Antenna and method of manufacturing the same, antenna group

Abstract

The application discloses an antenna and a manufacturing method thereof, and an antenna group. The antenna comprises a first substrate, a second substrate and a third substrate. The first substrate and the second substrate are oppositely arranged. One side of the first substrate comprises a first frequency selective surface. One side of the second substrate comprises a reflecting layer. In the direction perpendicular to the plane where the first substrate is located, the first frequency selective surface and the reflecting layer have a first interval. One side of the third substrate comprises a first electrode layer. The third substrate is located on the side of the second substrate away from the first substrate. The second substrate and the third substrate comprise liquid crystal molecules. Alternatively, the third substrate is located on the side of the first substrate away from the second substrate, and the third substrate and the first substrate comprise liquid crystal molecules. The antenna further comprises a feed source. The feed source is located on one side of the second substrate or one side of the third substrate. By adjusting the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal molecules, the reflecting phase is changed, and the adjustment of the antenna frequency and the beam pointing direction is realized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of communication technology, and more specifically, to an antenna and its manufacturing method, and an antenna array. Background Technology

[0002] In the existing technology, traditional microstrip patch antennas have been extensively studied and widely used due to their advantages such as low profile, light weight and easy processing. However, microstrip patch antennas usually have high metal ohmic losses at high frequencies and large geometric dimensions at low frequencies, which limits the development and application of patch antennas.

[0003] Dielectric resonator antennas have attracted widespread attention due to their high radiation efficiency, flexible excitation methods, small size, ability to excite multiple modes, and high power. Traditional dielectric resonator antennas are mainly filled with an invariant dielectric medium. Once the antenna structure design is fixed, they usually only operate in a fixed mode, such as having a fixed resonant frequency and a fixed beam direction.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need to provide a resonant cavity antenna that can achieve adjustable operating frequency and adjustable beam direction. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of this, the present invention provides an antenna and its manufacturing method, and an antenna array, which makes the antenna's operating frequency and beam pointing adjustable, and the antenna application more flexible.

[0006] On one hand, the present invention provides an antenna, comprising a first substrate, a second substrate, and a third substrate, wherein,

[0007] The first substrate and the second substrate are disposed opposite to each other, and one side of the first substrate includes a first frequency selection surface;

[0008] One side of the second substrate includes a reflective layer, and along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate, there is a first spacing between the first frequency selective surface and the reflective layer;

[0009] One side of the third substrate includes a first electrode layer. The third substrate is located on the side of the second substrate away from the first substrate. Liquid crystal molecules are included between the second substrate and the third substrate. Alternatively, the third substrate is located on the side of the first substrate away from the second substrate. Liquid crystal molecules are included between the third substrate and the first substrate.

[0010] The antenna further includes a feed source located on one side of the second substrate or on one side of the third substrate.

[0011] On the other hand, the present invention also provides an antenna assembly including the antenna described above.

[0012] On the other hand, the present invention also provides a method for manufacturing an antenna, comprising:

[0013] A first substrate is provided, and a first frequency selection surface is formed on one side of the first substrate;

[0014] A second substrate is provided, and the reflective layer is formed on one side of the second substrate;

[0015] A third substrate is provided, and a first electrode layer is formed on one side of the third substrate;

[0016] A feed source is formed on one side of the second substrate or the third substrate;

[0017] Forming a liquid crystal cell includes using a sealant to create a closed space between the third substrate and the second substrate to accommodate liquid crystal molecules; or, using a sealant to create a closed space between the third substrate and the first substrate to accommodate liquid crystal molecules.

[0018] Support pillars are formed between the first substrate and the second substrate, so that the first substrate and the second substrate form a resonant cavity.

[0019] Compared with the prior art, the antenna, its manufacturing method, and antenna array provided by the present invention achieve at least the following beneficial effects:

[0020] The present invention provides an antenna comprising a first substrate, a second substrate, and a third substrate, wherein the first substrate and the second substrate are disposed opposite to each other, one side of the first substrate includes a first frequency selective surface; one side of the second substrate includes a reflective layer, and the first frequency selective surface and the reflective layer have a first spacing along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate; one side of the third substrate includes a first electrode layer; the antenna further includes a feed source, which is located on one side of the second substrate or on one side of the third substrate.

[0021] When the third substrate is located on the side of the second substrate away from the first substrate, and liquid crystal molecules are present between the second and third substrates, a resonant cavity is formed between the first frequency selective surface and the reflective layer. After the feed source receives an electromagnetic wave signal, the electromagnetic wave is emitted from the feed source towards the first frequency selective surface. The first frequency selective surface has a semi-reflective and semi-transparent function; part of the electromagnetic wave emitted from the first frequency selective surface at the corresponding feed source position is reflected back to the reflective layer. The reflective layer has a reflective function, reflecting this part of the electromagnetic wave back to the first frequency selective surface. This achieves continuous reflection of the electromagnetic wave within the resonant cavity, with each transmission passing through the upper first frequency selective surface... Electromagnetic waves on the surface can be superimposed in phase, thereby improving antenna gain and sharpening beamwidth. Liquid crystal molecules are included between the second and third substrates. A first electrode layer is provided on the side of the third substrate closest to the second substrate. When a voltage difference forms an electric field between the reflective layer and the first electrode layer, the liquid crystal molecules deflect. Since the degree of deflection varies with the applied voltage, the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal molecules between the reflective layer and the first electrode layer can be controllably adjusted. This allows for controllable adjustment of the equivalent dielectric constant of the reflective layer structure, thereby adjusting the reflection phase φ2 of the reflective layer according to the resonance condition. Where λ is the operating wavelength; h is the resonant cavity height; θ is the beam direction; φ1 is the reflection phase of the upper reflector; and φ2 is the reflection phase of the lower reflector. It can be seen that the resonant cavity height h remains constant, but φ2 is adjustable. As long as the operating wavelength and beam direction are adjusted to meet the resonance adjustment, the operating wavelength λ can be adjusted. The operating frequency is equal to the reciprocal of the operating wavelength, so the operating frequency is adjustable. The beam direction θ can also be adjusted, thereby realizing the adjustment of the antenna's operating frequency and beam direction. In this way, the antenna's operating mode is no longer fixed, and the application is more flexible.

[0022] When the third substrate is located on the side of the first substrate away from the second substrate, and liquid crystal molecules are present between the third substrate and the first substrate, a resonant cavity is formed between the first frequency selective surface and the first electrode layer. After the feed source receives an electromagnetic wave signal, the electromagnetic wave is emitted from the feed source towards the first electrode layer. Part of the electromagnetic wave is emitted from the surface of the first electrode layer at the corresponding feed source position, and the other part is reflected back to the first frequency selective surface. The first frequency selective surface also has a reflective function, reflecting this part of the electromagnetic wave back to the first electrode layer. This achieves continuous reflection of the electromagnetic wave within the resonant cavity. Each time the electromagnetic wave passes through the surface of the upper first electrode layer... Waves can be superimposed in phase, thereby improving antenna gain and sharpening beamwidth. Liquid crystal molecules are included between the third substrate and the first substrate. When a voltage difference forms an electric field between the first electrode layer and the first frequency-selective surface, the liquid crystal molecules deflect. Since the degree of deflection varies with the applied voltage, the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal molecules between the first electrode layer and the first frequency-selective surface can be controllably adjusted. This allows for controllable adjustment of the equivalent dielectric constant of the first frequency-selective surface, thereby adjusting the reflection phase φ2 of the first frequency-selective surface according to the resonance condition. Where λ is the operating wavelength; h is the resonant cavity height; θ is the beam direction; φ1 is the reflection phase of the upper reflector; and φ2 is the reflection phase of the lower reflector. It can be seen that the resonant cavity height h remains constant, but φ2 is adjustable. As long as the operating wavelength and beam direction are adjusted to meet the resonance adjustment, the operating wavelength λ can be adjusted. The operating frequency is equal to the reciprocal of the operating wavelength, so the operating frequency is adjustable. The beam direction θ can also be adjusted, thereby realizing the adjustment of the antenna's operating frequency and beam direction. In this way, the antenna's operating mode is no longer fixed, and the application is more flexible.

[0023] Of course, any product implementing this invention does not necessarily need to achieve all of the technical effects described above at the same time.

[0024] Other features and advantages of the invention will become clear from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0025] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with their description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the working principle of a resonant cavity antenna provided by related technologies;

[0027] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of an antenna provided by the present invention;

[0028] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view along line A-A' in the middle;

[0029] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of another antenna provided by the present invention;

[0030] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A cross-sectional view along the B-B' direction;

[0031] Figure 6 A schematic diagram illustrating the principle of adjusting the reflection phase φ2 of the lower reflector after the liquid crystal molecules are deflected;

[0032] Figure 7 yes Figure 2 Another cross-sectional view along the A-A' direction;

[0033] Figure 8 yes Figure 2 Another cross-sectional view along the A-A' direction;

[0034] Figure 9 yes Figure 4 Another cross-sectional view along the B-B' direction;

[0035] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of a second substrate provided by the present invention;

[0036] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of another second substrate provided by the present invention;

[0037] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of a third substrate provided by the present invention;

[0038] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of another third substrate provided by the present invention;

[0039] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of another antenna provided by the present invention;

[0040] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view along the C-C' direction in 14.

[0041] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of another antenna provided by the present invention;

[0042] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 A cross-sectional view along the D-D' direction;

[0043] Figure 18 yes Figure 2 Another cross-sectional view along the A-A' direction;

[0044] Figure 19This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of another antenna provided by the present invention;

[0045] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 A cross-sectional view along the E-E' direction;

[0046] Figure 21 yes Figure 19 Another cross-sectional view along the E-E' direction;

[0047] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of another antenna provided by the present invention;

[0048] Figure 23 yes Figure 22 A cross-sectional view along the F-F' direction;

[0049] Figure 24 yes Figure 22 Another cross-sectional view along the F-F' direction;

[0050] Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of another antenna provided by the present invention;

[0051] Figure 26 yes Figure 25 A cross-sectional view along the G-G' direction;

[0052] Figure 27 yes Figure 25 Another cross-sectional view along the G-G' direction;

[0053] Figure 28 This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of an antenna array provided by the present invention;

[0054] Figure 29 This is a schematic diagram of another planar structure of an antenna array provided by the present invention;

[0055] Figure 30 yes Figure 29 A cross-sectional view along the H-H' direction;

[0056] Figure 31 This is a flowchart of an antenna manufacturing method provided by the present invention;

[0057] Figure 32 This is a cross-sectional view corresponding to step S101;

[0058] Figure 33 This is a cross-sectional view corresponding to step S102;

[0059] Figure 34 This is another cross-sectional view corresponding to step S102;

[0060] Figure 35This is a cross-sectional view corresponding to step S103;

[0061] Figure 36 This is another cross-sectional view corresponding to step S103. Detailed Implementation

[0062] Various exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps set forth in these embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention.

