An antenna system and a base station antenna feeder system

Abstract

The application provides an antenna system and a base station antenna feeder system. The antenna system comprises a first antenna and a second antenna. The first antenna comprises a first radiating element array and a first phase shifter, and the first phase shifter is electrically connected with the first radiating element array. The second antenna comprises a second radiating element array and a second phase shifter, and the second phase shifter is electrically connected with the second radiating element array. The first phase shifter is arranged at the edge of the first antenna, and the first phase shifter is used for detachable connection with the second antenna. The antenna system in the scheme can realize detachable connection of the first antenna and the second antenna, can realize configuration upgrade of the antenna without replacing the original antenna, and has low cost and convenient operation.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202111530469.2, filed on December 14, 2021, entitled "An Antenna System and Base Station Antenna Feeder System", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of communication technology, specifically to an antenna system and a base station antenna feeder system. Background Technology

[0003] With the development of wireless communication technology, base stations can support an increasing number of communication frequency bands, leading to more complex antenna structures and higher antenna integration on individual antenna surfaces. As technology advances, antenna systems need upgrades in areas such as operating frequency bands or the number of interfaces. Current technologies often require dismantling the existing antenna system and safely replacing it. This approach is not only complex but also very costly. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides an antenna system and a base station antenna feeder system, which facilitates the expansion of the antenna system as needed, and the expansion cost is low and the operation is convenient.

[0005] Firstly, this application provides an antenna system. The antenna system includes a first antenna and a second antenna. The first antenna includes a first radiating element array and a first phase shifter, the first phase shifter being electrically connected to the first radiating element array for feeding the first radiating element array. The second antenna includes a second radiating element array and a second phase shifter, the second phase shifter being electrically connected to the second radiating element array for feeding the second radiating element array. The first antenna and the second antenna are detachably connected, allowing for antenna configuration upgrades without replacing the original antenna, with low cost and convenient operation. Furthermore, the second antenna in this solution can be modularized to simplify antenna assembly.

[0006] In the specific technical solution, the first phase shifter of the first antenna is disposed at the edge of the first antenna. The first phase shifter is used for detachable connection to the second antenna, which helps to simplify the structure of the first antenna. This solution utilizes the first phase shifter to connect the second antenna. The first phase shifter has high structural strength, which helps to improve the reliability of the connection between the second antenna and the first antenna.

[0007] In an optional technical solution, the second phase shifter can be detachably connected to the first phase shifter. That is, the second phase shifter can also serve as a connector for the second antenna. This solution, by detachably connecting the first and second phase shifters, allows for a detachable connection between the first and second antennas, simplifying the structure of the second antenna.

[0008] When specifically configuring the first and second phase shifters, they can be arranged in parallel. This approach facilitates the connection between the first and second phase shifters and helps reduce the space occupied by the antenna system.

[0009] In another specific technical solution, the first phase shifter and the second phase shifter can be an integrally formed structure, which makes the connection between the first phase shifter and the second phase shifter stronger.

[0010] The aforementioned first radiating element array may specifically include a first radiating element and a first balun, with the first radiating element electrically connected to the first phase shifter via the first balun. Similarly, the aforementioned second radiating element array may specifically include a second radiating element and a second balun, with the second radiating element electrically connected to the second phase shifter via the second balun. The first balun is tilted towards the first phase shifter in a direction away from the second phase shifter, and the second balun is tilted towards the second phase shifter in a direction away from the first phase shifter. This design tilts the first and second radiating element arrays in opposite directions, thus reducing the likelihood of structural interference.

[0011] When the aforementioned second radiating element array includes a second radiating element and a second balun, the second radiating element and the second phase shifter are electrically connected via the second balun. Alternatively, the second balun can be perpendicular to the surface of the second radiating element. In this configuration, the second balun is vertically positioned without tilting; therefore, the second radiating element array does not require eccentric positioning, resulting in higher installation strength.

[0012] The edge of the first antenna includes a region encompassing one-tenth of the antenna's width along a first direction. This first direction is perpendicular to the extension direction of the first phase shifter. In other words, the edge of the first antenna is not an absolute side, but rather refers to the region close to the side.

[0013] The first antenna mentioned above includes a first reflector. The specific type of the first reflector is not limited. It can be a full-frequency reflector, a frequency-selective surface, or a 3D reflector formed by multiple frequency-selective surfaces. The appropriate surface can be selected according to the actual needs.

[0014] The aforementioned second antenna includes a second reflector, and the second phase shifter has a rectangular cross-section. Specifically, when configuring the second phase shifter and the second reflector, the length of the second phase shifter's cross-section perpendicular to the second reflector can be greater than the length of its cross-section parallel to the second reflector. This design allows for a smaller area of ​​the second antenna in the plane containing the second reflector, which helps reduce the roof space occupied by the antenna system and also reduces the wind load on the antenna system.

[0015] In the specific technical solution, the aforementioned second antenna includes a second reflector, which may have a perforated structure. This perforated structure can reduce the wind load on the second reflector, thus helping to reduce the wind load on the antenna system.

[0016] The refraction surface of the first radiating element array and the radiating surface of the second radiating element array can be set in parallel, so that the beam directions of the first antenna and the second antenna are the same, which makes it easier for the first antenna and the second antenna to work together to realize the expansion of the antenna system.

