Antenna device, manufacturing method thereof, control method thereof, and electronic device

Abstract

The present disclosure provides an antenna device and a manufacturing method, a control method, and an electronic device thereof. The antenna device includes a first substrate structure, a second substrate structure, and a liquid crystal layer between the first substrate structure and the second substrate structure. The first substrate structure includes a first substrate and a plurality of antenna patches on a first side of the first substrate. The second substrate structure is on a side of the plurality of antenna patches away from the first substrate and includes a second substrate and a metal layer having a plurality of slits, the metal layer being on a second side of the second substrate close to the first substrate. One slit corresponds to one antenna patch. A region where a footprint of each slit on the first substrate overlaps with a footprint of the corresponding antenna patch on the first substrate is a first region. A footprint of each slit on the first substrate further includes a second region and a third region, and the first region is between the second region and the third region.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of antenna technology, and in particular to an antenna device and its manufacturing method, control method, and electronic equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Leaky wave antennas offer advantages such as high directivity and compact structure. In related technologies, the beam scanning angle of leaky wave antennas is relatively small when using beam scanning. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an antenna device is provided, including a first substrate structure, a second substrate structure, and a liquid crystal layer located between the first substrate structure and the second substrate structure. The first substrate structure includes a first substrate and a plurality of antenna patches located on a first side of the first substrate. The second substrate structure is located on a side of the plurality of antenna patches away from the first substrate and includes a second substrate and a metal layer having a plurality of slots, the metal layer being located on a second side of the second substrate near the first substrate. Each slot corresponds to one antenna patch, and the area where the orthographic projection of each slot on the first substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of the corresponding antenna patch on the first substrate is a first region. The orthographic projection of each slot on the first substrate also includes a second region and a third region, the first region being located between the second region and the third region.

[0004] In some embodiments, the area where the orthographic projection of each slot on the first substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of the corresponding antenna patch on the first substrate is a first region; and the orthographic projection of each slot on the first substrate further includes a second region and a third region, wherein the first region is located between the second region and the third region.

[0005] In some embodiments, the orthographic projection of each antenna patch onto the first substrate further includes a fourth region and a fifth region, with the first region located between the fourth region and the fifth region.

[0006] In some embodiments, the first substrate structure further includes: a plurality of first signal lines located on the first side of the first substrate, each first signal line being connected to at least one of the plurality of antenna patches.

[0007] In some embodiments, the plurality of antenna patches are arranged in a matrix, with antenna patches in the same row connected to the same first signal line and antenna patches in different rows connected to different first signal lines.

[0008] In some embodiments, the orthographic projection of at least one of the plurality of first signal lines on the first substrate does not overlap with the orthographic projection of each gap on the first substrate.

[0009] In some embodiments, the second substrate structure further includes at least one second signal line located on the second side of the second substrate and connected to the metal layer.

[0010] In some embodiments, the orthographic projection of the at least one second signal line on the second substrate does not overlap with the orthographic projection of each gap on the first substrate.

[0011] In some embodiments, the antenna device further includes: a waveguide structure located on the side of the second substrate structure away from the first substrate structure, and including one or more cavities, each cavity having at least one row of first metal pillars at its bottom, each row of first metal pillars including a plurality of first metal pillars arranged in the direction of electromagnetic wave propagation.

[0012] In some embodiments, the plurality of first metal pillars include a first group of first metal pillars and a second group of first metal pillars spaced apart from each other in the direction of propagation of the electromagnetic wave, wherein the height of the first group of first metal pillars exhibits a first monotonic variation in the direction of propagation of the electromagnetic wave, and the height of the second group of first metal pillars is the same.

[0013] In some embodiments, the plurality of first metal pillars further includes a third group of first metal pillars, wherein: the second group of first metal pillars is located between the first group of first metal pillars and the third group of first metal pillars, and the height of the third group of first metal pillars exhibits a second monotonic change in the direction of propagation of the electromagnetic wave, the second monotonic change being opposite to the first monotonic change.

[0014] In some embodiments, each of the first metal columns in the second group has the same shape and area along a cross-section of a surface parallel to the bottom.

[0015] In some embodiments, the at least one row of first metal pillars includes multiple rows of first metal pillars spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the propagation direction of the electromagnetic wave.

[0016] In some embodiments, the side of each cavity connected to the bottom includes a plurality of second metal pillars.

[0017] In some embodiments, a coaxial power supply port is provided at the bottom of each cavity.

[0018] In some embodiments, the antenna device further includes: a plurality of supports located between the metal layer and the first substrate, wherein the orthographic projections of the plurality of supports on the first substrate do not overlap with the orthographic projections of the plurality of slots on the first substrate, and do not overlap with the orthographic projections of the plurality of antenna patches on the first substrate.

[0019] In some embodiments, the orthographic projections of the plurality of supports on the first substrate surround the orthographic projections of the plurality of slots on the first substrate, and surround the orthographic projections of the plurality of antenna patches on the first substrate.

[0020] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device is provided, including: the antenna device described in any of the above embodiments.