[0063] The following description of at least one exemplary embodiment is merely illustrative and is in no way intended to limit the invention or its application or use.

[0064] 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.

[0065] In all the examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations. Therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values.

[0066] It should be noted that similar labels and letters in the following figures indicate similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be discussed further in subsequent figures.

[0067] In view of the problems of the inability to adjust the operating frequency and beam pointing of resonant cavity antennas in related technologies, the inventors have conducted the following research on related technologies, referring to... Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the working principle of a resonant cavity antenna provided by related technologies. Figure 1 The Fabry-Perot (FP) resonant cavity antenna consists of two parallel reflectors. Figure 1 The reflector 01 and dielectric substrate 02 are respectively represented by a reflective cover plate 01 and a dielectric substrate 02, respectively. h is the distance between the reflective cover plate 01 and the dielectric substrate 02. The distance h between the reflective cover plate 01 and the dielectric substrate 02 meets the resonance condition. A feed source 04 is located on the side of the dielectric substrate 02 closest to the reflective cover plate 01, and a ground layer 03 is located on the side of the dielectric substrate 02 furthest from the reflective cover plate 01. A power connector 05 is located on the side of the ground layer 03 furthest from the dielectric substrate 02. The power connector 05 transmits electromagnetic waves to the feed source 04, thereby entering the resonant cavity. Figure 1 The mid-wave beam is directed at θ. E00, E01, and E02 represent the radiated energy at positions 0, 1, and 2, respectively. Specifically, a portion of the electromagnetic wave is emitted at position 0 through reflector 01, with an energy of E. 00Simultaneously, some electromagnetic waves are reflected back to the dielectric substrate 02 at position 0, where they are reflected on the surface of the substrate 02 and then emitted at position 1 of the reflective cover plate 01, with an energy of E. 01 Simultaneously, some electromagnetic waves are reflected back to the dielectric substrate 02 at point 1, where they are reflected on the surface of the substrate 02 and then emitted at point 2 on the reflective cover plate 01, with an energy of E. 02 When the spacing between the upper reflector (reflector cover 01) and the lower reflector (dielectric substrate 02) satisfies the resonance condition, electromagnetic waves are continuously reflected within the resonant cavity. Each electromagnetic wave transmitted through the upper reflector cover can be superimposed in phase, thereby increasing the antenna gain and sharpening the beamwidth. The resonance condition is:

[0068]

[0069] Where λ is the operating wavelength; h is the resonant cavity height; θ is the beam direction; φ1 is the reflection phase of the upper reflector; and φ2 is the reflection phase of the lower reflector. It can be seen that when the resonant cavity structure is fixed, the resonant cavity height h is fixed, the reflection phase φ1 of the upper reflector is fixed, the reflection phase φ2 of the lower reflector is fixed, and the beam direction θ is fixed, therefore the operating wavelength λ is also fixed, and the operating frequency is also fixed. In short, once the resonant cavity structure is fixed, its operating frequency and beam direction are fixed, and the antenna can only be used in fixed operating modes.

[0070] In view of this, the present invention provides an antenna and its manufacturing method, and an antenna array, for adjusting the operating frequency and beam pointing, thereby making the antenna application more flexible.

[0071] Reference Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 , Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of an antenna provided by the present invention. Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view along line A-A'. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of another antenna provided by the present invention. Figure 5 yes Figure 4A cross-sectional view along line B-B' shows an antenna 100 provided by the present invention, comprising a first substrate 1, a second substrate 2, and a third substrate 3. The first substrate 1 and the second substrate 2 are disposed opposite to each other. One side of the first substrate 1 includes a first frequency selective surface 4. One side of the second substrate 2 includes a reflective layer 5. Along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate 1, the first frequency selective surface 4 and the reflective layer 5 have a first spacing h. One side of the third substrate 3 includes a first electrode layer 7. The third substrate 3 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1. Liquid crystal molecules 8 are included between the second substrate 2 and the third substrate 3. Alternatively, the third substrate 3 is located on the side of the first substrate 1 away from the second substrate 2. Liquid crystal molecules 8 are included between the third substrate 3 and the first substrate 1. The antenna 100 also includes a feed source 6, which is located on one side of the second substrate 2 or on one side of the third substrate 3.

[0072] Specifically, the first substrate 1 can be a glass substrate, without specific limitations. One side of the first substrate 1 includes a first frequency selection surface 4, which is a two-dimensional periodic array structure. Optionally, the first frequency selection surface 4 can be a patch type, i.e., the same metal units are periodically labeled on the dielectric surface, or it can be a slotted type, i.e., slots for some metal units are periodically opened on a metal plate. In this embodiment, only the slotted type of the first frequency selection surface 4 is used as an example for illustrative purposes. In another embodiment of the present invention, the first frequency selection surface 4 is a patch type, which is not shown in the figure. The first frequency selection surface 4 can be located on the side of the first substrate 1 away from the second substrate 2, or it can be located on the side of the first substrate 1 closer to the second substrate 2, without specific limitations. Figure 3 The illustration is based on the example of the first frequency selection surface 4 being located on the side of the first substrate 1 closer to the second substrate 2.

[0073] Optionally, the second substrate 2 can be a glass substrate; no specific limitation is made here. Figure 3 and Figure 5 The second substrate 2 is not patterned. One side of the second substrate 2 includes a reflective layer 5, which is used to reflect electromagnetic waves. The reflective layer 5 can be made of a metal layer; no specific limitation is made here. Optionally, the reflective layer 5 can be located on the side of the second substrate 2 closer to the first substrate 1, or on the side of the second substrate 2 farther from the first substrate 1; no specific limitation is made here. Figure 3 The illustration is based on the example where the reflective layer 5 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 closer to the first substrate 1. In another embodiment of the present invention, the reflective layer 5 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1.

[0074] Along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate 1, there is a first spacing h between the first frequency selective surface 4 and the reflective layer 5. The first spacing h between the first frequency selective surface 4 and the reflective layer 5 forms a resonant cavity, ensuring that electromagnetic waves are reflected multiple times between the first frequency selective surface 4 and the reflective layer 5. In this invention, the first spacing h refers to the distance between the surface of the first frequency selective surface 4 near the reflective layer 5 and the surface of the reflective layer 5 near the first frequency selective surface 4, which is the minimum distance between the first frequency selective surface 4 and the reflective layer 5. Of course, the antenna 100 also includes a feed source 6, which is located on one side of the second substrate 2 or on one side of the third substrate 3. The feed source 6 can be located on the side of the second substrate 2 near the first substrate 1 or on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1, or the feed source 6 can be located on the side of the third substrate 3 near the second substrate 2 or on the side of the third substrate 3 away from the second substrate 2. No specific limitation is made here. After the electromagnetic wave signal is fed to the feed source 6, the feed source 6 radiates the electromagnetic wave signal. When the electromagnetic wave signal passes through the first frequency selection surface 4, part of the electromagnetic wave is emitted and part of the electromagnetic wave is reflected back to the reflective layer 5. The electromagnetic wave is also reflected on the surface of the reflective layer 5 and then emitted again after passing through the first frequency selection surface 4.

[0075] The present invention also includes a third substrate 3, one side of which includes a first electrode layer 7. The third substrate 3 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1, and liquid crystal molecules 8 are included between the second substrate 2 and the third substrate 3. Alternatively, the third substrate 3 is located on the side of the first substrate 1 away from the second substrate 2, and liquid crystal molecules 8 are included between the third substrate 3 and the first substrate 1. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The diagram shows a third substrate 3 located on the side of the second substrate 2 furthest from the first substrate 1, with liquid crystal molecules 8 between the second substrate 2 and the third substrate 3. Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the first substrate 1, the third substrate 3 is located on the side of the first substrate 1 away from the second substrate 2, and liquid crystal molecules 8 are included between the third substrate 3 and the first substrate 1.

[0076] Optional, for Figure 3 In one embodiment, a first sealant 9 is further included between the second substrate 2 and the third substrate 3 to form a sealed space between the second substrate 2 and the third substrate 3 to accommodate the liquid crystal molecules 8. Figure 5 In one embodiment, a first sealant 9 is included between the first substrate 1 and the third substrate 3, thereby forming a sealed space between the first substrate 1 and the third substrate 3 to accommodate liquid crystal molecules 8.

[0077] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3A first frequency selective surface 4 is provided on the side of the first substrate 1 closest to the second substrate 2. A reflective layer 5 is provided on the side of the second substrate 2 closest to the first substrate 1, and a feed source 6 is provided on the side of the second substrate 2 closest to the first substrate 1. After receiving an electromagnetic wave signal, the electromagnetic wave is emitted from the feed source 6 to the first frequency selective surface 4. The first frequency selective surface 4 has a semi-reflective and semi-transparent function. Part of the electromagnetic wave emitted from the first frequency selective surface 4 at the position corresponding to the feed source 6 is reflected back to the reflective layer 5. The first frequency selective surface 4 includes multiple second electrode blocks 18, each with a through hole 19. The transmittance coefficient of the first frequency selective surface 4 is related to the length and width of the second electrode blocks 18 and the radius r of the through hole 19. The reflective layer 5 has a reflective function, reflecting this part of the electromagnetic wave back to the first frequency selective surface 4, thereby realizing the electromagnetic wave resonating within the resonant cavity. Through continuous reflection, the electromagnetic waves transmitted through the upper first frequency selection surface 4 can be superimposed in phase, thereby improving the gain of the antenna 100 and sharpening the beamwidth. The invention also includes a third substrate 3, located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1. Liquid crystal molecules 8 are included between the second substrate 2 and the third substrate 3. A first electrode layer 7 is provided on the side of the third substrate 3 closest to the second substrate 2. When a voltage difference forms an electric field between the reflective layer 5 and the first electrode layer 7, the liquid crystal molecules 8 deflect. Since the degree of deflection of the liquid crystal molecules 8 varies with the applied voltage, the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal molecules 8 between the reflective layer 5 and the first electrode layer 7 can be controllably adjusted. This allows for controllable adjustment of the equivalent dielectric constant of the reflective layer 5 structure, thereby adjusting the reflection phase φ2 of the reflective layer 5 according to the resonance condition.

