Antenna device and electronic device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an antenna device and an electronic device. The antenna device includes an antenna module configured to communicate at a given communication frequency; a base body having an electrically conductive property, having a first surface, and having a first recess formed in the first surface and configured to accommodate the antenna module; a dielectric radome having a second surface opposite to the first surface of the base body, and having a second recess formed in the second surface and configured to be opposite to the first recess; and a waterproof structure disposed between the first surface of the base body and the second surface of the radome, and configured to waterproof the antenna module. The antenna module includes one or more antenna elements and an antenna surface on which the one or more antenna elements are formed. The antenna module is accommodated in the first recess such that the antenna surface protrudes from the first surface into the second recess.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to antenna devices and electronic devices. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a roadside wireless device as an antenna device. Patent Document 1 describes a structure comprising the following components: a base having a housing in which a wireless device body receiving recess and an antenna receiving recess are positioned back-to-back, and the surface of the antenna receiving recess is a radio wave reflective surface; a base cover covering the wireless device body receiving recess of the base, forming a wireless device body receiving portion that, together with the base, receives the wireless device body; and an antenna cover covering the antenna receiving recess of the base, forming an antenna receiving portion that, together with the base, receives an antenna substrate. The wireless device body is received in the wireless device body receiving portion, and the antenna substrate is received in the antenna receiving portion.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2001-44734 Summary of the Invention

[0006] However, in the antenna device described in Patent Document 1, the improvement in antenna performance is insufficient.

[0007] This disclosure provides antenna devices and electronic devices that can achieve improved waterproofing and antenna performance.

[0008] An antenna device according to one aspect of this disclosure includes: an antenna module for communication at a given communication frequency; a conductive substrate having a first surface and a first recess formed on the first surface to accommodate the antenna module; a dielectric radome having a second surface opposite to the first surface of the substrate and a second recess formed on the second surface opposite to the first recess; and a waterproof structure disposed between the first surface of the substrate and the second surface of the radome for waterproofing the antenna module. The antenna module includes one or more antenna elements and an antenna surface on which the one or more antenna elements are formed. The antenna module is accommodated in the first recess such that the antenna surface protrudes from the first surface into the second recess.

[0009] An electronic device according to one aspect of this disclosure includes: the antenna device described above; a communication circuit connected to the antenna device; and a metal housing housing the communication circuit. The substrate is part of the metal housing. A first surface of the substrate is the outer surface of the metal housing.

[0010] According to the method disclosed herein, improvements in waterproof performance and antenna performance can be achieved. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the structure of an electronic device equipped with an antenna device according to one embodiment.

[0012] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A 3D view of an electronic device.

[0013] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A side view of an electronic device.

[0014] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view along the XX line.

[0015] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A magnified view of a portion of the image.

[0016] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the YY line.

[0017] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A top view of the antenna device of an electronic device.

[0018] Figure 8 It was omitted. Figure 7 A top view of the radome of the antenna device.

[0019] Figure 9 It was omitted. Figure 8 A top view of the waterproof structure of the antenna device.

[0020] Figure 10 yes Figure 7 A bottom view of the radome of the antenna device.

[0021] Figure 11 yes Figure 7 A three-dimensional view of the elastic component of the antenna device.

[0022] Figure 12 (a) is the electric field distribution diagram of the antenna device structure example 1, and (b) is the electric field distribution diagram of the antenna device structure example 2.

[0023] Figure 13 (a) is a top view of the structure of antenna device Example 3, (b) is a top view of the structure of antenna device Example 4, and (c) is a top view of the structure of antenna device Example 5.

[0024] Figure 14 These are curves of the cumulative distribution function in the structural examples 3 to 6 of the antenna device.

[0025] Figure 15 This is an angle-dependent curve of antenna gain for the antenna structures in Examples 7 and 8 of the antenna device.

[0026] Figure 16 These are angle-dependent curves of antenna gain for the antenna structures in Examples 9 and 10 of the antenna device. Detailed Implementation

[0027] [1. Implementation Method]

[0028] [1.1 Summary]

[0029] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating a structural example of the electronic device 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 1 The electronic device 1 is a tablet terminal. The electronic device 1 includes an antenna device 10, a communication circuit 11, an input / output device 12, a storage device 13, and a processing circuit 14.

[0030] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of electronic device 1. Electronic device 1 has a housing 15 that houses an antenna device 10, a communication circuit 11, an input / output device 12, a storage device 13, and an arithmetic circuit 14. Figure 3 This is a side view of electronic device 1. (As shown) Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 As shown, the antenna device 10 is housed in the housing 15, so that it is partially exposed from the side of the housing 15.

[0031] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view along the XX line. Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A magnified view of a portion of the image. Figure 6 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of YY.

[0032] like Figures 4-6As shown, the antenna device 10 includes an antenna module 2 for communication at a given communication frequency, a conductive substrate 3, a dielectric radome 4, and a waterproof structure 5. The substrate 3 has a first surface 30, on which a first recess 31 is formed to accommodate the antenna module 2. That is, the first recess 31 accommodates the antenna module 2 and is formed on the first surface 30 of the substrate 3. The radome 4 has a second surface 40 opposite to the first surface 30 of the substrate 3, on which a second recess 41 is formed opposite to the first recess 31. That is, the second recess 41 is opposite to the first recess 31 and is formed on the second surface 40 of the radome 4. The waterproof structure 5 is a waterproof structure between the first surface 30 of the substrate 3 and the second surface 40 of the radome 4. That is, the waterproof structure 5 is configured to be disposed between the first surface 30 of the substrate 3 and the second surface 40 of the radome 4 to waterproof the antenna module 2. Antenna module 2 is accommodated in the first recess 31 such that antenna surface 20, on which one or more antenna elements 2a are formed, protrudes from the first surface 30 into the second recess 41. That is, antenna module 2 is accommodated in the first recess 31 such that antenna surface 20 protrudes from the first surface 30 into the second recess 41.

[0033] In the antenna device 10, the first recess 31 of the first surface 30 of the base 3 and the second recess 41 of the second surface 40 of the radome 4 constitute a receiving space for the antenna module 2. The receiving space for the antenna module 2 is waterproofed by a waterproof structure 5. The improved waterproof performance achieved by the waterproof structure 5 can be easily achieved by expanding the waterproof area between the first surface 30 of the base 3 and the second surface 40 of the radome 4. Furthermore, the antenna module 2 is housed in the first recess 31 such that the antenna surface 20 on which the antenna element 2a is formed protrudes from the first surface 30 into the second recess 41. Therefore, radio waves radiated from the antenna element 2a of the antenna surface 20 and traveling to the opposite side of the antenna surface 20 can be reflected towards the antenna surface 20 by the first surface 30 of the base 3. This improves the utilization efficiency of the radio waves radiated from the antenna module 2. Therefore, according to the antenna device 10 described above, both improved waterproof performance and improved antenna performance can be achieved. In particular, the antenna device described in Patent Document 1 is designed for environmental resistance, and its antenna performance is not sufficiently improved. Specifically, Patent Document 1 does not improve antenna characteristics such as antenna gain and radiation directivity when the antenna is arranged within the main body housing. In contrast, the antenna device 10 of this embodiment, as described above, achieves improved waterproof performance and antenna performance.

[0034] [1.2 Details]

[0035] The antenna device 10 and the electronic device 1 equipped with the antenna device 10 will be further described below.

[0036] [1.2.1 Electronic devices]

[0037] like Figure 1 As shown, the electronic device 1 includes an antenna device 10, a communication circuit 11, an input / output device 12, a storage device 13, and an arithmetic circuit 14. Figure 2 As shown, the electronic device 1 has a housing 15 that houses the antenna device 10, the communication circuit 11, the input / output device 12, the storage device 13, and the arithmetic circuit 14.

[0038] Antenna device 10 is used for wireless communication between electronic device 1 and external devices. Antenna device 10 will be described in detail in "[1.2.2 Antenna Device]" which will be described later.

[0039] The communication circuit 11 is connected to the antenna device 10. The communication circuit 11 can communicatively connect to external devices or systems via the antenna device 10. The communication circuit 11 has one or more communication interfaces. The communication circuit 11 conforms to a given communication protocol. The given communication protocol can be selected from various well-known wireless communication standards.

[0040] The input / output device 12 functions as both an input device for inputting information from a user and an output device for outputting information to the user. That is, the input / output device 12 is used for inputting information to the electronic device 1 and outputting information from the electronic device 1. The input / output device 12 has one or more human-machine interfaces. Examples of human-machine interfaces include input devices such as keyboards, pointing devices (mouse, trackball, etc.), and touchpads, as well as output devices such as displays, speakers, and touchscreens. Figure 2 In this embodiment, the input / output device 12 includes a touch screen display 121. The touch screen display 121 is housed in the housing 15, such that the operation surface and the display surface are exposed from the housing 15.