[0017] The first antenna may further include a first motherboard and a first driving interface, the first driving interface being connected to the first motherboard. Similarly, the second antenna includes a second motherboard and a second driving interface, the second driving interface being connected to the second motherboard. In this scheme, each antenna has a motherboard and a driving interface, which allows for independent driving of the first and second antennas as needed. Alternatively, the first driving interface can be connected to the second driving interface, allowing the second antenna to be driven through the first antenna, thus enabling flexible application of the antenna system.

[0018] The aforementioned antenna system may further include a calibration circuit board electrically connected to the first and second radiating element arrays to correct the phase of the first and second radiating element arrays, thereby normalizing the phase information of each interface of the antenna system. In a specific technical solution, the calibration circuit board can be located on either the first or second antenna, with the installation position designed according to actual requirements.

[0019] The operating frequency band of the first antenna and the second antenna can be the same or different, depending on the design requirements. For example, if only the number of antenna system interfaces needs to be increased, the operating frequency band of the first antenna can be the same as that of the second antenna. When it is necessary to increase the operating frequency band of the antenna system, the operating frequency band of the first antenna can be different from that of the second antenna.

[0020] Secondly, this application also provides a base station antenna feeder system, which includes the antenna system described in the first aspect. The base station antenna feeder system in this solution can be expanded according to actual application requirements to increase the number of antenna system interfaces or expand the operating frequency band of the antenna system.

[0021] To install the aforementioned antenna system, the base station antenna feeder system may further include a mounting bracket, and the antenna system includes a mounting structure. The antenna system is mounted on the mounting bracket via the mounting structure. Specifically, the mounting structure may be located only at the first antenna, or connected only to the first antenna, while the second antenna does not have a mounting structure; the second antenna is simply connected to the first antenna. Therefore, this solution can reduce the space required for the mounting bracket of the antenna system, thus improving the utilization rate of the mounting bracket.

[0022] In one technical solution, the first antenna includes a first motherboard and a first driving interface, the first driving interface being connected to the first motherboard to transmit driving signals to the first antenna. The second antenna includes a second motherboard and a second driving interface, the second driving interface being connected to the second motherboard to transmit driving signals to the second antenna. The base station antenna feeder system also includes a radio frequency remote unit, which includes a first radio frequency remote unit and a second radio frequency remote unit. The first radio frequency remote unit includes a third driving interface, and the second radio frequency remote unit includes a fourth driving interface. In actual operation, the third driving interface is connected to the first driving interface to input driving signals to the first antenna, thereby driving the first antenna to operate using the first radio frequency remote unit. The fourth driving interface is connected to the second driving interface to input driving signals to the second antenna, thereby driving the second antenna to operate using the second radio frequency remote unit. In this solution, the first antenna and the second antenna can be driven independently.

[0023] In another technical solution, the first antenna includes a first motherboard and a first driving interface, the first driving interface being connected to the first motherboard to transmit a driving signal to the first antenna. The second antenna includes a second motherboard and a second driving interface, the second driving interface being connected to the second motherboard to transmit a driving signal to the second antenna. The base station antenna feeder system also includes a radio frequency remote unit, which includes a fifth driving interface. The fifth driving interface is connected to the first driving interface, thereby inputting a driving signal to the first antenna. The connection between the first driving interface and the second driving interface allows the driving signal to be transmitted to the second antenna through the first antenna. This solution can drive the second antenna to operate using the first antenna. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a system architecture applicable to an embodiment of this application; Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a base station antenna feeder system according to a possible embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna configuration in one possible embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna system in one embodiment of this application; Figure 5 This is a top view of an antenna system in an embodiment of this application. Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna system in one embodiment of this application; Figure 7 This is a top view of an antenna system in an embodiment of this application. Figure 8 This is another schematic diagram of the antenna system in the embodiments of this application; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of another structure of the antenna system in the embodiments of this application; Figure 10 This is another schematic diagram of the antenna system in the embodiments of this application; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna system in one embodiment of this application; Figure 12 This is a top view of an antenna system in an embodiment of this application. Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of an interface structure of an antenna system in an embodiment of this application; Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of an antenna system in an embodiment of this application; Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of a base station antenna feeder system in one embodiment of this application; Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of another structure of the base station antenna feeder system in the embodiments of this application; Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of another structure of the base station antenna feeder system in the embodiments of this application; Figure 18 This is a partial structural diagram of the base station antenna feeder system in an embodiment of this application.

