Compact dual polarity radiators for dense arrays

Abstract

A dual polarized antenna (300) is provided, comprising: a first radiator (301) for radiating or receiving first RF waves having a first linear polarization; a second radiator (302) for radiating or receiving second RF waves having a second linear polarization, the second linear polarization being orthogonal to the first linear polarization, wherein the first radiator (301) comprises one or more electrically conductive parts (304) and the second radiator (302) is provided by one or more slots (305) in one or more of the electrically conductive parts (304). By positioning and / or embedding the second radiator (302) in the first radiator (301), the size of the column is reduced and a denser array is formed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to bipolar antennas, for example, for use in frequency bands below 1 GHz. Background Technology

[0002] The evolution towards massively multi-input multiple-output (MIMO) antennas in the sub-1 GHz band is becoming increasingly important. The high throughput offered by massively multi-input multiple-output (MIMO) technology and the traditional good coverage of the sub-1 GHz band can bring numerous benefits.

[0003] The sub-1 GHz band can be considered the best available spectrum for mobile communications. However, the bandwidth allocated to each operator may be small (typically 10 MHz per sub-band). Therefore, any scheme to improve the spectral efficiency of the 700 / 800 / 900 MHz band is likely to be very valuable.

[0004] One way to improve spectral efficiency is to increase the density of antenna apertures. To increase the density of antenna apertures and the number of array columns, it is necessary to design a bipolar radiating element that occupies little space, at least in the horizontal direction.

[0005] A typical bipolar radiator operating in the 700 MHz band may have a footprint of at least 115 mm × 115 mm, resulting in a footprint of 0.26 × 0.26 wavelengths at the lowest frequency of 690 MHz.

[0006] Using materials with high dielectric constants can be a way to achieve miniaturized and densely packed antennas. Materials with high dielectric constants can be used to construct small patch antennas or dielectric resonator antennas. For example... Figure 1A and Figure 1B An example of a radiator in the prior art is shown.

[0007] Figure 1A An example of a prior art antenna is shown. A dielectric resonator 101 may be located on a ground plane 103. The ground plane 103 may include a microstrip line 102 and a slot coupling 104.

[0008] Figure 1B Another prior art antenna is illustrated as an example. In this example, ground layer 103 may include a metal patch 105.

[0009] Figure 1A and Figure 1BThe main problem with the antenna shown is the volume of the required dielectric material, which is heavy and expensive, especially for use in the sub-1 GHz frequency band. This material is suitable for higher frequencies, but its application below 1 GHz may be very difficult.

[0010] Figure 2 An exemplary prior art bipolar antenna is shown. The bipolar radiator includes a dipole 201, a reflector 203, and a slot 204 on the back of a cavity 202. The dipole 201 is connected by a vertical member 205. The dipole 201 has vertical polarization, and the slot 204 on the back of the cavity 202 has horizontal polarization. This design is relatively compact and suitable for antenna array densification.

[0011] Figure 2 The problem with the prior art antenna shown is that a considerable volume is required below the antenna (i.e., below reflector 203) to accommodate the cavity 202 back-facing the slot 204 radiator. However, this can lead to further problems, especially for active antennas, as active antennas may require direct insertion of radio components into the back. Having a flat reflector 203 on the back side simplifies the structure and assembly. Furthermore, the implementation can be quite complex due to the large number of components required.

[0012] We desire a device and method to overcome the aforementioned problems. Summary of the Invention

[0013] According to a first aspect, a bipolar antenna is provided, comprising: a first radiator for radiating or receiving a first radio-frequency (RF) wave having a first linear polarization; and a second radiator for radiating or receiving a second RF wave having a second linear polarization orthogonal to the first linear polarization, wherein the first radiator includes one or more conductive components, and the second radiator is provided by one or more slots in the one or more conductive components. By positioning and / or embedding the second radiator within the first radiator, the size of the bipolar radiator can be reduced, thereby increasing the density of the antenna aperture, which in turn can increase system throughput and improve spectral efficiency.

[0014] In some implementations, the first RF wave and the second RF wave have the same frequency. In this way, the antenna may not generate a multi-band or multi-frequency radiator.

[0015] In some implementations, each of the one or more slits has a closed end and an open end. By giving the slits an open end and a closed end, this can provide a second radial structure.

