An antenna device and a communication equipment

Abstract

An antenna device and communication equipment, relating to the field of communication technology, are disclosed for reducing power waste. Two input ports of a first bridge and two input ports of a second bridge in the antenna device are respectively connected to four radio frequency (RF) ports. A first output port of the first bridge is connected to an array of N1 radiating elements disposed on a first mounting surface. A third output port of the second bridge in the antenna device is connected to an array of N2 radiating elements disposed on the first mounting surface. Two input ports of the third bridge in the antenna device are respectively connected to the second output port of the first bridge and the fourth output port of the second bridge, and a fifth output port of the third bridge is connected to an array of N3 radiating elements disposed on a second mounting surface. The power of the signals emitted from the four RF ports can be concentrated on the radiating element arrays on the first or second mounting surface, thereby reducing power waste when some radiating elements on the mounting surface are in operation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, specifically to an antenna device and a communication equipment. Background Technology

[0002] In wireless communication networks, access network equipment (such as base stations) plays a crucial role as key network nodes. With the development of mobile communication, the forms of access network equipment have also diversified. Access network equipment includes antennas, which transmit and receive signals. Antennas consist of a radiating element array and an antenna port. The radiating element array can be connected to the antenna port, and the antenna port can be connected to the radio frequency port.

[0003] Antenna ports and RF ports can be connected one-to-one. To achieve power sharing among the radiating element arrays connected to multiple antenna ports, antenna ports can also be connected to RF ports in a many-to-many manner. For example, each RF port can be connected to each antenna port. When some of these antenna ports are active, the power of the signal emitted by these RF ports will still be distributed among all the antenna ports (including active and inactive ones), resulting in power waste. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides an antenna device and a communication equipment for reducing power waste.

[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides an antenna device. The antenna device includes a first mounting surface, a second mounting surface, a plurality of radiating element arrays, and a first circuit unit, wherein the first circuit unit includes a first bridge, a second bridge, and a third bridge.

[0006] The first input port of the first bridge is connected to the first radio frequency port, and the second input port of the first bridge is connected to the second radio frequency port. The first output port of the first bridge is connected to the antenna port of N1 radiating element arrays located on the first mounting surface, where N1 is a positive integer.

[0007] The third input port of the second bridge is connected to the third RF port, and the fourth input port of the second bridge is connected to the fourth RF port. The third output port of the second bridge is connected to the antenna port of N2 radiating element arrays located on the first mounting surface, where N2 is a positive integer, and each of the N2 radiating element arrays is different from each of the N1 radiating element arrays.

[0008] The second output port of the first bridge is connected to the fifth input port of the third bridge. The fourth output port of the second bridge is connected to the sixth input port of the third bridge. The fifth output port of the third bridge is connected to the antenna port of the N3 radiating element array located on the second mounting surface, where N3 is a positive integer. The angle between the first mounting surface and the second mounting surface on the side facing away from the N1 radiating element array is the first angle, which is less than 180°.

[0009] Since the first RF port, the second RF port, the third RF port and the fourth RF port can be connected to N1 radiating element arrays, N2 radiating element arrays and N3 radiating element arrays through the first bridge unit, power sharing can be achieved among multiple radiating element arrays, and the power of each array can be adjusted according to needs.

[0010] In this application, the first output port of the first bridge is connected to the antenna port of N1 radiating element arrays located on the first mounting surface. Therefore, the power of the signals input to the first input port and the second input port can be concentrated into the signal output by one output port of the first bridge.

[0011] Furthermore, since the third output port of the second bridge is connected to the antenna port of the N2 radiating element arrays located on the first mounting surface in the multiple radiating element arrays, the power of the signals input to the third and fourth input ports of the second bridge can be concentrated into the signal output by one output port of the second bridge.

[0012] Furthermore, since the second output port of the first bridge is connected to the fifth input port of the third bridge, and the fourth output port of the second bridge is connected to the sixth input port of the third bridge, the power of the signals input to the fifth and sixth input ports of the third bridge can be concentrated into the signal output from one of the third bridge's output ports, for example, into the N3 radiating element array connected to the fifth output port.

[0013] Therefore, when the radiating element arrays (N1 and N2 radiating element arrays) deployed on the first mounting surface of the antenna device are in operation, while the radiating element arrays (N3 radiating elements) deployed on the second mounting surface are not in operation, the power of the signals emitted from the first and second radio frequency ports can be concentrated on the N1 radiating element arrays deployed on the first mounting surface, and the power of the signals emitted from the third and fourth radio frequency ports can be concentrated on the N2 radiating element arrays deployed on the first mounting surface, thereby improving power utilization and reducing power waste.

[0014] Similarly, when the radiating element array deployed on the second mounting surface of the antenna device is in operation, while the radiating element array deployed on the first mounting surface is not in operation, the power of the signals emitted by the first RF port, the second RF port, the third RF port and the fourth RF port can be concentrated on the N3 radiating element arrays deployed on the second mounting surface, thereby improving power utilization and reducing power waste.

[0015] Furthermore, since each of the N2 radiating element arrays is different from each of the N1 radiating element arrays, when the radiating element arrays deployed on the second mounting surface of the antenna device are in operation while those deployed on the first mounting surface are not, the logic ports formed by the first and second RF ports and the logic ports formed by the third and fourth RF ports can operate without interference in analog circuitry. In other words, the power and phase of the signals emitted by the first and second RF ports are set based on the requirements of the N1 radiating element arrays, and the power and phase of the signals emitted by the third and fourth RF ports are set based on the requirements of the N2 radiating element arrays. Therefore, the power amplifiers connected to each RF port can transmit signals at their supported power, thus avoiding the problem of power amplifiers connected to RF ports being unable to transmit signals at their supported power, thereby reducing power waste caused by power over-transmission.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the third bridge may further include a sixth output port, which can be connected to a load. In yet another possible implementation, the antenna device further includes a third mounting surface. The sixth output port of the third bridge is connected to an antenna port connected to an array of N4 radiating elements disposed on the third mounting surface, where N4 is a positive integer.

[0017] When the radiating element array (N4 radiating element arrays) deployed on the third mounting surface of the antenna device is in working condition, while the radiating element arrays deployed on the first and second mounting surfaces are not in working condition, the power of the signals emitted by the first, second, third, and fourth radio frequency ports can be concentrated on the N4 radiating element arrays deployed on the third mounting surface, thereby improving power utilization and reducing power waste.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the third mounting surface can be a different mounting surface from the first and second mounting surfaces. For example, the third and second mounting surfaces are located on opposite sides of the first mounting surface. In this way, the radiated signal of the radiating element array provided on each mounting surface covers a cell (a cell is, for example, a 120° sector area), thus the antenna device can cover a 360° area, which helps to reduce the cost of the communication system.

[0019] In this application, the third bridge can be directly connected to the N3 radiating element array, or it can be connected to the N3 radiating element array through other devices. For example, in one possible embodiment, the antenna device further includes a fourth bridge, through which the third bridge can be connected to the N3 radiating element array. For instance, the fifth output port of the third bridge is connected to the seventh input port of the fourth bridge, and the seventh output port of the fourth bridge is connected to the N3 radiating element array. It can be seen that the third bridge can be connected to the N3 radiating element array through the fourth bridge, thus allowing the N3 radiating element array to be connected to more radio frequency ports via the fourth bridge.

[0020] For example, the antenna device also includes a second circuit unit, and the eighth input port of the fourth bridge is connected to the ninth output port of the second circuit unit. Thus, the N3 radiating element arrays can be connected to the radio frequency ports of the two circuit units via the fourth bridge, so that when the N3 radiating element arrays are in operation, the power of the signals emitted by the radio frequency ports of the two circuit units can be concentrated on the signals emitted by the N3 radiating element arrays.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the eighth output port of the fourth bridge is connected to the antenna port of the N4 radiating element array located on the third mounting surface, where N4 is a positive integer. Thus, the N4 radiating element array can be connected to the radio frequency ports of the two circuit units via the fourth bridge, thereby concentrating the power of the signals emitted by the radio frequency ports of the two circuit units onto the signals emitted by the N4 radiating element array when the N4 radiating element array is in operation.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the antenna device further includes a first power divider, and a first bridge is connected to the N1 radiating element arrays via the first power divider. For example, when N1 is greater than 1, the first output port of the first bridge is connected to the input port of the first power divider, and the output port of the first power divider is connected to the N1 radiating element arrays. It can be seen that, through the function of the first power divider, this application can distribute the power of the signal emitted from the first output port to the N1 radiating element arrays connected to the first power divider. The first power divider allows for the support of a larger number of radiating element arrays without increasing the number of RF ports. Since the number of RF ports is relatively small, this solution can reduce costs; and since the number of radiating element arrays can be increased, the performance of the antenna device can be improved.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the antenna device further includes a first phase shifter, and the first bridge is connected to the radiating element array of the N1 radiating element array via the first phase shifter. The phase shifter can change the phase of the signal output by the first bridge, thereby improving the adjustability of the antenna device in practical applications.

[0024] In one possible implementation, one output port of the first power divider is connected to one of the N1 radiating element arrays via a first phase shifter. Since the phase of the signal emitted by the radiating element array can be adjusted by the first phase shifter, the beamforming capability (also known as beam scanning capability) of the N1 radiating element arrays can be improved.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the antenna device further includes a first microstrip line, through which the first bridge is connected to an array of N1 radiating elements. The first microstrip line can be used to adjust the phase of the received signal, thereby improving the adjustability of the antenna device in practical applications.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the first output port of the first bridge is connected to an array of N1 radiating elements via a first microstrip line. Thus, the phase of the signal output from the first output port of the first bridge can be adjusted via the first microstrip line so that the phase of the signal received by the radiating element array connected to the first microstrip line is aligned with the phase of the signal received by the radiating element array connected to the second output port of the first bridge. This allows the phase-aligned signal to be output through the radiating element array, thereby improving signal strength.

[0027] In one possible implementation, the first microstrip line is used to delay the phase of the signal output from the first output port of the first bridge by a first preset value. For example, the first preset value may be determined based on the phase difference between the phase of the signal output from the first output port of the first bridge and the phase of the signal received by the N3 radiating element array.

[0028] For example, when the second output port of the first bridge is connected to the radiating element array via the third bridge, since the phase of the signal output by the third bridge is deflected by 90 degrees compared to the phase of the signal output by the first bridge, the first microstrip line can be used to delay the phase of the signal output from the first output port of the first bridge by 90 degrees (i.e., the first preset value is 90 degrees). As another example, if the phase of the signal received by the N3 radiating element arrays connected to the third bridge is deflected by 180 degrees compared to the phase of the signal output by the first bridge, then the first preset value can be 180 degrees.

[0029] Thus, the phase of the signal adjusted by the first microstrip line can be aligned with the phase of the signal output from the output port of the third bridge. Furthermore, the phase of the signal received by the radiating unit array connected to the first microstrip line can be aligned with the phase of the signal received by the radiating unit array connected to the second output port of the first bridge. Consequently, the phase-aligned signal can be output through the radiating unit array, thereby improving the signal strength.

