Antenna and base station
By designing the radiating element in the antenna to conduct heat to the outside and the feeding network to dissipate heat directly, the problem of low heat dissipation efficiency of the base station antenna feeding system is solved, thereby reducing component temperature and improving antenna performance.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- HUAWEI TECH CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2020-12-29
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-08
AI Technical Summary
The high heat generated by components in the base station antenna power supply system leads to low heat dissipation efficiency, affecting the antenna's lifespan and performance.
Design an antenna structure in which the heat generated by the radiating element is conducted to the external environment through the radome and reflector, the feed network is exposed to the air for direct heat exchange, the heat exchange efficiency is improved by using a metal reflector, and the heat dissipation is accelerated by optimizing the contact area and connection method between the shell and the reflector.
It effectively reduces the temperature of various components inside the antenna, improves heat dissipation efficiency, prevents overheating, extends the antenna's service life, and enhances its performance.
Smart Images

Figure CN116325349B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of antenna technology, specifically to an antenna and a base station. Background Technology
[0002] With the advancement of technology, the antenna frequency bands, input power, and ports of base station antenna feeding systems are constantly increasing, resulting in increasingly higher integration and layout density of base station antenna feeding systems. As a result, the risk of overheating of components in the base station antenna feeding system during operation is also constantly increasing, and overheating of antenna components can affect the antenna's service life.
[0003] Therefore, how to quickly dissipate heat from the antenna has become an urgent problem to be solved. Summary of the Invention
[0004] This application provides an antenna and a base station to reduce the temperature of the antenna's heat-generating components, thereby achieving rapid heat dissipation of the antenna.
[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide an antenna, including a reflector, a radome, a radiating element, and a feeding network. The reflector has a first surface and a second surface disposed opposite to each other. The radiating element is disposed on the first surface of the reflector, and at least a portion of the feeding network is disposed on the second surface of the reflector. The feeding network is electrically connected to the radiating element. The radome covers the first surface of the reflector and forms a closed accommodating space only with the first surface of the reflector. The radiating element is disposed within this accommodating space. When the antenna is operating, a portion of the heat generated by the radiating element can be conducted to the external environment through the radome, and another portion of the heat generated by the radiating element can be conducted to the reflector and then to the external environment. Furthermore, at least a portion of the feeding network is disposed on the second surface of the reflector, and the portion of the feeding network located on the second surface of the reflector is exposed to the air. The heat generated by the feeding network can directly exchange heat with the external air, thereby improving the speed at which the heat generated by the feeding network is transferred to the external air and preventing the feeding network from overheating during operation.
[0006] It should be noted that when a portion of the feed network is located within the containment space, the heat generated by the radiating elements within the containment space can also be conducted to that portion of the feed network located within the containment space, and from there to the portion of the feed network exposed to the air, thereby increasing the rate of heat dissipation within the containment space. Furthermore, the radome and reflector can be integrally formed, or they can be detachably connected.
[0007] In some possible embodiments, the reflector can be a metal reflector. Since the metal reflector is a good conductor of heat, and the second side of the reflector is not covered by the radome, exposing the second side of the reflector to the outside of the radome, the heat generated by the radiating unit in the housing space can be quickly conducted to the reflector, preventing heat from accumulating inside the housing space. This can effectively improve the heat exchange efficiency between the reflector and the outside air, thereby helping to improve the heat dissipation efficiency of the radiating unit.
[0008] In the above embodiments, there can be multiple radiating elements, which can be arranged in an array in the accommodating space. In this case, there can also be multiple feeding networks, with one feeding network corresponding to each column of radiating elements. Specifically, each column of radiating elements and the reflector can be considered as an independent array. Each independent array receives or transmits radio frequency signals through a corresponding feeding network, and the frequencies of each independent array can be the same or different.
[0009] In one possible implementation, the power supply network may include a housing and an RF transmission line assembly. The housing serves as the ground of the power supply network and is connected to the second surface of a reflector. The housing and the second surface of the reflector form a receiving cavity, in which the RF transmission line assembly is disposed. Specifically, the power supply network may include one or two housings, and each housing may contain an RF transmission line assembly. When there are two housings, the RF transmission line assembly disposed in the two housings may be connected to the metal reflector in the following ways: the RF transmission line assembly is directly connected to the second surface of the reflector, and the RF transmission line assembly may be perpendicular to the reflector. In this case, the two housings in the two power supply networks corresponding to one column of radiating elements may be spaced apart, and the housings of the power supply networks corresponding to two adjacent columns of radiating elements may also be spaced apart, so as to maintain sufficient contact area between the housing and the external environment and improve the heat dissipation effect of the power supply network. In addition, the radio frequency transmission line assembly can be arranged parallel to the reflector. In this case, the two housings in the two feed networks corresponding to a column of radiating units are connected to each other, and the two radio frequency transmission line assemblies are connected to the connection part of the two housings. Through the connection part, they are connected to the reflector. The housings corresponding to the two adjacent columns of radiating units can also be connected to each other. In this way, the contact area between the housing and the external environment can be increased in the direction parallel to the reflector, ensuring the heat dissipation effect of the feed network.
