Multi-beam lens antenna, adjusting method thereof and antenna base station

Abstract

The invention discloses a multi-beam lens antenna, an adjusting method thereof and an antenna base station, which can focus each feed source independently, so that a plurality of feed sources in the multi-beam lens antenna are focused at the same time to realize a focusing effect. The multi-beam lens antenna comprises a lens unit (40), a feed source system and a position adjusting assembly. The feed source system comprises a first feed source and a second feed source which are connected with each other, and each feed source is used for inputting electromagnetic wave signals towards the lens unit (40) so as to generate electromagnetic wave signals of a plurality of beams. The position adjusting assembly comprises a first adjusting mechanism (44) and a second adjusting mechanism; the first adjusting mechanism (44) is used for adjusting the position of the lens unit (40) so as to adjust the distance between the lens unit (40) and the first feed source and the distance between the lens unit (40) and the second feed source; the second adjusting mechanism is used for adjusting the position of the second feed source so as to adjust the included angle between the first feed source and the second feed source.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention belongs to the field of communication technology, and in particular relates to a multi-beam lens antenna and an adjustment method thereof, and an antenna base station. Background Art

[0002] Lens antennas need to precisely control the propagation path of electromagnetic waves to achieve a focusing effect. Therefore, they have high requirements on the uniformity and consistency of the lens medium, the accuracy of the dielectric constant distribution, and the position accuracy of the feed source. In particular, with the widespread application of multi-beam lens antennas, it is relatively more complicated to ensure that more feed sources are precisely located at the focus of the lens.

[0003] In the prior art, in order to ensure the precise focusing of the lens antenna and the feed source, firstly, through complex and lengthy theoretical calculations, simulation analysis, and experimental verification with multiple dimensions and multiple targets, the lens antenna has sufficient redundancy, the target requirements are reduced, and the focus of the lens antenna reaches an ideal state. Secondly, in the actual manufacturing process, high-precision preparation processes and testing methods are used to strictly control the processing accuracy of the lens and the feed source to ensure that their relative positions meet the design requirements.

[0004] But the actual situation is that due to the influence of manufacturing process, manufacturing accuracy and design cost, the uniformity, consistency and dielectric constant distribution of the lens medium are not ideal, and the consistency of the focus of the lens cannot be guaranteed; the manufacturing and installation accuracy of the feed source are also limited by the design cost, manufacturing process and installation accuracy, and it cannot be accurately placed at the focal point or designed position of the lens medium; it is impossible to focus multiple feed sources in the feed system at the same time, which will naturally affect the focusing performance and beamforming of the electromagnetic waves.

[0005] The above problems cause the existing multi-beam lens antenna to be prone to beam distortion, which affects the radiation characteristics of the antenna, resulting in abnormal communication network coverage and affecting user experience. Ultimately, a new multi-beam lens antenna needs to be replaced and re-constructed, installed, and optimized, resulting in a waste of manpower and material resources. Summary of the invention

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a multi-beam lens antenna and its adjustment method, and an antenna base station in view of the above-mentioned deficiencies in the prior art, which can focus each feed source individually, so that multiple feed sources in the multi-beam lens antenna can be focused at the same time to achieve a focusing effect.

[0007] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present invention provides a multi-beam lens antenna, which includes a lens unit, a feed system, and a position adjustment component. The lens unit is used for beamforming of electromagnetic wave signals. The feed system is arranged opposite to the lens unit; the feed system includes a first feed and a second feed connected to each other, each feed being used to input electromagnetic wave signals toward the lens unit to generate electromagnetic wave signals of multiple beams. The position adjustment component includes a first adjustment mechanism and a second adjustment mechanism; the first adjustment mechanism is used to adjust the position of the lens unit to adjust the distance between the lens unit and the first feed and the second feed, so that the first feed is located at the focus or near the focus of the lens unit; the second adjustment mechanism is used to adjust the position of the second feed to adjust the angle between the first feed and the second feed, so that the second feed is located at the focus or near the focus of the lens unit.