[0030] In this application, the parameters of the first bridge can be flexibly set according to actual needs. In order to better be compatible with existing technologies, the first bridge can be a 90-degree bridge or a 180-degree bridge.

[0031] In one possible implementation, the first bridge includes two input ports and two output ports. The power ratio of the first bridge can be flexibly set, for example, it can be set to 2:1 or 1:1. A power ratio of 1:1 for the first bridge can be understood as: the power ratio of the signal input to one input port (such as the first input port or the second input port) to the signals output from the first output port and the second output port is 1:1.

[0032] Thus, when the two signals received at the two input ports of the first bridge are 90 degrees out of phase and have equal amplitude (power ratio of 1:1), the power of the signals received at these two input ports can be concentrated on the signal output from one output port of the first bridge. Since the multiple power amplifiers connected to the two input ports of the first bridge may each support equal output power, when the power ratio of the first bridge is 1:1, these multiple power amplifiers can all transmit signals at their supported output power. This satisfies the 1:1 power ratio of the two input signals of the first bridge, thereby reducing power waste. On the other hand, having multiple power amplifiers transmit signals at their supported output power can alleviate the situation of insufficient power output.

[0033] In one possible implementation, the antenna device further includes a second power divider, through which the second bridge is connected to an array of N2 radiating elements. For example, when N2 is greater than 1, the third output port of the second bridge is connected to the input port of the second power divider, and the output port of the second power divider is connected to the array of N2 radiating elements.

[0034] As can be seen, this application utilizes the second power divider to distribute the power of the signal emitted from the third output port to the N2 radiating element arrays connected to the second power divider. The second power divider allows for the support of a larger number of radiating element arrays without increasing the number of RF ports. Since the number of RF ports is relatively small, this scheme can reduce costs; furthermore, by increasing the number of radiating element arrays, the performance of the antenna device can be improved.

[0035] In one possible implementation, the antenna device further includes a second phase shifter, and the second bridge is connected to the radiating element array of the N2 radiating element array via the second phase shifter. The phase of the signal output from the second bridge can be changed via the second phase shifter, thus improving the adjustability of the antenna device in practical applications.

[0036] In one possible implementation, one output port of the second power divider is connected to one of the N2 radiating element arrays via a second phase shifter. Since the phase of the signal emitted by the radiating element array can be adjusted by the second phase shifter, the beamforming capability (also known as beam scanning capability) of the N2 radiating element arrays can be improved.

[0037] In one possible implementation, the antenna device further includes a second microstrip line, through which the second bridge is connected to an array of N² radiating elements. The second microstrip line can be used to adjust the phase of the received signal, thereby improving the adjustability of the antenna device in practical applications.

[0038] In one possible implementation, the third output port of the second bridge is connected to an array of N2 radiating units via a second microstrip line.

[0039] Thus, the phase of the signal output from the third output port of the second bridge can be adjusted by the second microstrip line so that the phase of the signal received by the radiating unit array connected to the second microstrip line is aligned with the phase of the signal received by the radiating unit array connected to the fourth output port of the second bridge. Then, the phase-aligned signal can be output by the radiating unit array, thereby improving the signal strength.

[0040] In one possible implementation, the second microstrip line is used to delay the phase of the signal output from the third output port of the second bridge by a second preset angle. For example, the second preset angle may be determined based on the phase difference between the phase of the signal output from the third output port of the second bridge and the phase of the signal received by the N3 radiating element array.

[0041] For example, when the fourth output port of the second bridge is connected to the radiating element array via the third bridge, since the phase of the signal output by the third bridge is deflected by 90 degrees compared to the phase of the signal output by the second bridge, the second microstrip line can be used to delay the phase of the signal output from the third output port of the second bridge by 90 degrees (i.e., the second preset angle is 90 degrees). As another example, if the phase of the signal received by the N3 radiating element arrays connected to the third bridge is deflected by 180 degrees compared to the phase of the signal output by the second bridge, then the second preset angle can be 180 degrees.

[0042] In this way, the phase of the signal adjusted by the second microstrip line can be aligned with the phase of the signal output by the output port of the third bridge. The phase of the signal received by the radiating unit array connected to the second microstrip line can be aligned with the phase of the signal received by the radiating unit array connected to the fourth output port of the second bridge. Then, the phase-aligned signal can be output through the radiating unit array, thereby improving the signal strength.

[0043] In this application, the parameters of the first bridge can be flexibly set according to actual needs. In order to better be compatible with existing technologies, the second bridge is a 90-degree bridge or a 180-degree bridge.

[0044] In one possible implementation, the second bridge includes two input ports and two output ports. The power ratio of the second bridge can be flexibly set, for example, it can be set to 2:1 or 1:1. A power ratio of 1:1 for the second bridge can be understood as: the power ratio of the signal input to one input port (such as the third or fourth input port) to the signals output from the third and fourth output ports is 1:1.

[0045] Thus, when the two signals received at the two input ports of the second bridge are 90 degrees out of phase and have equal amplitude (power ratio of 1:1), the power of the signals received at these two input ports can be concentrated on the signal output from one output port of the first bridge (for example, in one possible example, the power of the signals received at these two input ports can be entirely concentrated on the signal output from one output port of the first bridge). Since the multiple power amplifiers connected to the two input ports of the second bridge may each support equal output power, when the power ratio of the second bridge is 1:1, these multiple power amplifiers can all transmit signals at their supported output power, thus satisfying the 1:1 power ratio of the two input signals of the second bridge and reducing power waste. On the other hand, having multiple power amplifiers transmit signals at their supported output power can alleviate the situation of insufficient power delivery.

[0046] In one possible implementation, the parameters of the third bridge can be flexibly set according to actual needs. To better compatibility with existing technologies, the third bridge can be a 90-degree bridge or a 180-degree bridge. In one possible implementation, the third bridge includes two input ports and two output ports. The power ratio of the third bridge is 1:1. Related descriptions and beneficial effects can be found in the aforementioned descriptions of the first or second bridge, and will not be repeated here.

[0047] In one possible implementation, the plurality of radiating elements further includes an array of N5 radiating elements disposed on the first mounting surface, where N5 is a positive integer, and the N5 radiating element array is connected to the fifth radio frequency port. In this embodiment, N5 can be 1 or an integer greater than 1. When there are many radiating element arrays on the first mounting surface, they can be configured in a one-to-one and / or one-to-many correspondence between radio frequency ports and antenna ports, thus saving the number of radio frequency links.

[0048] In one possible implementation, when N5 is an integer greater than 1, the fifth RF port is connected to the N5 radiating element array via the third power divider.

[0049] As can be seen, this application utilizes the third power divider to distribute the power of the signal emitted from the fifth RF port to at least two radiating element arrays. The third power divider allows for the support of a larger number of radiating element arrays without increasing the number of RF ports. Since the number of RF ports is relatively small, this scheme can reduce costs; furthermore, by increasing the number of radiating element arrays, it can improve the performance of the antenna device.

[0050] In one possible implementation, the third power divider is connected to the N5 radiating element array via a third phase shifter. Since the phase of the signal emitted by the radiating element array can be adjusted by the third phase shifter, the beamforming capability (also known as beam scanning capability) of the N5 radiating element array can be improved.

[0051] Secondly, this application provides a communication device including the antenna device in the first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect.

[0052] Thirdly, this application provides a communication system including the antenna device described in the first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0053] Figure 1A This is a schematic diagram of a communication system architecture applicable to the embodiments of this application;

[0054] Figure 1B This is a schematic diagram of the antenna device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 2A This is a possible structural diagram of an access network device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 2B This is a schematic diagram of a possible structure of some components in the antenna device 1 in the embodiments of this application;

[0057] Figure 2CThis is a schematic diagram of another possible structure of the access network device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0058] Figure 2D This is a schematic diagram of a possible structure of some components in the antenna device 1 in the embodiments of this application;

[0059] Figure 2E This is a schematic diagram of another possible structure of the access network device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0060] Figure 3A This is a possible structural schematic diagram of the antenna device 1 provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0061] Figure 3B This is a schematic diagram of another possible structure of the antenna device 1 provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0062] Figure 3C This is a schematic diagram of another possible structure of the antenna device 1 provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0063] Figure 4A This is a schematic diagram of another possible structure of the antenna device 1 provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0064] Figure 4B This is a schematic diagram of another possible structure of the antenna device 1 provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0065] Figure 5A This is a schematic diagram of another possible structure of the antenna device 1 provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0066] Figure 5B This is a schematic diagram of another possible structure of the antenna device 1 provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0067] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a network structure of the communication system in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0068] The following explains the terms that are used or may be used in this application:

[0069] 1. At least one means one or more, including one, two, three or more;

[0070] 2. Multiple refers to two or more, including two, three, four or more;

[0071] 3. Connection refers to coupling, including direct connection or indirect connection via other devices to achieve electrical connection.

[0072] The communication systems applicable to the embodiments of this application can be in the 5th generation (5G) network architecture, or they can be used in other network architectures, such as the Global System of Mobile communication (GSM) system, Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) system, Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) system, General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), Long Term Evolution (LTE) system, Advanced Long Term Evolution (LTE-A) system, Universal Mobile Telecommunication System (UMTS), Evolved Long Term Evolution (eLTE) system, and future 6G and other mobile communication systems.

[0073] Figure 1A An exemplary schematic diagram of a communication system architecture applicable to an embodiment of this application is shown.

[0074] like Figure 1A As shown, the communication system includes access network equipment and terminal equipment. This application provides an antenna device, which is an antenna device for the access network equipment. The access network equipment can transmit signals with the terminal equipment through this antenna device. The antenna device provided in this application embodiment can also be called an antenna feed system. Figure 1A The example shown is an access network device used as a base station.

[0075] The following combination Figure 1A The devices involved in the embodiments of this application will be described.

[0076] (1) Access network equipment.

[0077] Access network equipment can be radio access network (R)AN) equipment, used to provide network access functionality for authorized terminal equipment in a specific area, and can use transmission tunnels of different quality according to the level of the terminal equipment, service requirements, etc.

[0078] Access network equipment is a device that provides wireless communication functions for terminal devices. The access network equipment in this application includes, but is not limited to: next-generation base stations (gnodeB, gNB) in 5G, evolved node B (eNB), radio network controller (RNC), node B (NB), basestation controller (BSC), base transceiver station (BTS), home base station (e.g., home evolved nodeB, or home node B, HNB), baseband unit (BBU), transmitting and receiving point (TRP), transmitting point (TP), mobile switching center, etc.

[0079] (2) Terminal equipment.