[0078] Where λ is the operating wavelength; h is the resonant cavity height; θ is the beam direction; φ1 is the reflection phase of the upper reflector; and φ2 is the reflection phase of the lower reflector. It can be seen that the resonant cavity height h remains unchanged, but φ2 is adjustable. As long as the operating wavelength and beam direction are adjusted to meet the resonance adjustment, the operating wavelength λ can be adjusted. The operating frequency is equal to the reciprocal of the operating wavelength, so the operating frequency is adjustable. The beam direction θ can also be adjusted, thereby realizing the adjustment of the operating frequency and beam direction of the antenna 100. In this way, the operating mode of the antenna 100 is no longer fixed, and the application is more flexible.

[0079] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5A first frequency selective surface 4 is provided on the side of the first substrate 1 away from the second substrate 2. A feed source 6 is provided on the side of the second substrate 2 close to the first substrate 1. A third substrate 3 is located on the side of the first substrate 1 away from the second substrate 2, and a first electrode layer 7 is included on the side of the third substrate 3 close to the second substrate 2. Optionally, the first electrode layer 7 includes a semi-reflective and semi-transparent second frequency selective surface 25. A resonant cavity is formed between the first frequency selective surface 4 and the first electrode layer 7. Liquid crystal molecules 8 are included between the second substrate 2 and the third substrate 3. After the feed source 6 receives an electromagnetic wave signal, the electromagnetic wave is emitted from the feed source 6 to the first electrode layer 7. Optionally, the first electrode layer 7 includes the second frequency selective surface 25, which has a semi-reflective and semi-transparent function. Electromagnetic waves are partially emitted from the surface of the first electrode layer 7 at the corresponding feed 6 position, while the remaining portion is reflected back to the first frequency selection surface 4. The first frequency selection surface 4 includes multiple second electrode blocks 18, each with a through-hole 19. The transmission and reflection coefficients of the first frequency selection surface 4 are related to the length and width of the second electrode blocks 18 and the radius r of the through-hole 19. The first frequency selection surface 4 also has a reflective function, reflecting this portion of the electromagnetic waves back to the first electrode layer 7. This achieves continuous reflection of electromagnetic waves within the resonant cavity. Each electromagnetic wave transmitted through the surface of the upper first electrode layer 7 can be superimposed in phase, thereby improving the antenna's performance. The gain is 100 and the beamwidth is sharpened. This invention also includes liquid crystal molecules 8 between the third substrate 3 and the first substrate 1. When a voltage difference forms an electric field between the first electrode layer 7 and the first frequency selective surface 4, the liquid crystal molecules 8 deflect. Since the degree of deflection of the liquid crystal molecules 8 varies with the applied voltage, the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal molecules 8 between the first electrode layer 7 and the first frequency selective surface 4 can be controllably adjusted. This allows for controllable adjustment of the equivalent dielectric constant of the first frequency selective surface 4, thereby adjusting the reflection phase φ2 of the first frequency selective surface 4 according to the resonance condition.

[0080] Where λ is the operating wavelength; h is the resonant cavity height; θ is the beam direction; φ1 is the reflection phase of the upper reflector; and φ2 is the reflection phase of the lower reflector. It can be seen that the resonant cavity height h remains unchanged, but φ2 is adjustable. As long as the operating wavelength and beam direction are adjusted to meet the resonance adjustment, the operating wavelength λ can be adjusted. The operating frequency is equal to the reciprocal of the operating wavelength, so the operating frequency is adjustable. The beam direction θ can also be adjusted, thereby realizing the adjustment of the operating frequency and beam direction of the antenna 100. In this way, the operating mode of the antenna 100 is no longer fixed, and the application is more flexible.

[0081] See attached document Figure 6 , Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle of adjusting the reflection phase φ2 of the lower reflector after the liquid crystal molecules are deflected. Figure 6As can be seen, when the same electromagnetic wave is input, the deflection angle of the liquid crystal molecule 8 is different when different voltages are applied to the electrodes on both sides of the liquid crystal molecule 8, and the reflection phase φ2 of the electromagnetic wave is also different. Specifically, the larger the applied voltage, the larger the deflection angle of the liquid crystal molecule 8, and the larger the reflection phase φ2.

[0082] In some alternative embodiments, reference continues to be made to... Figure 3 and Figure 5 and reference Figure 7 , Figure 8 ,and Figure 9 , Figure 7 yes Figure 2 Another cross-sectional view along the A-A' direction. Figure 8 yes Figure 2 Another cross-sectional view along the A-A' direction. Figure 9 yes Figure 4 Another cross-sectional view along the B-B' direction, the first frequency selection surface 4 is located on the side of the first substrate 1 closer to the second substrate 2, or the first frequency selection surface 4 is located on the side of the first substrate 1 away from the second substrate 2.

[0083] The reflective layer 5 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 closer to the first substrate 1, or the reflective layer 5 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1.

[0084] Figure 3 The first frequency selection surface 4 is located on the side of the first substrate 1 closest to the second substrate 2. Figure 5 The first frequency selection surface 4 is located on the side of the first substrate 1 away from the second substrate 2. Figure 7 The first frequency selection surface 4 is located on the side of the first substrate 1 closest to the second substrate 2. Figure 8 The first frequency selection surface 4 is located on the side of the first substrate 1 away from the second substrate 2. Figure 9 The first frequency selection surface 4 is located on the side of the first substrate 1 that is closer to the second substrate 2. The position of the first frequency selection surface 4 can be located on the side of the first substrate 1 that is closer to the second substrate 2 or on the side of the first substrate 1 that is farther away from the second substrate 2, thereby realizing the diversification of antenna 100 products.

[0085] Figure 3 The intermediate reflective layer 5 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 closest to the first substrate 1. Figure 5 The intermediate reflective layer 5 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1. Figure 7 The intermediate reflective layer 5 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1. Figure 8 The intermediate reflective layer 5 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1. Figure 9The intermediate reflective layer 5 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1. The position of the reflective layer 5 can be located on the side of the second substrate 2 closer to the first substrate 1 or on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1, thereby achieving diversification of the antenna 100 product.

[0086] Reference Figure 3 The first frequency selective surface 4 is located on the side of the first substrate 1 closest to the second substrate 2, while the reflective layer 5 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 closest to the first substrate 1. There are no other films between the first frequency selective surface 4 and the reflective layer 5, which facilitates the reflection of electromagnetic waves between the first frequency selective surface 4 and the reflective layer 5. (Refer to...) Figure 5 , Figure 5 The first frequency selective surface 4 is located on the side of the first substrate 1 away from the second substrate 2, and the reflective layer 5 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1. In this embodiment, power is supplied through the power supply connector 28, which has high power supply efficiency. Placing the reflective layer 5 on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1 can achieve grounding. At the same time, the first frequency selective surface 4 is located on the side of the first substrate 1 away from the second substrate 2, and the first electrode layer 7 is located on the side of the third substrate 3 close to the first frequency selective surface 4. This is beneficial for the reflection of electromagnetic waves between the first frequency selective surface 4 and the reflective layer 5. Meanwhile, the liquid crystal molecules 8 are located between the first frequency selective surface 4 and the first electrode layer 8. The liquid crystal molecules 8 are directly adjacent to the first frequency selective surface 4 and the first electrode layer 8, which is beneficial for driving the liquid crystal molecules 8. Figure 7 In this configuration, the first frequency selective surface 4 is located on the side of the first substrate 1 closer to the second substrate 2, and the reflective layer 5 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1. The reflective layer 5 is reused as an electrode layer for driving liquid crystal molecules 8. The reflective layer 5 and the first electrode layer 7 are in direct contact with the liquid crystal molecules 8. The reflective layer 5 and the first electrode layer 7 serve as electrodes for driving the liquid crystal. Compared to the situation where the reflective layer 5 and the liquid crystal molecules 8 are separated by the second substrate 2, or the first electrode layer 7 and the liquid crystal molecules 8 are separated by the third substrate 3, it is easier to drive the liquid crystal molecules 8. Figure 8 In this configuration, the first frequency selective surface 4 is located on the side of the first substrate 1 away from the second substrate 2. When electromagnetic waves radiate outward, there is no obstruction from the first substrate 1, resulting in higher radiation efficiency. Meanwhile, the reflective layer 5 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1. The reflective layer 5 is reused as an electrode layer for driving the liquid crystal molecules 8. The reflective layer 5 and the first electrode layer 7 are in direct contact with the liquid crystal molecules 8. The reflective layer 5 and the first electrode layer 7 serve as electrodes for driving the liquid crystal. Compared to situations where the reflective layer 5 and the liquid crystal molecules 8 are separated by the second substrate 2, or where the first electrode layer 7 and the liquid crystal molecules 8 are separated by the third substrate 3, it is easier to drive the liquid crystal molecules 8. Figure 9In this embodiment, the first frequency selection surface 4 is located on the side of the first substrate 1 closer to the second substrate 2, and the reflective layer 5 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1. In this embodiment, power is supplied through the power supply connector 28, which has high power supply efficiency. Placing the reflective layer 5 on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1 can achieve grounding. The first frequency selection surface 4 is located on the side of the first substrate 1 closer to the second substrate 2, and the first electrode layer 7 is located on the side of the third substrate 3 away from the first substrate 1. Liquid crystal molecules 8 are included between the first substrate 1 and the third substrate 3, which is beneficial for fabricating a liquid crystal cell. Moreover, the first electrode layer 7 being located on the side of the third substrate 3 away from the first substrate 1 can improve radiation efficiency.

[0087] In some alternative embodiments, refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 , Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of a second substrate provided by the present invention. Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of another second substrate provided by the present invention. A first circuit board 11 is bonded to one side of the second substrate 2, and the reflective layer 5 is electrically connected to the first circuit board 11 through a first signal line 12.

[0088] Specifically, Figure 10 The second substrate 2 and Figure 2 Corresponding to antenna 100, Figure 11 The second substrate 2 and Figure 4 Corresponding to antenna 100, it should be noted that Figure 4 The signal is transmitted through an RF connector, or it can be provided through the first circuit board 11 and transmitted to the reflective layer 5 through the first signal line 12.