[0008] In some embodiments, the multi-beam lens antenna further includes a reflector assembly. The reflector assembly includes a first reflector and a second reflector connected to each other; the first feed source is disposed on the first reflector, and the second feed source is disposed on the second reflector. The first adjustment mechanism is disposed on the first reflector and connected to the lens unit, and is used to adjust the position of the lens unit to adjust the distance between the lens unit and the first reflector and the second reflector, thereby adjusting the distance between the lens unit and the first feed and the second feed. The second adjustment mechanism is disposed on the first reflector and connected to the second reflector, and is used to adjust the position of the second reflector to adjust the angle between the first reflector and the second reflector, thereby adjusting the angle between the first feed and the second feed.

[0009] In some embodiments, the number of the second reflective plates is two, and the two second reflective plates are arranged on opposite sides of the first reflective plate in the transverse direction. The number of the second feed sources and the second adjustment mechanism are both two, and the two second feed sources are respectively arranged on the two second reflective plates; one end of each second adjustment mechanism is fixed on the first reflective plate, and the other end is connected to one of the second reflective plates.

[0010] In some embodiments, a bracket is fixed on the first reflector. The second adjustment mechanism includes a telescopic motor and a ball hinge, the telescopic motor is fixed on the bracket, the free end of the telescopic motor is connected to one end of the ball hinge, and the other end of the ball hinge is connected to the second reflector.

[0011] In some embodiments, each of the feed sources comprises a plurality of radiation units, and the plurality of radiation units are arranged on the corresponding reflector plate. In each of the feed sources, the plurality of radiation units are arranged in at least one row along the longitudinal direction of the corresponding reflector plate to form an array structure.

[0012] In some embodiments, each of the feed sources further comprises a feed network. The feed network comprises a phase shifter, a transmission mechanism and a control module. The phase shifter is electrically connected to all the radiation units in the corresponding feed source, and is used to feed the radiation units by adjusting the phases of the radiation units. The transmission mechanism is connected to the phase shifter. The control module is electrically connected to the transmission mechanism, and is used to drive the transmission mechanism to move when receiving an external control signal, so as to drive the phase shifter to shift the phase.

[0013] In some embodiments, the lens unit includes a lens medium and two dielectric covers. The lens medium is cylindrical in shape and is used for beamforming of electromagnetic wave signals; the lens medium includes a dielectric shell and a honeycomb structure arranged in the dielectric shell. The two dielectric covers are arranged at both ends of the dielectric shell. The number of the first adjustment mechanisms is two, the second ends of the two first adjustment mechanisms are fixed on the first reflector, and the first ends of the two first adjustment mechanisms are respectively connected to the two dielectric covers for synchronously adjusting the position of the lens medium.

[0014] Therefore, the multi-beam lens antenna provided by the embodiment of the present invention can enable the lens unit to beamform the electromagnetic wave signals input by the first feed and the second feed in the feed system by setting a lens unit and a feed system arranged opposite to the lens unit, so as to generate electromagnetic wave signals of multiple beams. By setting a first adjustment mechanism for adjusting the position of the lens unit, the distance between the lens unit and the first feed and the second feed can be adjusted, so that the first feed is located at the focus or near the focus of the lens unit, and the focusing of the first feed is achieved. By setting a second adjustment mechanism, the position of the second feed can be adjusted to adjust the angle between the first feed and the second feed, so as to separately adjust the distance between the second feed and the lens unit, so that the second feed is located at the focus or near the focus of the lens unit, and the focusing of the second feed is achieved. Therefore, the multi-beam lens antenna in the embodiment of the present invention can focus on each feed source individually, so that multiple feed sources in the multi-beam lens antenna can be focused at the same time, thereby avoiding the situation where multiple feed sources cannot be focused at the same time and affect the focusing performance and beam forming of the electromagnetic wave signal, thereby enhancing the directionality of each electromagnetic wave signal beam formed by the multi-beam lens antenna, optimizing the radiation characteristics of the multi-beam lens antenna, eliminating antenna beam deformities, meeting communication network coverage requirements, and improving user network usage effects.