[0080] Terminal equipment can be a device used to implement wireless communication functions. Figure 1AThe example shown uses a mobile phone as the terminal device. In specific implementations, the terminal device can be user equipment (UE), access terminal, terminal unit, terminal station, mobile station, mobile station, remote station, remote terminal, mobile device, wireless communication equipment, terminal agent, or terminal device in a 5G network or a future evolved public land mobile network (PLMN). Access terminals can be cellular phones, cordless phones, Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) phones, Wireless Local Loop (WLL) stations, personal digital assistants (PDAs), handheld devices with wireless communication capabilities, computing devices or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem, in-vehicle devices or wearable devices, virtual reality (VR) terminal devices, augmented reality (AR) terminal devices, wireless terminals in industrial control, wireless terminals in self-driving, wireless terminals in remote medical care, wireless terminals in smart grids, wireless terminals in transportation safety, wireless terminals in smart cities, wireless terminals in smart homes, etc. Terminals can be mobile or fixed.

[0081] To further illustrate the advantages of the solutions provided in the embodiments of this application, the following is a detailed explanation. Figure 1B An exemplary schematic diagram of the architecture of an access network device provided in an embodiment of this application is shown.

[0082] like Figure 1B As shown, the architecture of this access network device may include an antenna device. The architecture of this access network device may also include other components. Figure 1B The architecture of this access network device also includes a radio frequency processing unit and a baseband processing unit, which are illustrated in the example. Figure 1B The example shown is the connection between the antenna device and the radio frequency processing unit, and the connection between the radio frequency processing unit and the baseband processing unit. In actual applications, there may be other connection relationships between the antenna device and other components in the architecture of the access network equipment.

[0083] The radio frequency processing unit includes radio frequency ports, such as Figure 1BThe RF ports c1, c2, c3, and c4 are illustrated in the example. The antenna device includes an array of radiating elements, such as... Figure 1B The radiating element arrays 41, 42, 43, and 44 are exemplarily shown in the diagram. The antenna device also includes a bridge, such as... Figure 1B Bridges 51, 52, 53, and 54 are shown as examples.

[0084] like Figure 1B As shown, input ports t1 and t2 of bridge 52 are connected to RF ports c1 and c2, respectively. Output ports b1 and b2 of bridge 52 are connected to input ports t5 and t7 of bridge 51, respectively. Input ports t3 and t4 of bridge 54 are connected to RF ports c3 and c4, respectively. Output ports b3 and b4 of bridge 54 are connected to input ports t6 and t8 of bridge 51, respectively. Output ports b5 and b6 of bridge 51 are connected to radiating element arrays 44 and 42, respectively. Output ports b7 and b8 of bridge 53 are connected to radiating element arrays 41 and 43, respectively.

[0085] To meet the different needs of various terminal devices, the amplitude or phase of the signals emitted by the two radiating unit arrays is highly likely to be different. Taking radiating unit arrays 41 and 42 as examples, when the baseband generates signals with amplitudes or phases that satisfy those emitted by radiating unit arrays 41 and 42, it is equivalent to multiple signals of the same frequency being superimposed simultaneously in the baseband. This results in randomness in the amplitude and phase of the synthesized baseband signal. Consequently, when the signal passes through each power amplifier (the power amplifier connected to RF port c1, the power amplifier connected to RF port c2, the power amplifier connected to RF port c3, and the power amplifier connected to RF port c4), the output power of each power amplifier is different. Therefore, at least one power amplifier does not transmit the signal at its supported output power, that is, at least one power amplifier has the problem of over-power transmission (or under-power transmission).

[0086] On the other hand, when some or more of the radiating element arrays connected to RF ports c1, c2, c3, and c4 are in operation, a portion of the power of the signals emitted from these four RF ports can be allocated to the radiating element arrays in operation, resulting in power waste. The following example illustrates this with radiating element arrays 41 and 42 in operation, while radiating element arrays 123 and 122 are not in operation.

[0087] For example, each power amplifier in the RF processing unit 2 (the power amplifier connected to RF port c1, RF port c2, RF port c3, and RF port c4) transmits signals at its own supported output power. For example, in this embodiment, each power amplifier in the RF processing unit 2 can transmit signals at its own supported rated output power or maximum output power. In this embodiment, the maximum output power can also be called instantaneous power or peak power, and can be greater than the rated power. In this embodiment, the rated output power of each power amplifier connected to the RF processing unit 2 can be the same, or the maximum output power can be the same. In this scenario, if the two signals received by RF ports c1 and c2 are 90 degrees out of phase (taking bridge 52 as an example of a 90-degree bridge), then bridge 52 can transmit the signals received by input ports t1 and t2 through a single port (output port b1 or output port b2). For example, if transmitted through output port b2, since output port b1 does not transmit a signal, input port t5 of bridge 51 does not receive a signal, and input port t7 of bridge 53 receives a signal from output port b2. Similarly, the output of bridge 54 may also be a port that can transmit a signal; for example, output port b3 of bridge 51 can transmit a signal, while output port b4 cannot transmit a signal.

[0088] Because bridge 51 receives no signal at input port t5 but receives a signal from output port b3 at input port t6, bridge 51 will allocate all the power of the received signal to output ports b5 and b6 respectively, and will not be able to allocate all the power of the received signal to the signal emitted by the radiating element array connected to output port b6. Similarly, bridge 53 will allocate all the power of the received signal to output ports b7 and b8 respectively, and will not be able to allocate all the power of the received signal to the signal emitted by the radiating element array connected to output port b7.

[0089] When multiple radiating element arrays connected to RF ports c1, c2, c3, and c4 are in active operation (e.g., radiating element arrays 41 and 42 are active, while radiating element arrays 123 and 122 are not active), then... Figure 1B In the system architecture shown, a portion of the power of the signals emitted from RF ports c1, c2, c3, and c4 can be allocated to radiating element arrays 41 and 42, which results in power waste.

[0090] Based on the above, Figure 2AAn exemplary schematic diagram of a possible structure of an access network device provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 2A The access network device shown can be Figure 1A Access network equipment in the network. For example... Figure 2A As shown, the access network equipment may include an antenna device 1, a radio frequency processing unit 2, and a baseband processing unit 3.

[0091] like Figure 2A As shown, the antenna device 1 may include multiple radiating element arrays 11. Figure 2A Three radiating element arrays 11 are illustrated in the example, namely radiating element array 111, radiating element array 112 and radiating element array 113.

[0092] It is worth noting that, in the embodiments of this application, a radiating element array 11 may include one or more radiating elements. The division method of the radiating element array 11 is not limited. For example, multiple radiating element matrices are arranged on a mounting surface, with one column of radiating elements constituting one radiating element array 11. Another example is that two adjacent columns of radiating elements constitute one radiating element array 11. Yet another example is that the radiating elements corresponding to several rows and several columns of small matrices constitute one radiating element array 11. The number of radiating elements in two radiating element arrays may be the same or different; the sizes of the two radiating element arrays may be the same or different, and the embodiments of this application do not impose any limitations on this. The radiating elements in the radiating element array 11 may also be referred to as antenna elements, vibrators, etc.

[0093] like Figure 2A As shown, the antenna device 1 in this embodiment may include multiple mounting surfaces 12. The mounting surfaces 12 in this embodiment are used to mount multiple radiating element arrays 11. Figure 2A Two mounting surfaces 12 are illustrated, namely mounting surface 121 and mounting surface 122. Radiation element arrays 111 and 112 are disposed on mounting surface 121, and radiation element array 113 is disposed on mounting surface 122. The angle between mounting surfaces 121 and 122 on the side away from radiation element array 111 is less than 180°. Figure 2A The angle between the mounting surfaces 121 and 122 on the side facing away from the radiation element array 111 is marked as α. Figure 2A The example shown is α = 90 degrees. In practical applications, the included angle can be less than 180 degrees, such as 75 degrees, 45 degrees, etc.

[0094] It is worth noting that in this embodiment, the radiating element array 11 installed on the mounting surface 12 is connected to the antenna port. In practical applications, the connection method between the antenna port and the radiating element array is flexible and varied, and this embodiment does not impose any restrictions. To make it easier to understand the solution provided in this embodiment, in this embodiment, a radiating element array connected to an antenna port is referred to as a radiating element array. In this embodiment, an antenna port can refer to a physical antenna port or a logical antenna port. A logical antenna port can include one or more physical antenna ports. When the antenna device 1 includes multiple mounting surfaces, compared to an antenna device including only one mounting surface, each of the multiple mounting surfaces is equipped with a radiating element array, which can introduce more radiating element arrays. Each mounting surface can emit electromagnetic signals, which can effectively enlarge the antenna aperture and increase the area of ​​the antenna device 1's roof, thereby improving the coverage range of the antenna device 1 without increasing wind load and installation space. In this embodiment, the roof can be referred to as the antenna aperture or antenna array surface, specifically referring to the area covered by the radiating elements of the antenna device 1.

[0095] like Figure 2A As shown, the antenna device in this embodiment includes a circuit unit 13. The circuit unit 13 includes at least three bridge circuits. Figure 2A The circuit unit 13, including bridges 131, 132, and 133, is illustrated as an example. One end of the circuit unit 13 can be connected to the antenna port, and the other end can be connected to the radio frequency port 21 on the radio frequency processing unit 2. Figure 2A The example shows four radio frequency ports: radio frequency port r1, radio frequency port r2, radio frequency port r3, and radio frequency port r4.

[0096] It is worth noting that the bridges mentioned in the embodiments of this application (such as the first bridge, the second bridge, the third bridge, bridge 131, bridge 132, and bridge 133, etc.) can also be called other names, such as couplers. The bridges mentioned in the embodiments of this application (such as the first bridge, the second bridge, the third bridge, bridge 131, bridge 132, and bridge 133, etc.) can also be other devices that can implement the bridge functions in the embodiments of this application. The embodiments of this application do not impose limitations; for ease of understanding, this application uses this bridge as an example for description.

[0097] like Figure 2A As shown, the bridge 131 includes input port p1 and input port p2, where input port p1 is connected to RF port r1, and input port p2 is connected to RF port r2. The bridge 131 has two output ports, output port s1 and output port s2, where output port s1 is connected to an array of N1 radiating elements, where N1 is a positive integer. Figure 2AIn this example, N1 is set to 1. Output port s1 is connected to the radiating element array 111 (or output port s1 is connected to the antenna port to which the radiating element array 111 is connected), and output port s2 is connected to the input port p6 of the bridge 133. In this embodiment, the input port of a device can also be called the input terminal port, and the output port of a device can also be called the output terminal port.

[0098] Input port p1 of bridge 131 can receive signals from RF port r1, and input port p2 of bridge 131 can receive signals from RF port r2. The power of the signals received by input ports p1 and p2 can be concentrated on the signal output by one of the output ports (output port s1 or output port s2) of bridge 131. When the power of the signals received by input ports p1 and p2 is concentrated on the signal output by output port s1, that is, the power of the signals received by input ports p1 and p2 can be concentrated on the signal emitted by the radiation element array 111 connected to output port s1. When the power of the signals received by input ports p1 and p2 is concentrated on the signal output by output port s2, that is, the power of the signals received by input ports p1 and p2 can be concentrated on the signal received by input port p6 of bridge 133 connected to output port s2.

