configured to be fixed with the feed network to fix the elastic buckle on the feed network.

10. The antenna element of claim 8, wherein, Ends of at least one of the elastic cantilever and the rigid arm are provided with chamfers.

11. The antenna element of claim 1, wherein, The outer conductor is configured to be coupled with the phase shifter cavity.

12. An antenna unit, characterized by The antenna element comprises: the antenna element according to any one of claims 1 to 11; a feed network arranged in the phase shifter cavity; and a phase shifter cavity configured to accommodate the feed network. A medium layer is arranged between the coupling portion and the feed network.

13. The antenna unit of claim 12, wherein, The medium layer comprises at least one of:

14. The antenna unit of claim 13, wherein, an outer conductor fixing member; an insulating medium layer coated on the outer conductor; and an insulating medium layer coated on the phase shifter cavity. The phase shifter cavity comprises a top wall, a bottom wall arranged opposite to the top wall, and a side wall between the top wall and the bottom wall; the top wall extends outwardly to form an extension wall coupled with a reflecting plate.

15. The antenna unit of claim 12, wherein, The phase shifter cavity comprises a top wall, a bottom wall arranged opposite to the top wall, and a side wall between the top wall and the bottom wall; at least one of an intersection between the top wall and the side wall and an intersection between the bottom wall and the side wall is provided with a step portion; 16. The antenna unit of claim 12, wherein, The width of the phase shifter cavity at the position corresponding to the step portion is smaller than the distance between the pair of side walls. ​ 17. The antenna unit of claim 16, wherein, The number of the step portions is 2, and the step portions are located at one end of the side wall close to the top wall.

18. The antenna unit of claim 17, wherein, The phase shifter further comprises a phase shifting medium, which is located between the phase shifter cavity and the feed network, and is located at one side of the phase shifter cavity close to the bottom wall.

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