[0021] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for manufacturing an antenna device is provided, comprising: providing a first substrate structure, the first substrate structure including a first substrate and a plurality of antenna patches located on a first side of the first substrate; providing a second substrate structure, the second substrate structure including a second substrate and a metal layer having a plurality of slots, the metal layer being located on a second side of the second substrate, each slot corresponding to one antenna patch; joining the first substrate structure and the second substrate structure to obtain a space between the first substrate structure and the second substrate structure, wherein, after joining, the second substrate structure is located on the side of the plurality of antenna patches away from the first substrate, the metal layer is located on the second side of the second substrate close to the first substrate, the area where the orthographic projection of each slot on the first substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of the corresponding antenna patch on the first substrate is a first region, the orthographic projection of each slot on the first substrate further includes a second region and a third region, the first region being located between the second region and the third region; and injecting liquid crystal into the space to obtain a liquid crystal layer.

[0022] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a control method for an antenna device as described in any of the above embodiments is provided, comprising: controlling the voltage of the plurality of antenna patches and the voltage of the metal layer so that the beam direction of the antenna device is a desired beam direction.

[0023] In some embodiments, controlling the voltage of the plurality of antenna patches and the voltage of the metal layer to make the beam direction of the antenna device a desired beam direction includes: determining, based on the desired beam direction and using holographic principles, a first group of antenna patches that require voltage application and a second group of antenna patches that do not require voltage application; controlling the application of voltage to the first group of antenna patches and the metal layer, and controlling the non-application of voltage to the second group of antenna patches, so that the beam direction of the antenna device is the desired beam direction.

[0024] In some embodiments, the first set of antenna patches are subjected to the same voltage. Attached Figure Description

[0025] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of this disclosure and, together with the specification, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure.

[0026] This disclosure will become clearer with reference to the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description, wherein:

[0027] Figure 1A This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of an antenna device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 1B This is a schematic projection showing the gap and corresponding antenna patch according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 1C This is a schematic diagram showing the projected shape of a gap according to some implementations of this disclosure;

[0030] Figures 2A-2C This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of an antenna device according to other embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 3A This is a schematic diagram illustrating a first substrate structure according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 3B This is a schematic diagram illustrating the arrangement of multiple antenna patches according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a second substrate structure according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 5A This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of an antenna device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 5B This is a schematic diagram showing the distribution of multiple support members according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 6 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing an antenna device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 7 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a control method for an antenna device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the control device for an antenna apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0039] It should be understood that the dimensions of the various parts shown in the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to actual scale. Furthermore, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar components. Detailed Implementation

[0040] Various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The descriptions of the exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative and are in no way intended to limit the present disclosure or its application or use. The present disclosure may be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. These embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully express the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. It should be noted that, unless specifically stated otherwise, the relative arrangement of components and steps, the composition of materials, numerical expressions, and values ​​set forth in these embodiments should be interpreted as exemplary only and not as limiting.

[0041] The terms "first," "second," and similar words used in this disclosure do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different parts. Words such as "including" or "containing" mean that the element preceding the word encompasses the element listed after the word, and do not exclude the possibility of encompassing other elements as well. Terms such as "above" and "below" are used only to indicate relative positional relationships, and these relative positional relationships may also change accordingly when the absolute position of the described object changes.

[0042] In this disclosure, when a specific component is described as being located between a first component and a second component, an intermediary component may or may not be present between the specific component and the first or second component. When a specific component is described as connecting to other components, the specific component may be directly connected to the other components without having an intermediary component, or it may not be directly connected to the other components but may have an intermediary component.

[0043] All terms used in this disclosure (including technical or scientific terms) have the same meaning as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains, unless otherwise specifically defined. It should also be understood that terms defined in a general dictionary, such as a dictionary, should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art, and not as having an idealized or highly formalized meaning, unless expressly defined herein.

[0044] Techniques, methods, and equipment known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, such techniques, methods, and equipment should be considered part of the specification.

[0045] Figure 1A This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of an antenna device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0046] like Figure 1AAs shown, the antenna device includes a first substrate structure 10, a second substrate structure 20, and a liquid crystal layer 30 located between the first substrate structure 10 and the second substrate structure 20. It should be understood that the antenna device may also include structures for guiding the propagation of electromagnetic waves, such as waveguide structures, which will be described later in conjunction with other embodiments.

[0047] The first substrate structure 10 includes a first substrate 11 and a side located on the first substrate 11 (here referred to as the first side, for example...). Figure 1A Multiple antenna patches 12 (shown on the lower side). For example, the first substrate 11 is a glass substrate, a quartz substrate, a polytetrafluoroethylene glass fiber laminate, a phenolic paper laminate, a phenolic glass laminate, etc. The thickness of the first substrate 11 is, for example, 100 micrometers to 10 millimeters. In some embodiments, the material of the antenna patch 12 includes copper, gold, or silver.

[0048] The second substrate structure 20 is located on the side of the plurality of antenna patches 12 away from the first substrate 11. For example, as Figure 1A As shown, when multiple antenna patches 12 are located on the lower side of the first substrate 11, the second substrate structure 20 is located entirely on the lower side of the first substrate structure 10; or, for example, when multiple antenna patches 12 are located on the upper side of the first substrate 11, the second substrate structure 20 is located entirely on the upper side of the first substrate structure 10.