[0041] Storage device 13 is used to store information utilized by arithmetic circuit 14 and information generated by arithmetic circuit 14. Storage device 13 includes one or more memory (non-transient storage media). The memory may be, for example, any of hard disk drives, optical drives, and solid-state drives (SSDs).

[0042] The arithmetic circuit 14 is a circuit that controls the operation of the electronic device 1. The arithmetic circuit 14 is connected to the communication circuit 11 and the input / output device 12, and can access the storage device 13. The arithmetic circuit 14 can be implemented, for example, by a computer system including one or more processors (microprocessors) and one or more memories. The one or more processors perform a given function by executing a program (stored in one or more memories or storage devices 13). Here, the program is pre-recorded in the storage device 13, but it can also be provided via electrical communication lines such as the Internet, or recorded on a non-transitory recording medium such as a memory card.

[0043] The housing 15 is composed of a metal housing 16 and an outer frame 17. The metal housing 16 is a flat cuboid shape. The metal housing 16 houses the communication circuit 11, input / output devices 12, storage devices 13, and arithmetic circuits 14. The outer frame 17, like the metal housing 16, is a flat cuboid shape. The outer frame 17 houses the metal housing 16 internally. Within the housing 15, as... Figure 4 As shown, the antenna assembly 10 is housed between the metal housing 16 and the outer frame 17. Figure 4 In this configuration, the antenna device 10 is located on the side of the housing 15, situated between the side of the metal housing 16 and the side of the outer frame 17. For example... Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 As shown, in order to allow radio waves from or toward the antenna device 10 to pass through, the outer frame 17 has an opening 171 that exposes the antenna device 10. The outer frame 17 is made of metal or resin.

[0044] [1.2.2 Antenna Device]

[0045] Next, the antenna device 10 will be described in detail. For example... Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 As shown, the antenna device 10 is housed in the housing 15, so that it is partially exposed from the side of the housing 15.

[0046] like Figure 4 As shown, the antenna device 10 includes an antenna module 2, a base 3, an antenna cover 4, a waterproof structure 5, a connecting member 6, and an elastic member 7.

[0047] Further references are provided in the following explanation. Figures 7-11 . Figure 7 This is a top view of antenna device 10. Figure 8 This is a top view omitting the antenna radome 4 of the antenna device 10. Figure 9 This is a top view omitting the waterproof structure 5 of the antenna device 10. Figure 10 This is a bottom view of the antenna cover 4 of the antenna device 10. Figure 11 This is a three-dimensional view of the elastic component 7 of the antenna device 10.

[0048] Antenna module 2 is used for communication at a given communication frequency. Antenna module 2 is used for transmitting and receiving radio waves at the given communication frequency. In this embodiment, the given communication frequency falls within the 26–300 GHz frequency band. The given communication frequency is, for example, a frequency within the 28 GHz or 40 GHz frequency band. Therefore, antenna module 2 is a quasi-millimeter wave to millimeter wave band antenna module.

[0049] Figures 4-9 The antenna module 2 shown is a rectangular plate. Antenna module 2 has a thickness direction (...). Figures 4-6 (up and down direction) and length direction ( Figures 7-9 (in the left and right directions) and width direction (in the right and left directions) Figures 7-9 (The up and down directions in the text). For example... Figure 6 As shown, antenna module 2 has an antenna surface 20 and a ground surface 21 on both sides in the thickness direction. Figures 7-9 As shown, a plurality of antenna elements 2a-1 to 2a-4 (hereinafter collectively referred to as 2a) are formed on the antenna surface 20. Antenna elements 2a are, for example, electrodes formed on the antenna surface 20 and resonating at a given communication frequency. In this embodiment, the plurality of antenna elements 2a are arranged in a straight line. Thus, the antenna module 2 can be used as a phased array antenna. Antenna elements 2a-1 to 2a-4 are arranged along the length direction of the antenna module 2 on the antenna surface 20. In this embodiment, the length direction of the antenna module 2 is the direction in which the antenna elements 2a (antenna elements 2a-1 to 2a-4) are arranged in the antenna surface 20. The width direction of the antenna module 2 is orthogonal to both the thickness direction of the antenna module 2 and the direction in which the antenna elements 2a are arranged in the antenna surface 20 (the length direction of the antenna module 2). A grounding pattern is formed on the ground plane. The grounding pattern functions as a reflector.

[0050] The substrate 3 houses the antenna module 2. (For example...) Figures 4-6 As shown, the substrate 3 has a first surface 30. The substrate 3 is conductive. The substrate 3 is formed of a conductive material such as a metal. In this embodiment, as... Figure 4 As shown, the base 3 is part of the metal housing 16. Specifically, the base 3 is constructed using the side portion of the metal housing 16. The first surface 30 of the base 3 is the outer surface of the metal housing 16. The outer surface of the metal housing 16 is the surface on the side of the outer frame 17 of the metal housing 16, which is the surface opposite to the communication circuit 11 and the like housed in the metal housing 16. In the base 3, a first recess 31 capable of accommodating the antenna module 2 is formed on the first surface 30. Figure 9 As shown, the first recess 31 is roughly rectangular in shape when viewed from above. The first recess 31 consists of a bottom 32 on which the antenna module 2 is placed and an inner side 33 surrounding the antenna module 2. The bottom 32 and the inner side 33 of the first recess 31 function as reflectors that reflect the radio waves radiated from the antenna module 2 toward the front of the antenna module 2 (the direction of the antenna surface 20), thereby improving the utilization efficiency of the radio waves radiated from the antenna module 2.

[0051] Antenna module 2 is positioned within the first recess 31 at a predetermined location. This predetermined location is defined as a position where, in at least a portion of the inner surface 33 of the first recess 31, the distance d2 between the inner surface 33 and antenna module 2 is greater than 0 and is less than 1 / 10 of the wavelength corresponding to a given communication frequency. Figure 9 In the first and second ends of the antenna module 2 in the width direction (in the middle), Figure 9A portion of the upper and lower ends and the first end in the length direction ( Figure 9 (at the right end of the spectrum), the distance d2 is greater than 0 and less than 1 / 10 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency. For details, please refer to "[1.4 Evaluation]" which will be described later. By positioning antenna module 2 in the aforementioned specified position, an increase in the gain of antenna module 2 in the front direction (antenna surface 20 direction) can be achieved.

[0052] like Figure 9 As shown, the substrate 3 has a plurality of positioning protrusions 34-1 to 34-5 (hereinafter collectively referred to as 34) that position the antenna module 2 in a predetermined position by contacting it. This facilitates the alignment of the antenna module 2 with the substrate 3, thus simplifying the assembly of the antenna device 10. The plurality of positioning protrusions 34 protrude from the inner surface 33 of the first recess 31. This simplifies the construction of the substrate 3. In this embodiment, the amount by which the positioning protrusions 34 protrude from the inner surface 33 is set to be greater than 0 and less than 1 / 10 of the wavelength corresponding to a given communication frequency.

[0053] More specifically, the positioning protrusions 34-1 and 34-2 extend from the first end of the first recess 31 in the inner side 33, in the direction of width of the antenna module 2. Figure 9 The portion protruding from the upper end of the first recess 31 (opposite to the first end of the antenna module 2 in the width direction) is such that, in the inner surface 33, the distance d2 between the portion opposite to the first end of the antenna module 2 in the width direction and the antenna module 2 is set to be greater than 0 and less than 1 / 10 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency. Positioning protrusions 34-3 and 34-4 protrude from the second end of the first recess 31 (opposite to the second end of the antenna module 2 in the width direction) in the inner surface 33. Figure 9 The portion protruding from the lower end of the first recess 31 is such that the distance d2 between the portion of the second end of the antenna module 2 in the width direction and the antenna module 2 is greater than 0 and less than 1 / 10 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency. The distance d2 can also be less than 1 / 18 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency, or less than 1 / 27 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency. For example, in the case of a given communication frequency in the 28 GHz band, the distance d2 can be approximately 0.4 mm, which is 1 / 27 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency. For example, in the case of a given communication frequency in the 40 GHz band, the distance d2 can be approximately 0.4 mm, which is 1 / 18 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency. The antenna module 2 is positioned in the width direction by positioning protrusions 34-1, 34-2, 34-3, and 34-4. The positioning protrusion 34-5 protrudes from the lower end of the first recess 31 from the first end of the antenna module 2 in the length direction. Figure 9The part opposite the right end of the antenna module 2 protrudes, thus the distance d2 between the part opposite the first end of the antenna module 2 in the length direction of the inner side 33 and the antenna module 2 is set to be greater than 0 and less than 1 / 10 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency. Figure 9 In the middle, the second end of the antenna module 2 in the length direction ( Figure 9 The corner of the left end of the first recess 31 contacts the inner surface 33 of the first recess 31. Thus, the antenna module 2 is positioned along its length.