[0015] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present invention further provides an antenna base station, the antenna base station comprising an antenna support and the multi-beam lens antenna in the first aspect. A feed system of the multi-beam lens antenna is fixed on the antenna support.

[0016] In a third aspect, an embodiment of the present invention further provides a method for adjusting a multi-beam lens antenna, using the multi-beam lens antenna in the first aspect, and the method for adjusting the multi-beam lens antenna includes: S1, adjusting the position of the lens unit 40 through a first adjustment mechanism 44, and according to the real-time gain change of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the first feed source during the adjustment process, making the first feed source located at the focus or near the focus of the lens unit 40; S2, adjusting the position of the second feed source through a second adjustment mechanism, and according to the real-time gain change of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the second feed source during the adjustment process, making the second feed source located at the focus or near the focus of the lens unit 40.

[0017] In some embodiments, the step S1 specifically includes: S11, detecting the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the first feed source; S12, adjusting the position of the lens unit 40 through the first adjustment mechanism 44 to increase the distance between the lens unit 40 and the first feed source by a preset distance; S13, detecting the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the first feed source again, and determining whether the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the first feed source detected this time is greater than the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal of the first feed source detected last time, and if the determination result is yes, jumping to Step S14, when the judgment result is no, jump to step S15; S14, repeat steps S12-S13 until the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the first feed source detected this time is less than or equal to the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal of the first feed source detected last time, and jump to S15; S15, adjust the position of the lens unit 40 again through the first adjustment mechanism 44 to adjust the distance between the lens unit 40 and the first feed source forward by the preset distance, so that the first feed source is located at the focus or near the focus of the lens unit 40; S2 specifically includes:

[0018] S21, detecting the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the second feed source; S22, adjusting the position of the second feed source by a second adjustment mechanism to increase the angle between the first feed source and the second feed source by a preset angle; S23, detecting the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the second feed source again, and determining whether the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the second feed source detected this time is greater than the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal of the second feed source detected last time, and if the determination result is yes, jumping to step S24, and if the determination result is no, jumping to step S25; S24, repeating the above steps S22-S23 until the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the second feed source detected this time is less than or equal to the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal of the second feed source detected last time, and jumping to S25; S25, adjusting the position of the second feed source by a second adjustment mechanism again, so as to adjust the angle between the first feed source and the second feed source forward by the preset angle, so that the second feed source is located at or near the focus of the lens unit 40.

[0019] The antenna base station and the adjustment method of the multi-beam lens antenna provided in the embodiments of the present invention have the same beneficial effects as the above-mentioned multi-beam lens antenna, which will not be described in detail here. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] Figure 1 : A schematic diagram of a multi-beam lens antenna provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 2 : An axial schematic diagram of the internal structure of a multi-beam lens antenna provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 3 : A forward schematic diagram of the internal structure of a multi-beam lens antenna provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 4 : A schematic diagram of a radome assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 5 : A schematic diagram of a reflector assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 6 : A schematic diagram of an array structure provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 7 : A schematic diagram of a feeding network provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 8 : A schematic diagram of a lens unit provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Fig. 9 : A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of a lens medium provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Fig.10 : A schematic diagram of a radiation path of an electromagnetic wave signal provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Fig.11 : A focusing flow chart provided for an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] In order to enable those skilled in the art to better understand the technical solution of the present invention, the present invention is further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0032] Embodiment 1:

[0033] like Figure 1 As shown, an embodiment of the present invention provides a multi-beam lens antenna, which is applied to various communication base stations to transmit or receive electromagnetic wave signals.