[0016] In some implementations, the first radiator is a dipole antenna, which includes a first dipole arm and a second dipole arm. By including two dipole arms in the first radiator, vertical polarization can be radiated.

[0017] In some implementations, the one or more slots include a first slot formed in the first dipole arm and a second slot formed in the second dipole arm. By providing slots in each of the dipole arms, a second radiator can be provided in each of the dipole arms.

[0018] In some implementations, the first slit and the second slit extend along a common axis of the first dipole arm and the second dipole arm. By positioning the slits along the common axis, this can provide a symmetrical second radiation pattern.

[0019] In some implementations, the first slit has an open end at the outer end of the first dipole arm, and the second slit has an open end at the outer end of the second dipole arm. By giving the slits both open and closed ends, a second radiating structure can be provided.

[0020] In some implementations, the first slot has a closed end near the inner end of the first dipole arm, and the second slot has a closed end near the inner end of the second dipole arm. By having closed ends of the slots near the inner ends of the dipole arms, this provides a segment or region of the dipole arm located between the closed ends of the slots and the first feed point. In this way, there can be no interference between the first radiator and the second radiator.

[0021] In some implementations, the bipolar antenna may further include: a first feed network for exciting the first radiator using a first radio-frequency (RF) signal; and a second feed network for exciting the second radiator using a second radio-frequency (RF) signal. By providing the feed networks, two orthogonal signals can be provided to the bipolar antenna.

[0022] In some implementations, the one or more slots include two or more slots, and the second feed network is used to in-phase excite the two or more slots. By providing in-phase excitation, this can advantageously combine the radiation from the two second radiators.

[0023] In some implementations, the second feed network is used to excite the respective slot at the central region of each of the one or more slots. By providing excitation at the central region of the slot, a reasonable impedance level can be provided at the port.

[0024] In some implementations, the first radiator includes two dipole arms and a first feed point located between the two dipole arms, the first feed network being coupled to the first radiator at the first feed point. By positioning the first feed point between the dipole arms, vertical polarization can be radiated through each of the dipole arms.

[0025] In some implementations, the bipolar antenna may further include a reflector, with the first radiator and the second radiator arranged on one side of the reflector. By arranging the first and second radiators on one side of the reflector, the back of the reflector can be flat, thereby simplifying integration with active devices.

[0026] In some implementations, the one or more conductive components of the first radiator include one or more conductive components arranged in a generally planar structure. Arranging the first radiator in a generally planar structure simplifies the manufacturing process.

[0027] In some implementations, the bipolar antenna may further include a reflector that is substantially parallel to the generally planar structure. The reflector and the first radiator are substantially parallel to each other, allowing the reflector to reflect radiation from the first and second radiators in a desired direction (i.e., upward).

[0028] In some implementations, the first radiator further includes one or more conductive fins extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the generally planar structure. The fins can increase the surface area of ​​the dipole arms of the first radiator, thereby increasing the electric dipole length of the dipole arms. This allows the dipole arms to resonate at a lower frequency while occupying a smaller space. In this way, for a given space of the first radiator, the radiation level can be increased.

[0029] In some implementations, one or more conductive fins extend from the edge of a generally planar structure. By extending the fins from the edge of the generally planar structure of the first radiator, the fins can be made of bent metal folded over the edge.

[0030] According to a second aspect, a printed circuit board is provided, including the bipolar antenna as described above. By providing the bipolar antenna on the PCB, a more compact structure can be achieved, and the number of components can be reduced. Attached Figure Description

[0031] The invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0032] Figure 1A An exemplary antenna of the prior art is shown schematically. Figure 1BAnother exemplary antenna of the prior art is shown schematically.

[0033] Figure 2 An exemplary bipolar antenna of the prior art is schematically shown.

[0034] Figure 3 An exemplary bipolar antenna is schematically shown.

[0035] Figure 4A Five exemplary bipolar antennas arranged on a substrate are schematically shown. Figure 4B Seven exemplary bipolar antennas arranged on a substrate are schematically shown. Figure 4C Nine exemplary bipolar antennas arranged on a substrate are schematically shown.

[0036] Figure 5A An exemplary power supply structure implemented on a printed circuit board is schematically shown. Figure 5B An exemplary radiating element implemented on a printed circuit board is shown schematically.