[0054] like Figure 9 As shown, the substrate 3 has a positioning part 35. In this embodiment, the substrate 3 has two positioning parts 35. The positioning parts 35 position the radome 4 in a given position. Figure 5 As shown, the given position is a direction orthogonal to both the thickness direction of the antenna module 2 and the direction in which the antenna elements 2a are arranged in the antenna surface 20. Figure 5 In the left-right direction (and the width direction of the antenna module 2), the center C4 of the radome 4 coincides with the center C2 of the antenna module 2. That is, when the radome 4 is mounted on the base 3, the center C4 of the radome 4 converges to the center C2 in the width direction of the antenna module 2. By positioning the radome 4 in this given position, the influence of the radome 4 on the antenna radiation characteristics of the antenna module 2 can be reduced. Furthermore, the positioning part 35 makes it easy to align the radome 4 with the antenna module 2, thus simplifying the assembly of the antenna device 10. In this embodiment, the positioning part 35 and the positioning part 44 of the radome 4 (described later) are... Figure 10 This, combined with other methods, positions the radome 4 in a given location. Figure 9 In this case, the positioning part 35 is a recess of the positioning part 44 of the receiving antenna cover 4. The positioning part 35 is formed in the first surface 30 of the base 3 around the first recess 31.

[0055] like Figure 9 As shown, the substrate 3 has an opening 36. Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 As shown, the opening 36 extends through the bottom 32 of the first recess 31. As described above, the base 3 is part of the metal housing 16, and the opening 36 connects the interior and exterior of the metal housing 16. Through the opening 36, the antenna module 2 located outside the metal housing 16 can be connected to the communication circuit 11 located inside the metal housing 16. Figure 9As shown, the opening 36 does not overlap with the antenna module 2 in the thickness direction. As described above, the bottom 32 of the first recess 31 functions as a reflector that reflects the radio waves radiated from the antenna module 2 toward the front of the antenna module 2 (the direction of the antenna surface 20). Therefore, by ensuring that the opening 36 does not overlap with the antenna module 2 in the thickness direction, it is possible to reduce the impact on the radiation characteristics of the antenna module 2 caused by the opening 36 while enabling the connection of the antenna module 2 to other circuits (communication circuit 11).

[0056] like Figure 9 As shown, opening 36 is roughly rectangular in top view. The length and width directions of opening 36 correspond to the length and width directions of antenna module 2. Opening 36 is adjacent to antenna module 2 in a direction orthogonal to both the thickness direction of antenna module 2 and the direction in which antenna elements 2a are arranged in antenna surface 20 (the length direction of antenna module 2). This structure reduces the wiring length required for connecting antenna module 2 to other circuits (communication circuit 11).

[0057] The dimensions of the opening 36 will be further explained. In this embodiment, the dimension D1 of the opening 36 is less than half the dimension of the antenna module 2 in the direction in which the antenna elements 2a are arranged in the antenna surface 20 (the length direction of the antenna module 2). Details will be described later in "[1.4 Evaluation]". According to this structure, the impact on the radiation characteristics of the antenna module 2 caused by the opening 36 can be reduced, and the connection of the antenna module 2 to other circuits (communication circuit 11) can be achieved. In this embodiment, the dimension D2 of the opening 36 is less than one-third of the wavelength corresponding to a given communication frequency in the direction orthogonal to the thickness direction of the antenna module 2 and the direction in which the antenna elements 2a are arranged in the antenna surface 20 (the width direction of the antenna module 2). Therefore, the impact on the radiation characteristics of the antenna module 2 caused by the opening 36 can be reduced, and the connection of the antenna module 2 to other circuits (communication circuit 11) can be achieved.

[0058] like Figure 6 As shown, the antenna module 2 is accommodated in the first recess 31 of the first surface 30 of the substrate 3, and an elastic member 7 is disposed between the antenna module 2 and the bottom 32 of the first recess 31 of the substrate 3. The depth of the first recess 31 is less than the thickness of the antenna module 2 and the thickness of the elastic member 7. Therefore, the antenna module 2 is accommodated in the first recess 31 such that the antenna surface 20 protrudes from the first surface 30.

[0059] The radome 4 protects the antenna module 2. The radome 4 is formed of a dielectric material such as resin to allow radio waves from or towards the antenna module 2 to pass through. Figures 4-6 As shown, the radome 4 has a second surface 40 opposite to the first surface 30 of the base 3. In the radome 4, a second recess 41 is formed on the second surface 40, opposite to the first recess 31. The second recess 41 and the first recess 31 together form a space for accommodating the antenna module 2. Figure 7 as well as Figure 10 As shown, the radome 4 is a rectangular plate when viewed from above. In the thickness direction of the radome 4, the surface on the side of the base 3 is the second surface 40. (As shown...) Figure 10 As shown, the radome 4 has a first portion 4a that contacts the bottom of the second recess 41, and a second portion 4b that contacts the sidewall portion of the second recess 41 and the flange portion protruding outward from the sidewall portion. The thickness t1 of the first portion 4a is uniform, and both surfaces of the first portion 4a in the thickness direction are flat surfaces. Therefore, the bottom surface 411 of the second recess 41 is also a flat surface. The first portion 4a is linearly symmetrical with respect to a line passing through the center of the width direction of the radome 4 along its length direction. The thickness of the second portion 4b is uniform, and both surfaces of the second portion 4b in the thickness direction are flat surfaces.

[0060] In this embodiment, such as Figure 5 As shown, antenna module 2 is housed in the first recess 31, such that antenna surface 20 protrudes from the first surface 30. When the radome 4 is mounted on the base 3, the antenna surface 20 of antenna module 2 is located within the second recess 41 of radome 4. The bottom surface 411 of the second recess 41 is a flat surface. Thus, the bottom surface 411 of the second recess 41 of radome 4 includes an opposing region 412 that is parallel to antenna surface 20. The distance d1 between opposing region 412 and antenna surface 20 is in the range of more than 1 / 50 and less than 1 / 30 of the wavelength corresponding to a given communication frequency. For example, in the case of a given communication frequency in the 28 GHz band, the distance d1 is in the range of about 0.2 mm to 0.35 mm. For example, in the case of a given communication frequency in the 40 GHz band, the distance d1 is in the range of about 0.15 mm to 0.25 mm. Experiments confirmed that if the distance d1 exceeds 1 / 30 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency, the antenna gain drops significantly. Therefore, by keeping the distance d1 between the opposing region 412 and the antenna surface 20 within the range of more than 1 / 50 and less than 1 / 30 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency, the decrease in antenna gain caused by the reflection of radio waves on the radome 4 can be suppressed.

[0061] like Figure 10 As shown, in order to set the distance d1 within the range of more than 1 / 50 and less than 1 / 30 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency, the radome 4 has spacers 42-1 to 42-6 (hereinafter collectively referred to as 42). Figure 5As shown, the spacer 42 is positioned between the opposing region 412 and the antenna surface 20, maintaining the distance d1 between the opposing region 412 and the antenna surface 20 within a range of 1 / 50 to 1 / 30 of the wavelength corresponding to a given communication frequency. In this embodiment, the spacer 42 is formed on the bottom surface 411 of the second recess 41. The spacer 42 is integrally formed continuously with the first portion 4a and the second portion 4b, and the spacer 42 is also a dielectric. The height of the spacer 42 is set such that, when the antenna surface 20 is in contact with the spacer 42, the distance d1 is 1 / 50 to 1 / 30 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency. Therefore, it is easy to set the distance d1 within a range of 1 / 50 to 1 / 30 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency.

[0062] like Figure 10 As shown, the spacer 42 is configured not to oppose the antenna element 2a of the antenna module 2 (in the thickness direction of the antenna module 2). Further, in a plane parallel to the antenna surface 20, the distance d3 between the spacer 42 and the antenna element 2a (in...) Figure 10 (Illustrated as the distance between spacer 42-5 and antenna element 2a-3) is set to be more than 1 / 5 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency. More specifically, the distance between spacer 42-5 and each of antenna elements 2a-1 to 2a-4 is set to be more than 1 / 5 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency. The distance d3 can also be less than 1 / 8 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency. In this embodiment, spacers 42-1 to 42-6 are disposed around the bottom surface 411 of the second recess 41. The distance d3 between each of spacers 42-1 to 42-6 and the closest antenna element 2a among antenna elements 2a-1 to 2a-4, in the plane parallel to the antenna surface 20, is in the range of more than 1 / 5 and less than 1 / 8 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency. For example, when the given communication frequency is a frequency in the 28 GHz band, the distance d3 is in the range of approximately 1.3 mm to 2.1 mm. For example, when the given communication frequency is in the 40 GHz band, the distance d3 is in the range of approximately 0.9 mm to 1.5 mm. In this embodiment, the spacer 42 is a dielectric. Therefore, by setting the distance d3 to be more than 1 / 5 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency, the distance d1 can be maintained to be more than 1 / 50 and less than 1 / 30 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency, and the impact on antenna characteristics such as antenna gain and radiation directivity caused by the placement of the spacer 42 can be reduced.