[0010] It should be noted that the cavity formed by the outer shell and the reflector can be a sealed cavity or an open cavity at both ends; the shape of the outer shell can be rectangular or hemispherical, etc. Furthermore, since the outer shell is directly exposed to the external environment, to ensure its service life, its outer surface can be oxidized or coated with a protective layer to improve its corrosion resistance. The outer shell and the second side of the reflector can be integrally formed; alternatively, the outer shell and the reflector can be connected by riveting, screws, welding, or snap-fitting. No specific limitations are specified here.
[0011] In one possible implementation, the radome may include a main radome, a first end cap, and a second end cap. The main radome, first end cap, and second end cap may be a single, integrally formed assembly, or they may be three individual components connected in a detachable manner. Specifically, the main radome, the first surface of the reflector, the first end cap, and the second end cap form a closed receiving space. The radiating element can be disposed within this receiving space and connected to the first surface of the reflector. The first end cap, the second end cap, and the main radome can all extend towards one end of the first surface of the reflector. A first protrusion and a second protrusion are respectively provided on the extensions of the first end cap towards the second surface of the reflector and the extensions of the second end cap towards the second surface of the reflector. The first protrusion can engage with the first opening of the receiving cavity, and the second protrusion can engage with the second opening of the receiving cavity, thereby sealing both ends of the receiving cavity formed by the outer shell and the second surface of the reflector, ensuring that the radio frequency transmission line assembly within the receiving cavity is not corroded by the external environment.
[0012] It should be noted that when the RF transmission line assembly in the power supply network is perpendicular to the reflector, multiple first protrusions on the first end plate are spaced apart, and multiple second protrusions on the second end plate are also spaced apart, with multiple outer shells between the multiple first protrusions and the multiple second protrusions; when the RF transmission line assembly in the power supply network is parallel to the reflector, multiple first protrusions on the first end plate are spaced apart and connected sequentially to form a single plate, and multiple second protrusions on the second end plate are spaced apart and connected sequentially to form a single plate. Additionally, the main cover can also extend towards the second side of the reflector, as long as it does not form a closed space with the first protrusions on the first end plate, the second protrusions on the second end plate, and the second surface of the reflector, allowing the power supply network located on the second surface of the reflector to rapidly exchange heat with the external environment.
[0013] In one possible implementation, to facilitate the radome's placement on the first surface of the reflector, the reflector may include a main body and a first baffle and a second baffle disposed on both sides of the main body. The first and second baffles on both sides of the main body can be used to cooperate with the radome, allowing the radome to cover the first surface of the reflector. Specifically, a first protrusion may be provided on the outer side of the first baffle, and a second protrusion may be provided on the outer side of the second baffle. The extension direction of the first protrusion may be the same as the extension direction of the first baffle, or the first protrusion may be divided into multiple segments along the extension direction of the first baffle. The extension direction of the second protrusion may be the same as the extension direction of the second baffle, or the second protrusion may be divided into multiple segments along the extension direction of the second baffle. The upper surfaces of the first and second protrusions can contact the radome to support it, making it easier to connect the radome with the first and second baffles.
[0014] The motherboard has a first side and a second side, which are the same as the first and second sides of the reflector. When setting the first and second baffles, the first and second baffles can be set on both sides of the first side of the motherboard or on both sides of the second side of the motherboard.
[0015] It should be noted that multiple partitions may also be provided on the reflector. The multiple partitions are located between the first baffle and the second baffle, and the multiple partitions extend in the same direction as the first baffle and / or the second baffle. The partitions are arranged parallel to the first baffle and / or the second baffle. At least one row of radiating units may be provided between two adjacent partitions, between a partition and the first baffle, and between a partition and the second baffle.
[0016] In one possible implementation, the reflector can be set in various shapes, such as a V-shape, a W-shape, or a U-shape.
[0017] In addition, the main board can include multiple sub-boards. These sub-boards can be integrally formed or separate. Two adjacent sub-boards can be located on different planes, and each sub-board has a radiating unit on one side of the accommodating space.