[0025] Figure label: 1-Antenna system; 11-Radar radome; 12-Radiating element array; 13-Reflector; 14-Power supply network; 141-Transmission components; 142 - Calibration network; 143 - Phase shifter; 144 - Combiner; 145 - Filter; 15 - First antenna; 151 - First radiating element array; 1511 - First radiating unit; 1512 - First balun; 152 - First phase shifter; 153 - First reflector; 154 - First radome; 156 - First motor; 157 - First motherboard; 158 - First driver interface; 159 - First RF interface; 1510 - Calibration circuit board; 16 - Second antenna; 161 - Second radiating element array; 1611 - Second radiating unit; 1612 - Second balun; 162 - Second phase shifter; 163 - Second reflector; 164 - Second day's wire cover; 166 - Second motor; 167 - Second motherboard; 168 - Second driver interface; 169 - Second RF interface; 2 - Mounting bracket; 3-Antenna adjustment bracket; 4-RF remote unit; 41-First radio frequency remote unit; 411-Third driver interface; 42-Second radio frequency remote unit; 421-Fourth driver interface; 43 - Fifth driver interface; 44 - Third radio frequency interface; 5-Baseband processing unit; 6-Cable. Detailed Implementation

[0026] To facilitate understanding of the antenna and base station antenna feeder system provided in the embodiments of this application, its application scenarios are described below. Figure 1 An exemplary schematic diagram of a system architecture applicable to an embodiment of this application is shown, such as... Figure 1As shown, this application scenario can include base stations and terminals. Wireless communication can be achieved between the base station and the terminal. The base station can be located in a base station bubsystem (BBS), a UMTS terrestrial radio access network (UTRAN), or an evolved universal terrestrial radio access network (E-UTRAN), used for cell coverage of radio signals to enable communication between the terminal device and the wireless network. Specifically, the base station can be a base transceiver station (BTS) in a Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) or Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) system, a Node B (NB) in a Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) system, an evolved Node B (eNB or eNodeB) in a Long Term Evolution (LTE) system, or a radio controller in a cloud radio access network (CRAN) scenario. Alternatively, the base station may be a relay station, access point, vehicle-mounted equipment, wearable device, or a g node (gNodeB or gNB) in a new radio (NR) system, or a base station in a future evolved network, etc., and the embodiments of this application are not limited thereto.

[0027] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a possible structure for a base station antenna feeding system is shown. A base station antenna feeding system typically includes an antenna system 1, a mounting frame 2, and an antenna adjustment bracket 3. The antenna system 1 is mounted on the mounting frame 2 via the antenna adjustment bracket 3 to facilitate signal reception or transmission by the antenna system 1. Specifically, the mounting frame 2 can be a pole or a tower, etc. Of course, in other embodiments, the antenna system 1 can also be directly mounted on the mounting frame 2.

[0028] In the specific technical solution, the antenna system 1 includes an antenna radome 11. The antenna radome 11 has good electromagnetic wave penetration characteristics in terms of electrical performance and can withstand the influence of harsh external environment in terms of mechanical performance, thereby protecting the antenna system 1 from the influence of external environment.

[0029] Additionally, the base station may include a remote radio unit 4 and a baseband processing unit 5. For example, the remote radio unit 4 can be used to perform frequency selection, amplification, and down-conversion processing on the signal received by the antenna system 1, converting it into an intermediate frequency (IF) signal or a baseband signal and sending it to the baseband processing unit 5. Alternatively, the remote radio unit 4 can be used to up-convert and amplify the IF signal from the baseband processing unit 5 and then convert it into electromagnetic waves through the antenna system 1 for transmission. The baseband processing unit 5 can be connected to the feed network of the antenna system 1 via the remote radio unit 4. In some embodiments, the remote radio unit 4 may also be referred to as a remote radio unit (RRU), and the baseband processing unit 5 may also be referred to as a baseband unit (BBU).

[0030] In one possible embodiment, the radio frequency remote unit 4 and the baseband processing unit 5 can be located simultaneously at the far end of the antenna system 1. The radio frequency remote unit 4 and the baseband processing unit 5 can be connected via a cable 6.

[0031] More specifically, please refer to the following: Figure 2 and Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna configuration according to one possible embodiment of this application. Wherein, as... Figure 3 As shown, the antenna system 1 of the base station may include a radiating element array 12 and a reflector 13. The radiating element array 12, also known as an antenna element, is capable of effectively transmitting or receiving antenna signals. In the antenna system 1, the frequencies of different radiating element arrays 12 may be the same or different. The reflector 13, also known as a base plate, antenna panel, or reflective surface, may be made of metal. When the antenna system 1 receives a signal, the reflector 13 reflects and focuses the antenna signal onto the receiving point. When the antenna system 1 transmits a signal, it reflects and transmits the signal incident on the reflector 13. The radiating element array 12 is typically placed on one side of the reflector 13, which not only greatly enhances the signal reception or transmission capability of the antenna system 1 but also blocks and shields interference from other electromagnetic waves originating from the back of the reflector 13 (in this application, the back of the reflector 13 refers to the side opposite to where the radiating element array 12 is located) from the antenna signal reception.

[0032] In the antenna system 1 of the base station, the radiating element array 12 is connected to the feed network 14. The feed network 14 is typically composed of controlled impedance transmission lines. The feed network 14 can feed signals to the radiating element array 12 with a certain amplitude and phase, or send received signals to the baseband processing unit 5 of the base station with a certain amplitude and phase. Specifically, in some embodiments, the feed network 14 can achieve different radiation beam directions through the transmission component 141, or be connected to the calibration network 142 to obtain the calibration signal required by the system. The feed network 14 may include a phase shifter 143 to change the maximum direction of antenna signal radiation. The feed network 14 may also include some modules for extending performance, such as a combiner 144, which can be used to combine signals of different frequencies into one for transmission through the antenna system 1; or, in reverse, it can be used to divide the signals received by the antenna system 1 into multiple paths according to different frequencies and transmit them to the baseband processing unit 5 for processing; or a filter 145, for filtering out interference signals.