[0063] like Figure 10As shown, the radome 4 has positioning portions 44. In this embodiment, the radome 4 has two positioning portions 44. The positioning portions 44, together with the positioning portion 35 of the base 3, are used to position the radome 4 at the given position described above. Figure 10 In this configuration, the positioning part 44 is a protrusion embedded in the positioning part 35 of the base 3. The positioning part 44 is formed on the edge of the second portion 4b of the radome 4. Figure 5 As shown, the given position is a direction orthogonal to both the thickness direction of the antenna module 2 and the direction in which the antenna elements 2a are arranged in the antenna surface 20. Figure 5 In the left-right direction (and the width direction of antenna module 2), the center C4 of the radome 4 coincides with the center C2 of antenna module 2. As described above, in the radome 4, the first portion 4a is linearly symmetrical with respect to a line passing through the center of the radome 4 in the width direction along the length direction of the radome 4. Therefore, by positioning the radome 4 in a given position, the first portion 4a becomes linearly symmetrical with respect to a line L1 passing through the center of the antenna elements 2a (antenna elements 2a-1 to 2a-4) arranged in one direction on the antenna surface 20. The first portion 4a is the part of the radome 4 that covers the antenna module 2. Thus, in the radome 4, the part of the radome 4 that covers the antenna module 2 (the first portion 4a) is linearly symmetrical with respect to a line L1 passing through the center of the antenna elements 2a arranged in one direction on the antenna surface 20. That is, the radome 4 is a concave structure that is approximately linearly symmetrical with respect to the short side direction of the antenna module 2. According to this structure, the possibility that the radiation characteristics of the antenna module 2 are disturbed by the radome 4, resulting in radiation becoming stronger or weaker in an unexpected direction, can be reduced. As a result, the antenna gain of the antenna module 2 in the front direction (antenna surface 20 direction) can be improved.

[0064] As described above, in the radome 4, the thickness t1 of the first portion 4a is uniform, and both sides of the first portion 4a in the thickness direction are flat. The thickness t1 of the first portion 4a is in the range of more than 1 / 10 and less than 1 / 8 of the wavelength corresponding to a given communication frequency. That is, in the radome 4, the first portion 4a is the opposing portion opposite to the antenna surface 20, so the thickness t1 of the opposing portion is in the range of more than 1 / 10 and less than 1 / 8 of the wavelength corresponding to a given communication frequency. For example, when the given communication frequency is in the 28 GHz band, the thickness t1 is in the range of approximately 1.1 mm to 1.3 mm. For example, when the given communication frequency is in the 40 GHz band, the thickness t1 is in the range of approximately 0.8 mm to 0.9 mm. According to this structure, the possibility that the radiation characteristics of the antenna module 2 are disturbed by the radome 4, resulting in unexpectedly strong or weak radiation, can be reduced. As a result, the antenna gain in the front direction (antenna surface 20 direction) of the antenna module 2 can be improved.

[0065] The waterproof structure 5 is a waterproof structure used between the first surface 30 of the substrate 3 and the second surface 40 of the radome 4. In this embodiment, the waterproof structure 5 is located between the periphery of the first recess 31 in the first surface 30 of the substrate 3 and the periphery of the second recess 41 in the second surface 40 of the radome 4. Specifically, the waterproof structure 5 is a joining member that fills the gap between the first surface 30 of the substrate 3 and the second surface 40 of the radome 4 to join the radome 4 and the substrate 3. The joining member is, for example, a waterproof, cushioning double-sided adhesive tape. Figure 8 As shown, the waterproof structure 5 is a rectangular frame with an opening 50. Alternatively, the waterproof structure 5 can be a waterproof elastic member. The waterproof structure 5 is configured to fill the gap between the first surface 30 of the substrate 3 and the second surface 40 of the radome 4, and can be configured such that the waterproof structure 5 is sandwiched between the radome 4 and the substrate 3 by tightening the radome 4 with screws or the like. The waterproof structure 5 is disposed on the first surface 30 of the substrate 3 such that the antenna module 2 within the first recess 31 is exposed from the opening 50.

[0066] Connecting member 6 is used to connect antenna module 2 to communication circuit 11. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the connecting member 6 includes a first piece 61 and a second piece 62. The first piece 61 is connected to the antenna module 2 and extends from the antenna module 2 toward the opening 36 of the first recess 31 of the base 3. The second piece 62 extends from the front end of the first piece 61 through the opening 36. The second piece 62 is connected to the communication circuit 11 inside the metal housing 16. The second piece 62 is sized to pass through the opening 36. In this embodiment, after the connecting member 6 is connected to the antenna module 2, the second piece 62 can pass through the opening 36, and the antenna module 2 and the connecting member 6 can be accommodated in the first recess 31. This simplifies the assembly of the antenna device 10. In this case, to prevent the antenna module 2 and the connecting member 6 from accidentally detaching, as... Figure 6As shown, the first piece 61 of the connecting member 6 can be fixed to the antenna module 2 using the fixing tape 8. The connecting member 6 has a wiring pattern extending from the first piece 61 to the second piece 62, through which the antenna module 2 connected to the first piece 61 and the communication circuit 11 connected to the second piece 62 are interconnected. By using the connecting member 6, it is unnecessary to connect the antenna module 2 and the communication circuit 11 using connecting wires or the like passing through the opening 36. Thus, the connection between the antenna module 2 and the communication circuit 11 becomes easy. In this embodiment, the connecting member 6 includes a connector 63. The connector 63 is provided on the first piece 61, making it easy to connect the antenna module 2 to the first piece 61. In this embodiment, the first piece 61 and the second piece 62 are formed by bending a flexible substrate. Thus, the connecting member 6 can be easily installed. Thus, in the connecting member 6, in order to minimize line loss, the wiring pattern is designed to follow the shortest path, and by making the second piece 62 smaller than the opening 36, a structure is formed in which the flexible substrate is bent at approximately a right angle from the connector end of the antenna module 2 and introduced into the metal housing 16. Furthermore, by providing a conductive reinforcing plate on the surface of the flexible cable, conductivity during surface contact can be improved.

[0067] The elastic member 7 is used to position the antenna module 2 relative to the radome 4 in the thickness direction of the antenna module 2. For example... Figures 4-6 As shown, the elastic member 7 is disposed between the antenna module 2 and the bottom 32 of the first recess 31 of the base 3. More specifically, the elastic member 7 is disposed between the antenna module 2 and the bottom 32 of the first recess 31 of the base 3 in a compressed state in the thickness direction of the antenna module 2. The elastic member 7 has elasticity to withstand the weight of the antenna module 2 and to press the antenna module 2 relative to the radome 4. With this structure, the elastic member 7 presses the antenna module 2 uniformly against the radome 4. Therefore, even if shape errors or thermal expansion and contraction occur due to the antenna module 2, base 3, radome 4, waterproof structure 5, and connecting member 6, the antenna module 2 can be positioned in a determined position relative to the radome 4. As a result, the performance deviation of the antenna device 10 caused by the deviation in the distance between the antenna module 2 and the radome 4 can be reduced, and the yield rate can be improved.

[0068] like Figure 11 As shown, the elastic member 7 includes a main body 71 and a conductive layer 72.

[0069] The main body 71 is elastic. Figure 11The main body 71 shown is a flat cuboid. The thickness, length, and width directions of the main body 71 correspond to the thickness, length, and width directions of the antenna module 2, respectively. The surfaces of the main body 71 include a first surface 71a and a second surface 71b in the thickness direction, a third surface 71c and a fourth surface 71d in the length direction, and a fifth surface 71e and a sixth surface 71f in the width direction. The first surface 71a of the main body 71 is the surface opposite to the antenna module 2 within the main body 71. The second surface 71b of the main body 71 is the surface on the opposite side of the antenna module 2 within the main body 71. The third surface 71c and the fourth surface 71d of the main body 71 are the two surfaces in the direction in which the antenna element 2a is arranged in the antenna surface 20. The fifth surface 71e and the sixth surface 71f of the main body 71 are the two surfaces in the direction orthogonal to the thickness direction of the antenna module 2 and the direction in which the antenna element 2a is arranged in the antenna surface 20, respectively. Examples of materials used for the main body 71 include cushioning materials and heat-dissipating rubber materials. Cushioning materials include polyurethane foam, polyethylene foam, ethylene propylene rubber, etc. Heat-dissipating rubber materials include silicone, acrylic, etc. In this embodiment, the main body 71 is formed of a heat-dissipating rubber material. Therefore, the main body 71 has thermal conductivity.