[0018] On the other hand, this application also provides a base station, which includes the antenna described in the above technical solution, as well as a mast, a mounting bracket, and a signal processing unit. The mounting bracket is mounted on the mast, and the antenna is mounted on the mast via the mounting bracket. The antenna and the signal processing unit are connected via a feed line, and the connection between the feed line and the antenna and signal processing unit is sealed. When the antenna in this base station is working, localized overheating of components will not occur, thereby improving the operating efficiency of the base station. Attached Figure Description
[0019] Figure 1a An exemplary schematic diagram of a system architecture applicable to an embodiment of this application is shown;
[0020] Figure 1b This is a schematic diagram of an antenna in which the radome is a single unit, provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0021] Figure 1c for Figure 1b A schematic diagram showing the separation of the radome and reflector.
[0022] Figure 1d A schematic diagram of a structure in which a partial feed network is disposed within an antenna radome is provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0023] Figure 2a This is a schematic diagram of an antenna in which the radome is a separate structure, as provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0024] Figure 2b for Figure 2a A schematic diagram showing the separation of the radome and end cap.
[0025] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an antenna without a visible end cap, provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0026] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Exploded view;
[0027] Figure 5 for Figure 3 The main view;
[0028] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of another antenna structure without a visible end cap, provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0029] Figure 7 for Figure 6 The main view;
[0030] Figure 8a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an antenna provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0031] Figure 8b for Figure 8a The main view;
[0032] Figure 9a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another antenna provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0033] Figure 9b for Figure 9a The main view;
[0034] Figure 10aThis is a thermal simulation diagram of the antenna's main view in the existing technology;
[0035] Figure 10b A thermal simulation diagram of the antenna front view provided for an embodiment of this application.
[0036] Figure label:
[0037] 10-Radar radome; 11-Main radome body; 12-First end cap; 13-First protrusion; 14-Second end cap; 101-Top plate; 102-First side plate; 103-Second side plate; 20-Reflector; 21-First baffle; 22-Second baffle; 23-Spacing plate; 24-First boss; 25-Second boss; 26a, 26b-Subplate body; 30-Radiating element; 40-Feed network; 41-Outer shell; 42-RF transmission line assembly; 401-First part of the feed network; 402-Second part of the feed network; 410-Receiving cavity; 100-Base station; 110-Base station antenna; 120-BTS; 130-Mount; 140-Mounting component. Detailed Implementation
[0038] The base station antenna provided in this application embodiment can be applied to various communication systems, such as: 5th Generation (5G) communication systems or new radio (NR) systems, 6G communication systems, Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, Global System of Mobile Communication (GSM) systems, Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) systems, Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) systems, General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) systems, LTE Time Division Duplex (TDD) systems, Universal Mobile Telecommunication System (UMTS), Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) communication systems, etc. Of course, it can also be used for other unlicensed frequency band communication systems, without limitation.
[0039] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments.
[0040] Figure 1a An exemplary schematic diagram of a system architecture applicable to an embodiment of this application is shown, such as... Figure 1a As shown, the system architecture may include wireless access network devices, such as, but not limited to, wireless access network devices. Figure 1a The base station 100 shown is a wireless access network device that can be located in a base station bubsystem (BBS), a UMTS (Ultra-Mechanical Radio Access Network) terrestrial radio access network (UTRAN), or an evolved terrestrial radio access network (E-UTRAN) to provide cell coverage for wireless signals and enable connectivity between terminal devices and the wireless network radio frequency terminal. Specifically, base station 100 can be a base transceiver station (BTS) in a GSM or CDMA system, a base station (NodeB, NB) in a WCDMA system, an evolved NodeB (eNB or eNodeB) in an LTE system, a wireless controller in a cloud radio access network (CRAN) scenario, or a relay station, access point, vehicle-mounted equipment, wearable device, or a base station in a future 5G network or a future evolved PLMN network, etc. For example, a new wireless base station; this embodiment of the application is not limited to these.
[0041] like Figure 1a As shown in the dashed box, one possible structure of base station 100 may include base station antenna 110 and signal processing unit 120; wherein, signal processing unit 120 includes at least a baseband module, and in some other implementations, signal processing unit 120 may also include a radio frequency module. Additionally, Figure 1a An exemplary deployment scenario for base station antennas is also shown, such as Figure 1a As shown, this deployment scenario may include a mast 130 and a mounting bracket 140. The end of the base station antenna 110 near the antenna port can be fixedly connected to the mast 130, while the end of the base station antenna 110 away from the antenna port can be movably connected to the mast 130 via the mounting bracket 140. Therefore, the position of the base station antenna 110 can be adjusted via the mounting bracket 140. It should be understood that... Figure 1aThe deployment of a base station antenna 110 including only one antenna is shown. In other scenarios, the base station antenna 110 may also include multiple antennas installed around the pole 130. The installation positions of the multiple antennas may be the same or different. When the installation positions are different, the multiple antennas can form their own different beam coverage ranges.