[0099] For example, if Bridge 131 is a 90-degree bridge with a power ratio of 1:1, then when the signals from RF ports r1 and r2 are 90 degrees out of phase and have equal amplitude (power ratio 1:1), the power of the signals received at input ports p1 and p2 can be concentrated on the signal output from one output port (output port s1 or output port s2) of Bridge 131. For instance, if the phase of the signal emitted from RF port r1 lags 90 degrees relative to the phase of the signal emitted from RF port r2, and the amplitudes of the signals emitted from RF ports r1 and r2 are equal, then the power of the signals emitted from RF ports r1 and r2 is concentrated on the signal output from output port s1. Similarly, if the phase of the signal emitted from RF port r2 lags 90 degrees relative to the phase of the signal emitted from RF port r1, and the amplitudes of the signals emitted from RF ports r1 and r2 are equal, then the power of the signals emitted from RF ports r1 and r2 is concentrated on the signal output from output port s2.

[0100] It is worth noting that, in one possible example, if the signals received by the two input ports of the bridge in this embodiment are 90 degrees out of phase and have equal amplitude, the power of the signals received by the two input ports can be concentrated on the signal emitted by one output port of the bridge. With technological advancements, the function or parameters of the bridge may change, and the condition under which the power of the signals received by the two input ports can be concentrated on one output port of the bridge may also change. For example, it may change to "the signals received by the two input ports are 180 degrees out of phase and have equal amplitude," etc. This embodiment does not limit this.

[0101] like Figure 2A As shown, the bridge 132 includes input port p3 and input port p4. Input port p3 is connected to RF port r3, and input port p4 is connected to RF port r4. The output of the bridge 132 includes two ports, output port s3 and output port s4. Output port s3 is connected to input port p5 of the bridge 133, and output port s4 is connected to an array of N2 radiating elements, where N2 is a positive integer. Figure 2A In the example where N2 is 1, the output port s4 is connected to the radiating element array 112 (or the output port s4 is connected to the antenna port to which the radiating element array 112 is connected).

[0102] Input port p4 of bridge 132 can receive signals from RF port r4, and input port p3 of bridge 132 can receive signals from RF port r3. The power of the signals received by input ports p4 and p3 can be concentrated on the signal output by one of the output ports (output port s4 or output port s3) of bridge 132. When the power of the signals received by input ports p4 and p3 is concentrated on the signal output by output port s4, that is, the power of the signals received by input ports p4 and p3 can be concentrated on the signal emitted by the radiation element array 112 connected to output port s4. When the power of the signals received by input ports p4 and p3 is concentrated on the signal output by output port s3, that is, the power of the signals received by input ports p4 and p3 can be concentrated on the signal received by input port p5 of bridge 133 connected to output port s3.

[0103] For example, if Bridge 132 is a 90-degree bridge, then when the signals from RF ports r4 and r3 are 90 degrees out of phase and have equal amplitude, the power of the signals received at input ports p4 and p3 can be concentrated on the signal output from one of the output ports of Bridge 132 (output port s4 or output port s3). For instance, by controlling the phase difference between the signal emitted from RF port r3 and the signal emitted from RF port r4, the power of the signals received at input ports p4 and p3 can be controlled to be concentrated on the signal output from either output port (output port s4 or output port s3) of Bridge 132. Specific examples can be found in the aforementioned description of Bridge 131, and will not be repeated here.

[0104] Please continue reading. Figure 2A Input port p6 of bridge 133 can receive the signal output from output port s2 of bridge 131, and input port p5 of bridge 133 can receive the signal output from output port s3 of bridge 132. Output port s5 is connected to an array of N3 radiating elements, where N3 is a positive integer. Figure 2A In the example where N3 is 1, the output port s5 is connected to the radiating element array 113 (or the output port s5 is connected to the antenna port to which the radiating element array 113 is connected).

[0105] When the signals from output ports S2 and S3 meet certain conditions (e.g., the signals from output ports S2 and S3 are 90 degrees out of phase and have equal amplitude), the power of the signals received by output ports S2 and S3 can be concentrated at one output port of the bridge 133 (e.g., ...). Figure 2A The power of the signals received by output ports s2 and s3 is concentrated on the signal output by output port s5. That is, the power of the signals received by output ports s2 and s3 can be concentrated on the signal emitted by the radiation unit array 113 connected to output port s5.

[0106] For example, if Bridge 131 is a 90-degree bridge, and the signals from RF port r1 and RF port r2 are 90 degrees out of phase and have equal amplitude, then the power of the signals received by input ports p1 and p2 can be concentrated on the signal output by output port s2 of Bridge 131.

[0107] Bridge 132 is a 90-degree bridge. When the signals from RF port r4 and RF port r3 are 90 degrees out of phase and have equal amplitude, the power of the signals received by input ports p4 and p3 can be concentrated on the signal output by output port s3 of bridge 132.

[0108] Bridge 133 is a 90-degree bridge. The signals from output ports S2 and S3 are 90 degrees out of phase and have equal amplitude. Therefore, the power of the signals received at input ports P6 and P5 can be concentrated on the signal output from one of the output ports of bridge 133 (such as output port S5). For example, the power of the signals received at input ports P6 and P5 can be controlled to be concentrated on the signal output from one of the output ports of bridge 133 (output port S6 or output port S5) by controlling the phase difference between the signal emitted from output port S2 and the signal emitted from output port S3. For specific examples, please refer to the relevant description of bridge 131 above, which will not be repeated here.

[0109] It is worth noting that, Figure 2A The example shown in this application uses a bridge 133 with one output port s5 as an example. In actual applications, the output of the bridge 133 may include multiple ports, and this application does not impose any restrictions.

[0110] In this embodiment of the application, if an output port of a certain bridge is not connected to an antenna, bridge, or power divider, in order to avoid circuit burnout, this embodiment of the application can provide a circuit protection measure, such as connecting the output port of that bridge that is not connected to an antenna, bridge, or power divider to a load.

[0111] In this embodiment, the parameters of the bridge (first bridge, second bridge, or third bridge) can be flexibly configured according to requirements, such as a 90-degree bridge or a 180-degree bridge. This embodiment uses a 90-degree bridge as an example.

[0112] The number of input ports and output ports of the bridge in this embodiment can be flexibly set. This embodiment uses a bridge with two input ports and two output ports as an example. In practical applications, the number of input ports and output ports can be flexibly set according to the actual scenario. For example, the bridge may also include three or more input ports, so that the bridge can receive signals from more radio frequency ports.

[0113] For example, such as Figure 2A The bridge 131 may include three input ports, each connected to one of the three radio frequency (RF) ports. The bridge 131 also includes three output ports, each connected to a radiating element array on one of the three mounting surfaces. The bridge 131 can distribute the power of the signals received from the three input ports to one output port. Thus, when one mounting surface is operational, the bridge 131 can concentrate the power of the signals received from the three input ports to the output port connected to the radiating element array on the operational mounting surface, thereby reducing power waste.

[0114] In this embodiment, the power ratio of the bridge can be flexibly set according to requirements, such as 2:1 or 1:1. This embodiment uses a 1:1 power ratio as an example. A 1:1 power ratio in this embodiment can be understood as the power ratio of the signal input to one input port of the bridge to the signals output from its two output ports being 1:1. If the bridge is a 90-degree bridge, in this case, when the power ratio of the signals input to the two input ports is 1:1, and the phase difference of the signals input to the two input ports is 90 degrees, the power of the signals input to the two input ports can be concentrated into the signal output from one RF port. This reduces power waste.

[0115] Similarly, when the power ratio of the bridge is 2:1, and if the bridge is a 90-degree bridge, then when the power ratio of the signals input to the two input ports of the bridge is 2:1, and the phase difference of the signals input to the two input ports is 90 degrees, the power of the signals input to the two input ports of the bridge can be concentrated into the signal output from one RF port. In this way, power waste can be reduced.

[0116] In one possible implementation, since the multiple power amplifiers connected to the multiple input ports of the bridge can support equal output power, when the power ratio of the bridge is 1:1, each power amplifier connected to the multiple input ports can transmit signals at its own supported output power. This satisfies the 1:1 power ratio of the two input signals of the bridge, thereby reducing power waste. On the other hand, having multiple power amplifiers transmit signals at their own supported output power can alleviate the situation of insufficient power delivery.

[0117] As can be seen from the above, since the first RF port, the second RF port, the third RF port and the fourth RF port can be connected to N1 radiating unit arrays, N2 radiating unit arrays and N3 radiating unit arrays through the first bridge unit, power sharing can be achieved among the radiating unit arrays, and the power of each array can be adjusted according to the needs.

[0118] Furthermore, the power of the signals received at input ports p1 and p2 can be concentrated on the signal output from output port s1 of bridge 131; that is, the power of the signals received at input ports p1 and p2 can be concentrated on the signal emitted by the radiation element array 111 connected to output port s1. For example, in one possible example, the power of the signals received at input ports p1 and p2 can be entirely concentrated on the signal emitted by the radiation element array 111 connected to output port s1.

[0119] Furthermore, since the power of the signals received at input ports p4 and p3 can be concentrated on the signal output from output port s4 of bridge 132, that is, the power of the signals received at input ports p4 and p3 can be concentrated on the signal emitted by the radiation element array 112 connected to output port s4. For example, in one possible example, the power of the signals received at input ports p4 and p3 can be entirely concentrated on the signal emitted by the radiation element array 112 connected to output port s4.

[0120] Therefore, when the radiating element array (e.g., radiating element array 111 and radiating element array 112) deployed on the mounting surface 121 of the antenna device 1 is in operation, while the radiating element array (e.g., radiating element array 113) deployed on the mounting surface 122 of the antenna device 1 is not in operation, the power of the signals emitted by the RF ports r1 and r2 can be concentrated on the radiating element array 111 deployed on the mounting surface 121, and the power of the signals emitted by the RF ports r3 and r4 can be concentrated on the radiating element array 112 deployed on the mounting surface 121, thereby improving power utilization and reducing power waste.

[0121] In one possible implementation, each of the N2 radiating element arrays is different from each of the N1 radiating element arrays. When the radiating element arrays (e.g., radiating element arrays 111 and 112) deployed on the mounting surface 121 of the antenna device 1 are in an operational state, while the radiating element arrays (e.g., radiating element array 113) deployed on the mounting surface 122 of the antenna device 1 are not in an operational state, the logic ports formed by RF ports r1 and r2 and the logic ports formed by RF ports r3 and r4 can be mutually non-interfering in analog circuitry. That is, the power and phase of the signals emitted by RF ports r1 and r2 are set based on the requirements of radiating element array 111, and the power and phase of the signals emitted by RF ports r3 and r4 are set based on the requirements of radiating element array 112. Therefore, the power amplifiers connected to the RF ports of the RF front-end of the RF processing unit 2 (such as the power amplifiers connected to RF port r1, RF port r2, RF port r3, and RF port r4) can transmit signals at their supported output power. This avoids the problem that the power amplifiers connected to the RF ports cannot transmit signals at their supported output power, thereby reducing power waste caused by power over-transmission. The inability of the power amplifiers connected to the RF ports to transmit signals at their supported output power can also be called power over-transmission. It can be seen that the solution provided in this application embodiment can avoid the power over-transmission problem of the power amplifiers.