[0070] The conductive layer 72 connects the ground plane 21 of the antenna module 2 to the substrate 3. In essence, the conductive layer 72 provides a high-frequency connection between the ground plane 21 of the antenna module 2 and the substrate 3. This allows the substrate 3 to be used as a ground for the antenna module 2. Consequently, the sensitivity reduction effect caused by unwanted radiation from the antenna module 2 can be reduced. In this embodiment, the conductive layer 72 is formed of a metallic material and has thermal conductivity. Preferably, the metallic material used for the conductive layer 72 is a material with relatively high thermal conductivity, even among metallic materials. The conductive layer 72 is formed on the surface of the body 71. More specifically, as... Figure 11 As shown, the conductive layer 72 includes a first portion 72a, a second portion 72b, and a third portion 72c and 72d. The first portion 72a covers the first surface 71a of the main body 71. The first portion 72a is located on the first surface 71a opposite to the antenna module 2 in the main body 71 and is connected to the antenna module 2. The second portion 72b covers the second surface 71b of the main body 71. The second portion 72b is located on the second surface 71b opposite to the antenna module 2 in the main body 71 and is connected to the substrate 3. The third portions 72c and 72d cover the third surface 71c and the fourth surface 71d of the main body 71, respectively. The third portions 72c and 72d connect the first portion 72a and the second portion 72b. The third portions 72c and 72d are located in the direction in which the antenna element 2a is arranged in the antenna surface 20. Figure 11The first portion 72a and the second portion 72b are connected to the two sides (third portion 71c and fourth portion 71d) of the main body 71 in the left-right direction. Thus, there are no portions covering the fifth portion 71e and the sixth portion 71f of the main body 71. For example, a conductive layer 72 is formed by winding a conductive sheet around the main body 71 in the direction of its width as the central axis. Details will be described in "[1.4 Evaluation]" later. In this way, the impact on the radiation characteristics of the antenna module 2 caused by the provision of the conductive layer 72 can be reduced.

[0071] In this embodiment, since the main body 71 and the conductive layer 72 are thermally conductive, the elastic member 7 as a whole is also thermally conductive. According to this structure, the heat generated in the antenna module 2 can be transferred to the substrate 3 via the elastic member 7, thereby improving the heat dissipation of the antenna device 10.

[0072] According to such an elastic member 7, the effect of sensitivity reduction caused by useless radiation from the antenna module 2 can be reduced, the effect on the radiation characteristics of the antenna module 2 caused by the provision of the conductive layer 72 can be reduced, and the heat dissipation of the antenna device 10 can be improved.

[0073] [1.3 Assembly]

[0074] Next, an example of the assembly method of the antenna device 10 will be briefly described.

[0075] First, the connecting member 6 is connected to the antenna module 2. Specifically, the antenna module 2 is connected to the connector 63 of the connecting member 6, and the first piece 61 of the connecting member 6 is fixed to the antenna module 2 by the fixing tape 8.

[0076] Next, an elastic member 7 is disposed at the bottom 32 of the first recess 31 of the base 3.

[0077] Next, as Figure 9 As shown, the antenna module 2 and the connecting member 6 are accommodated in the first recess 31, such that the second piece 62 of the connecting member 6 passes through the opening 36. Thus, the elastic member 7 is located between the antenna module 2 and the bottom 32 of the first recess 31 of the base 3. The antenna module 2 is positioned in a predetermined position by the positioning protrusion 34 of the base 3. As described above, Figure 9 As shown, the specified position is a position in which the distance d2 between the inner side surface 33 and the antenna module 2 is greater than 0 and is less than 1 / 10 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency in at least a portion of the inner side surface 33 of the first recess 31.

[0078] Next, as Figure 8 As shown, the waterproof structure 5 is disposed around the first recess 31 of the substrate 3.

[0079] Next, as Figure 7 As shown, the radome 4 is mounted on the base 3. In this embodiment, the waterproof structure 5 is double-sided tape, so the radome 4 is fixed to the base 3 by the waterproof structure 5. When mounting the radome 4 to the base 3, the radome 4 is positioned in a given position by engaging the positioning part 44 of the radome 4 with the positioning part 35 of the base 3. As described above, Figure 5 As shown, the given position is a direction orthogonal to both the thickness direction of the antenna module 2 and the direction in which the antenna elements 2a are arranged in the antenna surface 20. Figure 5 In the left-right direction and the width direction of the antenna module 2, the center C4 of the radome 4 is aligned with the center C2 of the antenna module 2.

[0080] Thus, antenna device 10 is obtained. In antenna device 10, elastic member 7 is disposed between antenna module 2 and bottom 32 of first recess 31 of base 3 in a compressed state in the thickness direction of antenna module 2. Thus, by means of elastic member 7, antenna surface 20 of antenna module 2 protrudes from first recess 31 and is pressed against opposing region 412 of bottom surface 411 of second recess 41 of radome 4. Radome 4 has spacer 42, so the distance d1 between antenna surface 20 and opposing region 412 is maintained in the range of more than 1 / 50 and less than 1 / 30 of wavelength corresponding to a given communication frequency.

[0081] According to the antenna device 10 described above, when the antenna module 2 is disposed between the radome 4 and the substrate 3, antenna characteristic degradation caused by configuration deviations during assembly can be suppressed, and the sensitivity reduction effect caused by unwanted radiation from the antenna element 2a of the antenna module 2 can be reduced. Furthermore, the antenna module 2 exhibits excellent heat dissipation and can achieve stable operation. Specifically, in this embodiment, the substrate 3 is part of the metal housing 16 of the electronic device 1, and the first surface 30 in which the first recess 31 is formed is not the inner surface of the metal housing 16 but the outer surface. Therefore, the antenna module 2 can be disposed within a limited space, and antenna characteristic degradation can be minimized while suppressing configuration deviations during assembly, thereby achieving a balance between miniaturization and antenna performance.

[0082] [1.4 Evaluation]

[0083] The following shows the results of an evaluation of the advantages brought about by the structure of the antenna device 10.

[0084] [1.4.1 Conductive layer of elastic member]

[0085] The conductive layer 72 of the elastic member 7 was evaluated using structural examples 1 and 2 of the antenna device 10. The structures of the conductive layer 72 of the elastic member 7 differ between structural examples 1 and 2 of the antenna device 10. In structural example 1, as described above, the conductive layer 72 is formed by winding a conductive sheet around the body 71 with the width direction of the body 71 as the central axis. Thus, in the conductive layer 72, the first portion 72a and the second portion 72b are connected by covering the third portion 72c and 72d of the third surface 71c and the fourth surface 71d of the body 71, respectively. The conductive layer 72 does not cover the fifth surface 71e and the sixth surface 71f of the body 71. In structural example 2, the conductive layer 72 is formed by winding a conductive sheet around the body 71 with the length direction of the body 71 as the central axis. In this case, in the conductive layer 72, the first portion 72a and the second portion 72b are connected by the third portion covering the fifth surface 71e and the sixth surface 71f of the main body 71, respectively. The conductive layer 72 does not cover the third surface 71c and the fourth surface 71d of the main body 71.

[0086] exist Figure 12 In the diagram, (a) is the electric field distribution diagram of structural example 1 of the antenna device 10, and (b) is the electric field distribution diagram of structural example 2 of the antenna device 10. As per... Figure 12 As explicitly stated, in Structural Example 2, the electric field is more strongly distributed near the opening of the first recess 31 shown by P1, and in the gap between the inner side 33 of the first recess 31 and the antenna module 2, but in Structural Example 1, the peak value of the electric field is dispersed. In Structural Example 1, an electric field is distributed in the portion between the antenna module 2 and the bottom 32 of the first recess 31 of the substrate 3, shown by P2. Furthermore, in Structural Example 2, the radome 4 has a greater influence on reflection in the portion in front of the antenna surface 20 of the antenna module 2 shown by P3, but in Structural Example 1, the influence of the radome 4 on reflection is improved. In Structural Example 1, unlike Structural Example 2, the electric field on the substrate 3 side of the antenna module 2 is not interrupted by the conductive layer 72 of the elastic member 7, thereby reducing the influence on the radiation characteristics of the antenna module 2.