[0033] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of an antenna system in one embodiment of this application. Figure 5 This is a top view schematic diagram of an antenna system according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the antenna system 1 in this embodiment includes a first antenna 15 and a second antenna 16. The first antenna 15 includes a first radiating element array 151 and a first phase shifter 152. The first radiating element array 151 is electrically connected to the first phase shifter 152 to feed the first radiating element array 151. The second antenna 16 includes a second radiating element array 161 and a second phase shifter 162. The second radiating element array 161 is electrically connected to the second phase shifter 162 to feed the second radiating element array 161. In this scheme, the first antenna 15 and the second antenna 16 are detachably connected, allowing for antenna configuration upgrades without replacing the original antennas. This scheme facilitates the expansion of the antenna system 1 according to needs, and is cost-effective and easy to operate. For example, the operating frequency band of the antenna system 1 can be upgraded, or the number of interfaces of the antenna system 1 can be increased to improve the beamforming capability of the antenna system 1. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the second antenna 16 can be modularized to simplify antenna assembly.

[0034] The first phase shifter 152 of the first antenna 15 is disposed at the edge of the first antenna 15, so the first phase shifter 152 can be used for detachable connection with the second antenna 16. In this scheme, the first phase shifter 152 of the first antenna 15 is disposed at the edge of the first antenna 15, and the first phase shifter 152 is used to connect the second antenna 16, which helps to simplify the structure of the first antenna 15. In addition, the first phase shifter has a large structural strength, which helps to improve the reliability of the connection between the second antenna and the first antenna.

[0035] It is worth noting that, Figure 4 This can be understood as a cross-sectional view of the antenna perpendicular to the first radiating element array. Therefore, only one radiating element of the first radiating element array 151 is shown in the figure, while the remaining radiating elements are obscured by the shown radiating element. Similarly, only one radiating element of the second radiating element array 161 is shown in the figure, while the remaining radiating elements are obscured by the shown radiating element. The edge of the first antenna 15 mentioned above refers to the overall edge of the first antenna 15, that is, the position that can be directly contacted from the outside of the first antenna 15, or the position that can be directly connected to the first antenna 15 using a connector. For example, in a specific embodiment, when the first antenna 15 includes a first reflector 153, the first phase shifter 152 is disposed at the edge of the first reflector 153; when the first antenna 15 includes a first radome 154, the first phase shifter 152 is in contact with the first radome 154, then the second antenna 16 can be directly connected to the first phase shifter 152 on the outside of the first radome 154.

[0036] Furthermore, in terms of size, the edge of the first antenna 15 is not the absolute edge of the first antenna 15, but refers to the area of ​​the edge of the first antenna 15. Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of another structure of the antenna system in an embodiment of this application. Figure 7 This is a top view schematic diagram of another antenna system embodiment in this application. (See diagram below.) Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, in another embodiment, the edge of the first antenna 15 includes a region within one-tenth of the width of the first antenna 15 along the first direction X. The first direction X is perpendicular to the extending direction Y of the first phase shifter 152. The first phase shifter 152 has dimensions in three directions, with the largest dimension being the extending direction Y, as can be seen from [reference needed]. Figure 7 .like Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, the width of the first antenna 15 along the first direction X is m, and the width of the aforementioned edge region is m1. Then, m and m1 satisfy: m1 ≤ m. The aforementioned first phase shifter 152 is disposed within the width m1 of the aforementioned edge region. That is, the edge of the first antenna 15 is not an absolute side, but refers to the region near the side. Specifically, the aforementioned edge region can be the region outside the center of the first radiating element 1511. For example, when the first antenna 15 includes a first reflector 153, the region where the first phase shifter 152 is disposed at the edge of the first reflector 153 refers to the region within one-tenth the width of the first reflector 153 in the direction from the side towards the center region, i.e., m1 = m / 10. In this case, the size of the connector connecting the first phase shifter 152 and the second phase shifter 162 is relatively large, but it is sufficient as long as a detachable connection between the first phase shifter 152 and the second phase shifter 162 can be achieved.

[0037] In a specific technical solution, to achieve a detachable connection between the second antenna 16 and the first phase shifter 152, the second phase shifter 162 of the second antenna 16 can be detachably connected to the first phase shifter 152. Since the first phase shifter 152 typically includes a metal cavity with a relatively thick wall, it is strong and can serve as a connector to connect the first phase shifter 152 to the second antenna 16. This solution eliminates the need for an additional structure to connect the first antenna 15 and the second antenna 16, simplifying the structure of the antenna system 1 and reducing its cost.

[0038] In the antenna system 1 of this application, the first antenna 15 can be installed on the mounting bracket 2 during operation. When it is necessary to expand the antenna system 1, a second antenna 16 can be installed on the first antenna 15 to achieve the expansion of the antenna system 1.