[0049] The second substrate structure 20 includes a second substrate 21 and a metal layer 22 having multiple slits ST. The metal layer 22 is located on the side of the second substrate 21 closest to the first substrate 11 (hereinafter referred to as the second side). For example, the second substrate 21 is a glass substrate, a quartz substrate, a polytetrafluoroethylene glass fiber laminate, a phenolic paper laminate, a phenolic glass laminate, etc. The thickness of the second substrate 21 is, for example, from 100 micrometers to 10 millimeters. In some embodiments, the material of the metal layer 22 includes copper, gold, or silver.

[0050] One slot ST corresponds to one antenna patch 12, that is, multiple slots ST and multiple antenna patches 12 correspond one-to-one. The orthographic projection of each slot ST on the first substrate 11 at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the corresponding antenna patch 12 on the first substrate 11. For example, a portion of the orthographic projection of the slot ST on the first substrate 11 overlaps with the orthographic projection of the corresponding antenna patch 12 on the first substrate 11, while the remaining portion does not overlap with the orthographic projection of the corresponding antenna patch 12 on the first substrate 11.

[0051] Here, a slit ST and a corresponding antenna patch 12 can be considered as an antenna element. The slit ST allows electromagnetic waves to pass through and then radiate out through the antenna patch. By adjusting the voltage of the antenna patch 12 and the voltage of the metal layer 21 in each antenna element, the deflection direction of the liquid crystal molecules between them can be changed, thereby changing the dielectric constant between the antenna patch 12 and the metal layer 21, and thus the beam direction of the antenna device can be changed as needed.

[0052] Figure 1B This is a schematic projection showing the gap and corresponding antenna patch according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0053] like Figure 1B As shown, the region where the orthographic projection of each slot ST on the first substrate 11 overlaps with the orthographic projection of the corresponding antenna patch 12 on the first substrate 11 is designated as a first region A1. Furthermore, the orthographic projection of each slot ST on the first substrate 11 also includes a second region A2 and a third region A3. Here, the first region A1 is located between the second region A2 and the third region A3. In this case, the first region A1 overlaps with the orthographic projection of the antenna patch 12 on the first substrate 11, while the other two regions (i.e., the second region A2 and the third region A3) do not overlap with the orthographic projection of the antenna patch 12 on the first substrate 11. This structure is beneficial for increasing the energy radiated by the antenna patch.

[0054] In the above embodiments, the antenna device includes multiple antenna patches 12 and a metal layer 21 with multiple slots ST. With this structure, by changing the voltage of the multiple antenna patches 12 and the voltage of the metal layer 21, the deflection direction of the liquid crystal can be changed, thereby changing the energy radiated by the antenna patches 12, and consequently changing the beam direction of the antenna device. This structure helps to expand the beam scanning range of the antenna device.

[0055] In some implementations, the area ratio of the second region A2 to the first region A1 ranges from 1.5 to 2, for example, 1.6, 1.7, etc.; the area ratio of the third region A3 to the first region A1 also ranges from 1.5 to 2, for example, 1.6, 1.7, etc. This is more conducive to improving the energy radiated by the antenna patch.

[0056] In other embodiments, such as Figure 1B As shown, the orthographic projection of each antenna patch 12 onto the first substrate 11 also includes a fourth region A4 and a fifth region A5, with the first region A1 located between the fourth region A4 and the fifth region A5. In this case, the orthographic projections of the fourth region A4 and the fifth region A5 do not overlap with the orthographic projections of the slot ST onto the first substrate 11; that is, the two orthographic projections intersect each other. Such a structure is beneficial for further improving the energy radiated by the antenna patch.

[0057] In some implementations, the area ratio of the fourth region A4 to the first region A1 ranges from 1 to 1.5, for example, 1.2, 1.3, etc.; the area ratio of the fifth region A4 to the first region A1 also ranges from 1 to 1.5, for example, 1.2, 1.3, etc. This is beneficial for further increasing the energy radiated by the antenna patch.

[0058] In some implementations, such as Figure 1B As shown, the orthographic projection of the slit ST onto the first substrate 11 is rectangular. In some embodiments, the aspect ratio of the rectangle is 2:1, which helps to increase the energy radiated by the antenna patch.

[0059] Figure 1C This is a schematic diagram showing the projected shape of a gap according to some implementations of this disclosure.

[0060] like Figure 1C As shown, the shape of the orthographic projection of the gap ST onto the first substrate 11 is elliptical, butterfly-shaped, rhomboid, or dumbbell-shaped. It should be understood that the gap ST can also be set to other shapes.

[0061] Figures 2A-2C This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of an antenna device according to other embodiments of the present disclosure. It should be noted that, in Figure 2B and Figure 2C In the diagram, (1) represents the left figure and (2) represents the right figure.