[0042] Currently, a base station antenna 110 mainly includes a reflector, a feed network, a radiating element, and a radome. The radome completely encloses the reflector, feed network, and radiating element, preventing them from directly contacting the outside air. Furthermore, radomes are generally made of non-metallic materials. Non-metallic radomes have poor thermal conductivity, preventing heat from the antenna's interior from being quickly and effectively transferred to the outside, resulting in low heat dissipation efficiency. Consequently, the internal temperature of the antenna rises rapidly, and excessively high temperatures in the components enclosed by the radome can negatively impact the antenna's performance and lifespan.
[0043] The reflector, also known as the base plate, antenna panel, or metal reflective surface, improves the sensitivity of antenna signal reception by reflecting and focusing the signal onto the receiving point. It not only enhances the antenna's receiving / transmitting capabilities but also blocks and shields the received signal from interference from other radio waves originating from the opposite direction.
[0044] It should be noted that the radiating unit can be a sheet metal radiating unit, a die-cast radiating unit, or a printed circuit board (PCB) radiating unit, etc., and this application does not limit it.
[0045] To address the aforementioned problems, this application provides an antenna. The antenna provided in this application will be described in detail below with reference to specific figures and embodiments.
[0046] Please refer to Figure 1b , Figure 1c and Figure 1d , among which, Figure 1d In the antenna, the portion of the feed network 40 located within the accommodating space is the first portion 401 of the feed network, and the portion of the feed network 40 disposed on the second surface of the reflector 20 is the second portion 402 of the feed network; the antenna includes an radome 10, a reflector 20, a radiating element 30, and a feed network 40; the reflector 20 has a first surface (e.g., ... Figure 1c The upper side of the middle) and the second side opposite to the first side (such as the upper side ... Figure 1c (Lower side of the middle). The radome 10 and the first surface of the reflector 20 form a closed receiving space, the radiating element 30 is disposed within the closed receiving space, and at least a portion of the feed network 40 (e.g., the second part 402 of the feed network) is disposed on the second surface of the reflector 20 (e.g., the lower side of the reflector 20). Figure 1dAs shown in the diagram, the feed network 40 is electrically connected to the radiating element 30. When the antenna is operating, a portion of the heat generated by the radiating element 30 can be radiated onto the radome 10, and another portion can be transferred to the reflector plate 20. The heat can then be dissipated through the radome 10 and the reflector plate 20. Furthermore, at least a portion of the feed network 40 is located on the second surface of the reflector plate 20, and the feed network 40 located on the second surface of the reflector plate 20 is exposed to the air. The heat generated by the feed network 40 can directly exchange heat with the external air, preventing the feed network 40 from overheating during operation.
[0047] Specifically, when the first part 401 of the power supply network is located in the containment space and the second part 402 of the power supply network is located on the second surface of the reflector 20, the heat generated by the radiating unit 30 in the containment space can also be conducted to the first part 401 and then transferred to the outside by the second part 402, so as to increase the speed of heat dissipation in the containment space.
[0048] It should be noted that the surface of the second side of the reflector 20 can be treated by oxidation or spraying to improve the anti-oxidation and anti-corrosion properties of the reflector 20, thereby improving the service life and reliability of the reflector.
[0049] In some possible embodiments, to improve the heat exchange rate between the containment space and the external space, the reflector 20 can be a metal reflector 20. In this way, the reflector 20 becomes a good conductor of heat. Since the second surface of the reflector 20 is not covered by the radome 10, it is exposed to the outside of the radome 10. This allows the heat generated by the radiating element 30 in the containment space to be quickly conducted to the reflector 20, preventing heat accumulation inside the containment space and effectively improving the heat exchange efficiency between the reflector 20 and the external air, thereby contributing to improved heat dissipation efficiency of the radiating element 30.