[0087] [1.4.2 Openings in the matrix]

[0088] The opening 36 of the substrate 3 was evaluated using structural examples 3 to 6 of the antenna device 10. Regarding structural examples 3 to 6 of the antenna device 10, the structures of the opening 36 of the first recess 31 of the substrate 3 differ. Figure 13In the diagram, (a) is a top view of structural example 3 of the antenna device 10, (b) is a top view of structural example 4 of the antenna device 10, and (c) is a top view of structural example 5 of the antenna device 10. In structural example 3, in the direction in which the antenna elements 2a are arranged in the antenna surface 20 (the length direction of the antenna module 2), the size D1 of the opening 36 is 1 / 2 of the size L of the antenna module 2. In structural example 4, in the direction in which the antenna elements 2a are arranged in the antenna surface 20 (the length direction of the antenna module 2), the size D1 of the opening 36 is 2 / 3 of the size L of the antenna module 2. In structural example 5, in the direction in which the antenna elements 2a are arranged in the antenna surface 20 (the length direction of the antenna module 2), the size D1 of the opening 36 is equal to the size L of the antenna module 2. In structural example 6, the opening 36 is not provided in the base 3.

[0089] Figure 14 These are graphs of the cumulative distribution function in structural examples 3 to 6 of antenna device 10. Figure 14 In the diagram, curves G13 to G16 correspond to structures 3 to 6, respectively. As per... Figure 14 As explicitly stated, curve G16 is on the far right. That is, the radiation characteristics of antenna module 2 are better without opening 36. However, curve G13 is approximately the same as curve G16, so if the size D1 of opening 36 is half the size L of antenna module 2, as in structural example 3, the impact on the radiation characteristics of antenna module 2 caused by the opening 36 is smaller. On the other hand, in the region of low antenna gain, curves G14 and G15 corresponding to structural examples 4 and 5 are shifted to the left compared to curve G16. This means that the probability of the antenna gain being below a given value increases compared to curve G16. Based on the above, it can be concluded that by setting the size D1 of opening 36 to half the size L of antenna module 2, the impact on the radiation characteristics of antenna module 2 caused by the opening 36 can be reduced while connecting antenna module 2 to other circuits (communication circuit 11).

[0090] [1.4.3 Positioning protrusions of the matrix]

[0091] The opening 36 of the substrate 3 was evaluated using structural examples 7 and 8 of the antenna device 10. Regarding structural examples 7 and 8 of the antenna device 10, the structure of the positioning protrusion 34 of the substrate 3 differs. In structural example 7, the protrusion amount of the positioning protrusion 34 from the inner surface 33 is set to be greater than 0 and less than 1 / 10 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency. Therefore, at least a portion of the inner surface 33 of the first recess 31 has a distance d2 between the inner surface 33 and the antenna module 2 that is greater than 0 and less than 1 / 10 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency. For example, the distance d2 can be set to 1 / 18 or 1 / 27 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency. In structural example 8, the protrusion amount of the positioning protrusion 34 from the inner surface 33 is set to be greater than 1 / 10 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency. Therefore, the distance d2 between the inner surface 33 of the first recess 31 and the antenna module 2 is greater than 1 / 10 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency. For example, the distance d2 can be set to 1 / 5 or 1 / 4 of the wavelength corresponding to a given communication frequency.

[0092] Figure 15 This is a graph showing the angle dependence of antenna gain for structural examples 7 and 8 of antenna device 10. Figure 15 In the diagram, curves G21 and G22 correspond to structures 7 and 8, respectively. Figure 15 In this context, the direction with an angle of 0 corresponds to the front direction of antenna module 2 (the direction of antenna surface 20). For example, according to... Figure 15 As can be understood, compared to curve G22 corresponding to structural example 8, curve G21 corresponding to structural example 7 tends to have a greater gain in the front direction of antenna module 2. For millimeter-wave antennas, maximum gain is an important indicator of performance, so it can be said that the antenna performance of structural example 7 is better than that of structural example 8. That is, the inner surface 33 of antenna module 2 near the first recess 31 of the substrate 3 can better improve antenna performance.

[0093] [1.4.4 Conductivity of the substrate]

[0094] The properties of the substrate 3 were evaluated using structural examples 9 and 10 of the antenna device 10. The materials of the substrate 3 differ between structural examples 9 and 10 of the antenna device 10. In structural example 9, the substrate 3 is made of metal and is conductive. In structural example 10, the substrate 3 is a dielectric material such as resin and is not conductive.

[0095] Figure 16 This is a graph showing the angle dependence of antenna gain for structural examples 9 and 10 of antenna device 10. Figure 16 In the diagram, curves G31 and G32 correspond to structures 9 and 10, respectively. Figure 16In this context, the direction with an angle of 0 corresponds to the front direction of antenna module 2 (the direction of antenna surface 20). For example, according to... Figure 16 As can be understood, compared to curve G32 corresponding to structural example 10, curve G31 corresponding to structural example 9 shows a greater gain in the front direction of antenna module 2, and a tendency for decreased gain in the back direction (the direction of ground plane 21). This is believed to be because, since the substrate 3 is made of metal, radio waves from antenna module 2 are reflected around the first recess 31 of the substrate 3. For antennas using millimeter waves, maximum gain is an important indicator of performance, so it can be said that the antenna performance of structural example 9 is better than that of structural example 10. That is, the improved antenna performance is achieved when the substrate 3 of antenna module 2 is conductive.

[0096] [2. Variations]

[0097] The embodiments disclosed herein are not limited to the embodiments described above. Various modifications can be made to the embodiments described above, depending on the design, etc., as long as the objectives of this disclosure are achieved. Hereinafter, variations of the embodiments described above are listed. The variations described below can be appropriately combined and applied.

[0098] Electronic device 1 is not limited to a tablet terminal as described in the above embodiments. Electronic device 1 can be a terminal device or a server or other device with communication capabilities. Examples of terminal devices include personal computers (desktop computers, laptop computers), portable terminals (smartphones, wearable terminals, etc.).

[0099] In one variation, antenna module 2 is not limited to a phased array antenna. Antenna module 2 can be a multi-band antenna capable of communication in different frequency bands. The shape and number of antenna elements 2a are not particularly limited. That is, antenna module 2 may also include only one antenna element 2a. The given communication frequency is not limited to the 26–300 GHz band and can be selected from any desired frequency band.

[0100] In a variation, the substrate 3 need not necessarily be part of the metal housing 16, but can be a component independent of the metal housing 16. The shape of the first recess 31 is not limited to the shape in the above embodiment, and can be appropriately set according to the shape of the antenna module 2.

[0101] In a variation, the positioning protrusion 34 may not protrude from the inner side 33 of the first recess 31, but from the bottom 32 of the first recess 31. The positioning protrusion 34 is only required to be able to position the antenna module 2 in the specified position by contacting the antenna module 2, and there is no particular limitation on the shape and number of the positioning protrusion 34.

[0102] In one variation, the positioning part 35 is not limited to a recess; it can also be a convex part or a combination of a convex and a recess. The shape of the positioning part 44 of the radome 4 and the presence or absence of the positioning part 44 are determined by the shape of the positioning part 35 of the base 3. The positioning part 35 is not mandatory.

[0103] In a variation, the opening 36 may also be formed such that at least a portion, but not all, of the opening does not overlap with the antenna module 2 in the thickness direction. The opening 36 may also be adjacent to the antenna module 2 in the direction in which the antenna elements 2a are arranged in the antenna surface 20. The dimensions of the opening 36 are preferably those described in the above embodiments, but are not particularly limited. The opening 36 is not mandatory.

[0104] In a variation, the shape of the radome 4 is not limited to the shape described in the above embodiments, and can be appropriately set according to the shape of the antenna module 2.

[0105] In a modified example, the spacer 42 may also protrude from the inner side of the second recess 41, relative to the bottom surface 411 of the second recess 41. The spacer 42 is only required to make the distance d1 between 1 / 50 and 1 / 30 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency by contacting the antenna module 2, and the shape and number of the spacer 42 are not particularly limited.

[0106] In one variation, the positioning part 44 is not limited to a convex part; it can also be a concave part or a combination of a convex and a concave part. The positioning part 44 is not mandatory.

[0107] In one variation, the waterproof structure 5 is not limited to double-sided tape; any structure capable of achieving waterproofing between the first surface 30 of the substrate 3 and the second surface 40 of the radome 4 is acceptable. The waterproof structure 5 can be, for example, an adhesive, or a known waterproof component such as a sealant or gasket. The waterproof structure 5 can also be a resin or metal component covering the second portion 4b of the radome 4, pressing the second surface 40 of the radome 4 against the first surface 30 of the substrate 3. The waterproof structure 5 can also be a fastening component such as a screw.

[0108] In one variation, the connecting member 6 is not limited to a structure where the first piece 61 and the second piece 62 are formed from a flexible substrate. For example, the first piece 61 and the second piece 62 can also be separate substrates. The connector 63 is not necessary in the connecting member 6. The second piece 62 does not need to be directly connected to the communication circuit 11; it can be connected using a wire such as a coaxial cable. The connecting member 6 is not essential.