[0037] Figure 6A The vertical polarization current distribution in the case of single polarization is schematically shown. Figure 6B The vertical polarization current distribution under dual polarization is schematically shown.

[0038] Figure 7A The horizontal polarization current distribution under single polarization is schematically shown. Figure 7B The horizontal polarization current distribution under dual polarization is schematically shown. Detailed Implementation

[0039] The device described in this article relates to a bipolar antenna.

[0040] Embodiments of this system can address one or more of the aforementioned problems by positioning and / or embedding the second radiator within the first radiator. This allows for a reduction in column size, enabling a denser antenna array, which in turn increases system throughput and improves spectral efficiency.

[0041] The goal of this system could be to provide a bipolar radiator with a narrow width, standard height, and length suitable for constructing ultra-dense arrays. The bipolar radiator can produce bilinear radiation, such as horizontal and vertical radiation. While the primary motivation for this system may be implementation in the sub-1 GHz band, it is equally applicable to improving performance in higher frequency bands where width and bandwidth constraints are less critical.

[0042] Figure 3 An exemplary bipolar antenna is schematically shown.

[0043] The bipolar antenna 300 may include a first radiator 301. The first radiator 301 may include a dipole radiator. The first radiator 301 may be a dipole antenna. The first radiator 301 may radiate or receive a first radio-frequency (RF) wave having a first linear polarization. This can provide a first radiation structure from the first radiator 301. The first RF wave may be a plane wave propagating in one direction. The first RF wave may be a component of the dipole wave radiated by the first radiator 301. The dipole wave can be viewed as a superposition of plane waves. At a point sufficiently far from the first radiator 301, the dipole wave can be approximated as a single plane wave.

[0044] like Figure 3 As shown, the first radiator 301 may include a generally planar structure. In other words, the first radiator 301 is generally flat and / or may include a structure that is thin relative to its width and length. The first radiator 301 may include flat regions or segments. The main surface of the first radiator 301 depends on the largest flat surface. Figure 3 As shown in the orientation, the main surface of the first radiator 301 is provided by the top surface.

[0045] The first radiator 301 may include one or more conductive components 304. The first radiator 301 may include two or more dipole arms 304. One or more conductive components 304 may be dipole arms 304. Preferably, the first radiator 301 includes two dipole arms 304. The first radiator 301 may include a first dipole arm 304a and a second dipole arm 304b. In this way, the first radiator 301 can provide the desired dipole radiation. To provide the desired radiation, the first radiator 301 may require two dipole arms 304. For example, if the first radiator 301 includes four dipole arms 304, the device can provide two bipolar antennas 300. In other words, two dipole arms 304 may be required to provide bipolar antennas 300.

[0046] One or more conductive components 304 of the first radiator 301 may include one or more conductive components 304 arranged in a generally planar structure. The dipole arm 304 may include a generally planar structure. In other words, the dipole arm 304 is generally flat and / or may include a structure that is thin relative to its width and length. The dipole arm 304 may include flat regions or segments. Figure 3 As shown in the orientation, the main surface of the dipole arm 304 is provided by the top surface.

[0047] like Figure 3As shown, dipole arm 304 may include a rectangular shape. It should be understood that other shapes may be suitable for dipole arm 304. For example, dipole arm 304 may include a square or trapezoidal shape. A rectangular shape of dipole arm 304 may be preferred because it allows for a more compact dipole arm 304. This may be advantageous if the bipolar antenna 300 needs to be fitted into a small volume or dense array.

[0048] The first radiator 301 may further include a first feed point 307. The first feed point 307 can be used to provide excitation to the first radiator 301. In other words, the first feed point 307 can provide a signal to the first radiator 301. The first feed point 307 can provide vertical polarization. This can provide a first radiation structure from the first radiator 301.

[0049] The first feed point 307 can be located between the dipole arms 304. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the first radiator 301 may include a gap between dipole arms 304. A first feed point 307 may be located within the gap between the dipole arms. In this way, polarization can be provided to both dipole arms 304 located on either side of the first feed point 307. The gap may extend at least a portion of the width of the dipole arm 304. The gap may extend the entire width of the dipole arm 304, such as... Figure 3 As shown.