[0089] The first circuit board 11 can be a flexible circuit board, which can be made of polyimide or polyester film as the substrate and has flexibility. It also has the characteristics of high wiring density, light weight and thin thickness. Optionally, the second substrate 2 includes a first pad 111 and the first circuit board 11 includes a second pad 112. The first circuit board 11 is bonded to the second substrate 2 by anisotropic conductive adhesive.

[0090] Optionally, the first circuit board 11 and the reflective layer 5 are on the same layer. For example, if the reflective layer 5 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 closer to the first substrate 1, then the first circuit board 11 is also located on the side of the second substrate 2 closer to the first substrate 1. If the reflective layer 5 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1, then the first circuit board 11 is also located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1. In this way, it is only necessary to set the first signal line 12 on the same layer as the reflective layer 5 to realize the electrical connection between the reflective layer 5 and the first circuit board 11, so that the signal of the first circuit board 11 can be transmitted to the reflective layer 5.

[0091] In this embodiment, a first circuit board 11 is bonded to one side of the second substrate 2. The reflective layer 5 is electrically connected to the first circuit board 11 through a first signal line 12. The first circuit board 11 transmits signals to the reflective layer 5 through the first signal line 12 to achieve signal transmission.

[0092] In some alternative embodiments, reference continues to be made to... Figure 10 and Figure 11 The reflective layer 5 includes a first electrode block 10, with a gap between adjacent first electrode blocks 10, and the first electrode block 10 and the first circuit board 11 are electrically connected in a one-to-one correspondence through a first signal line 12.

[0093] Figure 10 In the reflective layer 5, multiple arrayed first electrode blocks 10 are included. The first electrode blocks 10 can be made of metal, as long as they can reflect light; for example, copper. However, the material of the reflective layer 5 is not specifically limited here. There are gaps between the arrayed first electrode blocks 10 to ensure insulation between them. Each first electrode block 10 is electrically connected to the first circuit board 11 via a first signal line 12, allowing a bias voltage to be input to each first electrode block 10 individually. Figure 3 It is known that the voltage between the first electrode block 10 and the reflective layer 5 can drive the liquid crystal molecules 8 to deflect. Different bias voltages can be input to the first electrode block 10 at different positions, so the deflection angle of the liquid crystal molecules 8 will also be different. At the same time, the first electrode block 10, as the lower reflective layer 5 of the resonant cavity, can reflect electromagnetic waves. The dielectric constant of the first electrode block 10 is also different, so the reflection phase φ2 can be adjusted. By adjusting the working wavelength and beam pointing, resonance adjustment can be achieved. The working wavelength λ can be adjusted, and the working frequency is equal to the reciprocal of the working wavelength, so the working frequency can be adjusted. The beam pointing θ can also be adjusted, thereby realizing the adjustment of the working frequency and beam pointing of the antenna 100. In this way, the working mode of the antenna 100 is no longer fixed, and the application is more flexible.

[0094] Figure 11 The intermediate reflective layer 5 is a single layer, at which point the first electrode block 10 is only one unit. Figure 4 and Figure 5 A cutout is provided at the position corresponding to the feed source 6. The first electrode block 10 of the reflective layer 5 is electrically connected to the first circuit board 11 through the first signal line 12 to transmit the signal to the reflective layer 5.

[0095] In some alternative embodiments, refer to Figure 12 and Figure 13 , Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of a third substrate provided by the present invention. Figure 13This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of another third substrate provided by the present invention. A second circuit board 13 is bonded to one side of the third substrate 3, and the first electrode layer 7 and the second circuit board 13 are electrically connected in a one-to-one correspondence through the second signal line 14.

[0096] Figure 12 The third substrate 3 and Figure 2 Corresponding to the antenna 100, optionally, a third pad 131 is included on the third substrate 3, and a fourth pad 132 is included on the second circuit board 13. The second circuit board 13 is bonded to the third substrate 3 using anisotropic conductive adhesive. Optional Figure 12 The first electrode layer 7 is a single layer, combined with Figure 2 and Figure 3 A cutout is provided at the position corresponding to the feed source 6. The first electrode layer 7 and the second circuit board 13 are electrically connected through the second signal line 14 to transmit the signal to the first electrode layer 7, which can be a ground signal.

[0097] Figure 13 The third substrate 3 and Figure 4 Corresponding to antenna 100, Figure 13 The first electrode layer 7 includes multiple second frequency selection surfaces 25. Optionally, the second frequency selection surfaces 25 and the first frequency selection surface 4 are made of the same material; this is not specifically limited. The multiple second frequency selection surfaces 25 are arranged in an array. The first electrode layer 7 and the second circuit board 13 are electrically connected one-to-one via second signal lines 14. Figure 4 and Figure 5 It can be seen that at this time, the second circuit board 13 can transmit the bias voltage signal to the first electrode layer 7 through the second signal line 14, so that the voltage difference between the first electrode layer 7 and the first frequency selection surface 4 forms an electric field that drives the liquid crystal molecules 8 to deflect. It should be noted that since the bias voltage has a low frequency and the electromagnetic wave has a high frequency, they do not affect each other. Therefore, the process of transmitting the bias voltage to the first frequency selection surface 4 or to the second frequency selection surface 25 will not affect the transmission of high-frequency electromagnetic waves.

[0098] In this embodiment, a second circuit board 13 is bonded to one side of the third substrate 3. The first electrode layer 7 and the second circuit board 13 are electrically connected one-to-one through the second signal line 14. The second circuit board 13 transmits the signal to the first electrode layer 7 through the second signal line 14 to realize signal transmission.

[0099] In some alternative embodiments, refer to Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 and Figure 17 , Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of another antenna provided by the present invention. Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view along the C-C' direction in diagram 14. Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of another antenna provided by the present invention. Figure 17 yes Figure 16 A cross-sectional view along the D-D' direction shows that the antenna 100 includes a first edge 15 and a second edge 16 opposite each other along a first direction, the first direction being parallel to the plane where the first substrate 1 is located.

[0100] The first circuit board 11 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 near the first edge 15, and the second circuit board 13 is located on the side of the third substrate 3 near the second edge 16.

[0101] Alternatively, the first circuit board 11 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 near the second edge 16, and the second circuit board 13 is located on the side of the third substrate 3 near the first edge 15.

[0102] Alternatively, the first circuit board 11 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 near the first edge 15, while the second circuit board 13 is located on the side of the third substrate 3 near the first edge 15.

[0103] Alternatively, the first circuit board 11 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 near the second edge 16, while the second circuit board 13 is located on the side of the third substrate 3 near the second edge 16.

[0104] Specifically, the first circuit board 11 and the second circuit board 13 can be located on the same side of the antenna 100 or on different sides of the antenna 100. When they are located on the same side of the antenna 100, the first circuit board 11 and the second circuit board 13 can both be located on the first edge 15, or the first circuit board 11 and the second circuit board 13 can both be located on the second edge 16. When the first circuit board 11 and the second circuit board 13 are located on different sides of the antenna 100, the first circuit board 11 can be located on the first edge 15 and the second circuit board 13 can be located on the second edge 16, or the first circuit board 11 can be located on the second edge 16 and the second circuit board 13 can be located on the first edge 15. Figure 14 and Figure 15 The illustration is based on the example of the first circuit board 11 being located on the second substrate 2 near the first edge 15 and the second circuit board 13 being located on the third substrate 3 near the second edge 16. When the first circuit board 11 and the second circuit board 13 are located on different sides, that is, the first circuit board 11 and the second circuit board 13 are located on the first edge 15 and the second edge 16 respectively, since there is no overlap between the first circuit board 11 and the second circuit board 13 in the direction perpendicular to the plane where the first substrate 1 is located, the heat generated during the bonding process will not affect each other. Figure 16 and Figure 17The illustration only takes the example where both the first circuit board 11 and the second circuit board 13 are located at the first edge 15, and the first circuit board 11 is located on the side of the first substrate 1 near the first edge 15, while the second circuit board 13 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 near the first edge 15. Since the first circuit board 11 and the second circuit board 13 are on the same side, it is not necessary to have them on opposite edges (i.e.,...). Figure 16 and Figure 17 The second edge 16) of the antenna 100 is reserved in a stepped area to set the circuit board, which can reduce the width of the frame area of ​​the antenna 100 and improve the effective usable area of ​​the antenna 100.

[0105] The first circuit board 11 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 near the first edge 15, and the second circuit board 13 is located on the side of the third substrate 3 near the second edge 16. Alternatively, the first circuit board 11 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 near the second edge 16, and the second circuit board 13 is located on the side of the third substrate 3 near the first edge 15. Since the first circuit board 11 and the second circuit board 13 do not overlap in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate 1, the heat generated during the bonding process will not affect each other when the first circuit board 11 and the second circuit board 13 are bonded.

[0106] The first circuit board 11 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 near the first edge 15, while the second circuit board 13 is located on the side of the third substrate 3 near the first edge 15. Alternatively, the first circuit board 11 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 near the second edge 16, while the second circuit board 13 is located on the side of the third substrate 3 near the second edge 16. Since the first circuit board 11 and the second circuit board 13 are located on the same side, it is not necessary to reserve a step area on the opposite side edge to set the circuit board. This can reduce the width of the frame area of ​​the antenna 100 and help to increase the effective usable area of ​​the antenna 100.

[0107] Furthermore, the different positions of the first circuit board 11 and the second circuit board 13 enable the diversification of the antenna 100 structure.

[0108] It should also be noted that the second signal line 14 can be made of the same material and the same film layer as the reflective layer 5. Of course, if the second signal line 14 and the reflective layer 5 are made of different materials, they can be electrically connected through vias.

[0109] In some alternative embodiments, reference continues to be made to... Figure 3 A support pillar 17 is provided between the first substrate 1 and the second substrate 2, and an accommodating space is formed between the first substrate 1, the second substrate 2 and the support pillar 17.

[0110] As described above, the first spacing h is the minimum spacing between the first frequency selective surface 4 and the reflective layer 5. There is a support column 17 between the first substrate 1 and the second substrate 2. The support column 17 is used to support the distance between the first substrate 1 and the second substrate 2 to form a resonant cavity. Electromagnetic waves are continuously reflected between the first frequency selective surface 4 and the reflective layer 5. Of course, each electromagnetic wave transmitted through the upper first frequency selective surface 4 can be superimposed in phase, thereby improving the gain of the antenna 100 and sharpening the beamwidth. After the support column 17 supports the first substrate 1 and the second substrate 2, it can form the path of electromagnetic wave reflection.