[0039] Specifically, the second antenna 16 can be directly connected to the first antenna 15, achieving fixed installation using the first antenna 15, without needing to be installed on the mounting bracket 2. For example, the antenna system 1 includes a mounting structure, and the antenna system 1 is installed on the mounting bracket 2 via the aforementioned mounting structure. The aforementioned mounting structure is located only on the first antenna 15, not on the second antenna 16; the second antenna 16 can simply be connected to the first antenna 15. Therefore, this solution can reduce the space required for the mounting bracket of the antenna system, which is beneficial for improving the utilization rate of the mounting bracket. Of course, in other embodiments, the second antenna 16 can also be installed on the mounting bracket 2.

[0040] In a specific embodiment, the operating frequency band of the first antenna 15 and the second antenna 16 may be the same or different. When the operating frequency band of the first antenna 15 and the second antenna 16 are the same, the number of interfaces of the antenna system 1 can be expanded. Alternatively, when the operating frequency band of the first antenna 15 and the second antenna 16 are different, the operating frequency band of the antenna system 1 can be expanded.

[0041] It is worth noting that the embodiments of this application... Figure 4 and Figure 5 In this embodiment, antenna system 1 includes a first antenna 15 and two second antennas 16, with the two second antennas 16 positioned on either side of the first antenna 15. The first antenna 15 includes two first radiating element arrays 151, and each second antenna 16 includes one first radiating element array 151. Therefore, antenna system 1 can include four radiating element arrays. For example, in this embodiment, the radiating elements are all dual-polarized radiating elements, which can be connected to two radio frequency (RF) interfaces for transmitting RF signals. Thus, each first radiating element array 151 connects to two RF interfaces, and each second radiating element array 161 connects to two RF interfaces. Therefore, the two first radiating element arrays 151 of the first antenna 15 can specifically connect to four RF interfaces. Similarly, the second radiating element array 161 of each second antenna 16 can specifically connect to two RF interfaces. Therefore, in the specific application of antenna system 1, the first antenna 15 can be installed first, resulting in antenna system 1 with four RF interfaces. When more RF interfaces are needed, two more second antennas 16 can be added, upgrading antenna system 1 to an antenna system 1 with eight RF interfaces.

[0042] Specifically, when configuring the first phase shifter 152 and the second phase shifter 162, they can be arranged in parallel to facilitate connection. Of course, in other embodiments, the first phase shifter 152 and the second phase shifter 162 can also be arranged non-parallel. This application does not impose any restrictions on this; the configuration can be determined according to the actual application scenario of the antenna system 1.

[0043] Furthermore, the first phase shifter 152 and the second phase shifter 162 can be metal structures, which facilitates their use for grounding and also allows them to be used as structural components for mounting other structures.

[0044] The first phase shifter 152 and the second phase shifter 162 can also be integrally formed. In this configuration, the connection strength between the first antenna 15 and the second antenna 16 is relatively strong. This embodiment simplifies the fabrication process between the first phase shifter 152 and the second phase shifter 162. It is worth noting that when the first phase shifter 152 and the second phase shifter 162 are integrally formed, in one possible embodiment, a circuit board or wiring structure can be directly fabricated within the second phase shifter 162.

[0045] The first antenna 15 may further include a first reflector 153, which is used to reflect the radiated signals of the first radiating element array 151. The first reflector 153 may be disposed between two first phase shifters 152. In a specific embodiment, the first reflector 153 may be fixedly connected to the first phase shifter 152, with the first phase shifter 152 connected to the edge of the first reflector 153. The specific type of the first reflector 153 is not limited; for example, it may be a full-frequency reflector. Specifically, the full-frequency reflector is a front-facing metal plate that can reflect radiated signals of all frequencies and only has a reflective function. The structure of the first reflector 153 is relatively simple, which can simplify the structure of the first antenna 15 and reduce its cost. Furthermore, in another embodiment, the first reflector 153 may also be a frequency-selective surface to transmit and reflect radiated signals of a certain frequency as needed. Alternatively, the first reflector 153 may also be a 3D reflector formed by multiple frequency-selective surfaces. In a specific embodiment, the radiating surface of the first radiating unit array 151 can be arranged parallel to the first reflector 153.

[0046] The aforementioned second antenna 16 also includes a second reflector 163, and a second phase shifter 162 can be fixedly connected to the second reflector 163, specifically, the second phase shifter 162 can be connected to the edge of the second reflector 163. The second reflector 163 is used to reflect the radiated signal of the second radiating element array 161. In a specific embodiment, the radiating surface of the second radiating element array 161 can be arranged parallel to the second reflector 163.

[0047] The cross-section of the second phase shifter 162 can be rectangular. The length L of the cross-section of the second phase shifter 162 along the direction perpendicular to the second reflector 163 is greater than the length W of the cross-section of the second phase shifter 162 along the direction parallel to the second reflector 163. That is, the sidewall with the smaller area of ​​the second phase shifter 162 is parallel to the second reflector 163, while the sidewall with the larger area of ​​the second phase shifter 162 is perpendicular to the second reflector 163. This design allows the area of ​​the second antenna 16 in the plane containing the second reflector 163 to be smaller, which helps to reduce the roof space occupied by the antenna system 1 and reduces the wind load on the antenna system 1.