[0050] The bipolar antenna 300 may include a first feed network 312 for exciting a first radiator 301 using a first radio-frequency (RF) signal. A first feed point 307 may be coupled to the first feed network 312. The first feed point 307 may be powered by the first feed network 312. The first feed network 312 may extend upward from below the first radiator 301 between the dipole arms 304 to the first feed point 307. The first feed network 312 may extend upward from below the first radiator 301 between the dipole arms 304 through a gap.

[0051] The first radiator 301 may further include one or more fins 309, 310. Fins 309, 310 may extend from the first radiator 301. Fins 309, 310 may extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the main surface of the first radiator 301. In other words, as... Figure 3As shown in the orientation, fins 309 and 310 can extend downward from the main surface of the first radiator 301. Fins 309 and 310 can extend downward at a 90-degree angle from the main surface of the first radiator 301. It should also be understood that the fins can extend upward from the main surface of the first radiator 301. Fins 309 and 310 can extend from the edge of the first radiator 301. Fins 309 and 310 can be located on the dipole arm 304 of the first radiator 301.

[0052] The winglets 309 and 310 may include a vertical winglet 309 and a horizontal winglet 310. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the vertical blade 309 can extend from the edge of the dipole arm 304 opposite to the edge where the first feed point 307 is located. Figure 3 As shown, the horizontal blade 310 can extend from the edge of the dipole arm 304 adjacent to the edge where the first feed point 307 is located. The horizontal blade 310 can extend from two edges adjacent to the edge where the first feed point 307 is located.

[0053] The vertical wing 309 may be absent or may have one or more vertical wing 309, and the horizontal wing 310 may be absent or may have one or more horizontal wing 310. Figure 3 Two vertical blades 309 on each dipole arm 304 are shown, located on the two edges adjacent to the first feed point 307. Figure 3 Two horizontal vanes 310 on each dipole arm 304 are shown, positioned side-by-side on opposite edges of the first feed point 307. The number of vanes 309, 310 can vary depending on the design requirements of the first radiator 301.

[0054] The fins 309 and 310 may include a rectangular shape. The fins 309 and 310 may include a trapezoidal shape. The fins 309 and 310 may include a shape suitable for providing a dense array of the first radiators 301. For example, the fins 309 and 310 may be configured to have a shape suitable for assembling the first radiators 301 into an array in a compact or dense manner.

[0055] The fins 309 and 310 can be conductive. The fins 309 and 310 can increase the surface area of ​​the dipole arm 304 of the first radiator 301. This can increase the electric length of the dipole arm 304. This can allow the dipole arm 304 to resonate at a lower frequency while maintaining a smaller footprint. In this way, for a given footprint of the first radiator 301, the radiation level can be increased. In some cases, the horizontal fin 310 can increase radiation more effectively than the vertical fin 309.

[0056] The bipolar antenna 300 may include a second radiator 302. The second radiator 302 may include a dipole radiator. The second radiator 302 may be a dipole antenna. The second radiator 302 may radiate or receive a second radio-frequency (RF) wave with a second linear polarization. This can provide a second radiation structure from the second radiator 302. The second RF wave may be a plane wave propagating in one direction. The second RF wave may be a component of the dipole wave radiated by the second radiator 302. The dipole wave can be viewed as a superposition of plane waves. At a point sufficiently far from the second radiator 302, the dipole wave can be approximated as a single plane wave. The first RF wave and the second RF wave may have the same frequency. By configuring the first RF wave and the second RF wave to have the same frequency, this can provide a logical configuration for providing a bipolar antenna. In this way, the antenna may not produce a multi-band or multi-frequency radiator.

[0057] The second linear polarization may differ from the first linear polarization. Preferably, the first linear polarization may be orthogonal to the second linear polarization. In this way, the bipolar antenna 300 can generate polarization in both the horizontal and vertical directions. The bipolar antenna 300 may include one or more second radiators 302.

[0058] The second radiator 302 can be located within the first radiator 301. In other words, the first radiator 301 can provide the second radiator 302. The second radiator 302 can be located within and / or embedded in the structure of the first radiator 301. The second radiator 302 can be a part of the first radiator 301. In this way, the dual-polarized antenna 300 structure can be more compact because the first radiator 301 and the second radiator 302 can be housed in the same components and / or structure. Furthermore, both horizontal and vertical polarization can be provided by the same body. This can reduce the number of components in the dual-polarized antenna 300, lower cost and complexity, and reduce size.