[0062] like Figure 2A As shown, in addition to the first substrate structure 10, the second substrate structure 20 and the liquid crystal layer 30, the antenna device also includes a waveguide structure 40 located on the side of the second substrate structure 20 away from the first substrate structure 10. Figure 2A The arrows shown indicate the direction of electromagnetic wave propagation. Additionally, Figure 2A The coaxial power supply port P1 and the port P2 for connecting a matching load are also shown.

[0063] like Figure 2B As shown, the waveguide structure 40 includes one or more cavities 41, each cavity 41 including a bottom BP and a side portion SP connected to the bottom BP. For clarity, Figure 2B The outline of the side portion SP is depicted with a solid line. The cavity 41 may be filled with a medium, such as air or other low-dielectric-constant media. In some embodiments, the distance between adjacent cavities 41 is the same.

[0064] For example, the materials for the bottom BP and side SP include metals such as copper and aluminum. In some embodiments, the inner walls of the bottom BP and side SP are plated with silver or gold. In some embodiments, the bottom BPs of different cavities 41 can be integrally formed, that is, the waveguide structure 40 includes a common bottom BP.

[0065] Each cavity 41 has at least one row of first metal pillars at its bottom BP. In some embodiments, each cavity 41 has multiple rows of first metal pillars spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the propagation direction of the electromagnetic wave, such as 3 or 4 rows of first metal pillars.

[0066] Figure 2C Three rows of first metal pillars are schematically shown. Each row of first metal pillars includes a plurality of first metal pillars 42 arranged in the direction of electromagnetic wave propagation. In some embodiments, the distance between adjacent first metal pillars 42 is the same. In some embodiments, the materials of the first metal pillars 42, the bottom BP, and the side SP are the same.

[0067] In the above embodiments, at least one row of first metal pillars is provided at the bottom BP of each cavity 41, which can reduce the wave velocity of electromagnetic waves and achieve slow wave propagation. By combining the leaky wave antenna element composed of antenna patches and slots with slow waves, it is helpful to further expand the beam scanning range of the antenna device.

[0068] As one implementation, the side SP of each cavity 41 can be a solid metal surface.

[0069] For other implementations, see Figure 2C As shown in the left figure, the side SP of each cavity 41 includes multiple second metal pillars 43, which can achieve lower losses and better electromagnetic shielding. In some embodiments, the length-to-width-to-height ratio of the second metal pillars 43 can be 1:0.8-1.2:2.4-3.6, for example, the dimensions of the second metal pillars 43 are 2mm (length):2mm (width):6mm (height). In some embodiments, the distance between adjacent second metal pillars 43 is the same as the length of the second metal pillar, for example, 2mm. The length of the second metal pillar 43 can be understood as its length in the direction of electromagnetic wave propagation, the width of the second metal pillar 43 can be understood as its length in the direction perpendicular to the direction of electromagnetic wave propagation, and the height of the second metal pillar 43 can be understood as its length in the direction perpendicular to the bottom BP of the cavity.

[0070] In some embodiments, see Figure 2C Each row of first metal pillars includes a first group of first metal pillars 42A and a second group of first metal pillars 42B spaced apart from each other in the direction of electromagnetic wave propagation. Here, the height of the first group of first metal pillars 42A exhibits a first monotonic change in the direction of electromagnetic wave propagation, while the height of the second group of first metal pillars 42B remains constant. This first monotonic change can be, for example, monotonically increasing or monotonically decreasing.

[0071] For example, each of the first metal pillars 42B in the second group has the same shape and area in cross-section along a plane parallel to the bottom BP. For example, the cross-section of each of the first metal pillars 42B in the second group is rectangular.

[0072] In the above embodiment, each row of first metal pillars 42 includes a first group of first metal pillars 42A with a monotonically varying height and a second group of first metal pillars 42B with the same height. This structure helps reduce waveguide transmission loss while expanding the beam scanning range of the antenna device.

[0073] In other embodiments, each row of first metal pillars 42 further includes a third group of first metal pillars 42C. A second group of first metal pillars 42B is located between the first group of first metal pillars 42A and the third group of first metal pillars 42C, and the height of the third group of first metal pillars 42C exhibits a second monotonic variation in the direction of electromagnetic wave propagation. Here, the second monotonic variation is opposite to the first monotonic variation. For example, the first monotonic variation is monotonically increasing, while the second monotonic variation is monotonically decreasing; or, for example, the first monotonic variation is monotonically decreasing, while the second monotonic variation is monotonically increasing. Such a structure helps to further reduce waveguide transmission loss.

[0074] The following describes other implementations of the first substrate structure and the second substrate structure in conjunction with different embodiments.

[0075] First, combine Figure 3A and Figure 3B This paper introduces some implementation methods of the first substrate structure.

[0076] Figure 3A This is a schematic diagram illustrating a first substrate structure according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. To clearly illustrate the different components, Figure 3A Different stages of forming the first substrate structure 10 are shown.

[0077] like Figure 3A As shown, the first substrate structure 10 includes a first substrate 11, a plurality of antenna patches 12, and a plurality of first signal lines 60. The antenna patches 12 can be obtained by patterning the metal layer 12a.