[0034] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the multi-beam lens antenna 1 includes a lens unit 40, a feed system and a position adjustment component. The lens unit 40 is used for beamforming of electromagnetic wave signals. The feed system is arranged opposite to the lens unit 40. The feed system includes a first feed and a second feed connected to each other, each feed being used to input an electromagnetic wave signal toward the lens unit 40 to generate electromagnetic wave signals of multiple beams.

[0035] like Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the multi-beam lens antenna 1 further includes an antenna cover assembly 50. The antenna cover assembly 50 includes an antenna cover 51, an upper end cover 52, and a lower end cover 53. The antenna cover 51, the upper end cover 52, and the lower end cover 53 form an accommodating space.

[0036] The antenna cover 51 is preferably made of a low dielectric constant (dielectric constant is about 1.03-1.05) material, which can be PP, PC and modified materials thereof. These materials have good electromagnetic wave penetration characteristics in electrical properties and can withstand the effects of external harsh environments in mechanical properties, thereby improving the electrical properties and working stability of the multi-beam lens antenna 1.

[0037] The lens unit 40, the feed system and the position adjustment assembly are all located in the accommodation space inside the radome assembly 50. The radome assembly 50 can protect the components located inside it, thereby extending the service life of the multi-beam lens antenna 1 and reducing the use cost.

[0038] Exemplarily, the shape of the lens unit 40 may be cylindrical, spherical, flat, etc. In this embodiment, the shape of the lens unit 40 is cylindrical.

[0039] Exemplarily, after the electromagnetic wave signal enters the lens unit 40, the lens unit 40 can adjust the phase and amplitude of the electromagnetic wave signal using its own physical properties, so that the electromagnetic wave signal presents a specific direction and shape distribution in space, thereby realizing beamforming of the electromagnetic wave signal.

[0040] Exemplarily, the lens unit 40 has a plurality of focal points. Each electromagnetic wave signal inputted toward the lens unit 40 by a feed source located at a focal point of the lens unit 40 can be beamformed by the lens unit 40 and radiated in a specific direction.

[0041] Exemplarily, the electromagnetic wave signals inputted from the first feed source and the second feed source toward the lens unit 40 are directed to different directions after being beamformed, so as to achieve coverage of the electromagnetic wave signals in different directions.

[0042] Exemplarily, the first feed source and the second feed source may be directly connected or indirectly connected via other components.

[0043] In this embodiment, the position adjustment assembly includes a first adjustment mechanism 44 and a second adjustment mechanism. The first adjustment mechanism 44 is used to adjust the position of the lens unit 40 to adjust the distance between the lens unit 40 and the first feed source and the second feed source, so that the first feed source is located at or near the focus of the lens unit 40. The second adjustment mechanism is used to adjust the position of the second feed source to adjust the angle between the first feed source and the second feed source, so that the second feed source is located at or near the focus of the lens unit 40.

[0044] Combination Figure 2 and Figure 3 After adjusting the position of the lens unit 40 so that the first feed source is located at or near the focus of the lens unit 40, the second feed source can be driven by the first feed source to move near the focus of the lens unit 40. At this time, the angle between the first feed source and the second feed source can be adjusted by the second adjustment mechanism, so as to adjust the distance between the second feed source and the lens unit 40 separately. The second feed source can be conveniently adjusted to the focus or near the focus of the lens unit 40, which greatly saves focusing time and efficiency.

[0045] Through the above arrangement, the second feed source can be focused after the first feed source is focused, so each feed source can be focused separately, and finally multiple feed sources in the multi-beam lens antenna 1 are focused at the same time, the radiation characteristics of the multi-beam lens antenna 1 are optimized, and the antenna beam deformity is eliminated to meet the communication requirements. In addition, the multi-beam lens antenna 1 of this embodiment does not need to consider the influence of the dielectric constant tolerance of the lens medium on the focal position of the lens unit and the influence of factors such as the feed source installation position and installation accuracy, which can reduce the design, manufacturing and use costs of the antenna.