[0050] In some possible implementations, refer to Figure 2a and Figure 2bThe radome 10 may include a main radome 11, a first end cap 12, and a second end cap 14. The main radome 11, the first end cap 12, and the second end cap 14 may be an integrally formed assembly; alternatively, the first end cap 12 and the second end cap 14 may be separate assemblies from the main radome 11. When the main radome 11, the first end cap 12, and the second end cap 14 are an integral assembly, they can directly cover the first surface of the reflector 20, forming a sealed receiving space. The radiating element 30 is located within this receiving space and disposed on the first surface of the reflector 20. The feed network 40 is disposed on the second surface of the reflector 20. This arrangement improves the ease of forming a sealed receiving space between the radome 10 and the first surface of the reflector 20, and reduces assembly time. When the main cover 11 is set separately from the first end cap 12 and the second end cap 14, the main cover 11 can be first fitted with the reflector 20 so that the first surface of the main cover 11 and the reflector 20 forms a receiving cavity with openings at both ends. Then, the first end cap 12 and the second end cap 14 are respectively connected to the two ends of the main cover 11, and the first end cap 12 and the second end cap 14 correspond to the two openings of the receiving cavity, so that the first end cap 12, the second end cap 14, the main cover 11 and the first surface of the reflector 20 form a receiving space, and the radiation unit 30 is located in the receiving space. In this arrangement, the first end cap 12, the second end cap 14 and the main cover 11 are detachably connected, so as to facilitate the maintenance and inspection of the radiation unit 30 set in the receiving space.
[0051] In some possible implementations, please refer to Figure 3 To improve the antenna's ability to radiate or receive electromagnetic waves, multiple radiating elements 30 can be disposed in the accommodating space enclosed between the antenna cover 10 and the reflector 20. All multiple radiating elements 30 are connected to the first surface of the reflector 20, and the multiple radiating elements 30 can be arranged in an array on the first surface of the reflector 20. The frequencies of the multiple radiating elements 30 can be the same or different, and need to be adjusted according to actual usage requirements.
[0052] In some possible embodiments, please refer to Figure 4Multiple feed networks 40 can be configured, and these feed networks 40 can be evenly distributed on the second surface of the reflector 20. Each column of radiating elements 30 corresponds to one feed network 40. Since multiple radiating elements 30 can be configured, when the radiating elements 30 are connected to the reflector 20, the multiple radiating elements 30 and the reflector 20 can form multiple independent arrays, and each array can receive and transmit electromagnetic signals through each radiating element 30. The feed network 40 is used to process the signals. Specifically, the feed network 40 may include a housing 41 and an RF transmission line assembly 42. The housing 41 is connected to the second surface of the reflector 20, and each housing 41 and the second surface of the reflector 20 form a cavity for accommodating the RF transmission line assembly 42, which is disposed in the cavity. The RF transmission line assembly 42 may include one or more of the following: a phase shifter, a drive, a calibration network, a combiner, and a filter. The phase shifter is used to phase shift the signal passing through the feed network to change the phase difference.
[0053] It should be noted that the outer shell 41 and the reflector 20 can be integrally formed or they can be separate components. Specifically, when setting the outer shell 41, the cross-sectional shape of the outer shell 41 can be U-shaped, V-shaped, semi-circular, or elliptical. The outer shell 41 can also have other shapes, which are not listed here.
[0054] Continue to refer to Figure 5 The feed network 40 corresponding to each column of radiating elements 30 includes two housings 41 and radio frequency transmission line assemblies 42 disposed in the two housings 41. The two housings 41 are arranged parallel to each other and do not contact each other. The housings 41 extend away from the second surface of the reflector 20 so that the space of the cavity can be adapted to the size of the radio frequency transmission line assembly 42. This not only allows the radio frequency transmission line assembly 42 to be connected perpendicularly to the reflector 20, but also allows the heat generated by the radio frequency transmission line assembly 20 in the cavity to be quickly transferred to the air through the housings 41. In some other possible embodiments, refer to... Figure 6 and Figure 7 In the feed network 40 corresponding to each column of radiating units 30, the feed network 40 includes two housings 41 and radio frequency transmission line assemblies 42 disposed in the two housings 41. The radio frequency transmission line assemblies 42 can be arranged parallel to the reflector 20. The two housings 41 are connected to each other, and the two radio frequency transmission line assemblies 42 are connected to the connecting parts of the two housings 41 and connected to the reflector 20 through the connecting parts. At this time, the housings 41 are laterally expanded (i.e., in the direction parallel to the reflector 20) to increase the contact area between the housings 41 and the air, so as to ensure that the heat generated by the radio frequency transmission line assemblies 42 can be quickly transferred to the air through the housings.
[0055] It should be noted that when specifically setting up the radome 10, continue to refer to... Figure 5 , Figure 5 The shaded area A represents the cross-section enclosed by the radome 10. The cross-section of the space enclosed by the radome 10 can be semi-circular, rectangular, or elliptical. Alternatively, the radome 10 may include a first side plate 102, a second side plate 103, and a top plate 101. The connection between the first side plate 102, the second side plate 103, and the top plate 101 can be arc-shaped.