[0111] In some alternative embodiments, reference continues to be made to... Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 The first frequency selection surface 4 includes a plurality of second electrode blocks 18, with gaps between adjacent second electrode blocks 18, and each second electrode block 18 includes a through hole 19 penetrating through it.

[0112] Optionally, the first frequency selection surface 4 can be a patch type or a slotted type. In this embodiment, the first frequency selection surface 4 is a slotted type frequency selection surface as an example for illustration. That is, the second electrode block 18 includes a through hole 19 that penetrates the second electrode block 18. Of course, there is a gap between the second electrode blocks 18. The slotted frequency selection surface is a bandpass type frequency selection surface with high transmittance, which can improve the transmittance of electromagnetic waves and also make electromagnetic waves reflect back to the reflective layer 5.

[0113] In some alternative embodiments, reference continues to be made to... Figure 2 and Figure 3 The third substrate 3 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1, and the reflective layer 5 includes an electromagnetic field bandgap structure 20.

[0114] Specifically, the function of the reflective layer 5 is to reflect the electromagnetic waves reflected from the first frequency selection surface 4 back to the first frequency selection surface 4. In this embodiment, the reflective layer 5 adopts an electromagnetic field bandgap structure 20. While reflecting electromagnetic waves, the electromagnetic field bandgap structure 20 can also suppress surface waves. Surface waves are electromagnetic waves that propagate on the surface of the reflective layer 5 and cannot return to the first frequency selection surface 4. Therefore, when the first frequency selection surface 4 reflects onto the electromagnetic field bandgap structure 20, it can suppress the propagation of electromagnetic waves on the surface of the electromagnetic field bandgap structure 20 and reduce the amount of electromagnetic waves returning to the first frequency selection surface 4. This can increase the amount of electromagnetic waves returning to the first frequency selection surface 4, thereby achieving high gain.

[0115] In some alternative embodiments, reference continues to be made to... Figure 2 and Figure 3The first electrode layer 7 includes a feed hole 27, and the third substrate 3 includes a microstrip line 21 on the side away from the second substrate 2. In a direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate 1, the feed source 6, the feed hole 27 and the microstrip line 21 at least partially overlap.

[0116] Figure 2 and Figure 3 In this process, electromagnetic waves are coupled to the feed source 6 via microstrip line 21. Here, a feed hole 27 is provided on the first electrode layer 7 to reduce the interference of the first electrode layer 7 to electromagnetic waves and improve the feeding efficiency. In the direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate 1, the feed source 6, the feed hole 27 and the microstrip line 21 overlap at least partially. Electromagnetic waves are transmitted by coupling the feed via microstrip line 21. The process is simple and the cost is low.

[0117] In some alternative embodiments, reference continues to be made to... Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 7 and reference Figure 18 , Figure 18 yes Figure 2 Another cross-sectional view along the A-A' direction shows that the feed source 6 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 closer to the first substrate 1, or the feed source 6 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1.

[0118] Figure 3 The feed source 6 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 that is close to the first substrate 1. In this way, after the feed source 6 receives the electromagnetic wave signal transmitted by the microstrip line 21, the distance between the feed source 6 and the first frequency selection surface 4 is relatively close, which is more conducive to radiating the electromagnetic wave outward to the first frequency selection surface 4, thereby improving the radiation efficiency.

[0119] Figure 7 and Figure 18 The feed source 6 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1. The distance between the feed source 6 and the microstrip line 21 will be reduced, thereby improving the efficiency of coupling power supply.

[0120] In some alternative embodiments, reference continues to be made to... Figure 2 and Figure 3 The reflective layer 5 includes a plurality of first electrode blocks 10, and the first frequency selection surface 4 includes a plurality of second electrode blocks 18. The first electrode blocks 10 and the second electrode blocks 18 at least partially overlap in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate 1.

[0121] The orthographic projection shape of the first electrode block 10 and / or the second electrode block 18 on the plane of the first substrate 1 is a polygon, a circle, a rhombus or an ellipse.

[0122] Specifically, this embodiment only illustrates the example of the first electrode block 10 and the second electrode block 18 partially overlapping in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate 1. It can be understood that the first electrode block 10 may be located within the second electrode block 18 in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate 1, and this is not specifically limited here. The fact that the first electrode block 10 and the second electrode block 18 at least partially overlap in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate 1 ensures that the electromagnetic waves reflected back from the second electrode block 18 of the first frequency selection surface 4 can be received and reflected by the first electrode block 10 in the reflective layer 5, thereby achieving high gain.

[0123] Figure 2 and Figure 3 The illustration is based on the example of the first electrode block 10 and the second electrode block 18 having a square shape as the orthographic projection on the plane of the first substrate 1. Of course, they can also be pentagonal, hexagonal, or even circular, rhomboid or elliptical. The shape of the orthographic projection of the first electrode block 10 and the second electrode block 18 on the plane of the first substrate 1 can be diversified, as long as it can ensure that electromagnetic waves are reflected multiple times between the first electrode block 10 and the second electrode block 18.

[0124] In some alternative embodiments, reference continues to be made to... Figure 3 and Figure 5 The third substrate 3 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1, and a first sealing space 23 is formed between the third substrate 3 and the second substrate 2 through the first frame adhesive 9 to accommodate liquid crystal molecules 8.

[0125] Alternatively, the third substrate 3 is located on the side of the first substrate 1 away from the second substrate 2, and a first sealed space 23 is formed between the third substrate 3 and the first substrate 1 through the first frame adhesive 9 to accommodate the liquid crystal molecules 8.

[0126] Specifically, Figure 3 In the process, the third substrate 3 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1. Liquid crystal molecules 8 are included between the second substrate 2 and the third substrate 3. The second substrate 2 and the third substrate 3 are sealed together by the first frame adhesive 9 to form a first sealed space 23 to accommodate the liquid crystal molecules 8, thus forming a liquid crystal cell. Of course, the setting of the first frame adhesive 9 can also prevent the problem of liquid crystal leakage.

[0127] Figure 5 In the first substrate 1, the third substrate 3 is located on the side away from the second substrate 2. Liquid crystal molecules 8 are included between the third substrate 3 and the first substrate 1. The third substrate 3 and the first substrate 1 are sealed together by the first frame adhesive 9 to form a first sealed space 23 to accommodate the liquid crystal molecules 8, thus forming a liquid crystal cell. Of course, the first frame adhesive 9 can also prevent the problem of liquid crystal leakage.

[0128] In some alternative embodiments, refer to Figure 19and Figure 20 , Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of another antenna provided by the present invention. Figure 20 yes Figure 19 A cross-sectional view along the E-E' direction shows that the third substrate 3 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1, and a second space 24 is formed between the third substrate 3 and the second substrate 2 through a support member 22. In the direction perpendicular to the plane where the first substrate 1 is located, the feed source 6 overlaps with the second space 24.

[0129] Optionally, the support component 22 can be formed of frame adhesive material or support column 17. The material of the support component 22 is not specifically limited here.

[0130] Figure 20 The illustration is based on the example of the first frequency selection surface 4 being located on the side of the first substrate 1 closer to the second substrate 2 and the reflective layer 5 being located on the side of the second substrate 2 closer to the first substrate 1. Of course, the first frequency selection surface 4 can also be located on the side of the first substrate 1 away from the second substrate 2 and the reflective layer 5 can also be located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1. No specific limitation is made here.

[0131] In this embodiment, the third substrate 3 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1. Liquid crystal molecules 8 are included between the second substrate 2 and the third substrate 3. A first sealing space 23 is formed between the second substrate 2 and the third substrate 3 through the first sealant 9 to accommodate the liquid crystal molecules 8. At the same time, a second space 24 is also formed between the second substrate 2 and the third substrate 3. The second space 24 does not contain liquid crystal molecules 8. In the direction perpendicular to the plane where the first substrate 1 is located, the feed source 6 overlaps with the second space 24. Figure 19 and Figure 20 The illustration only uses the example of the second space 24 being located on one side of the antenna 100. Of course, the second space 24 can also be located in the middle of the antenna 100; no specific limitation is made here. The second space 24, opposite to the feed 6, can be a micrometer-scale air cavity.

[0132] It is understandable that there are no liquid crystal molecules 8 in the second space 24. At this time, a power supply connector 28 can be set on the side of the third substrate 3 away from the second substrate 2, so that the power supply connector 28 is electrically connected to the feed source 6 to achieve direct power supply. This power supply method can improve the power supply efficiency.

[0133] In this embodiment, since the feed source 6 is located on one side of the antenna 100, it is easier to splice multiple antennas 100 together to form an antenna group 200, which can achieve a higher aperture and aperture efficiency.

[0134] In some alternative embodiments, reference continues to be made to... Figure 19 and Figure 20The side of the third substrate 3 away from the second substrate 2 includes a first electrode layer 7, and the power supply connector 28 sequentially passes through the first electrode layer 7, the third substrate 3 and the second substrate 2 and is coupled to the feed source 6.

[0135] The power supply connector 28 is located on the side of the first electrode layer 7 away from the first substrate 1. It is electrically connected to the feed source 6 through the power supply connector 28. The direct electrical connection between the power supply connector 28 and the feed source 6 can improve the power supply efficiency.

[0136] Figure 20 The diagram shows that the feed source 6 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 close to the first substrate 1. The power supply connector 28 can be electrically connected to the feed source 6 as long as it passes through the first electrode layer 7, the third substrate 3 and the second substrate 2 in sequence.

[0137] In some alternative embodiments, refer to Figure 21 , Figure 21 yes Figure 19 Another cross-sectional view along the E-E' direction. Figure 21 The feed source 6 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1. The power connector 28 can be electrically connected to the feed source 6 as long as it passes through the first electrode layer 7 and the third substrate 3. This can be achieved simply by drilling holes in the first electrode layer 7 and the third substrate 3.

[0138] In some alternative embodiments, refer to Figure 22 , Figure 23 and Figure 24 , Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of another antenna provided by the present invention. Figure 23 yes Figure 22 A cross-sectional view along the F-F' direction. Figure 24 yes Figure 22 Another cross-sectional view along the F-F' direction shows that, in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate 1, the first sealing space 23 surrounds the second space 24.