[0109] In a variation, the conductive layer 72 in the elastic member 7 may only have one of the third portions 72c and 72d. That is, the conductive layer 72 may be located on at least one of the two surfaces (third surface 71c and fourth surface 71d) of the main body 71 in the direction in which the antenna element 2a is arranged in the antenna surface 20, and has third portions 72c and 72d connecting the first portion 72a and the second portion 72b. The conductive layer 72 may also include a portion covering at least one of the fifth surface 71e and the sixth surface 71f of the main body 71. In the elastic member 7, at least one of the main body 71 and the conductive layer 72 may be thermally conductive. The elastic member 7 does not necessarily need to be thermally conductive, provided that the heat dissipation of the antenna module 2 is sufficient. The elastic member 7 is not mandatory.

[0110] [3. Method]

[0111] As is clear from the above embodiments and variations, this disclosure includes the following methods. Hereinafter, symbols are indicated in parentheses only for the purpose of clearly showing the correspondence with the embodiments.

[0112] The first method is an antenna device (10) comprising: an antenna module (2) for communication at a given communication frequency; a conductive substrate (3) having a first surface (30) on which a first recess (31) is formed to accommodate the antenna module (2); a dielectric radome (4) having a second surface (40) opposite to the first surface (30) of the substrate (3) on which a second recess (41) opposite to the first recess (31) is formed; and a waterproof structure (5) for waterproofing between the first surface (30) of the substrate (3) and the second surface (40) of the radome (4). The antenna module (2) is accommodated in the first recess (31) such that the antenna surface (20) on which the antenna element (2a) is formed protrudes from the first surface (30) into the second recess (41). This method can improve both waterproofing and antenna performance.

[0113] The second method is an antenna device (10) based on the first method. In the second method, the bottom surface (411) of the second recess (41) includes an opposing region (412) that is parallel to the antenna surface (20). The distance (d1) between the opposing region (412) and the antenna surface (20) is in the range of more than 1 / 50 and less than 1 / 30 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency. According to this method, it is possible to suppress the decrease in antenna gain caused by the reflection of radio waves on the radome (4).

[0114] The third method is an antenna device (10) based on the second method. In the third method, the radome (4) has a spacer (42) located between the opposing region (412) and the antenna surface (20), maintaining the distance (d1) between the opposing region (412) and the antenna surface (20) within a range of more than 1 / 50 and less than 1 / 30 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency. According to this method, it becomes easier to set the distance (d1) between the opposing region (412) and the antenna surface (20) within a range of more than 1 / 50 and less than 1 / 30 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency.

[0115] The fourth method is an antenna device (10) based on the third method, in which the spacer (42) is not opposite to the antenna element (2a). In a plane parallel to the antenna surface (20), the distance (d3) between the spacer (42) and the antenna element (2a) is more than 1 / 5 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency. According to this method, the impact on antenna characteristics caused by the placement of the spacer (42) can be reduced.

[0116] The fifth method is an antenna device (10) based on any one of the methods 1 to 4. In the fifth method, the portion (4a) of the radome (4) covering the antenna module (2) is linearly symmetrical with respect to a line (L1) passing through the center of the antenna elements (2a) arranged along the antenna surface (20) in one direction. According to this method, the gain of the antenna module (2) in the front direction (antenna surface (20) direction) can be improved.

[0117] The sixth method is an antenna device (10) based on any one of methods 1 to 5. In the sixth method, the radome (4) includes a counter portion (4a) opposite to the antenna surface (20). The thickness of the counter portion (4a) is in the range of more than 1 / 10 and less than 1 / 8 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency. According to this method, the gain of the antenna module (2) in the front direction (antenna surface (20) direction) can be improved.

[0118] The seventh method is an antenna device (10) based on any one of the methods 1 to 6. In the seventh method, the antenna module (2) is positioned within the first recess (31) at a predetermined position. The predetermined position is a position in at least a portion of the inner side surface (33) of the first recess (31), where the distance between the inner side surface (33) and the antenna module (2) is greater than 0 and is less than 1 / 10 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency. According to this method, the gain of the antenna module (2) in the front direction (antenna surface (20) direction) can be improved.

[0119] The eighth method is an antenna device (10) based on the seventh method. In the eighth method, the substrate (3) has a positioning protrusion (34) that positions the antenna module (2) at the predetermined position by contacting the antenna module (2). According to this method, the alignment of the antenna module (2) with the substrate (3) becomes easier, thus simplifying the assembly of the antenna device (10).

[0120] The ninth method is an antenna device (10) based on the eighth method. In the ninth method, the positioning protrusion (34) protrudes from the inner side (33) of the first recess (31). According to this method, the construction of the substrate 3 can be simplified.

[0121] The tenth embodiment is an antenna device (10) based on any one of embodiments 1 to 9. In the tenth embodiment, the substrate (3) has a positioning part (35) that positions the radome (4) at a given position, which is a position where the center (C4) of the radome (4) and the center (C2) of the antenna module (2) coincide in a direction orthogonal to the thickness direction of the antenna module (2) and the direction in which the antenna elements (2a) are arranged in the antenna surface (20). According to this embodiment, the influence of the radome (4) on the antenna radiation characteristics of the antenna module (2) can be reduced. According to this embodiment, the alignment of the radome (4) and the antenna module (2) becomes easier, thus simplifying the assembly operation of the antenna device (10).

[0122] The 11th embodiment is an antenna device (10) based on any one of the 1st to 10th embodiments. In the 11th embodiment, the substrate (3) has an opening (36) penetrating the bottom (32) of the first recess (31). The opening (36) does not overlap with the antenna module (2) in the thickness direction. According to this embodiment, it is possible to connect the antenna module (2) to other circuits (communication circuit (11) while reducing the impact on the radiation characteristics of the antenna module (2) caused by the opening (36).

[0123] The 12th method is an antenna device (10) based on the 11th method. In the 12th method, the opening (36) is adjacent to the antenna module (2) in a direction orthogonal to the thickness direction of the antenna module (2) and the direction in which the antenna elements (2a) are arranged in the antenna surface (20). According to this method, the wiring length required for the connection of the antenna module (2) to other circuits (communication circuit (11)) can be shortened.

[0124] The 13th method is an antenna device (10) based on the 11th or 12th method. In the 13th method, the size (D1) of the opening (36) is less than 1 / 2 of the size of the antenna module in the direction in which the antenna elements (2a) are arranged in the antenna surface (20). According to this method, it is possible to connect the antenna module (2) to other circuits (communication circuit (11) while reducing the impact on the radiation characteristics of the antenna module (2) caused by the opening (36).

[0125] The 14th method is an antenna device (10) based on any one of the 11th to 13th methods. In the 14th method, the size of the opening (36) is less than 1 / 3 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency, in a direction orthogonal to the thickness direction of the antenna module (2) and the direction in which the antenna elements (2a) are arranged in the antenna surface (20). According to this method, it is possible to connect the antenna module (2) to other circuits (communication circuit (11) while reducing the impact on the radiation characteristics of the antenna module (2) caused by the opening (36).

[0126] The 15th embodiment is an antenna device (10) based on any one of the 11th to 14th embodiments. In the 15th embodiment, the antenna device (10) further includes a connecting member (6) for connecting the antenna module (2) to the communication circuit (11). The connecting member (6) includes: a first piece (61) connected to the antenna module (2) and extending from the antenna module (2) toward the opening (36); and a second piece (62) extending from the front end of the first piece (61) through the opening (36) and connected to the communication circuit (11). According to this embodiment, the connection between the antenna module (2) and the communication circuit (11) becomes easier.

[0127] The 16th embodiment is an antenna device (10) based on the 15th embodiment. In the 16th embodiment, the first piece (61) and the second piece (62) are formed by bending a flexible substrate. According to this embodiment, the connecting member (6) can be easily provided.

[0128] The 17th embodiment is an antenna device (10) based on any one of the 1st to 16th embodiments. In the 17th embodiment, the antenna device (10) further includes an elastic member (7) disposed between the antenna module (2) and the bottom (32) of the first recess (31) of the substrate (3) in a compressed state in the thickness direction of the antenna module (2). According to this structure, the performance deviation of the antenna device (10) caused by the deviation in the distance between the antenna module (2) and the radome (4) can be reduced, and the yield rate can be improved.

[0129] The 18th embodiment is an antenna device (10) based on the 17th embodiment. In the 18th embodiment, the elastic member (7) includes: a body (71) having elasticity; and a conductive layer (72) formed on the surface of the body (71) to connect the ground plane (21) of the antenna module (2) to the substrate (3). According to this structure, the substrate (3) can be used as the ground of the antenna module (2), thereby reducing the sensitivity reduction effect caused by unwanted radiation from the antenna module (2).