[0056] In some embodiments, the feed network 40 corresponding to each column of radiating elements may further include a housing and an RF transmission line assembly. In this case, the RF transmission line assembly can be directly connected to the reflector, and the RF transmission line assembly is perpendicular to the reflector; alternatively, the RF transmission line assembly can be arranged parallel to the reflector, and the RF transmission line assembly is connected to the housing, which is connected to the second surface of the reflector. Furthermore, the housing and the reflector can be integrally formed; or the housing and the reflector can be connected by riveting, screwing, welding, or snap-fitting. No specific limitations are imposed here.
[0057] It should be noted that, in combination Figure 2b and Figure 5When the cavity formed by the outer shell 41 and the second surface of the reflector 20 is a receiving cavity 410 with openings at both ends, the receiving cavity 410 includes a first opening and a second opening. In order to prevent impurities or water from entering the radio frequency transmission line assembly 42 disposed in the receiving cavity 410, a plurality of first protrusions 13 can be provided on the first end cover 12 and a plurality of second protrusions (not shown in the figure) can be provided on the second end cover 14. The plurality of first protrusions 13 and the plurality of second protrusions extend toward the second surface of the reflector 20 and away from the first surface, so that the first protrusions 13 can block the first opening of the receiving cavity 410 and the second protrusions can block the second opening of the receiving cavity 410, so that the plurality of first protrusions 13 and the plurality of second protrusions form a closed space with the receiving cavity 410. In this configuration, when the RF transmission line assembly 42 is perpendicular to the reflector 20, the outer shells 41 located outside the RF transmission line assembly 42 are parallel to each other and do not contact each other, multiple first protrusions 13 and multiple second protrusions are spaced apart to correspond to the outer shells 41, which saves material on the first end plate 12 and the second end plate 14. In this way, the first protrusions 13, while acting as a barrier, do not block the airflow channel formed between adjacent outer shells 41, thus improving the heat dissipation efficiency of each outer shell 41. Furthermore, to prevent impurities or water from entering the RF transmission line assembly 42 located in the receiving cavity 410, the first end cap 12 and the second end cap 14 can be extended integrally towards the second surface of the reflector 20 away from the first surface, making the extensions of the first end cap 12 and the second end cap 14 a single plate that can seal the first and second openings of the receiving cavity 410, thereby forming a closed space between the first end cap 12, the second end cap 14, and the receiving cavity 410. Figure 2b and Figure 7 When the RF transmission line assembly 42 is parallel to the reflector 20, the various housings 41 are connected in sequence so that each housing 41 has a surface opposite to the reflector 20 on the side away from the reflector 20. Furthermore, to ensure that both ends of the housings 41 are sealed, multiple first protrusions 13 on the first end plate 12 are connected in sequence to form a first plate, sealing one end of the housing 41. Multiple second protrusions on the second end plate 14 are connected in sequence to form a second plate, sealing the other end of the housing 41. This increases the contact area between the housings 41, the first protrusions 13, and the second protrusions and the air, thereby improving the rapid heat transfer from the cavity formed between the housings 41 and the reflector 20 to the air. It also improves space utilization and reduces the size of the antenna.
[0058] In some possible implementations, refer to Figure 7To facilitate the placement of the radome on the reflector plate 20, the reflector plate 20 may include a main body and a first baffle 21 and a second baffle 22 disposed on both sides of the main body. The first baffle 21 and the second baffle 22 are arranged in parallel. The first baffle 21 and the second baffle 22 extend along the length or width of the main body and are in the same direction as the extension of the top plate 101 of the radome. The first baffle 21 and the second baffle 22 can mate with the radome. Specifically, multiple openings can be provided on the first baffle 21 and the second baffle 22, and through holes adapted to these openings can be provided on the radome. The radome can then be connected to the reflector 20 using bolts. To ensure a tight seal between the radome and the reflector 20, a sealing ring can be provided between the radome and the first baffle 21 and the second baffle 22. Alternatively, a snap-fit can be provided on the outer side of the first baffle 21 and the second baffle 22 or on the radome, with openings for the snap-fit on the radome or the first baffle 21 and the second baffle 22. Furthermore, the first baffle 21 and the second baffle 22 can be connected to the radome by welding. Various other methods can be used to connect the radome to the first baffle 21 and the second baffle 22, which are not specifically limited here.
[0059] In the specific implementation process, multiple partitions 23 can also be provided on the metal plate 20. The extension direction of the partitions 23 is the same as the extension direction of the first baffle 21 and / or the second baffle 22. Multiple partitions 23 are arranged between the first baffle 21 and the second baffle 22, and the multiple partitions 23 are evenly distributed between the two baffles 21. The partitions 23 are arranged parallel to the baffles 21. At least one row of radiation units 30 can be provided between two adjacent partitions 23. At least one row of radiation units 30 can also be provided between the partitions 23 and the first baffle 21, and between the partitions 23 and the second baffle 22.