[0059] The second radiator 302 can be disposed in one or more conductive components 304. Specifically, the second radiator 302 can be located in a dipole arm 304. In other words, the dipole arm 304 can provide the second radiator 302. The second radiator 302 can be located within the structure of the dipole arm 304. The second radiator 302 can be a part of the dipole arm 304. Two or more second radiators 302 can exist. The second radiator 302 in two or more second radiators 302 can be located in each dipole arm 304. Each of the two or more second radiators 302 can be located in a different dipole arm 304. Figure 3As shown, each of the two dipole arms 304 includes a second radiator 302. The number of second radiators 302 may correspond to the number of dipole arms 304.

[0060] The second radiator 302 may include the opening 305 in the first radiator 301. Specifically, the second radiator 302 may include the opening 305 in the dipole arm 304. Figure 3 As shown, each of the two dipole arms 304 may include an opening 305. Each of the two or more second radiators 302 may include an opening 305 in a different dipole arm 304.

[0061] Opening 305 may include slit 305. Second radiator 302 may include slit 305 in first radiator 301. Specifically, second radiator 302 may include slit 305 in dipole arm 304. Second radiator 302 may be provided by one or more slits 305 in one or more conductive members 304.

[0062] like Figure 3 As shown, each of the two dipole arms 304 may include a slot 305. Each of the two or more second radiators 302 may include a slot 305 in a different dipole arm 304. The second radiators 302 may be provided by one or more slots in one or more conductive members 304. The one or more slots 305 include a first slot 305a formed in a first dipole arm 304a and a second slot 305b formed in a second dipole arm 304b. The first slot 305a and the second slot 305b extend along a common axis of the first dipole arm 304a and the second dipole arm 304b.

[0063] The slot 305 may include an open end 306 and a closed end 314. The slot 305 may extend from the edge of the first radiator 301. Specifically, the slot 305 may extend from the edge of the dipole arm 304. The open end 306 of the slot 305 may be located at the edge of the first radiator 301. Specifically, the open end 306 of the slot 305 may be located at the edge of the dipole arm 304. The open end 306 of the slot 305 may be located at the edge of the dipole arm 304 opposite to the edge where the first feed point 307 is located. The first slot 305a may have an open end 306 at the outer end of the first dipole arm 304a. The second slot 305b may have an open end at the outer end of the second dipole arm 304b.

[0064] The slot 305 can extend from the edge of the dipole arm 304 toward the first feed point 307. The slot 305 can extend partially through the dipole arm 304 from the edge of the dipole arm 304 in a direction substantially toward the first feed point 307. In other words, the slot 305 can extend substantially in the direction of the feed point 307 relative to the open end 306 at the edge of the dipole arm 304.

[0065] The slit 305 may not extend all the way through the dipole arm 304. The first slit 305a may have a closed end 314 near the inner end of the first dipole arm 304a. The second slit 305b may have a closed end 314 near the inner end of the second dipole arm 304b. The dipole arm 304 may have a segment or region located between the closed end 314 of the slit 305 and the first feed point 307. In this way, there may be no interference between the first radiator 301 and the second radiator 302. The segment or region of the dipole arm 304 located between the closed end 314 of the slit 305 and the first feed point 307 is preferably large enough to prevent or limit interference between the first radiator 301 and the second radiator 302.

[0066] The slit 305 may include a linear shape. The slit 305 may include a rectangular shape. Preferably, the slit 305 may include an elongated shape extending from the edge of the dipole arm 304 along a direction primarily toward the opposite edge of the dipole arm 304 to the open end 306. The slit 305 may be surrounded by the main surface of the dipole arm 304 on its elongated side. The slit 305 may be surrounded by the main surface of the dipole arm 304 at its closed end 314. The slit 305 may be surrounded by the main surface of the dipole arm 304 on three sides.

[0067] Preferably, the slit 305 extends through the thickness of the dipole arm 304. In other words, as Figure 3 As shown, the slit 305 may include a cut in the main surface of the dipole arm 304.

[0068] Vertical vanes 309 extending from opposite edges of dipole arm 304 to first feed point 307 can be arranged such that they do not cover the opening end 306 of slot 305. Vertical vanes 309 can be arranged on either side of the opening end 306 of slot 305. In this way, vertical vanes 309 do not interfere with second radiator 302.