[0139] Optionally, the material of the support member 22 is the same as that of the first frame adhesive 9, and the support member 22 is sandwiched between the second substrate 2 and the third substrate 3 to form a second space 24.

[0140] In this embodiment, the second space 24 is located in the middle of the antenna 100, that is, the first sealed space 23 containing the liquid crystal molecules 8 surrounds the second space 24. In this way, the feed source 6 is also located in the middle of the antenna 100. After receiving the electromagnetic wave signal, the feed source 6 can diffuse and propagate to the edge of the antenna 100, which facilitates propagation.

[0141] Figure 23 The feed source 6 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 close to the first substrate 1. The power supply connector 28 can be electrically connected to the feed source 6 by passing through the first electrode layer 7, the third substrate 3 and the second substrate 2 in sequence. Figure 24The feed source 6 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1. The power connector 28 can be electrically connected to the feed source 6 as long as it passes through the first electrode layer 7 and the third substrate 3. This can be achieved simply by drilling holes in the first electrode layer 7 and the third substrate 3.

[0142] In some alternative embodiments, refer to Figure 25 and Figure 26 , Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of another antenna provided by the present invention. Figure 26 yes Figure 25 A cross-sectional view along the G-G' direction, wherein the third substrate 3 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1, and a first sealed space 23 is formed between the third substrate 3 and the second substrate 2 by the first frame adhesive 9 to accommodate liquid crystal molecules 8.

[0143] The third substrate 3, on the side away from the second substrate 2, includes a first electrode layer 7 and a microstrip line 21, which is on the same layer as the feed source 6 and electrically connected.

[0144] In this embodiment, the microstrip line 21 is electrically connected to the feed source 6, such as... Figure 26 As shown, both the feed source 6 and the microstrip line 21 are located on the side of the second substrate 2 closest to the first substrate 1. Of course, the feed source 6 and the microstrip line 21 can also be located on the side of the second substrate 2 furthest from the first substrate 1; no specific limitation is made here. In this invention, the microstrip line 21 and the feed source 6 are on the same layer and electrically connected. This allows for direct contact and electrical connection between the feed source 6 and the microstrip line 21, eliminating the need for coupling and resulting in higher feeding efficiency. Furthermore, since the feed source 6 and the microstrip line 21 are on the same layer, there is no need to drill holes in the first electrode layer 7, the second substrate 2, and the third substrate 3, simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing costs.

[0145] In some alternative embodiments, reference continues to be made to... Figure 26 and reference Figure 27 , Figure 27 yes Figure 25 Another cross-sectional view along the G-G' direction, where the feed source 6 and the microstrip line 21 are located on the side of the second substrate 2 closer to the first substrate 1, or the feed source 6 and the microstrip line 21 are located on the side of the third substrate 3 closer to the second substrate 2.

[0146] Figure 26 The diagram shows that the feed source 6 and the microstrip line 21 are located on the side of the second substrate 2 close to the first substrate 1. The microstrip line 21 and the feed source 6 are on the same layer and electrically connected. In this way, the feed source 6 and the microstrip line 21 are directly in contact and electrically connected, without the need for coupling power supply, resulting in higher power supply efficiency. Since the feed source 6 and the microstrip line 21 are set on the same layer, there is no need to drill holes in the first electrode layer 7, the second substrate 2, and the third substrate 3, making the manufacturing process simpler and the cost lower.

[0147] Figure 27The diagram shows that the feed source 6 and the microstrip line 21 are located on the side of the third substrate 3 close to the second substrate 2. The microstrip line 21 and the feed source 6 are on the same layer and electrically connected. In this way, the feed source 6 and the microstrip line 21 are directly in contact and electrically connected, without the need for coupling power supply, resulting in higher power supply efficiency. Since the feed source 6 and the microstrip line 21 are set on the same layer, there is no need to drill holes in the first electrode layer 7 and the third substrate 3, making the manufacturing process simpler and the cost lower.

[0148] It should be noted that, Figure 27 In the direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate 1, the electromagnetic field bandgap structure 20 does not overlap with the feed 6. That is, corresponding to the position of the second space 24, the electromagnetic field bandgap structure 20 is not provided in the reflective layer 5. Because the electromagnetic field bandgap structure 20 has a reflective effect, if the electromagnetic field bandgap structure 20 overlaps with the feed 6 in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate 1, the electromagnetic waves emitted by the feed 6 will be directly reflected back and cannot enter the first frequency selection surface 4, thus affecting the normal use of the antenna.

[0149] In some alternative embodiments, reference continues to be made to... Figure 5 , Figure 9 and Figure 17 The third substrate 3 is located on the side of the first substrate 1 away from the second substrate 2;

[0150] The first electrode layer 7 of the third substrate 3 includes a second frequency selection surface 25.

[0151] Figure 5 , Figure 9 and Figure 17In the first substrate 1, a first frequency selective surface 4 is provided on the side away from the second substrate 2. A feed source 6 is provided on the side of the second substrate 2 close to the first substrate 1. A third substrate 3 is located on the side of the first substrate 1 away from the second substrate 2. The side of the third substrate 3 close to the second substrate 2 includes a first electrode layer 7. The first electrode layer 7 includes a semi-reflective and semi-transparent second frequency selective surface 25. A resonant cavity is formed between the first frequency selective surface 4 and the second frequency selective surface 25. Liquid crystal molecules 8 are included between the second substrate 2 and the third substrate 3. After the feed source 6 receives an electromagnetic wave signal, the electromagnetic wave is emitted from the feed source 6 to the second frequency selective surface 25. The second frequency selective surface 25 has a semi-reflective and semi-transparent function. Electromagnetic waves emitted from the second frequency selection surface 25 at the corresponding feed 6 location are partially reflected back to the first frequency selection surface 4. The first frequency selection surface 4 also has a reflective function, reflecting this portion of the electromagnetic waves back to the second frequency selection surface 25. This achieves continuous reflection of electromagnetic waves within the resonant cavity. Each electromagnetic wave transmitted through the second frequency selection surface 25 can be superimposed in phase, thereby improving the gain of the antenna 100 and sharpening the beamwidth. The invention also includes liquid crystal molecules 8 between the third substrate 3 and the first substrate 1. When a voltage difference forms an electric field between the first electrode layer 7 and the first frequency selection surface 4, the liquid crystal molecules 8 deflect. Since the degree of deflection of the liquid crystal molecules 8 varies with the applied voltage, the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal molecules 8 between the second frequency selection surface 25 and the first frequency selection surface 4 can be controllably adjusted. This allows for controllable adjustment of the equivalent dielectric constant of the first frequency selection surface 4, thereby adjusting the reflection phase φ2 of the first frequency selection surface 4 according to the resonance conditions.

[0152]

[0153] Where λ is the operating wavelength; h is the resonant cavity height; θ is the beam direction; φ1 is the reflection phase of the upper reflector; and φ2 is the reflection phase of the lower reflector. It can be seen that the resonant cavity height h remains unchanged, but φ2 is adjustable. As long as the operating wavelength and beam direction are adjusted to meet the resonance adjustment, the operating wavelength λ can be adjusted. The operating frequency is equal to the reciprocal of the operating wavelength, so the operating frequency is adjustable. The beam direction θ can also be adjusted, thereby realizing the adjustment of the operating frequency and beam direction of the antenna 100. In this way, the operating mode of the antenna 100 is no longer fixed, and the application is more flexible.

[0154] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the liquid crystal molecules 8 are disposed between the first substrate 1 and the third substrate 3. Therefore, a voltage capable of driving the liquid crystal molecules 8 to deflect needs to be applied to the second frequency selection surface 25 and the first frequency selection surface 4. After the liquid crystal molecules 8 deflect, the dielectric constant of the first frequency selection surface 4 is changed. In some optional embodiments, a circuit board (not shown in the figure) is bonded to the third substrate 3, and the bias voltage is transmitted through a one-to-one electrical connection between the circuit board and the second frequency selection surface 25 via signal lines.

[0155] In some optional embodiments, both the first frequency selection surface 4 and the second frequency selection surface 25 are slotted frequency selection surfaces. Alternatively, the first frequency selection surface 4 can be a patch type and the second frequency selection surface 25 can be slotted. No specific limitation is made here.

[0156] In some alternative embodiments, reference continues to be made to... Figure 5 and Figure 9 The reflective layer 5 includes a second electrode layer 26, which includes a feed hole 27. The side of the second electrode layer 26 away from the first substrate 1 also includes a feed connector 28. The feed connector 28 passes through the feed hole 27 and is electrically connected to the feed source 6. The feed connector 28 includes a radio frequency terminal 29 and a ground terminal 30. The radio frequency terminal 29 is electrically connected to the feed source 6, and the ground terminal 30 is electrically connected to the second electrode layer 26.

[0157] It is understood that the present invention provides a power supply connector 28, which directly supplies power to the feed source 6, resulting in high power supply efficiency.

[0158] Typically, the power supply connector 28 has an RF terminal 29 and a ground terminal 30. The RF terminal 29 needs to pass through the second electrode layer 26 and the second substrate 2 to be directly connected to the feed source 6 to achieve power supply, while the ground terminal 30 is electrically connected to the second electrode layer 26 to ground the second electrode layer 26.

[0159] In some alternative embodiments, reference continues to be made to... Figure 17 The feed source 6 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 that is close to the first substrate 1;

[0160] The reflective layer 5 includes a second electrode layer 26, which includes a feed hole 27. The side of the second electrode layer 26 away from the first substrate 1 also includes a microstrip line 21. Along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate 1, the feed source 6, the feed hole 27 and the microstrip line 21 at least partially overlap.

[0161] like Figure 17As shown, the microstrip line 21 is located on the side of the second electrode layer 26 away from the first substrate 1. Here, the second electrode layer 26 can be a ground layer. The second electrode layer 26 includes a feed hole 27, and the microstrip line 21 feeds electromagnetic waves to the feed source 6 through coupling feeding. In this embodiment, an insulating layer is included between the second electrode layer 26 and the microstrip line 21 to prevent signal interference.

[0162] In this embodiment, the power is coupled and fed through the microstrip line 21, which eliminates the need to drill holes in the second substrate 2, resulting in a simple process and low cost.