[0060] It should be noted that, to improve the ease of connection between the radome and the reflector 20, a first protrusion 24 can be provided on the outer side of the first baffle 21, and a second protrusion 25 can be provided on the outer side of the second baffle 22. When installing the radome onto the reflector 20, the radome can first be placed on the first protrusion 24 and the second protrusion 25, and then the radome can be connected to the first baffle 21 and the second baffle 22 by welding or a detachable connection method. The surface area of the first protrusion 24 and the second protrusion 25 facing the radome can be greater than the thickness of the radome; and both the first protrusion 24 and the second protrusion 23 can include multiple segments, as long as the surfaces of the multiple segments of the first protrusion 24 and the second protrusion 23 facing the radome are flush.
[0061] In some possible implementations, the reflector can have various shapes, such as V-shaped, U-shaped, or W-shaped. When the reflector is V-shaped, the radiating unit located on the first surface of the reflector can be located at the lowest part of the reflector and arranged along the extending direction of the lowest part of the V-shaped reflector, with the bottom of the radiating unit overlapping the two inclined surfaces of the V-shaped reflector. When the reflector is W-shaped, radiating units can be provided between two adjacent inclined surfaces, i.e., each pair of adjacent inclined surfaces forms a mounting portion. The number of radiating units in each mounting portion can be different, and the frequencies of the radiating units in each mounting portion can be the same or different.
[0062] It should be noted that the shape of the reflector is not limited to V-shape, U-shape or W-shape; reflectors can also be other shapes, which will not be listed here.
[0063] Additionally, refer to Figure 8a and Figure 8b For example, the main board may include multiple integrally formed sub-boards 26a and 26b, with adjacent sub-boards 26a and 26b located on different planes. Each sub-board 26a and 26b has a radiating unit 30 on one side of the accommodating space. The main board may also include other sub-boards not on the same plane as the sub-boards 26a and 26b, which are not listed here. Furthermore, the radiating units 30 on sub-board 26a can be in one row, and the radiating units 30 on sub-board 2b can be in two rows, with each row of radiating units 30 corresponding to a power supply network 40. (Refer to...) Figure 9a and 9b The radiating elements 30 provided on the sub-plate 26b can be in a row. In one implementation, the sub-plate 26a between two adjacent sub-plates 26b may not have radiating elements 30 (this implementation is not shown in the figure).
[0064] Reference Figure 10a as well as Figure 10b To illustrate the heat dissipation effect of the antenna in this application, a comparison can be made with the heat dissipation of existing antennas. Specifically, Table 1 is used as an example below. Table 1 shows an existing antenna (with an antenna radome covering all the heat dissipation components - a full-coverage structure) that is 2m long and has an input power of approximately 2000W, and the antenna provided in the embodiment of this application (with an antenna radome partially covering the antenna and exposing the feed network to the external environment, for example, ...). Figure 1cThermal simulations were performed to compare the temperatures of the antennas. The air on the side of the reflector with the radiating element (e.g., the first side in this embodiment) was defined as the front air, and the air on the side of the reflector with the feed network (e.g., the second side in this embodiment) was defined as the back air. The temperature of the back air of existing antennas is 125.7°C, while the temperature of the back air of the antenna provided in this embodiment is 64.8°C, a reduction of 60.9°C compared to the prior art. The temperature of the front air of existing antennas is 125.4°C, while the temperature of the front air of the antenna provided in this embodiment is 97.0°C, a reduction of 28.4°C compared to the prior art. The temperature of the radiating element of existing antennas is 138.3°C, while the temperature of the radiating element of the antenna provided in this embodiment is 109.1°C, a reduction of 28.4°C compared to the prior art. The temperature of the antenna's reflector is reduced by 29.2°C; the temperature of the reflector in the existing antenna is 126.4°C, while the temperature of the reflector in the antenna provided in this embodiment is 84.5°C, a reduction of 41.9°C compared to the existing antenna's reflector temperature; the temperature of the dielectric in the existing antenna is 153.1°C, while the temperature of the dielectric in the antenna provided in this embodiment is 114.1°C, a reduction of 39.0°C compared to the temperature of the dielectric in the prior art; the temperature of the RF transmission line assembly in the prior art antenna is 153.9°C, while the temperature of the RF transmission line assembly in the antenna provided in this embodiment is 114.9°C, a reduction of 39.0°C compared to the temperature of the RF transmission line assembly in the prior art; the temperature of the antenna's housing in the prior art is 134°C, while the temperature of the housing in the antenna provided in this embodiment is 94.9°C, a reduction of 39.1°C compared to the temperature of the housing in the prior art. It can be seen that, compared to the prior art, the temperatures of the antenna's radiating element, reflector, RF transmission line assembly, and housing in this embodiment are all reduced.