[0046] Therefore, the multi-beam lens antenna 1 provided in the embodiment of the present invention can enable the lens unit 40 to beamform the electromagnetic wave signals input by the first feed and the second feed in the feed system by setting a lens unit 40 and a feed system arranged opposite to the lens unit 40, so as to generate electromagnetic wave signals of multiple beams. By setting a first adjustment mechanism 44 for adjusting the position of the lens unit 40, the distance between the lens unit 40 and the first feed and the second feed can be adjusted, so that the first feed is located at the focus or near the focus of the lens unit 40, and the focusing of the first feed is achieved. By setting a second adjustment mechanism, the position of the second feed can be adjusted to adjust the angle between the first feed and the second feed, so as to separately adjust the distance between the second feed and the lens unit 40, so that the second feed is located at the focus or near the focus of the lens unit 40, and the focusing of the second feed is achieved. Therefore, the multi-beam lens antenna 1 in the embodiment of the present invention can focus on each feed source individually, so that multiple feed sources in the multi-beam lens antenna 1 can be focused at the same time, thereby avoiding the situation where multiple feed sources cannot be focused at the same time and affect the focusing performance and beamforming of the electromagnetic wave signal, thereby enhancing the directionality of each electromagnetic wave signal beam formed by the multi-beam lens antenna, optimizing the radiation characteristics of the multi-beam lens antenna 1 and eliminating antenna beam deformities, meeting the communication network coverage requirements, and improving the user's network usage effect.

[0047] In some embodiments, Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the multi-beam lens antenna 1 also includes a reflector assembly 30. The reflector assembly 30 includes a first reflector 302 and a second reflector 301 connected to each other; the first feed is arranged on the first reflector 302, and the second feed is arranged on the second reflector 301. The first adjustment mechanism 44 is arranged on the first reflector 302 and connected to the lens unit 40, and is used to adjust the position of the lens unit 40 to adjust the distance between the lens unit 40 and the first reflector 302 and the second reflector 301, thereby adjusting the distance between the lens unit 40 and the first feed and the second feed. The second adjustment mechanism is arranged on the first reflector 302 and connected to the second reflector 301, and is used to adjust the position of the second reflector 301 to adjust the angle between the first reflector 302 and the second reflector 301, thereby adjusting the angle between the first feed and the second feed.

[0048] like Figure 3 As shown, the reflector assembly 30 is fixed in the accommodating space within the antenna cover assembly 50 .

[0049] The reflector can change the direction of the electromagnetic wave signal directed toward the reflector. When the reflector is set on the back of the feed source, the receiving sensitivity of the feed source to the electromagnetic wave signal can be improved.

[0050] In this embodiment, the position of the reflector 302 is fixed. The reflector 302 is fixed on the radome assembly 50.

[0051] For example, Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the first adjustment mechanism 44 can adjust the height of the lens unit 40 in the vertical direction, so that the lens unit 40 is away from or close to the first reflector 302 and the second reflector 301, so that the focus of the lens unit 40 moves to the position of the first feed source to achieve focusing of the first feed source.

[0052] like Figure 3 As shown, after the first feed source is focused, the angle between the first reflector 302 and the second reflector 301 is adjusted by the second adjustment mechanism, and the distance between the second reflector 301 and the lens unit 40 can be adjusted, thereby driving the second feed source on the second reflector 301 to move to the focal point of the lens unit 40, thereby achieving the focusing of the second feed source.

[0053] Through the above-mentioned settings, the first reflector 302 can be used to enhance the receiving sensitivity of the first feed source to electromagnetic wave signals, and the second reflector 301 can be used to enhance the receiving sensitivity of the second feed source to electromagnetic wave signals. By adjusting the positions of the first reflector 302 and the second reflector 301, the first feed source and the second feed source can be driven to focus.