[0078] Multiple antenna patches 12 and multiple first signal lines 60 are located on the same side (i.e., the first side) of the first substrate 11. Each first signal line 60 is connected to at least one of the multiple antenna patches 12. For example, one first signal line 60 is connected to one antenna patch 12; or, for example, one first signal line 60 is connected to two or more antenna patches 12. According to some implementations, the material of each first signal line 60 includes indium tin oxide.

[0079] In some embodiments, a plurality of first signal lines 60 are located between the first substrate 11 and a plurality of antenna patches 12. For example, each first signal line 60 is in contact with at least one antenna patch 12.

[0080] In the above embodiments, the antenna device further includes multiple first signal lines 60. Voltage can be applied to multiple antenna patches 12 via the multiple first signal lines 60, thereby achieving deflection control of the liquid crystal and thus changing the beam scanning direction of the antenna device.

[0081] Figure 3B This is a schematic diagram illustrating the arrangement of multiple antenna patches according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0082] like Figure 3B As shown, multiple antenna patches 12 are arranged in a matrix. For example, multiple antenna patches 12 are arranged in an m (rows) × n (columns) matrix. In some embodiments, m is 20, 40, 50, 60, 80, 90, 100, etc., and n is 8, 10, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30, etc.

[0083] Antenna patches 12 in the same row are connected to the same first signal line 60, and antenna patches 12 in different rows are connected to different first signal lines 60. In other words, the number of multiple first signal lines 60 is m. This arrangement helps to reduce the number of first signal lines 60.

[0084] Figure 3B A circuit board 80, such as a flexible circuit board, is also shown connected to multiple first signal lines 60. Voltage can be applied to the multiple first signal lines 60 via the circuit board 80.

[0085] The inventors noted that the position of the first signal line at 60 affects the accuracy of beam direction control of the antenna device. Accordingly, embodiments of this disclosure also provide the following solution.

[0086] In some embodiments, the orthographic projection of at least one of the plurality of first signal lines 60 on the first substrate 11 does not overlap with the orthographic projection of each slot ST on the first substrate 11. This reduces the adverse effects of the first signal lines 60 on the radiated energy of the antenna patch 12, thereby improving the accuracy of beam direction control.

[0087] For example, the orthographic projection of each first signal line 60 on the first substrate 11 does not overlap with the orthographic projection of each slit ST on the first substrate 11. This further improves the accuracy of beam direction control.

[0088] Next, combine Figure 4 This paper introduces some implementation methods of the second substrate structure.

[0089] Figure 4This is a schematic diagram illustrating a second substrate structure according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. To clearly illustrate the different components, Figure 4 Different stages of forming the second substrate structure 20 are shown.

[0090] like Figure 4 As shown, the second substrate structure 20 includes a second substrate 21, a metal layer 22 having a plurality of gaps ST, and at least one second signal line 70 connected to the metal layer 22. The metal layer 22 and the second signal line 70 are located on the same side (i.e., the second side) of the second substrate 21. The metal layer 22 can be obtained by patterning the metal layer 22a. The material of each second signal line 70 includes, for example, indium tin oxide.

[0091] In some embodiments, the second signal line 70 is located between the second substrate 21 and the metal layer 22, and is in contact with the metal layer 22. For example, the second signal line 70 may be grounded.

[0092] In the above embodiments, the antenna device further includes at least one second signal line 70. A voltage can be applied to the metal layer 22 via the second signal line 70, thereby controlling the deflection of the liquid crystal and thus changing the beam scanning direction of the antenna device.

[0093] As one implementation, the second substrate structure 20 includes a second signal line 70. See also, for other implementations... Figure 4 The second substrate structure 20 includes multiple second signal lines 70, which improves the reliability of applying voltage to the metal layer 22.

[0094] The inventors also noted that the position of the second signal line 70 can affect the accuracy of beam direction control of the antenna device. Accordingly, embodiments of this disclosure also provide the following solution.

[0095] In some embodiments, the orthographic projection of at least one second signal line 70 on the second substrate 21 does not overlap with the orthographic projection of each slot ST on the first substrate 11. For example, the orthographic projection of each second signal line 70 on the second substrate 21 does not overlap with the orthographic projection of each slot ST on the first substrate 11. In this way, the adverse effects of the second signal line 70 on the radiated energy of the antenna patch 12 can be reduced, thereby further improving the accuracy of beam direction control.

[0096] Figure 5A This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of an antenna device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0097] like Figure 5A As shown, with Figure 2ACompared to the illustrated embodiment, the antenna device further includes a plurality of support members 90 located between the metal layer 22 and the first substrate 11. The orthographic projections of the plurality of support members 90 on the first substrate 11 do not overlap with the orthographic projections of the plurality of slots ST on the first substrate 11, and do not overlap with the orthographic projections of the plurality of antenna patches 12 on the first substrate 11.

[0098] In the above embodiments, by setting multiple support members 90, the uniformity of the height of the space between the first substrate structure 10 and the second substrate structure 20 can be improved without affecting the accuracy of beam direction control, thereby improving the reliability of the antenna device.