[0048] In the specific technical solution, the second reflector 163 has a perforated structure. This perforated structure can be multiple holes, which can be evenly or unevenly distributed on the second reflector 163. Furthermore, the shape of the holes is not limited; they can be square, circular, triangular, hexagonal, or irregular shapes, etc., designed according to requirements. This perforated structure can reduce the wind load on the second reflector 163, which is beneficial for reducing the wind load on the antenna system 1.

[0049] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 4 and Figure 5 In one specific embodiment, the radiating surface of the first radiating element array 151 can be parallel to the radiating surface of the second radiating element array 161. In this scheme, the first antenna 15 and the second antenna 16 have the same radiation direction, which facilitates the joint operation of the first antenna 15 and the second antenna 16 to expand the antenna system 1. Of course, in other embodiments, the radiating surface of the first radiating element array 151 can be non-parallel to the radiating surface of the second radiating element array 161, depending on the actual needs.

[0050] Figure 8 This is another schematic diagram of the antenna system in the embodiments of this application, such as... Figure 8 As shown, in one optional technical solution, the first antenna 15 has a first radome 154. The first radiating element array 151 and the first phase shifter 152 are disposed within the first radome 154. The first radome 154 can protect the first radiating element array 151 and the first phase shifter 152. Alternatively, the second antenna 16 can have a second radome 164, with the second radiating element array 161 and the second phase shifter 162 disposed within the second radome 164. The second radome 164 can protect the second radiating element array 161 and the second phase shifter 162.

[0051] Figure 9 This is another schematic diagram of the antenna system in the embodiments of this application, such as... Figure 9 As shown, in another alternative technical solution, the first antenna 15 can have a first radome 154, while the second antenna 16 does not have a second radome 164. In this solution, the second antenna 16 experiences less wind load, which helps to reduce the wind load of the entire antenna system 1.

[0052] Figure 10 This is another schematic diagram of the antenna system in the embodiments of this application, such as... Figure 10 As shown, in another alternative technical solution, the first antenna 15 may not have a first antenna cover 154, while the second antenna 16 may have a second antenna cover 164. This application does not impose specific limitations on the arrangement of the antenna cover. Of course, it can also be done as follows... Figure 4As shown, the first antenna 15 does not have a first antenna cover 154, and the second antenna 16 does not have a second antenna cover 164. The design of the antenna covers for the first antenna 15 and the second antenna 16 can be considered based on factors such as the antenna's operating environment.

[0053] Please continue to refer to this. Figures 8-10 The first radiating element array 151 includes a first radiating element 1511 and a first balun 1512, with the first radiating element 1511 electrically connected to the first phase shifter 152 via the first balun 1512. The second radiating element array 161 includes a second radiating element 1611 and a second balun 1612, with the second radiating element 1611 electrically connected to the second phase shifter 162 via the second balun 1612. The first balun 1512 is tilted towards the first phase shifter 152 in a direction away from the second phase shifter 162, and the second balun 1612 is tilted towards the second phase shifter 162 in a direction away from the first phase shifter 152. This design allows the first radiating element array 151 and the second radiating element array 161 to tilt in opposite directions, thus preventing structural interference between them. In a specific embodiment, the orthographic projection of the first radiating element array 151 onto the first reflector 153 can be completely located on the first reflector 153, and the orthographic projection of the second radiating element array 161 onto the second reflector 163 can be completely located on the second reflector 163.

[0054] It is worth noting that the first balun 1512 and the first reflector 153 can be considered to be set at an acute angle, and the second balun 1612 and the second reflector 163 can be set at an acute angle. The tilt of the first balun 1512 refers to the overall structural orientation of the first balun 1512; similarly, the tilt of the second balun 1612 refers to the overall structural orientation of the second balun 1612. For example, the first balun 1512 and the second balun 1612 can be linear structures. They can also be segmented structures. For example, the first balun 1512 may consist of two parts, one part perpendicular to the first reflector 153, and the other part set at an acute angle to the first reflector 153, or in other words, the other part tilts towards the first phase shifter 152 in a direction away from the second phase shifter 162. Similarly, the second balun 1612 can also be a linear structure or a segmented structure. When the second balun 1612 has a segmented structure, it can also consist of two parts: one part is perpendicular to the second reflector 163, and the other part is set at an acute angle to the second reflector 163, or in other words, the other part is tilted towards the second phase shifter 162 in a direction away from the first phase shifter 152. In short, it is sufficient that the first balun 1512 is generally set at an acute angle to the first reflector 153 and tilted towards the center of the first reflector 153; similarly, it is sufficient that the second balun 1612 is generally set at an acute angle to the second reflector 163 and tilted towards the center of the second reflector 163.

[0055] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of another structure of the antenna system in an embodiment of this application. Figure 12 This is a top view schematic diagram of an antenna system according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, in another embodiment of this application, the second radiating element array 161 includes a second radiating element 1611 and a second balun 1612. The second radiating element 1611 and the second phase shifter 162 are electrically connected through the second balun 1612. In this embodiment, the second balun 1612 is perpendicular to the surface of the second radiating element 1611. Specifically, the orthographic projection of the center of the second balun 1612 on the second reflector 163 can be made to coincide with the orthographic projection of the center of the second radiating element 1611 on the second reflector 163, and the centers of the second balun 1612 and the second radiating element 1611 are correspondingly arranged. In this scheme, the second balun 1612 does not need to be tilted, and the second radiating element 1611 does not need to be offset, thus improving the strength of the second radiating element array 161 and enhancing its vibration resistance.