[0122] Furthermore, since the solution provided in this application embodiment can solve the problem of power amplifier over-transmission, that is, the power amplifier connected to the radio frequency port can transmit signals with its own supported output power. Compared with the solution where the power amplifier connected to the radio frequency port cannot transmit signals with its own supported output power, the solution provided in this application embodiment can increase the signal level received by the terminal device, thereby improving the coverage performance of the antenna device.

[0123] On the other hand, the power of the signals received at input ports p1 and p2 can be concentrated on the signal output at output port s2 of bridge 131. Furthermore, the power of the signals received at input ports p4 and p3 can be concentrated on the signal output at output port s3 of bridge 132. Finally, the power of the signals received at output ports s2 and s3 can be concentrated on the signal output at output port s5 of bridge 133.

[0124] Therefore, the radiating element array (such as radiating element array 111 and radiating element array 112) deployed on the mounting surface 121 of the antenna device 1 is not in operation, while the radiating element array (such as radiating element array 113) deployed on the mounting surface 122 of the antenna device 1 is in operation. In this case, the power of the signals emitted by the radio frequency ports r1, r2, r3 and r4 can be concentrated on the radiating element array 113 deployed on the mounting surface 122, thereby improving power utilization and reducing power waste.

[0125] In addition, such as Figure 2A As shown, in this embodiment, the power of the signals emitted by RF ports r1, r2, r3, and r4 can also be allocated among the radiating array 111, radiating element array 112, and radiating element array 113 as needed. The circuit unit structure in this embodiment is relatively simple and has low complexity.

[0126] The access network equipment provided in this application embodiment may also include other components, such as... Figure 2A The radio frequency processing unit 2 and the baseband processing unit are shown in the figure. Figure 2A The diagram illustrates the connection between the radio frequency (RF) processing unit 2 and the baseband processing unit 3. The RF processing unit 2 can be used to perform frequency selection, amplification, and down-conversion processing on the signal received through the radiating element array 11, converting it into an intermediate frequency (IF) signal or a baseband signal and sending it to the baseband processing unit 3. Alternatively, the RF processing unit 2 can be used to up-convert and amplify the IF signal or baseband signal emitted by the baseband processing unit 3 and then transmit it through the radiating element array 11.

[0127] In some implementations, the radio frequency processing unit 2 may also be referred to as a remote radio unit (RRU), or it may be a radio frequency module in an active antenna unit (AAU). The baseband processing unit 3 may also be referred to as a baseband unit (BBU). The antenna device in the embodiments of this application can be a passive antenna. The antenna device in the embodiments of this application can be pole-mounted. For example, the antenna device has a pole on the back and a radiating element array on the front. The access network equipment transmits signals by radiating electromagnetic radiation through the antenna. The RRU in the access network equipment can be pole-mounted or installed under the pole.

[0128] It is worth noting that, Figure 2A The example shown illustrates the number of radiating elements included on a mounting surface. In practical applications, the number of antenna ports can be expanded in dimensions such as horizontal and / or vertical. This application does not impose any limitations on this.

[0129] In this embodiment, the first mounting surface and the second mounting surface can be two different mounting surfaces. For example, the first mounting surface can be mounting surface 121, and the second mounting surface can be mounting surface 122. The N1 radiating element arrays can include radiating element array 111. The N2 radiating element arrays can include radiating element array 112. The N3 radiating element arrays can include radiating element array 113. In this embodiment, the first included angle can be... Figure 2A The included angle is denoted as α.

[0130] In this embodiment, the first bridge can be bridge 131, the first input port of the first bridge can be input port p1 of bridge 131, the second input port of the first bridge can be input port p2 of bridge 131, the first output port of the first bridge can be output port s1 of bridge 131, and the second output port of the first bridge can be output port s2 of bridge 131.

[0131] In this embodiment, the second bridge can be bridge 132, the third input port of the second bridge can be input port p3 of bridge 132, the fourth input port of the second bridge can be input port p4 of bridge 132, the third output port of the second bridge can be output port s4 of bridge 132, and the fourth output port of the second bridge can be output port s3 of bridge 132.

[0132] In this embodiment, the third bridge can be bridge 133, the fifth input port of the third bridge can be input port p6 of bridge 133, the sixth input port of the third bridge can be input port p5 of bridge 133, and the fifth output port of the third bridge can be output port s5 of bridge 133.

[0133] The first RF port can be RF port r1, the second RF port can be RF port r2, the third RF port can be RF port r3, and the fourth RF port can be RF port r4.

[0134] In this embodiment, the mounting surface with N1 and N2 radiating element arrays is referred to as the first mounting surface, and the mounting surface with N3 radiating element arrays is referred to as the second mounting surface. The first and second mounting surfaces are not located on the same plane, but are two different mounting surfaces forming a first angle. Under a certain wind load, this embodiment can set a larger number of radiating element arrays, thereby improving the coverage and performance of the antenna device.

[0135] In this embodiment, the first mounting surface can be a single surface (planar or curved), or a combination of multiple surfaces (planar or curved). For example, the first mounting surface may include two surfaces, one of which (planar or curved) has an N1-dimensional radiating element array, and the other surface (planar or curved) has an N2-dimensional radiating element array. There may be an included angle between the two surfaces. In other possible examples, the N1-dimensional radiating element array may be deployed on multiple surfaces, and the N2-dimensional radiating element array may be deployed on one or more surfaces. Similarly, the second mounting surface can be a single surface (planar or curved), or a combination of multiple surfaces (planar or curved), with the N3-dimensional radiating element array disposed on one or more surfaces (planar or curved) included in the second mounting surface.

[0136] based on Figure 2A The access network equipment shown, as well as the other content mentioned above, Figure 2B This is a schematic diagram of a possible structure of some components in the antenna device 1 in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 2B As shown, the first mounting surface 121 is located on one mounting plate, and the second mounting surface 122 is located on another mounting plate. The two mounting plates can be connected by welding, threaded connection or integral molding.

[0137] In one possible implementation, the mounting plate providing the first mounting surface 121 may include a reflector, for example, by coating the mounting plate providing the first mounting surface 121 to prepare a reflector, or the mounting plate providing the first mounting surface 121 may itself be a reflector. Specifically, the mounting plate providing the first mounting surface 121 may be made of metal (e.g., aluminum) so that the mounting plate providing the first mounting surface 121 serves as a reflector. In another possible implementation, the mounting plate providing the second mounting surface 122 may include a reflector, for example, by coating the mounting plate providing the second mounting surface 122 to prepare a reflector, or the mounting plate providing the second mounting surface 122 may itself be a reflector. Specifically, the mounting plate providing the second mounting surface 122 may be made of metal (e.g., aluminum) so that the mounting plate providing the second mounting surface 122 serves as a reflector. When the antenna device 1 transmits a signal, the reflector can reflect the antenna signal to the target coverage area. When the antenna receives a signal, the reflector can reflect the signal incident on the reflector to the radiating element array in the antenna device so that the radiating element array receives the signal. The reflector may also be called a base plate, antenna panel, or reflective surface, etc.

[0138] based on Figure 2A and Figure 2B The illustrated embodiments and other content, Figure 2C An exemplary schematic diagram of another possible structure for an access network device is shown. Figure 2A The difference is: Figure 2C The antenna assembly 1 in the access network equipment shown also includes a mounting surface 123, on which a radiating element array 114 is deployed. The radiating element array 114 is connected to the output port s6 of the bridge 133. Mounting surfaces 123 and 122 are located on opposite sides of mounting surface 121.

[0139] The power of the signals received at output ports S2 and S3 can be concentrated at one output port of bridge 133 (e.g., Figure 2A The power of the signals received by output ports s5 or s6 shown in the figure is concentrated on the signal output by output port s6. That is, the power of the signals received by output ports s2 and s3 can be concentrated on the signal emitted by the radiation unit array 114 connected to output port s6.

[0140] For example, if Bridge 131 is a 90-degree bridge, and the signals from RF port r1 and RF port r2 are 90 degrees out of phase and have equal amplitude, then the power of the signals received by input ports p1 and p2 can be concentrated on the signal output by output port s2 of Bridge 131.

[0141] Bridge 132 is a 90-degree bridge. When the signals from RF port r4 and RF port r3 are 90 degrees out of phase and have equal amplitude, the power of the signals received by input ports p4 and p3 can be concentrated on the signal output by output port s3 of bridge 132.

[0142] Bridge 133 is a 90-degree bridge. The signals from output port s2 and output port s3 are 90 degrees out of phase and have equal amplitude. Therefore, the power of the signals received by input port p6 and input port p5 can be concentrated on the signal output by one output port of bridge 133 (such as output port s6).

[0143] As can be seen from the above, when the radiating element array 114 on the mounting surface 123 is in operation, and the radiating element arrays on the other mounting surfaces, such as radiating element arrays 111, 112, and 113, are not in operation, the power of the signals emitted by RF ports r1, r2, r3, and r4 can be concentrated on the radiating element array 114 deployed on the mounting surface 123 (for example, in one possible example, the power of the signals emitted by RF ports r1, r2, r3, and r4 can all be concentrated on the radiating element array 114 deployed on the mounting surface 123). Figure 2C The antenna device 1 shown can achieve a 360-degree coverage range. That is to say, since an antenna device includes multiple mounting surfaces, and different mounting surfaces cover different areas, an antenna device can achieve 360-degree coverage without dead angles. It can also be understood that an antenna device 1 can achieve coverage of more cells. Moreover, if the radiating element array of one cell is not in operation, the radiating element arrays of other cells are not affected and can continue to work.

[0144] It is worth noting that, in this embodiment, the third mounting surface can be mounting surface 123, and the N4 radiating element arrays can include radiating element array 114. The third mounting surface and the second mounting surface are located on opposite sides of the first mounting surface. In this embodiment, the angle between the first mounting surface and the third mounting surface on the side away from the N1 radiating element arrays is the second angle. The second angle can be equal to or unequal to the first angle; this embodiment does not impose any restrictions. The second angle is less than 180 degrees. In this embodiment, the third bridge can be bridge 133, and the sixth output port of the third bridge can be the output port s6 of bridge 133.

[0145] In this embodiment, the mounting surface on which N4 radiating element arrays are installed is referred to as the third mounting surface. In one possible implementation, the first and third mounting surfaces are not located on the same plane, but rather on two different mounting surfaces forming an angle. This angle may or may not be equal to the aforementioned first angle. Under a given wind load, this embodiment can provide a larger number of radiating element arrays, thereby increasing the coverage and performance of the antenna device.

[0146] In this embodiment, the third mounting surface can be a single surface (planar or curved), or a combination of multiple surfaces (planar or curved), and the N4 radiating element array is disposed on one or more surfaces (planar or curved) included in the third mounting surface.