[0054] In some embodiments, Figure 3As shown, one end of the first adjustment mechanism 44 is connected to the lens unit 40, and the other end is fixed to the first reflector 302; the length of the first adjustment mechanism 44 can be adjusted to adjust the position of the lens unit 40. Figure 5 As shown, the first reflector 302 and the second reflector 301 are hinged; one end of the second adjustment mechanism is fixed on the first reflector 302, and the other end is connected to the second reflector 301; the length of the second adjustment mechanism can be adjusted to adjust the position of the second reflector 301.

[0055] Exemplarily, the first adjusting mechanism 44 and the second adjusting mechanism may be telescopic motors, or may be components including a rotating motor and a transmission member.

[0056] For example, Figure 5 As shown, the first reflective plate 302 and the second reflective plate 301 are hingedly connected via a hinge 304 .

[0057] Through the above arrangement, the position of the lens unit 40 can be adjusted by adjusting the length of the first adjustment mechanism 44, and the position of the second reflector 301 can be adjusted by adjusting the length of the second adjustment mechanism, which simplifies the difficulty of adjusting the position of the lens unit 40 and the second reflector 301.

[0058] In some embodiments, Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, there are two second reflectors 301, which are arranged on opposite sides of the first reflector 302. There are two second feed sources and two second adjustment mechanisms, which are arranged on two second reflectors 301 respectively; one end of each second adjustment mechanism is fixed on the first reflector 302, and the other end is connected to one second reflector 301.

[0059] Exemplarily, the two second reflective plates 301 are respectively hinged on two opposite sides of the first reflective plate 302 in the transverse direction. The two second reflective plates 301 and the first reflective plate 302 are arranged in a U shape.

[0060] Through the above arrangement, the total number of feed sources in the multi-beam lens antenna 1 can be increased, so that the multi-beam lens antenna 1 can radiate more beams outward, increasing the signal coverage of the multi-beam lens antenna 1. And the position of the corresponding second reflector 301 can be adjusted through each second adjustment mechanism to achieve the focus of each second feed source.

[0061] In some embodiments, Figure 5As shown, a bracket 34 is fixed on the first reflector 302. The second adjustment mechanism includes a telescopic motor 32 and a ball hinge 33. The telescopic motor 32 is fixed on the bracket 34. The free end of the telescopic motor 32 is connected to one end of the ball hinge 33. The other end of the ball hinge 33 is connected to the second reflector 301.

[0062] Exemplarily, the bracket 34 is welded to the first reflective plate 302 .

[0063] The telescopic motor 32 pushes or stretches the ball hinge 33, thereby driving the second reflector 302 fixed to the ball hinge 33 to rotate around the first reflector 302, thereby adjusting the relative position of the second feed source and the lens unit 40 to achieve the purpose of focusing.

[0064] In some examples, each feed includes a radiating element 11 .

[0065] In some embodiments, Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, each feed source includes a plurality of radiation units 11, and the plurality of radiation units 11 are arranged on a corresponding reflector. In each feed source, the plurality of radiation units 11 are arranged in at least one row along the longitudinal direction of the corresponding reflector to form an array structure 10.

[0066] The radiation unit 11 is a basic unit for generating and receiving electromagnetic wave signals in the feed source, and is used to convert the radio frequency signal in the feed network 20 into an electromagnetic wave signal, and convert the received electromagnetic wave signal into a corresponding radio frequency signal and transmit it to the feed network 20. The radiation unit 11 is, for example, a flat antenna, etc. Each radiation unit 11 is directly opposite to the lens unit 40.

[0067] like Figure 6 In the embodiment, each feed source includes a column of radiation units 11 , and the three feed sources include three columns of radiation units 11 in total.

[0068] The electromagnetic wave signal radiated from the front side of the array structure 10 can be radiated out after passing through the lens unit 40 , and correspondingly, the electromagnetic wave signal can be received by the array structure 10 after passing through the lens unit 40 .

[0069] The lens unit 40 completely covers at least one array structure 10 in the length direction of the array structure 10 .