[0069] The second radiator 302 may include a second feed point 308. Each of the one or more second radiators 302 may include a second feed point 308. The second feed point 308 can be used to provide excitation to the corresponding second radiator 302. In other words, the second feed point 308 can provide a signal to the corresponding second radiator 302. In this way, both horizontal and vertical polarization can be provided by the same entity. Each second radiator 302 may include an independent second feed point 308. The second feed point 308 can provide horizontal polarization. Preferably, each of the one or more second radiators 302 provides in-phase horizontal polarization. In other words, the polarization can have zero hysteresis. This can provide a second radiation structure from two second radiators 302.

[0070] The second feed point 308 can be located in the opening 305 of the second radiator 302. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the second feed point is closer to the closed end 314 of the slot 305 than to the open end 306 of the slot 305. In an implementation where the slot 305 extends through the thickness of the dipole arm 304, the second feed point 308 can extend from below the first radiator 301 and enter the slot 305. The second feed point 308 can be located on the same general plane as the dipole arm 304. The second feed point 308 can be surrounded by the inside of the slot 305.

[0071] The bipolar antenna may include a second feed network 313 for exciting the second radiators 302 using a second radio-frequency (RF) signal. A second feed point 308 may be coupled to the second feed network 313. The second feed point 308 may be powered by the second feed network 313. The second feed network 313 may extend below the first radiator 301. The second feed network 313 may extend upward between the dipole arms 304. The second feed network 313 may extend outward in the direction below the dipole arms 304 to the second feed point 308. The second feed network 313 may feed both second feed points 308. The second feed network 313 may be used to in-phase excite two or more slots 305. In this way, each of the one or more second radiators 302 can provide in-phase horizontal polarization. In other words, the polarization can have zero hysteresis. This can provide a second radiation structure from the two second radiators 302.

[0072] The second power supply network 313 can be used to excite the corresponding slot 305 at the central region of each corresponding slot 305 in one or more slots. This can be achieved by setting a second power supply point 308 near the center of the slot 305.

[0073] The second feed network 313 may extend below the first radiator 301. The second feed network 313 may be separated between the dipole arms 304. The second feed network 313 may extend outward under each dipole arm 304 to each of the second feed points 308. The first feed network 312 and the second feed network 313 may extend adjacent to each other below the first radiator 301 and are separated near the base of the first radiator 301.

[0074] The bipolar antenna 300 may also include a reflector 303. Figure 3 In the orientation shown, reflector 303 can be located below first radiator 301. Reflector 303 can be used to reflect polarization from first radiator 301 and second radiator 302.

[0075] The reflector's position allows the first radiator 301 and the second radiator 302 to be arranged on one side of the reflector 303. Alternatively, the reflector's position allows the first radiator 301 and the second radiator 302 to be arranged on the same side of the reflector 303. Figure 3 In the orientation shown, the first radiator 301 and the second radiator 302 are located on the top side of the reflector 303. In this way, neither the first radiator 301 nor the second radiator 302 has any part located below the reflector 303, thus making the structure of the bipolar antenna 300 more compact. This also allows for a generally flat surface on the substrate of the reflector 303, thereby simplifying the integration of active devices.

[0076] The first feed network 312 and / or the second feed network 313 are located on the reflector 303. The first feed network 312 and / or the second feed network 313 may extend upward from the reflector 303. The first feed network 312 and / or the second feed network 313 may be located above the reflector 303.

[0077] Reflector 303 may be substantially parallel to the general planar structure of the first radiator 301. Reflector 303 may be substantially parallel to the main surface of the first radiator 301. Reflector 303 may be substantially parallel to the main surface of one or more dipole arms 304. In this way, reflector 303 can reflect radiation from the first radiator 301 and one or more other first radiators 301 in a desired direction (i.e., upward).

[0078] The first radiator 301, including the dipole arm 304, can be fabricated using sheet metal to form a radiating structure. The fins 309 and 310 can be fabricated by bending the sheet metal of the dipole arm 304. The feed input lines 312 and 313 for vertical and horizontal polarization can also be fabricated using bent sheet metal. Plastic clips and gaskets may also be required for mechanical robustness and to ensure the positioning of the feed input lines 312 and 313 and their distance to ground.