[0130] The 19th embodiment is an antenna device (10) based on the 18th embodiment. In the 19th embodiment, the conductive layer (72) includes: a first portion (72a) located on the surface (first surface 71a) of the main body (71) opposite to the antenna module (2) and connected to the antenna module (2); a second portion located on the surface (second surface 71b) of the main body (71) opposite to the antenna module (2) and connected to the substrate (3); and a third portion (72c, 72d) located on at least one of the two surfaces (third surface 71c and fourth surface 71d) of the main body (71) in the direction in which the antenna element (2a) is arranged in the antenna surface (20), connecting the first portion (72a) and the second portion (72b). According to this structure, the influence on the radiation characteristics of the antenna module (2) caused by the provision of the conductive layer (72) can be reduced.

[0131] The 20th method is an antenna device (10) based on the 18th or 19th method. In the 20th method, the elastic member (7) is thermally conductive. According to this method, the heat generated in the antenna module (2) can be transferred to the substrate (3) via the elastic member (7), thereby improving the heat dissipation of the antenna device (10).

[0132] The 21st method is an antenna device (10) based on any one of methods 1 to 20. In the 21st method, the given communication frequency includes a frequency band of 26 to 300 GHz. According to this method, an increase in communication speed achieved by the antenna device (10) can be realized.

[0133] The 22nd embodiment is an electronic device (1) comprising: an antenna device (10) based on any one of embodiments 1 to 21; a communication circuit (11) connected to the antenna device (10); and a metal housing (16) housing the communication circuit (11). The substrate (3) is part of the metal housing (16). The first surface (30) of the substrate (3) is the outer surface of the metal housing (16). According to this embodiment, improved waterproof performance and antenna performance can be achieved.

[0134] Industrial availability

[0135] This disclosure relates to antenna devices and electronic devices. Specifically, this disclosure can be applied to antenna devices that require waterproofing of the antenna module and electronic devices with metal housings.

[0136] Symbol Explanation

[0137] 1. Electronic equipment

[0138] 10-antenna device

[0139] 11 Communication Circuits

[0140] 12 Input / Output Devices

[0141] 121 Touchscreen Display

[0142] 13 Storage devices

[0143] 14 Operational Circuit

[0144] 15. Housing

[0145] 16 Metal casing

[0146] 17 Outer Frame

[0147] 171 Opening

[0148] 2 Antenna Modules

[0149] Antenna elements 2a, 2a-1 to 2a-4

[0150] 20 antenna surfaces

[0151] 21 Grounding

[0152] 3. Matrix

[0153] 30 Page 1

[0154] 31 1st recess

[0155] 32 Bottom

[0156] 33 Inner surface

[0157] 34, 34-1~34-5 Positioning protrusions

[0158] 35 Positioning Section

[0159] 36 Opening

[0160] 4. Antenna radome

[0161] 4a Part 1

[0162] 4b Part 2

[0163] 40 Page 2

[0164] 41 2nd recess

[0165] 411 Bottom

[0166] 412 Opposite Area

[0167] 42, 42-1 to 42-6 spacers

[0168] 44 Positioning Section

[0169] 5. Waterproof construction

[0170] 50 Opening

[0171] 6 Connecting components

[0172] 61. The first film

[0173] 62, Part 2

[0174] 63 Connector

[0175] 7. Elastic Components

[0176] 71 Main Body

[0177] 71a Page 1

[0178] 71b Page 2

[0179] 71c Page 3

[0180] 71d, Page 4

[0181] 71e Page 5

[0182] 71f Page 6

[0183] 72 Conductive Layer

[0184] 72a Part 1

[0185] 72b Part 2

[0186] Part 3 of 72c and 72d

[0187] 8. Fixing tape

[0188] d1 distance (distance between the opposing region and the antenna surface)

[0189] d2 distance (distance between the inner side and the antenna module)

[0190] d3 distance (distance between the spacer and the antenna element)

[0191] L1 line (the line that passes through the center of the antenna element)

[0192] Thickness of part 1 of t1

[0193] C2 Center

[0194] C4 Center

[0195] D1, D2 dimensions

[0196] Parts P1, P2, and P3.

Claims

1. An antenna device comprising: Antenna module, used for communication at a given communication frequency; A conductive substrate has a first surface and a first recess formed on the first surface, which is capable of accommodating the antenna module. The dielectric radome has a second surface facing the first surface of the substrate, and a second recess facing the first recess and formed on the second surface; A waterproof structure is disposed between the first surface of the substrate and the second surface of the radome to waterproof the antenna module. The antenna module includes: One or more antenna elements; and An antenna surface having one or more of the antenna elements is formed. The antenna module is housed in the first recess, such that the antenna surface protrudes from the first surface into the second recess.

2. The antenna device according to claim 1, wherein, The bottom surface of the second recess includes an opposing region that is parallel to the antenna surface. The distance between the opposing region and the antenna surface is within the range of more than 1 / 50 and less than 1 / 30 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency.

3. The antenna device according to claim 2, wherein, The radome has a spacer located between the opposing region and the antenna surface, which maintains the distance between the opposing region and the antenna surface within a range of more than 1 / 50 and less than 1 / 30 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency.

4. The antenna device according to claim 3, wherein, The spacer is not opposite to the one or more antenna elements. In a plane parallel to the antenna surface, the distance between the spacer and each of the one or more antenna elements is more than 1 / 5 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency.

5. The antenna device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The portion of the radome covering the antenna module is linearly symmetrical with respect to a line passing through the center of the plurality of antenna elements arranged along one direction on the antenna surface.

6. The antenna device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The radome includes an opposing portion that faces the antenna surface. The thickness of the opposing portion is in the range of more than 1 / 10 and less than 1 / 8 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency.

7. The antenna device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The antenna module is positioned within the first recess. The specified position is a position where at least a portion of the inner side surface of the first recess is at a distance greater than 0 from the antenna module and is less than 1 / 10 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency.

8. The antenna device according to claim 7, wherein, The substrate has a positioning protrusion that positions the antenna module at the specified position by contacting the antenna module.

9. The antenna device according to claim 8, wherein, The positioning protrusion protrudes from the inner side of the first recess.

10. The antenna device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The substrate has a positioning part for positioning the radome at a given position, wherein the given position is a position in which the center of the radome and the center of the antenna module are aligned in a direction orthogonal to the thickness direction of the antenna module and the direction in which the plurality of antenna elements are arranged in the antenna surface.

11. The antenna device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The substrate has an opening that extends through the bottom of the first recess. At least a portion of the opening does not overlap with the antenna module in the thickness direction of the antenna module.

12. The antenna device according to claim 11, wherein, The opening is adjacent to the antenna module in a direction orthogonal to the thickness direction of the antenna module and the direction in which the plurality of antenna elements are arranged in the antenna surface.

13. The antenna device according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, In the direction in which the plurality of antenna elements are arranged in the antenna plane, the size of the opening is less than 1 / 2 of the size of the antenna module.

14. The antenna device according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein, In a direction orthogonal to the thickness direction of the antenna module and the direction in which the plurality of antenna elements are arranged in the antenna surface, the size of the opening is less than 1 / 3 of the wavelength corresponding to the given communication frequency.

15. The antenna device according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein, The antenna device also includes a connecting component for connecting the antenna module to a communication circuit. The connecting member includes: The first piece, connected to the antenna module, extends from the antenna module toward the opening; and The second piece extends from the front end of the first piece through the opening and connects to the communication circuit.

16. The antenna device according to claim 15, wherein, The first and second sheets are formed by bending the flexible substrate.

17. The antenna device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein, The antenna device further includes: an elastic member disposed between the antenna module and the bottom of the first recess of the substrate in a compressed state in the thickness direction of the antenna module.

18. The antenna device according to claim 17, wherein, The elastic member includes: The main body is flexible; and A conductive layer is formed on the surface of the body to connect the ground plane of the antenna module to the substrate.

19. The antenna device according to claim 18, wherein, The subject includes: The first surface opposite to the antenna module; The second surface opposite to the antenna module; and The third and fourth surfaces are arranged along the direction in which the plurality of antenna elements are arranged in the antenna plane. The conductive layer includes: The first part is located on the first surface of the main body and is connected to the antenna module; The second part, located on the second surface of the main body, is connected to the substrate; and The third part, located on at least one of the third and fourth surfaces of the main body, connects the first part and the second part.

20. The antenna device according to claim 18 or 19, wherein, The elastic member is thermally conductive.

21. The antenna device according to claim 1, wherein, The waterproof structure is a joining member that joins the second surface of the radome to the first surface of the substrate.

22. The antenna device according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein, The given communication frequency is within the 26-300 GHz band.

23. An electronic device comprising: The antenna device according to any one of claims 1 to 22; Communication circuit, connected to the antenna device; and A metal casing houses the communication circuit. The substrate is part of the metal shell. The first surface of the substrate is the outer surface of the metal shell.

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