[0065] Table 1
[0066] Thermal simulation\℃ Existing antenna technology The antenna provided in this embodiment income Back air 125.7℃ 64.8℃ 60.9℃ Frontal air 125.4℃ 97.0℃ 28.4℃ Radiation unit 138.3℃ 109.1℃ 29.2℃ reflector 126.4℃ 84.5℃ 41.9℃ medium 153.1℃ 114.1℃ 39.0℃ RF transmission line assembly 153.9℃ 114.9℃ 39.0℃ shell 134℃ 94.9℃ 39.1℃
[0067] On the other hand, this application also provides a base station that uses the antenna in the above-mentioned technical solution, so that when the base station is working, the heat inside the antenna cannot be dissipated, the temperature of the internal components of the antenna is too high, and the temperature of the power supply network is too high.
[0068] The above are merely specific embodiments of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.
Claims
1. An antenna, characterized in that, include: A reflector having a first surface and a second surface, the first surface being opposite to the second surface; An antenna cover is provided on the first surface of the reflector, and the antenna cover and the reflector form a closed receiving space; A radiating unit, wherein the radiating unit is located within the accommodating space; A power supply network, at least partially disposed on the second surface, and the radiating element being electrically connected to the power supply network; The radiation unit is a plurality of units, and the plurality of radiation units are arranged in an array within the accommodating space; In the feed network corresponding to each column of radiating elements, the feed network includes two housings and radio frequency transmission line assemblies disposed in the two housings. The housings are connected to the second surface, the two housings are connected to each other, and the two radio frequency transmission assemblies are connected to the connecting parts of the two housings and connected to the reflector through the connecting parts.
2. The antenna according to claim 1, characterized in that, The reflector is a metal reflector.
3. The antenna according to claim 1, characterized in that, The radome includes a main radome body, a first end cap, and a second end cap, the main radome body, the first end cap, the second end cap, and the first surface constituting the accommodating space.
4. The antenna according to claim 3, characterized in that, The reflector includes a main body and a first baffle and a second baffle respectively disposed on both sides of the main body. The first baffle and the second baffle are arranged in parallel, and the main cover is connected to the first baffle and the second baffle respectively.
5. The antenna according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first baffle has a first protrusion on the side away from the second baffle, and the second baffle has a second protrusion on the side away from the first baffle. The main cover is in contact with the upper surfaces of the first protrusion and the second protrusion.
6. The antenna according to claim 4, characterized in that, The reflector also includes a plurality of partitions, the plurality of partitions having the same extending direction as the first baffle, and at least one row of the radiation units being disposed between the first baffle and the partition adjacent to the first baffle, the second baffle and the partition adjacent to the second baffle, and / or between two adjacent partitions.
7. The antenna according to claim 3, characterized in that, The power supply network comprises multiple networks, and each column of the radiating elements is electrically connected to a corresponding power supply network.
8. The antenna according to claim 7, characterized in that, The outer casing and the second surface form a receiving cavity, and the radio frequency transmission line assembly is located in the receiving cavity.
9. The antenna according to claim 8, characterized in that, The cavity is a through-hole structure and includes a first opening and a second opening; The first end cap has a first protrusion, and the second end cap has a second protrusion. The first protrusion is used to block the first opening, and the second protrusion is used to block the second opening.
10. The antenna according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The cross-section of the reflector is U-shaped, V-shaped, or W-shaped.
11. The antenna according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The motherboard body is a flat panel; Alternatively, the main board may include multiple sub-boards, with two adjacent sub-boards located on different planes, and the radiation unit is provided on one side of the sub-board located in the accommodating space.
12. The antenna according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The cross-section of the outer shell is U-shaped, V-shaped, semi-circular, or elliptical.
13. The antenna according to any one of claims 3-5, characterized in that, The first end cap and the second end cap are integrally formed with the main cover; Alternatively, the first end cap and the second end cap may be detachably connected to the main cover.
14. The antenna according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The outer shell and the reflector are integrally molded structures; Alternatively, the outer casing is connected to the reflector.
15. A base station, characterized in that, Including the antenna as described in any one of claims 1-14.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Feed network of base station antenna, base station antenna, and base station
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antenna, in particular mobile radio antenna
DE202009001821U1