[0079] Figure 4A Five exemplary bipolar antennas arranged on a substrate are schematically shown. Figure 4B Seven exemplary bipolar antennas arranged on a substrate are schematically shown. Figure 4C Nine exemplary bipolar antennas arranged on a substrate are schematically shown.

[0080] like Figures 4A to 4C As shown, multiple bipolar antennas 300 can be arranged in an array 400. The array 400 may include a single substrate 401 located below the multiple bipolar antennas 300. Alternatively, the array 400 may include a substrate 401 for each bipolar antenna 300. The substrate 401 may provide a reflector 303. Alternatively, the reflector 303 and the substrate 401 may be separate components. A single reflector 303 may be present for all bipolar antennas 300. Alternatively, one reflector 303 may be present for each bipolar antenna 300. The array 400 of bipolar antennas 300 can be arranged such that the bipolar antennas 300 are placed side by side. Small gaps may exist between each bipolar antenna in the array 300.

[0081] In this embodiment, the bipolar antenna 300 may have a size of 50 mm × 150 mm × 80 mm, equivalent to 0.12λ × 0.35λ × 0.18λ. The array 400 may have a maximum width of 500 m. For a width of 50 mm, compared to the average width of 120 mm in the prior art, this provides a width reduction of 50% to 60%. This means that a maximum of nine bipolar antennas 300 can be arranged, compared to a maximum of four bipolar antennas 300 in the prior art.

[0082] like Figures 4A to 4C As shown, the number of bipolar antennas 300 can vary from 5 to 7 to 9 depending on the design requirements.

[0083] Printed circuit board (PCB) technology can also be used to manufacture the bipolar antenna 300. The bipolar antenna 300 can be mounted on a PCB. PCB implementation can include the methods described herein. Figure 3 The metal sheet in the process implements any of the described features.

[0084] Figure 5A An exemplary power supply structure implemented on a PCB is schematically shown. Figure 5B An exemplary radiating element implemented on a PCB is shown schematically.

[0085] The feed input lines 312 and 313, used for vertical and horizontal polarization respectively, can be etched into the same PCB carrier, such as... Figure 5A As shown. The first radiator 301 itself can be etched into another PCB carrier, such as... Figure 5B As shown. Several solder points may be needed to connect the power input lines 312 and 313 (as shown). Figure 5A The PCB of the first radiator 301 is related to the first radiator 301 itself. Figure 5B Interconnection. Additionally, flaps 309 and 310 can optionally be soldered to the edge of the PCB to provide connectivity with the components described herein. Figure 3 The metal sheet shown achieves the same properties as described.

[0086] Alternatively, metallized plastic technology can also be a suitable option for implementing the bipolar antenna 300. In this case, several first radiators 301 and feed networks 312, 313 can be arranged in the same metallized plastic component.

[0087] The choice of manufacturing technology may depend on many factors, such as frequency band, array configuration, cost targets, and accuracy requirements.

[0088] The bipolar antenna 300 can be designed to minimize or eliminate interference between the first radiator 301 and the second radiator 302. To understand its operation and how to excite two orthogonal polarizations in the same component, the current distribution can be plotted. Figure 6A , Figure 6B , Figure 7A and Figure 7B In the figure, the current distribution of vertical polarization and horizontal polarization is plotted for single polarization and dual polarization cases.

[0089] Figure 6A The vertical polarization current distribution in the case of single polarization is schematically shown. Figure 6B The vertical polarization current distribution under dual polarization is schematically shown.

[0090] Figure 6A Plot 601 in the diagram shows the vertical polarization current distribution in the presence of single polarization. It can be seen that the vertical polarization current distribution is affected around the first radiator 301. Figure 6BPlot 602 in the diagram illustrates the vertical polarization current distribution in the dual-polarization case. It can be seen that the vertical polarization current distribution is still affected around the first radiator 301. However, the first radiator 301 does not affect the vertical polarization current distribution around the second radiator 302. In this way, the first radiator 301 does not interfere with the second radiator 302.

[0091] Figure 7A The horizontal polarization current distribution under single polarization is schematically shown. Figure 7B The horizontal polarization current distribution under dual polarization is schematically shown.