[0147] based on Figure 2C The access network equipment shown, as well as the other content mentioned above, Figure 2D This is a schematic diagram of a possible structure of some components in the antenna device 1 in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 2D As shown, the first mounting surface 121 is located on one mounting plate, the second mounting surface 122 is located on another mounting plate, and the third mounting surface 123 is located on yet another mounting plate. The mounting plate with the third mounting surface 123 and the mounting plate with the first mounting surface 121 can be connected by welding, threaded connection, or integral molding. Figure 2D As shown, in one possible implementation, the mounting plate with the third mounting surface 123 and the mounting plate with the second mounting surface 122 can be located on opposite sides of the mounting plate with the first mounting surface 121.

[0148] In one possible implementation, the mounting plate with the third mounting surface 123 may include a reflector, for example, by coating the mounting plate with the third mounting surface 123 to prepare a reflector, or the mounting plate with the third mounting surface 123 may itself be a reflector. Specifically, the mounting plate with the third mounting surface 123 may be made of metal (such as aluminum) so that the mounting plate with the third mounting surface 123 can act as a reflector. When the antenna device 1 transmits a signal, the reflector can reflect the antenna signal to the target coverage area. When the antenna receives a signal, the reflector can reflect the signal incident on the reflector to the radiating element array in the antenna device so that the radiating element array can receive the signal. The reflector may also be called a base plate, antenna panel, or reflective surface, etc.

[0149] The antenna device 1 provided in this embodiment may further include a microstrip line in its circuit unit. The microstrip line can be used to align the phases of the various output interfaces of the circuit unit. For example, the antenna device also includes a first microstrip line, and a first bridge is connected to an array of N1 radiating elements through the first microstrip line. The first microstrip line can be used to adjust the phase of the received signal, thereby improving the adjustability of the antenna device in practical applications.

[0150] In one possible implementation, the first microstrip line is used to delay the phase of the signal output from the first output port of the first bridge by a first preset value. For example, the first preset value may be determined based on the phase difference between the phase of the signal output from the first output port of the first bridge and the phase of the signal received by the N3 radiating element array.

[0151] For example, when the second output port of the first bridge is connected to the radiating element array via the third bridge, since the phase of the signal output by the third bridge is deflected by 90 degrees compared to the phase of the signal output by the first bridge, the first microstrip line can be used to delay the phase of the signal output from the first output port of the first bridge by 90 degrees (i.e., the first preset value is 90 degrees). As another example, if the phase of the signal received by the N3 radiating element arrays connected to the third bridge is deflected by 180 degrees compared to the phase of the signal output by the first bridge, then the first preset value can be 180 degrees. In this way, the phase of the signal adjusted by the first microstrip line can be aligned with the phase of the signal output from the output port of the third bridge. Furthermore, the phase of the signal received by the radiating element array connected to the first microstrip line can be aligned with the phase of the signal received by the radiating element array connected to the second output port of the first bridge. Therefore, the phase-aligned signal can be output through the radiating element array, thereby improving signal strength.

[0152] As another example, the antenna device also includes a second microstrip line, through which the second bridge is connected to an array of N² radiating elements. The second microstrip line can be used to adjust the phase of the received signal, thus improving the adjustability of the antenna device in practical applications.

[0153] In one possible implementation, the second microstrip line is used to delay the phase of the signal output from the third output port of the second bridge by a second preset angle. For example, the second preset angle may be determined based on the phase difference between the phase of the signal output from the third output port of the second bridge and the phase of the signal received by the N3 radiating element array.

[0154] For example, when the fourth output port of the second bridge is connected to the radiating element array via the third bridge, since the phase of the signal output by the third bridge is deflected by 90 degrees compared to the phase of the signal output by the second bridge, the second microstrip line can be used to delay the phase of the signal output from the third output port of the second bridge by 90 degrees (i.e., the second preset angle is 90 degrees). As another example, if the phase of the signal received by the N3 radiating element arrays connected to the third bridge is deflected by 180 degrees compared to the phase of the signal output by the second bridge, then the second preset angle can be 180 degrees. In this way, the phase of the signal adjusted by the second microstrip line can be aligned with the phase of the signal output from the third bridge's output port, and the phase of the signal received by the radiating element array connected to the second microstrip line can be aligned with the phase of the signal received by the radiating element array connected to the fourth output port of the second bridge. Therefore, the phase-aligned signal can be output through the radiating element array, thereby improving signal strength.

[0155] based on Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 2C and Figure 2D The access network equipment and other content shown, Figure 2E An exemplary schematic diagram of another possible structure of an access network device is shown. Figure 2E The access network equipment structure shown can be regarded as Figure 2C An extended embodiment of the illustrated example. (And...) Figure 2C The difference is: Figure 2E The circuit unit 13 in the access network device shown includes microstrip lines 134 and 135. Microstrip line 134 can be used to adjust the phase of the signal output from output port s4. Microstrip line 135 can be used to adjust the phase of the signal output from output port s1. In practical applications, the phases of the signals output from the four output ports of circuit unit 13 (the output port connected to output port s1, the output port connected to output port s5, the output port connected to output port s6, and the output port connected to output port s4) can be aligned. Since the output ports connected to output port s5 and s6 are also connected to bridge 133, output ports s1 and s4 are each additionally connected to a microstrip line. Since the phase of the signal output from bridge 133 is deflected by 90 degrees compared to the phase of the signal output from output port s1 (or output port s4), this microstrip line can be a microstrip line with a 90-degree phase delay to align the phases of the signals output from the four ports. The phase-aligned signal can then be output through the radiating element array, thereby improving signal strength.

[0156] Microstrip line 134 can be any other connecting line that achieves the same effect, such as a transmission line or coaxial line. Microstrip line 134 is a microstrip line that delays the phase by a first preset value, such as the aforementioned 90 degrees, or possibly other angles. Microstrip line 135 can be any other connecting line that achieves the same effect, such as a transmission line or coaxial line. Microstrip line 135 is a microstrip line that delays the phase by a second preset angle, such as the aforementioned 90 degrees, or possibly other angles. For example, when the phase of the signal output from one output port of the antenna device is deflected by 180 degrees relative to the signal output from another output port, then in this case, the output port can be connected to a microstrip line used to deflect the phase by 180 degrees. In the embodiments of this application, the first microstrip line can be microstrip line 135, and the second microstrip line can be microstrip line 134. Figure 2E The access network device shown is in Figure 2C The improvements made to the architecture of the access network equipment shown are as follows: Figure 2E The architecture shown can also be used in Figure 2A Improvements are made to the architecture of the access network equipment shown. In this case, Figure 2A In the access network device shown, microstrip lines are deployed between the output ports s1 and s4 and the radiating element array. The rest of the content is the same as described above and will not be repeated here.

[0157] based on Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 2C , Figure 2D and Figure 2E The illustrated embodiments and other content, Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C The following are exemplary schematic diagrams illustrating several possible structures of the antenna device 1 provided in embodiments of this application. The antenna device 1 provided in embodiments of this application may include one or more circuit units 13. Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C The antenna device 1 can include multiple circuit units 13 as an example for illustration.

[0158] and Figure 2C compared to, Figure 3A The difference is: Figure 3A The antenna device 1 shown includes four circuit units 13. One output port of the bridge 131 in each circuit unit 13 is connected to an array of N1 radiating elements disposed on the mounting surface 121. Figure 3A (Taking N1 equal to 1 as an example for illustration), one output port of the bridge 132 in each circuit unit 13 is connected to the N2 radiating unit array located on the mounting surface 121. Figure 3A(Taking N2 equal to 1 as an example for illustration), one output port of the bridge 133 of circuit unit 13 is connected to the N3 radiating unit array located on the mounting surface 122. Figure 3A (Taking N3 equal to 1 as an example for illustration), another output port of the bridge 133 of circuit unit 13 is connected to the N4 radiating unit array located on the mounting surface 123. Figure 3A (The example shown uses N4 equal to 1). The connection method between each circuit unit and the radiating element array and RF port can be found in the previous section. Figure 2A and Figure 2C The relevant descriptions in the document will not be repeated here.

[0159] from Figure 3A As can be seen, in this embodiment, each circuit unit connects to four radio frequency ports. Each circuit unit connects to (N1+N2+N3+N4) radiating element arrays. It is worth noting that any two circuit units are connected to different radiating element arrays. Alternatively, one radiating element array can be understood as connecting to one output port of a bridge circuit within a circuit unit, and one output port of a bridge circuit can connect to one or more radiating element arrays. The spacing between two adjacent radiating element arrays on the same mounting surface can be set according to actual conditions, and this embodiment does not impose any limitations. For example, the spacing between two adjacent radiating element arrays on the mounting surface can be 57 mm. In this case, the total length of the mounting surface 121 can be set to 500 mm. This dimension is merely an example and does not constitute a limitation on the embodiments of this application.

[0160] like Figure 3A As shown, the radiating element array (e.g., an array of 8 radiating elements deployed on the mounting surface 121 of the antenna device 1) is in operation, while the radiating element array (e.g., an array of 4 radiating elements deployed on the mounting surface 122 of the antenna device 1) is not in operation, and the radiating element array (e.g., an array of 4 radiating elements deployed on the mounting surface 123 of the antenna device 1) is not in operation. In this case, Figure 3A The power of the signals emitted from the 16 radio frequency ports shown can be concentrated on an array of eight radiating elements deployed on mounting surface 121 (for example, in one possible example, Figure 3A The power of the signals emitted from the 16 radio frequency ports shown can be concentrated on the array of 8 radiating elements deployed on the mounting surface 121, thereby improving power utilization and reducing power waste.

[0161] and Figure 3A compared to, Figure 3B The difference is: Figure 3BThe antenna device 1, comprising three circuit units 13, is illustrated below. The remaining content is the same as... Figure 3A The content is similar and will not be repeated here.

[0162] like Figure 3B As shown, the radiating element array (e.g., a six-element array deployed on the mounting surface 121 of the antenna device 1) is in operation, while the radiating element array (e.g., a three-element array deployed on the mounting surface 122 of the antenna device 1) is not in operation, and the radiating element array (e.g., a three-element array deployed on the mounting surface 123 of the antenna device 1) is also not in operation. In this case, Figure 3B The power of the signals emitted from the 12 radio frequency ports shown can be concentrated on the array of 6 radiating elements deployed on the mounting surface 121, thereby improving power utilization and reducing power waste.

[0163] and Figure 3A compared to, Figure 3C The difference is: Figure 3C The system also includes bridges 901 and 902. Mounting surface 123 includes two radiating element arrays, and mounting surface 122 includes two radiating element arrays. The output port s5 of bridge 133 can be connected to radiating element arrays 113 and 114 via bridge 901. The output port of bridge 903 can also be connected to radiating element arrays 113 and 114 via bridge 901. The output ports of bridges 904 and 905 can also be connected to the radiating element arrays deployed on mounting surfaces 122 and 123 via bridge 902. The remainder is related to... Figure 3A The content is similar and will not be repeated here.