[0099] Figure 5B This is a schematic diagram showing the distribution of multiple support members according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0100] like Figure 5B As shown, the orthographic projections of multiple support members 90 on the first substrate 11 surround the orthographic projections of multiple slots ST on the first substrate 11, and also surround the orthographic projections of multiple antenna patches 12 on the first substrate 11. This allows for more effective control over the accuracy of beam direction.

[0101] Figure 6 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing an antenna device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0102] In step 602, a first substrate structure is provided. Here, the first substrate structure includes a first substrate and a plurality of antenna patches located on a first side of the first substrate. In some embodiments, the first substrate structure further includes a plurality of first signal lines.

[0103] For example, a first metal layer can be formed on a first substrate first, and then the first metal layer can be patterned to obtain multiple antenna patches. For example, the first metal layer can be formed by processes such as magnetron sputtering, evaporation, or electroplating.

[0104] In step 604, a second substrate structure is provided. Here, the second substrate structure includes a second substrate and a metal layer having multiple gaps, the metal layer being located on a second side of the second substrate. In some embodiments, the second substrate structure further includes at least one second signal line.

[0105] For example, a second metal layer can be formed on a second substrate first, and then the second metal layer can be patterned to obtain a metal layer with multiple gaps. Similarly, the second metal layer can be formed by processes such as magnetron sputtering, evaporation, and electroplating.

[0106] In step 606, the first substrate structure and the second substrate structure are joined together to obtain a space between the first substrate structure and the second substrate structure.

[0107] After bonding, the second substrate structure is located on the side of the plurality of antenna patches away from the first substrate, and the aforementioned second side is the side of the second substrate closer to the first substrate. In addition, after bonding, the area where the orthographic projection of each slot on the first substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of the corresponding antenna patch on the first substrate is a first region. The orthographic projection of each slot on the first substrate also includes a second region and a third region, and the first region is located between the second region and the third region.

[0108] For example, the edges of the first substrate structure and the second substrate structure can be joined by a seal. In this way, the seal, the first substrate structure, and the second substrate structure enclose a space.

[0109] In step 608, liquid crystal is injected into the space between the first substrate structure and the second substrate structure to obtain a liquid crystal layer.

[0110] The antenna device formed by the above embodiments includes multiple antenna patches and a metal layer with multiple slots. With this structure, by changing the voltage of the multiple antenna patches and the voltage of the metal layer, the deflection direction of the liquid crystal can be changed, thereby changing the energy radiated by the antenna patches, and consequently changing the beam direction of the antenna device. This structure helps to expand the beam scanning range of the antenna device.

[0111] This disclosure also provides a control method for an antenna device as described in any of the above embodiments, comprising: controlling the voltage of a plurality of antenna patches and the voltage of a metal layer, so that the beam direction of the antenna device is a desired beam direction.

[0112] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a control method for an antenna device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0113] In step 702, based on the desired beam direction, the first group of antenna patches that need to be applied voltage and the second group of antenna patches that do not need to be applied voltage are determined from among the multiple antenna patches according to the holographic principle.

[0114] It should be understood that with multiple antenna patches positioned differently, applying voltage to different antenna patches results in different beam directions for the antenna device. For any desired beam direction, based on holographic principles, it is possible to deduce which antenna patches require voltage application and which do not.

[0115] In some embodiments, the energy that each antenna patch needs to radiate can be determined based on the desired beam direction; the voltage that each antenna patch needs to be applied can be determined based on the correspondence between the energy radiated by the antenna patch and the voltage applied to the antenna patch. It should be understood that if the voltage that an antenna patch needs to be applied is 0, then no voltage needs to be applied to that antenna patch; if the voltage that an antenna patch needs to be applied is not 0, then a voltage needs to be applied to that antenna patch.

[0116] As the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal changes, the energy radiated by the antenna patch also changes. Therefore, a curve showing the relationship between the energy radiated by the antenna patch and the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal can be obtained. Furthermore, changing the voltage applied to the antenna patch alters the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal. Based on the aforementioned curve, the corresponding relationship between the energy radiated by the antenna patch and the applied voltage can be derived.

[0117] In other embodiments, the energy that each antenna patch needs to radiate can be determined based on the desired beam direction. If the energy that an antenna patch needs to radiate is greater than or equal to a preset value, it is determined that the antenna patch needs to be radiated with voltage; if the energy that an antenna patch needs to radiate is less than the preset value, it is determined that the antenna patch does not need to be radiated with voltage. In this way, a first group of antenna patches that need to be radiated with voltage can be determined.

[0118] In some embodiments, after obtaining the energy required to radiate from each antenna patch, the energy required to radiate from each antenna patch can be normalized; then, based on the relationship between the normalized value of the energy required to radiate from the antenna patch and a preset value, it can be determined whether a voltage needs to be applied to the antenna patch. For example, the difference between the energy V required to radiate from each antenna patch and the minimum value Min among the multiple antenna patches is a first value, the difference between the maximum value Max and the minimum value Min among the multiple antenna patches is a second value, and the normalized value V' of the energy V required to radiate from each antenna patch is V' = first value / second value.

[0119] In step 704, voltage is applied to the first group of antenna patches and the metal layer, while no voltage is applied to the second group of antenna patches, so that the beam direction of the antenna device is the desired beam direction.