[0163] Based on the same idea, the present invention also incorporates an antenna assembly 200, as shown in the reference. Figure 28 , Figure 28 This is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of an antenna group provided by the present invention. The antenna group 200 in this embodiment includes the antenna 100 of any of the above embodiments. Figure 28 The example shown is an antenna group 200 consisting of four antennas 100 spliced ​​together. Of course, the number of antennas 100 in the antenna group 200 is not specifically limited. Figure 28 The antenna 100 is not pattern-filled. When the antenna group 200 of this application includes the antenna 100 provided in the above embodiments, it has the beneficial effects of the antenna 100 described above.

[0164] Based on the same idea, the present invention also incorporates an antenna assembly 200, as shown in the reference. Figure 29 and Figure 30 , Figure 29 This is a schematic diagram of another planar structure of an antenna array provided by the present invention. Figure 30 yes Figure 29 A cross-sectional view along the H-H' direction. In this embodiment, the antenna group 200 includes at least two adjacent first antennas 101 and second antennas 102, wherein the first antenna 101 is... Figure 19 , Figure 20 , Figure 21 Antenna 100 in the first antenna 101 has no feed 6 in the second antenna 102. The second antenna 102 shares the feed 6 of the first antenna 101. Figure 29 The illustration is based on the example of an antenna group 200 having a first antenna 101 and a second antenna 102. Of course, it may also include multiple first antennas 101 and second antennas 102, but no specific limitation is made here.

[0165] In some alternative embodiments, refer to Figure 30The second antenna 102 forms only a first sealing space 23 between the second substrate 2 and the third substrate 3 without using the support member 22 to form a second space 24. As described above, the feed source 6 is located in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate 1, and the second space 24 is located in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate 1. Since there is no feed source 6 in the second antenna 102 in this embodiment, there is no need to set up a second space 24.

[0166] In this embodiment, since the feed 6 of the first antenna 101 is located at the edge, when it is spliced ​​with the second antenna 102 to form the antenna group 200, the feed 6 is located between the first antenna 101 and the second antenna 102. In this way, there is no need to set the feed 6 on the second antenna 102. The second antenna 102 and the first antenna 101 share a feed 6. In this way, one feed 6 can be reduced in the antenna group 200, which can reduce the cost and reduce the complexity of the power supply.

[0167] The present invention also provides a method for manufacturing an antenna 100, referring to... Figure 31 , Figure 32 , Figure 33 , Figure 34 , Figure 35 and Figure 36 and continue to combine Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 , Figure 31 This is a flowchart of an antenna manufacturing method provided by the present invention. Figure 32 This is a cross-sectional view corresponding to step S101; Figure 33 This is a cross-sectional view corresponding to step S102; Figure 34 This is another cross-sectional view corresponding to step S102; Figure 35 This is a cross-sectional view corresponding to step S103; Figure 36 This is another type of cross-sectional view corresponding to step S103. For example... Figure 31 As shown, the method for manufacturing the antenna of the present invention includes the following steps:

[0168] S101, a first substrate 1 is provided, and a first frequency selection surface 4 is formed on one side of the first substrate 1;

[0169] S102, a second substrate 2 is provided, and a reflective layer 5 is formed on one side of the second substrate 2;

[0170] S103, a third substrate 3 is provided, and a first electrode layer 7 is formed on one side of the third substrate 3;

[0171] S104, a feed source 6 is formed on one side of the second substrate 2 or the third substrate 3;

[0172] S105, forming a liquid crystal cell includes forming a closed space between the third substrate 3 and the second substrate 2 using a sealant to accommodate liquid crystal molecules 8; or forming a closed space between the third substrate 3 and the first substrate 1 using a sealant to accommodate liquid crystal molecules 8.

[0173] Specifically, there is no specific restriction on the order of S101, S102, S103, and S104; their order can be adjusted as needed.

[0174] In step S101, a first frequency selection surface 4 is formed on one side of the first substrate 1. Specifically, the first frequency selection surface 4 can be formed on the first surface 1001 of the first substrate 1, which is close to the second substrate 2 (see reference). Figure 3 The first frequency selection surface 4 can also be formed on the second surface 1002 of the first substrate 1, where the second surface 1002 is the side away from the second substrate 2 (see reference). Figure 8 Multiple first frequency selection surfaces 4 are formed by cutting. Combined with... Figure 32 , Figure 32 This is a cross-sectional view corresponding to step S101. Figure 32 The illustration is based on the example of the first frequency selection surface 4 located on the first surface 1001 of the first substrate 1.

[0175] In step S102, a reflective layer 5 is formed on one side of the second substrate 2. The reflective layer 5 can be a ground layer or an electromagnetic field bandgap structure 20.

[0176] for Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the embodiments, combined with Figure 33 , Figure 33 This is a cross-sectional view corresponding to step S102. Figure 33 The intermediate reflective layer 5 is an electromagnetic field bandgap structure 20. Optionally, while fabricating the electromagnetic field bandgap structure 20, step S104 can also be performed simultaneously, that is, forming a feed source 6 on the second substrate 2. The feed source 6 can be located on the side of the second substrate 2 closer to the first substrate 1, or it can be located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1. Figure 33 The diagram only schematically shows that the electromagnetic field bandgap structure 20 and the feed source 6 are both located on the side of the second substrate 2 close to the first substrate 1, and the electromagnetic field bandgap structure 20 can be formed by cutting.

[0177] for Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the embodiments, combined with Figure 34 , Figure 34 This is another cross-sectional view corresponding to step S102. Figure 34The intermediate reflective layer 5 is a ground layer. Then, step S104 can be performed, where the feed source 6 and the reflective layer 5 are distributed on both sides of the second substrate 2. Of course, if the feed connector 28 is required to be electrically connected to the feed source 6 later, holes need to be drilled on the second substrate 2 and the reflective layer 5 for the RF end 29 of the feed connector 28 to be electrically connected to the feed source 6.

[0178] In step S103, for Figure 2 and Figure 3 In one embodiment, a first electrode layer 7 is formed on one side of the third substrate 3. This first electrode layer 7 can be a ground layer, and an electric field that drives the deflection of the liquid crystal molecules 8 is formed between the ground layer and the electromagnetic field bandgap structure 20. Of course, for Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the embodiment described, subsequent power feeding via microstrip line 21 and feed source 6 requires drilling a hole in the first electrode layer 7 to form a feed hole 27. (Refer to...) Figure 35 , Figure 35 This is a cross-sectional view corresponding to step S103. Figure 35 Microstrip line 21 is shown in the figure.

[0179] for Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the embodiments, Figure 36 This is another cross-sectional view corresponding to step S103. In this embodiment, the reflective layer 5 includes a second frequency selective surface 25, which can be formed by cutting. The second frequency selective surface 25 can be located on the side of the third substrate 3 closer to the first substrate 1, or it can be located on the side of the third substrate 3 away from the first substrate 1. Figure 36 The following is an illustrative example, with the second frequency selection surface 25 located on the side of the third substrate 3 closest to the first substrate 1.

[0180] Step S105 is to form a liquid crystal cell, for Figure 2 and Figure 3 In one embodiment, a sealing adhesive is used to form a closed space between the third substrate 3 and the second substrate 2 to accommodate the liquid crystal molecules 8; for Figure 4 and Figure 5 In this embodiment, a sealing adhesive is used to form a closed space between the third substrate 3 and the first substrate 1 to accommodate the liquid crystal molecules 8. Step S105 can be referred to... Figures 2 to 5 A separate cross-sectional view will not be provided here.

[0181] In some alternative embodiments, reference continues to be made to... Figure 34 and Figure 36 and combination Figure 4 , Figure 5 The step of forming a first electrode layer 7 on one side of the third substrate 3 includes forming a second frequency selection surface 25 on one side of the third substrate 3.

[0182] The steps of providing a second substrate 2, forming a reflective layer 5 on one side of the second substrate 2, and forming a feed source 6 on one side of the second substrate 2 include: forming a feed source 6 on one side of the second substrate 2, forming a second electrode layer 26 on the other side of the second substrate 2, etching a feed hole 27 in the second electrode layer 26, and providing a feed connector 28, which passes through the second substrate 2 and is electrically connected to the feed source 6.

[0183] Specifically, for Figure 4 and Figure 5 In this embodiment, a second frequency selection surface 25 needs to be formed on one side of the third substrate 3. In addition, in this embodiment, power is supplied through a power supply connector 28, which can improve the power supply efficiency. Therefore, a feed source 6 needs to be formed on one side of the second substrate 2, and a second electrode layer 26 needs to be formed on the other side of the second substrate 2. The second electrode layer 26 is etched with a power supply hole 27, and then the power supply connector 28 passes through the second substrate 2 and is electrically connected to the feed source 6.

[0184] In some alternative embodiments, reference continues to be made to... Figures 25 to 27 The third substrate 3 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 away from the first substrate 1. The support member 22 forms a second space 24 between the third substrate 3 and the second substrate 2. In the direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate 1, the feed source 6 overlaps with the second space 24.

[0185] Microstrip line 21 is formed, so that microstrip line 21 is on the same layer as feed 6 and electrically connected.

[0186] In this embodiment, a second space 24 is formed between the third substrate 3 and the second substrate 2 by means of a support member. The second space 24 overlaps with the feed source 6 in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate 1. By forming a microstrip line 21 in the same layer as the feed source 6, the microstrip line 21 is directly electrically connected to the feed source 6 without the need for coupling power supply, thereby improving the power supply efficiency.

[0187] As can be seen from the above embodiments, the antenna and its manufacturing method, as well as the antenna array provided by the present invention, achieve at least the following beneficial effects:

[0188] The present invention provides an antenna comprising a first substrate, a second substrate, and a third substrate, wherein the first substrate and the second substrate are disposed opposite to each other, one side of the first substrate includes a first frequency selective surface; one side of the second substrate includes a reflective layer, and the first frequency selective surface and the reflective layer have a first spacing along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate; one side of the third substrate includes a first electrode layer; the antenna further includes a feed source, which is located on one side of the second substrate or on one side of the third substrate.