[0164] like Figure 3C As shown, the two input ports of bridge 901 are connected to the output ports of bridge 133 and bridge 903, respectively. The two output ports of bridge 901 are connected to the two radiating element arrays on mounting surfaces 123 and 122, respectively. The two input ports of bridge 902 are connected to the output ports of bridge 904 and 905, respectively. The two output ports of bridge 902 are connected to the two radiating element arrays on mounting surfaces 123 and 122, respectively.

[0165] pass Figure 3C It can be seen that when one of the mounting surfaces (mounting surface 123 or mounting surface 122) of the antenna device is in working condition and the other mounting surfaces are not in working condition, the power of the signal emitted by the radio frequency port connected to the radiating element array on the mounting surface in working condition can be concentrated on the radiating element array on that mounting surface, thereby reducing power waste.

[0166] For example, if mounting surface 123 is in operation, while mounting surfaces 122 and 121 are not, the power of the signals emitted from RF ports r1 and r2 can be concentrated into the signal emitted from output port s2, and then enter bridge 133. Similarly, the power of the signals emitted from RF ports r3 and r4 can be concentrated into the signal received at input port p5 of bridge 133. Furthermore, since the signals received at input port p6 and input port p5 can be controlled to meet certain conditions (e.g., bridge 133 is a 90-degree bridge, the two signals have equal amplitudes and a 90-degree phase difference), the power of the signals received at input ports p6 and p5 can be concentrated into the signal emitted from output port s5, and then enter bridge 901. That is, the power of the signals emitted from RF ports r1, r2, r3, and r4 can be concentrated into one input port of bridge 901. Similarly, the power of the signals from the other set of circuit units connected to the four RF ports (such as...) can be concentrated into one input port of bridge 901. Figure 3C The power of the signal emitted from the four RF ports connected to the bridge 903 shown can be concentrated on another input port of the bridge 901.

[0167] Furthermore, since the signals received at the two input ports of the bridge 901 can be controlled to meet certain conditions (for example, the bridge 901 is a 90-degree bridge, the two signals have equal amplitudes and a 90-degree phase difference), the power of the signals received at the two input ports of the bridge 901 can be concentrated at one output port of the bridge 901. In other words, through... Figure 3A The antenna device shown can concentrate the power of the signals emitted by the four radio frequency ports r1, r2, r3, and r4 connected to the bridge 903 onto the radiating element array located on the mounting surface 123 connected to the bridge 901, thereby reducing power waste.

[0168] Similarly, through Figure 3C The antenna device shown allows the power of signals emitted from the eight radio frequency ports connected to the bridge 902 to be concentrated on the radiating element array located on the mounting surface 123 connected to the bridge 902, thereby reducing power waste.

[0169] The fourth bridge mentioned in the embodiments of this application may be... Figure 3C Bridge 901 or Bridge 902 in the circuit. For example... Figure 3CAs shown, the radiating unit array is connected to eight radio frequency ports of the two circuit units via a bridge 901 (fourth bridge). In this way, the radiating unit array 114 can obtain the power of the signals emitted by all the radio frequency ports (eight radio frequency ports) connected to the radiating unit array 114 via the fourth bridge, thereby reducing power waste and increasing the power of the signals emitted by the radiating unit array 114.

[0170] Figure 3C The diagram illustrates the use of the fourth bridge connecting all the RF ports of two circuit units as an example. In practical applications, the fourth bridge can connect all the RF ports of even more circuit units. For instance, one output port of the fourth bridge connects to a radiating element array on mounting surface 123, and the other output port connects to a radiating element array on mounting surface 122. The two input ports of the fourth bridge connect to the output ports of bridge one and bridge two, respectively. The input port of bridge one connects to all the RF ports of one circuit unit, and the input port of bridge two connects to all the RF ports of another circuit unit. Thus, the fourth bridge can connect 16 RF ports of the two circuit units through bridge one and bridge two.

[0171] In this embodiment of the application, when one output port of a bridge (e.g.) Figure 3C The output ports s6 of bridge 133, 903, 904, and 905 are not connected to devices such as antennas, bridges, or power dividers. To avoid circuit burnout, this application embodiment can provide a circuit protection measure, such as connecting the output ports of the bridge that are not connected to devices such as antennas, bridges, or power dividers to the load.

[0172] It is worth noting that, Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C The access network device shown is in Figure 2C Improvements made to the architecture of the access network equipment shown ( Figure 2C The antenna assembly of the access network equipment shown includes three mounting surfaces. Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C The architecture shown can also be used in Figure 2A Improvements were made to the architecture of the access network equipment shown. Figure 2A The antenna assembly of the access network equipment shown includes two mounting surfaces. In this case, Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C The solution provided by the antenna device 1 shown can also be applied, for example... Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3CThe antenna device 1 shown does not include a mounting surface 123 or a radiating element array mounted on the mounting surface 123. The rest is similar to the foregoing description and will not be repeated here.

[0173] In this embodiment, when the third bridge is bridge 133, the fourth bridge can be bridge 901. The seventh input port of the fourth bridge can be the port on bridge 901 connected to the output port s5 of bridge 133. The eighth input port of the fourth bridge can be the port on bridge 903 connected to the output port of bridge 903. The seventh output port of the fourth bridge can be the output port on bridge 901 connected to the radiating unit array 113. The eighth output port of the fourth bridge can be the output port on bridge 901 connected to the radiating unit array 114.

[0174] exist Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 2C , Figure 2D , Figure 2E , Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C Based on the illustrated embodiments and other content, Figure 4A and Figure 4B Several possible architectural diagrams of the antenna device 1 provided in embodiments of this application are illustrated. For example... Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown, the mounting surface 121 also includes an array of N5 radiating elements, where N5 is 1 or an integer greater than 1. In this embodiment, the array of N5 radiating elements is connected to a radio frequency port (for distinction, this radio frequency port can be referred to as the fifth radio frequency port).

[0175] like Figure 4A As shown. The N5 radiating element array can include Figure 4A The radiating element array 611 is connected to an RF port r5, and the power of the signal emitted from RF port r5 is concentrated in the radiating element array 611. Similarly, the radiating element array 612 is connected to an RF port r6, and the power of the signal emitted from RF port r6 is concentrated in the radiating element array 612. The radiating element array 613 is connected to an RF port r7, and the power of the signal emitted from RF port r7 is concentrated in the radiating element array 613. The radiating element array 614 is connected to an RF port r8, and the power of the signal emitted from RF port r8 is concentrated in the radiating element array 614.

[0176] like Figure 4B As shown, the N5 radiating element array can include Figure 4BThe radiating element arrays 611 and 615 are both connected to an RF port r5. When an RF port is connected to multiple radiating element arrays, it can be connected to all of them via a power divider. Furthermore, at least one of the multiple radiating element arrays is connected to the power divider via a phase shifter. For example, RF port r5 can be connected to both radiating element arrays 611 and 615 via power divider 621. Radiating element array 611 is connected to power divider 621 via phase shifter 622. The power of the signal emitted by RF port r5 can be distributed between radiating element arrays 611 and 615.

[0177] A power divider can support a larger number of radiating element arrays without increasing the number of RF ports. Since the number of RF ports is relatively small, this approach reduces costs. Furthermore, the increased number of radiating element arrays improves antenna performance. Because the phase of the signal emitted by the radiating element array can be adjusted using a phase shifter, the beamforming capability (also known as beam scanning capability) of each radiating element array connected to the phase shifter can be enhanced.

[0178] pass Figure 4A and Figure 4B As can be seen from the antenna device shown, when there are many radiating element arrays on the mounting surface 121, the RF ports can be configured in a one-to-one and / or one-to-many correspondence with the antenna ports. This can save the number of RF links. Moreover, when the mounting surface 121 is in the working state, while the mounting surfaces 123 and 122 are not in the working state, the power of the signals emitted by the RF ports r5, r6, r7, r8, r1, r2, r3, and r4 is concentrated in the radiating array on the mounting surface 121, thereby increasing the power of the signals emitted by the radiating array mounted on the mounting surface 121.

[0179] It is worth noting that, Figure 4A The antenna device 1 shown may also include multiple circuit units 13. Figure 4A The antenna device 1 is illustrated using an example of a circuit unit. Additionally, Figure 4A Circuit unit 13 in Figure 2C The circuit unit 13 shown is illustrated in the diagram. In practical applications, Figure 4A Circuit unit 13 in the middle can also be Figure 2E The circuit unit 13 shown. In the embodiments of this application, the third power divider can be a power divider 621, and the third phase shifter can be a phase shifter 622.

[0180] In one possible implementation, the number of RF ports equals the total number of radiating element arrays. The bridge includes two input ports and two output ports. The number of bridges directly connected to the RF ports in the antenna device (this bridge can be called the first-stage bridge) is denoted as H (H is a positive integer), the number of radiating element arrays directly connected to the RF ports is denoted as R (R is 0 or a positive integer), and the total number of RF ports is denoted as N (N is a positive integer). In one possible implementation, N = R + 2H. In another possible implementation, the number of RF ports included in the mounting surface (e.g., mounting surface 121) can be denoted as K (K is a positive integer). In one possible implementation, K = R + H. Alternatively, it can be written as the mathematical constraint formula: H = NK, R = KH. In one possible implementation, it is desirable that the number of R is 0, in which case H = N / 2, and thus K = N / 2. That is, the number of first-stage bridges is N / 2, which is half the number of RF ports.

[0181] The bridge circuit connected to the RF port in antenna device 1 can be called the first-stage bridge, and the bridge circuit connected to the output port of the first-stage bridge can be called the second-stage bridge. The number of second-stage bridges included in the circuit unit 13 of antenna device 1 can be half the number of first-stage bridges. The two output ports of the second-stage bridge can be connected to two radiating element arrays on two side mounting surfaces (such as mounting surface 123 and mounting surface 122), respectively. If an output port of a certain stage bridge is not connected to an antenna, bridge, or power divider, etc., to avoid circuit burnout, the output port of that stage bridge that is not connected to an antenna, bridge, or power divider can be connected to a load.

[0182] exist Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 2C , Figure 2D , Figure 2E , Figure 3A , Figure 3B , Figure 3C , Figure 4A and Figure 4B Based on the illustrated embodiments and other content, Figure 5A and Figure 5B Several possible architectural diagrams of the antenna device 1 provided in the embodiments of this application are illustrated.

[0183] Figure 5A To Figure 2C The following diagram illustrates an improvement to the antenna device 1 shown. Figure 2C The difference is that, Figure 5A The output port s1 is connected to an array of N1 radiating elements. Figure 5AIn the example, N1 is set to 2. Output port s1 is connected to radiating element arrays 111 and 711. Output port s4 is connected to N2 radiating element arrays. Figure 5A In the example, N2 is 2, and the output port s4 is connected to the radiating element array 112 and the radiating element array 712.

[0184] like Figure 5A As shown, output port s1 can be divided into N1 ports by power divider 811, and then each of the N1 ports of power divider 811 can be connected to one of the N1 radiating element arrays. Specifically, one port of power divider 811 is connected to one of the N1 radiating element arrays, and one of the N1 radiating element arrays is connected to one of the N1 ports of power divider 811.