[0120] In some embodiments, after determining the voltage that needs to be applied to each antenna patch in the first group of antenna patches, a corresponding voltage can be applied to each antenna patch.

[0121] In other embodiments, the same voltage may be applied to the first group of antenna patches. For example, the voltage applied to the first group of antenna patches may be a saturation voltage that deflects the liquid crystal, thereby maximizing the energy radiated by each antenna patch in the first group.

[0122] In the above embodiments, since the structure of the antenna device helps to expand the beam scanning range of the antenna device, the range of the desired beam direction is also larger by controlling the voltage of the antenna patch and the voltage of the metal layer in the antenna device.

[0123] Figure 8This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the control device for an antenna apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0124] like Figure 8 As shown, the control device 800 of the antenna device includes a memory 801 and a processor 802 coupled to the memory 801. The processor 802 is configured to execute the method of any of the foregoing embodiments based on instructions stored in the memory 801.

[0125] The memory 801 may include, for example, system memory, fixed non-volatile storage media, etc. The system memory may store, for example, the operating system, application programs, boot loader, and other programs.

[0126] The control device 800 for the antenna device may further include an input / output interface 803, a network interface 804, and a storage interface 805. These interfaces 803, 804, and 805, as well as the memory 801 and processor 802, can be connected, for example, via a bus 806. The input / output interface 803 provides a connection interface for input / output devices such as displays, mice, keyboards, and touchscreens. The network interface 804 provides a connection interface for various networked devices. The storage interface 805 provides a connection interface for external storage devices such as SD cards and USB flash drives.

[0127] This disclosure also provides a computer-readable storage medium including computer program instructions that, when executed by a processor, implement the method of any of the above embodiments.

[0128] This disclosure also provides a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the method of any of the above embodiments.

[0129] This disclosure also provides an electronic device, which may include the antenna device of any of the above embodiments. In some embodiments, the electronic device may be, for example, a mobile terminal (e.g., a mobile phone), a laptop computer, a navigator, or any product or component that requires an antenna.

[0130] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, with each embodiment focusing on its differences from other embodiments. Similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to interchangeably. For the apparatus embodiments, since they largely correspond to the method embodiments, the descriptions are relatively simple; relevant parts can be referred to the descriptions of the method embodiments.

[0131] The embodiments of this disclosure have now been described in detail. To avoid obscuring the concept of this disclosure, some details known in the art have not been described. Those skilled in the art can fully understand how to implement the technical solutions disclosed herein based on the above description.

[0132] Those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of this disclosure can be provided as methods, systems, or computer program products. Therefore, this disclosure can take the form of a completely hardware embodiment, a completely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, this disclosure can take the form of a computer program product embodied on one or more computer-usable non-transitory storage media (including, but not limited to, disk storage, CD-ROM, optical storage, etc.) containing computer-usable program code.

[0133] This disclosure is described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of this disclosure. It should be understood that the functions specified in one or more flowchart illustrations and / or one or more block diagrams can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, embedded processor, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions specified in one or more flowchart illustrations and / or one or more block diagrams.

[0134] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing device to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable storage medium produce an article of manufacture including instruction means that implement the functions specified in one or more flowcharts and / or one or more block diagrams.

[0135] These computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions, which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus, provide steps for implementing the functions specified in one or more flowcharts and / or one or more block diagrams.

[0136] The embodiments of this disclosure have now been described in detail. To avoid obscuring the concept of this disclosure, some details known in the art have not been described. Those skilled in the art can fully understand how to implement the technical solutions disclosed herein based on the above description.

[0137] While specific embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail by way of examples, those skilled in the art should understand that the examples are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can be made to the above embodiments or equivalent substitutions can be made to some technical features without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure. The scope of this disclosure is defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An antenna device, comprising: The first substrate structure includes: First substrate, and Multiple antenna patches are located on the first side of the first substrate; The second substrate structure, located on the side of the plurality of antenna patches away from the first substrate, includes: Second substrate, and A metal layer with multiple slots is located on the second side of the second substrate near the first substrate. Each slot corresponds to an antenna patch. The area where the orthographic projection of each slot on the first substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of the corresponding antenna patch on the first substrate is a first region. The orthographic projection of each slot on the first substrate also includes a second region and a third region. The orthographic projection of each antenna patch on the first substrate also includes a fourth region and a fifth region. The first region is located between the second region and the third region and between the fourth region and the fifth region. A liquid crystal layer is located between the first substrate structure and the second substrate structure; and A waveguide structure is located on the side of the second substrate structure away from the first substrate structure and includes one or more cavities, each cavity having a plurality of second metal pillars on its side. The first substrate structure further includes multiple first signal lines located between the first substrate and the multiple antenna patches. Each first signal line connects to at least one antenna patch and is in contact with the at least one antenna patch. The orthographic projection of each first signal line and each gap on the first substrate does not overlap. The second substrate structure further includes at least one second signal line located between the second substrate and the metal layer and in contact with the metal layer, wherein the at least one second signal line does not overlap with the orthographic projection of each gap on the first substrate; The ratio of the area of ​​each of the second and third regions to the area of ​​the first region ranges from 1.5 to 2; The ratio of the area of ​​each of the fourth and fifth regions to the area of ​​the first region ranges from 1 to 1.5; The length-to-width-to-height ratio of each second metal column is 1:(0.8~1.2):(2.4~3.6).