[0092] Figure 7A Plot 701 shows the horizontal polarization current distribution in the presence of single polarization. It can be seen that the horizontal polarization current distribution is affected around the second radiator 302. Figure 7B Plot 702 in the diagram illustrates the horizontal polarization current distribution under dual polarization. It can be seen that the horizontal polarization current distribution is still affected around the second radiator 302. However, the second radiator 302 does not affect the horizontal polarization current distribution around the first radiator 301. In this way, the second radiator 302 does not interfere with the first radiator 301.

[0093] Based on the plots, it can be seen that the two polarizations may occur independently. Comparing the current plots of the same polarization with and without the gap required to induce orthogonal polarization, a low current can be observed in the region where orthogonal polarization is induced. The current plots for the unipolar and bipolar cases are similar. In this way, the presence of the second polarization may have little effect, as the system induces it in the region of very low current. This is why the two polarizations can coexist with a good level of isolation.

[0094] The system described herein offers the following advantages: (i) the width of the bipolar radiator can be approximately 0.4 times the width of the dipole used in existing base station antennas; (ii) the significant width reduction enables the arrangement of multiple columns with a spacing of less than 0.3λ in a limited aperture; and (iii) the radiating structure overcomes the limitations of existing technologies and can be manufactured at low cost using standard manufacturing techniques such as bent metal sheets, PCBs, or partially metallized plastics.

[0095] The applicant hereby discloses each individual feature described herein, as well as any combination of two or more such features. With ordinary knowledge of those skilled in the art, such features or combinations can be implemented as a whole according to this specification, regardless of whether such features or combinations of features solve any problem disclosed herein; and without limiting the scope of the claims. This application demonstrates that aspects of the invention can be constituted by any such individual features or combinations of features. In view of the foregoing description, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made within the scope of this invention.

Claims

1. A bipolar antenna (300), characterized in that, include: A first radiator (301) is used to radiate or receive a first RF wave having a first linear polarization; The second radiator (302) is used to radiate or receive a second RF wave having a second linear polarization, the second linear polarization being orthogonal to the first linear polarization, and the first RF wave and the second RF wave having the same frequency; The first radiator (301) includes a first dipole arm (304a) and a second dipole arm (304b). The second radiator (302) is provided by a first slot (305a) in the first dipole arm (304a) and a second slot (305b) formed in the second dipole arm (304b); Both the first slit (305a) and the second slit (305b) have a closed end (314) and an open end (306). The closed end (314) of the first slit (305a) is located near the inner end of the first dipole arm (304a), and the closed end (314) of the second slit (305b) is located near the inner end of the second dipole arm (304b).

2. The bipolar antenna (300) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first slit (305a) and the second slit (305b) extend along the common axis of the first dipole arm (304a) and the second dipole arm (304b).

3. The bipolar antenna (300) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first slit (305a) has an open end (306) at the outer end of the first dipole arm (304a), and the second slit (305b) has an open end (306) at the outer end of the second dipole arm (304b).

4. The bipolar antenna (300) according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A first feed network (312) is used to excite the first radiator (301) using a first radio frequency signal. The second feed network (313) is used to excite the second radiator (302) using the second radio frequency signal.

5. The bipolar antenna (300) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The second power supply network (313) is used to in-phase excite the first gap (305a) and the second gap (305b).

6. The bipolar antenna (300) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The second power supply network (313) is used to excite the respective slot (305) at the central region of each of the first slot (305a) and the second slot (305b).

7. The bipolar antenna (300) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first radiator (301) includes a first feed point (307) located between a first dipole arm (304a) and a second dipole arm (304b), and a first feed network (312) is coupled to the first radiator (301) at the first feed point (307).

8. The bipolar antenna (300) according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a reflector (303), with the first radiator (301) and the second radiator (302) arranged on one side of the reflector (303).

9. The bipolar antenna (300) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The first dipole arm (304a) and / or the second dipole arm (304b) comprise a generally planar structure.

10. The bipolar antenna (300) according to claim 9, characterized in that, Includes a reflector (303) that is substantially parallel to the general planar structure.

11. The bipolar antenna (300) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first radiator (301) also includes one or more conductive fins (309, 310) extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the generally planar structure.

12. The bipolar antenna (300) according to claim 11, characterized in that, The one or more conductive flaps (309, 310) extend from the edge of the generally planar structure.

13. A printed circuit board, characterized in that, Includes a bipolar antenna (300) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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