[0056] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of an interface structure of an antenna system in an embodiment of this application. Specifically, it can be... Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the interface structure of one end face of the antenna system shown. Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of an antenna system in an embodiment of this application. Specifically, it can be... Figure 13 The diagram shows the internal structure of the antenna system. Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, in one embodiment, the first antenna 15 includes a first motor 156, a first motherboard 157, and a first drive interface 158. The first drive interface 158 is used to receive drive signals, and the first motherboard 157 is connected to the first drive interface 158 and is used to receive the drive signals. Furthermore, the first motherboard 157 is connected to the first motor 156. The first motherboard 157 drives the first motor 156 to operate according to the drive signals, adjusting the phase and amplitude of the first antenna 15. The second antenna 16 includes a second motor 166, a second motherboard 167, and a second drive interface 168. The second drive interface 168 is used to receive drive signals, and the second motherboard 167 is connected to the second drive interface 168 and is used to receive the drive signals. Furthermore, the second motherboard 167 is connected to the second motor 166. The second motherboard 167 drives the second motor 166 to operate according to the drive signals, adjusting the phase and amplitude of the second antenna 16.

[0057] Furthermore, the first antenna 15 also has a first radio frequency (RF) interface 159, which is connected to the first motherboard 157 and used to transmit RF signals to the first radiating element array 151. The second antenna 16 has a second RF interface 169, which is connected to the second motherboard 167 and used to transmit RF signals to the first radiating element array 151.

[0058] In a specific embodiment, the first driving interface 158 can be an Antenna Interface Standards Group (AISG) interface. Similarly, the second driving interface 168 can also be an Antenna Interface Standards Group (AISG) interface; this application does not impose any restrictions.

[0059] In the specific technical solution, the first motor 156 and the first main board 157 can be set in the first phase shifter 152, and the second motor 166 and the second main board 167 can be set in the second phase shifter 162.

[0060] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of a base station antenna feeder system in an embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 15 As shown, the base station antenna feeder system may also include a radio remote unit (RRU). Specifically, Figure 15 In the illustrated embodiment, the base station antenna feeder system includes three radio frequency remote units 4. Each radio frequency remote unit 4 includes a third radio frequency interface 44. The third radio frequency interface 44 is connected to the first radio frequency interface 159 of the first antenna 15 and the second radio frequency interface 169 of the second antenna 16.

[0061] The first antenna 15 and the second antenna 16 mentioned above can be driven independently, that is, the first antenna 15 and the second antenna 16 mentioned above are respectively connected to the radio frequency remote unit 4, such as Figure 15 As shown. Or, Figure 16 This is another structural schematic diagram of the base station antenna feeder system in the embodiments of this application, as shown below. Figure 16 In the embodiment shown, the second antenna 16 can also be driven by the first antenna 15. That is, the second motherboard 167 of the second antenna 16 is connected to the first motherboard 157 of the first antenna 15. Specifically, this is achieved by connecting the first driving interface 158 and the second driving interface 168, thereby realizing the purpose of driving the second antenna 16 by the first antenna 15.

[0062] When the first antenna 15 and the second antenna 16 are driven independently, the radio frequency remote unit 4 includes a first radio frequency remote unit 41 and a second radio frequency remote unit 42. The first radio frequency remote unit 41 includes a third driving interface 411, and the second radio frequency remote unit 42 includes a fourth driving interface 421. In actual operation, the third driving interface 411 is connected to the first driving interface 158, thereby inputting a driving signal to the first antenna 15, and driving the first antenna 15 using the first radio frequency remote unit 41. The fourth driving interface 421 is connected to the second driving interface 168, thereby inputting a driving signal to the second antenna 16, and driving the second antenna 16 using the second radio frequency remote unit 42. In this scheme, the first antenna 15 and the second antenna 16 can be driven independently. In a specific embodiment, such as... Figure 15 As shown, each antenna is connected to a corresponding radio frequency remote unit 4. The aforementioned third drive interface 411 and fourth drive interface 421 can be Antenna Interface Standards Group (AISG) interfaces.

[0063] like Figure 16 As shown, in another embodiment, the radio frequency remote unit 4 includes a fifth driving interface 43. This fifth driving interface 43 is connected to the first driving interface 158, thereby inputting a driving signal to the first antenna 15. The first driving interface 158 is connected to the second driving interface 168, allowing the driving signal to be transmitted to the second antenna 16 through the first antenna 15. This scheme allows the second antenna 16 to operate using the first antenna 15. Please refer to... Figure 14 In this scheme, the first motherboard 157 receives the drive signal and transmits it to the second motherboard 167 through the first drive interface 158 and the second drive interface 168 to drive the second antenna 16. It is worth noting that the aforementioned radio frequency remote unit 4 may include multiple fifth drive interfaces 43, and these multiple fifth drive interfaces 43 may be located in different radio frequency remote units 4, such as... Figure 16 As shown. Alternatively, in another embodiment, multiple fifth drive interfaces 43 may be located in the same radio frequency remote unit 4, and this application does not limit this.