2. The antenna device according to claim 1, wherein, The multiple antenna patches are arranged in a matrix, with antenna patches in the same row connected to the same first signal line, and antenna patches in different rows connected to different first signal lines.

3. The antenna device according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein, Each cavity has at least one row of first metal pillars at its bottom connected to the side, and each row of first metal pillars includes multiple first metal pillars arranged in the direction of electromagnetic wave propagation.

4. The antenna device according to claim 3, wherein, The plurality of first metal pillars include a first group of first metal pillars and a second group of first metal pillars spaced apart from each other in the direction of propagation of the electromagnetic wave. The height of the first group of first metal pillars varies monotonically in the direction of propagation of the electromagnetic wave, and the height of the second group of first metal pillars is the same.

5. The antenna device according to claim 4, wherein, The plurality of first metal pillars further includes a third group of first metal pillars, wherein: The second group of first metal pillars is located between the first group of first metal pillars and the third group of first metal pillars, and The height of the first metal column in the third group exhibits a second monotonic change in the direction of electromagnetic wave propagation, and the second monotonic change is opposite to the first monotonic change.

6. The antenna device according to claim 4, wherein, Each of the first metal pillars in the second group has the same shape and area along the cross-section of the plane parallel to the bottom.

7. The antenna device according to claim 3, wherein, The at least one row of first metal pillars includes multiple rows of first metal pillars spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the propagation direction of the electromagnetic wave.

8. The antenna device according to claim 3, wherein, Each cavity has a coaxial power supply port at its bottom.

9. The antenna device according to claim 1, further comprising: Multiple support members are located between the metal layer and the first substrate. The orthographic projections of the multiple support members on the first substrate do not overlap with the orthographic projections of the multiple slots on the first substrate, and also do not overlap with the orthographic projections of the multiple antenna patches on the first substrate.

10. The antenna device according to claim 9, wherein, The orthographic projections of the plurality of supports on the first substrate surround the orthographic projections of the plurality of slots on the first substrate, and also surround the orthographic projections of the plurality of antenna patches on the first substrate.

11. An electronic device, comprising: The antenna device as described in any one of claims 1-10.

12. A method for manufacturing an antenna device, comprising: A first substrate structure is provided, the first substrate structure including a first substrate and a plurality of antenna patches located on a first side of the first substrate; A second substrate structure is provided, the second substrate structure including a second substrate and a metal layer having multiple slots, the metal layer being located on a second side of the second substrate, one slot corresponding to one antenna patch, a waveguide structure being provided on the side of the second substrate structure away from the first substrate structure, the waveguide structure including one or more cavities, each cavity having multiple second metal pillars on its side; The first substrate structure and the second substrate structure are joined to form a space between the first substrate structure and the second substrate structure. After joining, the second substrate structure is located on the side of the plurality of antenna patches away from the first substrate, and the metal layer is located on the second side of the second substrate close to the first substrate. The area where the orthographic projection of each slot on the first substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of the corresponding antenna patch on the first substrate is a first region. The orthographic projection of each slot on the first substrate also includes a second region and a third region. The orthographic projection of each antenna patch on the first substrate also includes a fourth region and a fifth region. The first region is located between the second region and the third region, and between the fourth region and the fifth region. Liquid crystal is injected into the space to obtain a liquid crystal layer; The first substrate structure further includes multiple first signal lines located between the first substrate and the multiple antenna patches. Each first signal line connects to at least one antenna patch and is in contact with the at least one antenna patch. The orthographic projection of each first signal line and each gap on the first substrate does not overlap. The second substrate structure further includes at least one second signal line located between the second substrate and the metal layer and in contact with the metal layer, wherein the at least one second signal line does not overlap with the orthographic projection of each gap on the first substrate; The ratio of the area of ​​each of the second and third regions to the area of ​​the first region ranges from 1.5 to 2; The ratio of the area of ​​each of the fourth and fifth regions to the area of ​​the first region ranges from 1 to 1.5; The length-to-width-to-height ratio of each second metal column is 1:(0.8~1.2):(2.4~3.6).

13. A control method for an antenna device as described in any one of claims 1-10, comprising: The voltage of the plurality of antenna patches and the voltage of the metal layer are controlled so that the beam direction of the antenna device is the desired beam direction.

14. The control method according to claim 13, wherein, Controlling the voltage of the plurality of antenna patches and the voltage of the metal layer to make the beam direction of the antenna device a desired beam direction includes: Based on the desired beam direction, the first group of antenna patches that require voltage application and the second group of antenna patches that do not require voltage application are determined according to the holographic principle. A voltage is applied to the first group of antenna patches and the metal layer, while no voltage is applied to the second group of antenna patches, so that the beam direction of the antenna device is the desired beam direction.

15. The control method according to claim 14, wherein, The first group of antenna patches are subjected to the same voltage.

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