[0189] When the third substrate is located on the side of the second substrate away from the first substrate, and liquid crystal molecules are present between the second and third substrates, a resonant cavity is formed between the first frequency selective surface and the reflective layer. After the feed source receives an electromagnetic wave signal, the electromagnetic wave is emitted from the feed source towards the first frequency selective surface. The first frequency selective surface has a semi-reflective and semi-transparent function; part of the electromagnetic wave emitted from the first frequency selective surface at the corresponding feed source position is reflected back to the reflective layer. The reflective layer has a reflective function, reflecting this part of the electromagnetic wave back to the first frequency selective surface. This achieves continuous reflection of the electromagnetic wave within the resonant cavity, with each transmission passing through the upper first frequency selective surface... Electromagnetic waves on the surface can be superimposed in phase, thereby improving antenna gain and sharpening beamwidth. Liquid crystal molecules are included between the second and third substrates. A first electrode layer is provided on the side of the third substrate closest to the second substrate. When a voltage difference forms an electric field between the reflective layer and the first electrode layer, the liquid crystal molecules deflect. Since the degree of deflection varies with the applied voltage, the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal molecules between the reflective layer and the first electrode layer can be controllably adjusted. This allows for controllable adjustment of the equivalent dielectric constant of the reflective layer structure, thereby adjusting the reflection phase φ2 of the reflective layer according to the resonance condition. Where λ is the operating wavelength; h is the resonant cavity height; θ is the beam direction; φ1 is the reflection phase of the upper reflector; and φ2 is the reflection phase of the lower reflector. It can be seen that the resonant cavity height h remains constant, but φ2 is adjustable. As long as the operating wavelength and beam direction are adjusted to meet the resonance adjustment, the operating wavelength λ can be adjusted. The operating frequency is equal to the reciprocal of the operating wavelength, so the operating frequency is adjustable. The beam direction θ can also be adjusted, thereby realizing the adjustment of the antenna's operating frequency and beam direction. In this way, the antenna's operating mode is no longer fixed, and the application is more flexible.

[0190] When the third substrate is located on the side of the first substrate away from the second substrate, and liquid crystal molecules are present between the third substrate and the first substrate, a resonant cavity is formed between the first frequency selective surface and the first electrode layer. After the feed source receives an electromagnetic wave signal, the electromagnetic wave is emitted from the feed source towards the first electrode layer. Part of the electromagnetic wave is emitted from the surface of the first electrode layer at the corresponding feed source position, and the other part is reflected back to the first frequency selective surface. The first frequency selective surface also has a reflective function, reflecting this part of the electromagnetic wave back to the first electrode layer. This achieves continuous reflection of the electromagnetic wave within the resonant cavity. Each time the electromagnetic wave passes through the surface of the upper first electrode layer... Waves can be superimposed in phase, thereby improving antenna gain and sharpening beamwidth. Liquid crystal molecules are included between the third substrate and the first substrate. When a voltage difference forms an electric field between the first electrode layer and the first frequency-selective surface, the liquid crystal molecules deflect. Since the degree of deflection varies with the applied voltage, the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal molecules between the first electrode layer and the first frequency-selective surface can be controllably adjusted. This allows for controllable adjustment of the equivalent dielectric constant of the first frequency-selective surface, thereby adjusting the reflection phase φ2 of the first frequency-selective surface according to the resonance condition. Where λ is the operating wavelength; h is the resonant cavity height; θ is the beam direction; φ1 is the reflection phase of the upper reflector; and φ2 is the reflection phase of the lower reflector. It can be seen that the resonant cavity height h remains constant, but φ2 is adjustable. As long as the operating wavelength and beam direction are adjusted to meet the resonance adjustment, the operating wavelength λ can be adjusted. The operating frequency is equal to the reciprocal of the operating wavelength, so the operating frequency is adjustable. The beam direction θ can also be adjusted, thereby realizing the adjustment of the antenna's operating frequency and beam direction. In this way, the antenna's operating mode is no longer fixed, and the application is more flexible.

[0191] While specific embodiments of the invention 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 the invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can be made to the above embodiments without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. The scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An antenna, characterized in that, It includes a first substrate, a second substrate, and a third substrate, wherein, The first substrate and the second substrate are disposed opposite to each other, and one side of the first substrate includes a first frequency selection surface; One side of the second substrate includes a reflective layer, and along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate, there is a first spacing between the first frequency selective surface and the reflective layer; One side of the third substrate includes a first electrode layer. The third substrate is located on the side of the second substrate away from the first substrate. Liquid crystal molecules are included between the second substrate and the third substrate. Alternatively, the third substrate is located on the side of the first substrate away from the second substrate. Liquid crystal molecules are included between the third substrate and the first substrate. The antenna further includes a feed source, which is located on one side of the second substrate or on one side of the third substrate; The third substrate is located on the side of the second substrate away from the first substrate. A second space is formed between the third substrate and the second substrate by a support member. In a direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate, the feed source overlaps with the second space. The side of the third substrate away from the second substrate includes a first electrode layer. A feed connector passes through at least the first electrode layer and the third substrate and is electrically connected to the feed source. Alternatively, the third substrate is located on the side of the first substrate away from the second substrate. The reflective layer includes a second electrode layer. The second electrode layer includes a feed hole. The side of the second electrode layer away from the first substrate also includes the feed connector. The feed connector passes through the feed hole and is electrically connected to the feed source.

2. The antenna according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first frequency selection surface is located on the side of the first substrate closer to the second substrate, or the first frequency selection surface is located on the side of the first substrate farther from the second substrate; The reflective layer is located on the side of the second substrate closer to the first substrate, or the reflective layer is located on the side of the second substrate farther from the first substrate.

3. The antenna according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first circuit board is bonded to one side of the second substrate, and the reflective layer is electrically connected to the first circuit board via a first signal line.

4. The antenna according to claim 3, characterized in that, The reflective layer includes a first electrode block, with a gap between adjacent first electrode blocks, and the first electrode blocks are electrically connected to the first circuit board in a one-to-one correspondence through the first signal line.

5. The antenna according to claim 3, characterized in that, A second circuit board is bonded to one side of the third substrate, and the first electrode layer and the second circuit board are electrically connected one-to-one via second signal lines.

6. The antenna according to claim 5, characterized in that, The antenna includes a first edge and a second edge opposite each other along a first direction, the first direction being parallel to the plane of the first substrate; The first circuit board is located on the side of the second substrate near the first edge, and the second circuit board is located on the side of the third substrate near the second edge; Alternatively, the first circuit board is located on the side of the second substrate near the second edge, and the second circuit board is located on the side of the third substrate near the first edge; Alternatively, the first circuit board is located on the side of the second substrate near the first edge, while the second circuit board is located on the side of the third substrate near the first edge; Alternatively, the first circuit board is located on the side of the second substrate near the second edge, while the second circuit board is located on the side of the third substrate near the second edge.

7. The antenna according to claim 1, characterized in that, A support pillar is provided between the first substrate and the second substrate, and an accommodating space is formed between the first substrate, the second substrate and the support pillar.

8. The antenna according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first frequency selection surface includes a plurality of second electrode blocks, with gaps between adjacent second electrode blocks, and each second electrode block includes a through hole penetrating through the second electrode block.

9. The antenna according to claim 1, characterized in that, The third substrate is located on the side of the second substrate away from the first substrate, and the reflective layer includes an electromagnetic bandgap structure.

10. The antenna according to claim 9, characterized in that, The feed source is located on the side of the second substrate closer to the first substrate, or the feed source is located on the side of the second substrate farther from the first substrate.

11. The antenna according to claim 9, characterized in that, The reflective layer includes a plurality of first electrode blocks, and the first frequency selective surface includes a plurality of second electrode blocks. The first electrode blocks and the second electrode blocks at least partially overlap in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate. The orthographic projection shape of the first electrode block and / or the second electrode block onto the plane where the first substrate is located is a polygon, a circle, a rhombus, or an ellipse.

12. The antenna according to claim 1, characterized in that, The third substrate is located on the side of the second substrate away from the first substrate, and a first sealed space is formed between the third substrate and the second substrate through a first frame adhesive to accommodate liquid crystal molecules; Alternatively, the third substrate is located on the side of the first substrate away from the second substrate, and a first sealed space is formed between the third substrate and the first substrate through a first frame adhesive to accommodate liquid crystal molecules.

13. The antenna according to claim 12, characterized in that, In a direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate, the first sealing space surrounds the second space.

14. The antenna according to claim 1, characterized in that, The third substrate is located on the side of the first substrate away from the second substrate; The first electrode layer of the third substrate includes a second frequency-selective surface.

15. The antenna according to claim 14, characterized in that, The power connector includes an RF end and a ground end. The RF end is electrically connected to the feed source, and the ground end is electrically connected to the second electrode layer.

16. An antenna array, characterized in that, Includes the antenna as described in any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. An antenna array, characterized in that, The device includes at least an adjacent first antenna and a second antenna, wherein the first antenna is the antenna as described in claim 1, the third substrate is located on the side of the second substrate away from the first substrate, a second space is formed between the third substrate and the second substrate by a support member, the feed source overlaps with the second space in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate, the side of the third substrate away from the second substrate includes a first electrode layer, and a feed connector is electrically connected to the feed source by passing through at least the first electrode layer and the third substrate; a first sealed space is formed between the third substrate and the second substrate by a first frame adhesive to accommodate liquid crystal molecules. The second antenna has no feed source, and the second antenna shares the feed source of the first antenna.

18. A method for manufacturing an antenna, characterized in that, include: A first substrate is provided, and a first frequency selection surface is formed on one side of the first substrate; A second substrate is provided, and a reflective layer is formed on one side of the second substrate; A third substrate is provided, and a first electrode layer is formed on one side of the third substrate; A feed source is formed on one side of the second substrate or the third substrate; Forming a liquid crystal cell includes using a sealant to create a closed space between the third substrate and the second substrate to accommodate liquid crystal molecules; or, using a sealant to create a closed space between the third substrate and the first substrate to accommodate liquid crystal molecules. The steps of providing a second substrate, forming the reflective layer on one side of the second substrate, and forming a feed source on one side of the second substrate include: forming a feed source on one side of the second substrate, forming a second electrode layer on the other side of the second substrate, etching a feed hole in the second electrode layer, providing a feed connector, and the feed connector penetrating the second substrate and electrically connecting to the feed source; or, the third substrate is located on the side of the second substrate away from the first substrate, and a second space is formed between the third substrate and the second substrate by a support member, the feed source overlaps with the second space in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the first substrate, the side of the third substrate away from the second substrate includes a first electrode layer, and the feed connector penetrates at least the first electrode layer and the third substrate and is electrically connected to the feed source.

19. The method for manufacturing an antenna according to claim 18, characterized in that, The step of forming the first electrode layer on one side of the third substrate includes forming a second frequency selection surface on one side of the third substrate.

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