[0185] The power divider 811 distributes the power of the signal emitted from the output port s1 to the N1 radiating element arrays connected to it. By using the power divider, a larger number of radiating element arrays can be supported without increasing the number of RF ports. Since the number of RF ports is relatively small, this solution reduces costs; and since the number of radiating element arrays can be increased, the performance of the antenna device can be improved.

[0186] In another possible implementation, the antenna device 1 may further include one or more phase shifters. For example, the antenna device may also include a first phase shifter, and the first bridge is connected to the radiating element array in the N1 radiating element array through the first phase shifter. The phase of the signal output by the first bridge can be changed by the first phase shifter, thereby improving the adjustability of the antenna device in practical applications.

[0187] For example, the antenna device also includes a second phase shifter, and the second bridge is connected to the radiating element array in the N2 radiating element array through the second phase shifter. The phase of the signal output by the second bridge can be changed through the second phase shifter, thus improving the adjustability of the antenna device in practical applications.

[0188] In this embodiment, the power divider in the antenna device can be used in conjunction with a phase shifter. For example, such as Figure 5A As shown, at least one of the N1 radiating element arrays is connected to the power divider 811 via a phase shifter, for example... Figure 5A The radiating element array 111 is connected to the power divider 811 via a phase shifter 821. Since the phase of the signal emitted by the radiating element array can be adjusted by the phase shifter, the beamforming capability (also known as beam scanning capability) of the N1 radiating element arrays can be improved.

[0189] Similarly, such as Figure 5A As shown, output port s4 can be split into N2 ports by power divider 812, and then each of the N2 ports of power divider 812 can be connected to one of the N2 radiating element arrays. Specifically, one port of power divider 812 is connected to one of the N2 radiating element arrays, and one of the N2 radiating element arrays is connected to one of the N2 ports of power divider 812. Through the function of power divider 812, the power of the signal emitted from output port s4 can be distributed to the N2 radiating element arrays connected to power divider 812. In another possible implementation, at least one of the N2 radiating element arrays is connected to power divider 812 via a phase shifter, for example... Figure 5A The radiation unit array 712 is connected to the power divider 812 via a phase shifter 822.

[0190] It is worth noting that the first power divider mentioned in the embodiments of this application can be power divider 811, the second power divider can be power divider 812, the first phase shifter can be phase shifter 821, and the second phase shifter can be phase shifter 822.

[0191] and Figure 5A compared to, Figure 5B The antenna device 1, for example, includes two circuit units 13. The details of each circuit unit 13 can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 5A The description in the text will not be repeated here.

[0192] It is worth noting that, Figure 5A and Figure 5B The access network device shown is in Figure 2C Improvements made to the architecture of the access network equipment shown ( Figure 2C The antenna assembly of the access network equipment shown includes three mounting surfaces. Figure 5A and Figure 5B The architecture shown can also be used in Figure 2A Improvements were made to the architecture of the access network equipment shown. Figure 2A The antenna assembly of the access network equipment shown includes two mounting surfaces. Figure 5A and Figure 5B The solution provided by the antenna device 1 shown can also be applied, for example, Figure 5A and Figure 5B The antenna device 1 shown may not include the mounting surface 123 or the radiating element array mounted on the mounting surface 123. The rest is similar to the above and will not be repeated.

[0193] The antenna device 1 provided in this embodiment may include multiple circuit units, and each of the multiple circuit units may be... Figure 5A The circuit unit 13 shown. Additionally... Figure 5A and Figure 5B The scheme shown can also be compared with the aforementioned Figure 2E , Figure 3A , Figure 3B , Figure 4A or Figure 4B The content shown is used in combination. For example, antenna device 1 may include multiple circuit units, and at least one of these circuit units may have a structural form that is Figure 5A The circuit unit 13 shown has a structural form, and at least one of the plurality of circuit units can have a structural form that is Figure 2C The circuit unit 13 shown is structurally similar. For example, the antenna device 1 may include one or more circuit units, one of which is... Figure 5A or Figure 2C The circuit unit 13 shown may also include the antenna device 1. Figure 4A or Figure 4B The N5 radiating element array shown can be connected to a radio frequency port.

[0194] In one possible implementation, when the number of RF ports is less than the total number of radiating element arrays, a power divider can be introduced, and the number of bridges (which can be called first-stage bridges) directly connected to the RF ports in the antenna device can be equal to half the number of RF ports.

[0195] In the antenna device, one output port of the bridge directly connected to the RF port can be connected to a power divider or directly to the antenna port connected to the radiating element array. The power divider can have at least two output ports, and at least one output port of the power divider can be connected to a phase shifter (also called an adjustable phase shifter). The output port of the phase shifter can be directly connected to the antenna port connected to the radiating element array.

[0196] The bridge circuit directly connected to the radio frequency port in the antenna device can be called the first-stage bridge, and the bridge circuit connected to the output port of the first-stage bridge can be called the second-stage bridge. The number of second-stage bridges included in the circuit unit 13 of the antenna device 1 can be half the number of first-stage bridges. The two output ports of the second-stage bridge can be connected to two radiating element arrays on two side mounting surfaces (such as mounting surface 123 and mounting surface 122), respectively.

[0197] Based on the above, Figure 6 An exemplary schematic diagram of a communication system applicable to an embodiment of this application is shown. This communication system includes three antenna devices mounted on a mast. The structure of each antenna device can be that of antenna device 1 (see the foregoing description of the structure of antenna device 1). Figure 2C , Figure 2D , Figure 2E , Figure 3A , Figure 3B , Figure 4A , Figure 5A or Figure 5B (Example shown). Figure 6 As shown, each antenna device can have one radiating element array on one mounting surface in an active state, while the other mounting surfaces are not active (for example, the radiating element array on the front mounting surface (mounting surface 121) of antenna device 1 is active, while the radiating element arrays on the two side mounting surfaces (mounting surfaces 122 and 123) are not active). In this case, the radiating element array on the active mounting surface of each antenna device can be allocated the power of the signal emitted from the RF port connected to that radiating element array, thereby improving power utilization and reducing power waste.

[0198] On the other hand, when multiple antenna devices are deployed, these multiple antenna devices can achieve multi-sector cooperation. When a base station has multiple sectors, some sectors have more users, some sectors have fewer users, or even no users. The solution provided in this application embodiment can transmit the power of the sector with fewer users or no users to the sector with more users, thereby improving the signal strength of the sector with more users, and thus improving the user perception rate and coverage performance.

[0199] The antenna device provided in this application embodiment can achieve one antenna per cell at a single site, with the radiated signal of cell 3 providing 360° full coverage, which helps reduce the cost of the communication system. The antenna device provided in this application embodiment can also achieve three antennas per cell at a single site. For example, antenna device 1 includes three mounting surfaces. The radiated signal of the radiating element array set on each mounting surface covers one cell (one cell is, for example, a 120° sector area). This scheme helps reduce the cost of the communication system.

[0200] In addition to the networking configurations mentioned above, other networking configurations can also be implemented, such as one antenna per cell at a single site, three antennas per cell at a single site, six antennas per cell at a single site, or nine antennas per cell at a single site. For example, if each of the three antenna devices 1 can cover three cells 3, then a networking configuration of nine antennas per cell at a single site can be implemented. This application does not impose any restrictions on this configuration.

[0201] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this application without departing from the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, if such modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this application also intends to include such modifications and variations.

Claims

1. An antenna device, characterized in that, It includes a first mounting surface, a second mounting surface, a plurality of radiating element arrays, and a first circuit unit, wherein the first circuit unit includes a first bridge, a second bridge, and a third bridge; The first input port of the first bridge is connected to the first radio frequency port, and the second input port of the first bridge is connected to the second radio frequency port; the first output port of the first bridge is connected to the antenna port of N1 radiating element arrays disposed on the first mounting surface in the plurality of radiating element arrays, where N1 is a positive integer; the second output port of the first bridge is connected to the fifth input port of the third bridge. The third input port of the second bridge is connected to the third radio frequency port, and the fourth input port of the second bridge is connected to the fourth radio frequency port; the third output port of the second bridge is connected to the antenna port of N2 radiating element arrays located on the first mounting surface in the plurality of radiating element arrays, where N2 is a positive integer, and each radiating element array in the N2 radiating element arrays is different from each radiating element array in the N1 radiating element arrays. The fourth output port of the second bridge is connected to the sixth input port of the third bridge; The fifth output port of the third bridge is connected to the antenna port of the N3 radiating element array located on the second mounting surface, where N3 is a positive integer. The angle between the first mounting surface and the second mounting surface on the side away from the N1 radiating element array is the first angle, which is less than 180°.

2. The antenna device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The antenna device also includes a third mounting surface; The sixth output port of the third bridge is connected to the antenna port of the N4 radiating element array located on the third mounting surface, where N4 is a positive integer.

3. The antenna device as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The antenna device further includes a fourth bridge, and the third bridge is connected to the N3 radiating element array through the fourth bridge.

4. The antenna device as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The antenna device further includes a second circuit unit, wherein the eighth input port of the fourth bridge is connected to the ninth output port of the second circuit unit.

5. The antenna device as described in claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The antenna device also includes a third mounting surface; The eighth output port of the fourth bridge is connected to the antenna port of the N4 radiating element array located on the third mounting surface, where N4 is a positive integer.

6. The antenna device according to any one of claims 2-5, characterized in that, The third mounting surface and the second mounting surface are located on opposite sides of the first mounting surface.

7. The antenna device according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The antenna device further includes a first power divider, and the first bridge is connected to the N1 radiating element array through the first power divider.

8. The antenna device according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The antenna device further includes a first phase shifter, and the first bridge is connected to the radiating element array in the N1 radiating element array through the first phase shifter.

9. The antenna device according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The antenna device further includes a first microstrip line, and the first bridge is connected to the N1 radiating element array through the first microstrip line.

10. The antenna device as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that, The first microstrip line is used to delay the phase of the signal output from the first output port of the first bridge by a first preset value.

11. The antenna device as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that, The first preset value is determined based on the phase difference between the phase of the signal output from the first output port of the first bridge and the phase of the signal received by the N3 radiation unit array.

12. The antenna device according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The antenna device further includes a second power divider, and the second bridge is connected to the N2 radiating element array through the second power divider.

13. The antenna device according to any one of claims 1-12, characterized in that, The antenna device further includes a second phase shifter, and the second bridge is connected to the radiating element array in the N2 radiating element array through the second phase shifter.

14. The antenna device according to any one of claims 1-13, characterized in that, The antenna device further includes a second microstrip line, and the second bridge is connected to the N2 radiating element array through the second microstrip line.

15. The antenna device as claimed in claim 14, characterized in that, The second microstrip line is used to delay the phase of the signal output from the third output port of the second bridge by a second preset angle.

16. The antenna device as claimed in claim 15, characterized in that, The second preset angle is determined based on the phase difference between the phase of the signal output from the third output port of the second bridge and the phase of the signal received by the N3 radiating unit array.

17. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes the antenna device as described in any one of claims 1 to 16.

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