[0064] When the antenna system 1 includes multiple second antennas 16, the second drive interface 168 of each second antenna 16 can be connected to the first drive interface 158 of the first antenna 15, such as... Figure 16 As shown. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the second drive interfaces 168 between different second antennas 16 can be connected, and then the second drive interface 168 of one of the second antennas 16 can be connected to the first drive interface 158, as shown. Figure 17 As shown. This application does not impose any limitations on this.

[0065] Figure 18 This is a partial structural diagram of the base station antenna feeder system in an embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 18 As shown in this embodiment, the first antenna 15 may further include a calibration circuit board 1510. One end of the calibration circuit board 1510 is connected to the first radiating element array 151 and the second radiating element array 161, and the other end is connected to the radio frequency remote unit 4. Since the jumper lengths connecting the radio frequency remote unit 4 to the first antenna 15 and the second antenna 161 are different, the phase of the first radiating element array 151 may differ from the phase of the second radiating element array 161. The calibration circuit board 1510 is used to correct the phase of the first radiating element array 151 and the second radiating element array 161 to normalize the phase information of each interface of the antenna system 1. In other embodiments, a calibration program may be set within the radio frequency remote unit 4 to calibrate the phase of the first radiating element array 151 and the second radiating element array 161.

[0066] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this application without departing from the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, if such modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this application also intends to include such modifications and variations.

Claims

1. An antenna system, characterized by Including a first antenna and a second antenna, wherein; The first antenna includes a first radiating element array and a first phase shifter, wherein the first radiating element array is electrically connected to the first phase shifter; The second antenna includes a second radiating element array and a second phase shifter, wherein the second radiating element array is electrically connected to the second phase shifter; The first phase shifter is disposed on the edge of the first antenna facing the second antenna, and the first antenna and the second antenna are detachably connected. The first antenna is detachably connected to the second antenna via the first phase shifter.

2. The antenna system of claim 1, wherein, The second phase shifter is connected to the first phase shifter.

3. The antenna system of claim 2, wherein, The first phase shifter and the second phase shifter are arranged in parallel.

4. The antenna system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The first phase shifter and the second phase shifter are integrally formed.

5. The antenna system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The first radiation unit array includes a first radiation unit and a first balun. The first radiation unit is electrically connected to the first phase shifter through the first balun. The second radiation unit array includes a second radiation unit and a second balun. The second radiation unit is electrically connected to the second phase shifter through the second balun. The first balun is tilted toward the first phase shifter in a direction away from the second phase shifter, and the second balun is tilted toward the second phase shifter in a direction away from the first phase shifter.

6. The antenna system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The second radiation unit array includes a second radiation unit and a second balun. The second radiation unit and the second phase shifter are electrically connected through the second balun, which is perpendicular to the surface of the second radiation unit.

7. The antenna system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The first antenna includes a first reflector, which is a full-frequency reflector or a frequency-selective surface.

8. The antenna system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The second antenna includes a second reflector, and the cross-section of the second phase shifter is rectangular. The length of the cross-section of the second phase shifter along the direction perpendicular to the second reflector is greater than the length of the cross-section of the second phase shifter along the direction parallel to the second reflector.

9. The antenna system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The second antenna includes a second reflector, which has a hollow structure.

10. The antenna system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The radiating surface of the first radiating element array is parallel to the radiating surface of the second radiating element array.

11. The antenna system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The first antenna includes a first motherboard and a first driving interface, the first driving interface being connected to the first motherboard. The second antenna includes a second motherboard and a second driving interface, the second driving interface being connected to the second motherboard.

12. The antenna system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The antenna system further includes a calibration circuit board, which is electrically connected to the first radiating element array and the second radiating element array, and is used to correct the phase of the first radiating element array and the second radiating element array.

13. The antenna system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The operating frequency band of the first antenna is the same as that of the second antenna.

14. A base station antenna feeder system, characterized in that, Including the antenna system as described in any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. The base station antenna feeder system as described in claim 14, characterized in that, It also includes a mounting bracket, and the antenna system includes a mounting structure that is mounted on the mounting bracket and is connected only to the first antenna.

16. The base station antenna feeder system as described in claim 14 or 15, characterized in that, The first antenna includes a first motherboard and a first driving interface, the first driving interface being connected to the first motherboard; the second antenna includes a second motherboard and a second driving interface, the second driving interface being connected to the second motherboard; the base station antenna feeder system further includes a radio frequency remote unit, the radio frequency remote unit including a first radio frequency remote unit and a second radio frequency remote unit, the first radio frequency remote unit including a third driving interface, and the second radio frequency remote unit including a fourth driving interface; the third driving interface is connected to the first driving interface, and the fourth driving interface is connected to the second driving interface.

17. The base station antenna feeder system as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The first antenna includes a first motherboard and a first driving interface, the first driving interface being connected to the first motherboard. The second antenna includes a second motherboard and a second driving interface, the second driving interface being connected to the second motherboard. The base station antenna feeder system further includes a radio frequency remote unit, the radio frequency remote unit including a fifth driving interface; the first driving interface is connected to the second driving interface, and the fifth driving interface is connected to the first driving interface.

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