[0070] Through the above configuration, functions such as scanning and focusing of the electromagnetic wave signal beam are realized by controlling each radiation unit 11 (such as phase and amplitude).

[0071] In some embodiments, Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 7As shown, each feed source further includes a feed network 20. The feed network 20 includes a phase shifter 21, a transmission mechanism 22, and a control module 23. The phase shifter 21 is electrically connected to all the radiation units 11 in the corresponding feed source, and is used to feed the radiation units 11 by adjusting the phases of the radiation units. The transmission mechanism 22 is connected to the phase shifter 21. The control module 23 is electrically connected to the transmission mechanism 22, and is used to drive the transmission mechanism 22 to operate when receiving an external control signal, so as to drive the phase shifter 21 to shift the phase.

[0072] Exemplarily, the feeding network 20 of each feed source is disposed on a corresponding reflection plate and is located on a side of the reflection plate that is away from the lens unit 40 .

[0073] Exemplarily, the type of the phase shifter 21 is a dielectric phase shifter, which realizes the phase shifting function by utilizing the phase delay characteristics of different dielectric materials on electromagnetic waves. The transmission mechanism 22 can be a screw transmission mechanism including a motor, and the free end of the transmission mechanism 22 is driven by the motor to move to adjust the position of the phase shifter 21. The control module 23 adopts a general single-chip microcomputer, which can control the motor of the transmission mechanism 22 to rotate forward or reverse after receiving an external control signal, and the free end of the transmission mechanism 22 reciprocates.

[0074] After the phase shifter 21 performs phase shifting, the electromagnetic wave signal of the radiation unit 11 of the array structure 10 in the corresponding feed source can be controlled to adjust the radiation direction of the electromagnetic wave signal.

[0075] In some embodiments, Figure 8 and Fig. 9 As shown, the lens unit 40 includes a lens medium 41 and two dielectric covers 42. The shape of the lens medium 41 is cylindrical and is used for beamforming of electromagnetic wave signals; the lens medium 41 includes a dielectric shell 4101 and a honeycomb structure 4102 arranged in the dielectric shell 4101. The two dielectric covers 42 are arranged at both ends of the dielectric shell 4101. There are two first adjustment mechanisms 44, and the second ends of the two first adjustment mechanisms 44 are both fixed on the first reflector 302. The first ends of the two first adjustment mechanisms 44 are respectively connected to the two dielectric covers 42 for synchronously adjusting the position of the lens medium 41.

[0076] Exemplarily, the dielectric shell 4101 is a cylindrical shell. The dielectric shell 4101 is made of a lightweight foam material, which can be a foam material such as PP, PS, etc. The end surface of the dielectric shell 4101 is assembled with the dielectric cover 42 to form a sealed cylindrical body, which is convenient for protecting the honeycomb structure 4102 and preventing moisture.

[0077] The honeycomb structure 4102 is an electromagnetic metamaterial that is artificially designed and manufactured. The honeycomb structures 4102 are arranged in contact with each other in the cylindrical shell of the dielectric shell 4101.

[0078] For example, Figure 8 As shown, the first end of each first adjustment mechanism 44 is connected to the medium cover 42 through the mounting shaft 43 for synchronously adjusting the position of the lens medium 41 .

[0079] The lens medium 41 is a main component for beamforming the electromagnetic wave signal. When the electromagnetic wave propagates in the cross-sectional direction of the lens medium 41, its principle is consistent with that of the spherical Luneburg lens.

[0080] The ray trajectory is determined according to Fermat's law, and the refractive index equation of the Luneburg lens is obtained through integral calculation:

[0081]

[0082] n(r) represents the refractive index distribution function of the lens medium to be determined, r represents the distance from a point in the Luneburg lens to the center of the sphere, and R represents the radius of the Luneburg lens.

[0083] From the above equation, we can see that the Luneburg lens requires the dielectric constant to change continuously with the radius. However, it is difficult to manufacture in actual production.

[0084] In some examples, the lens medium 41 is formed by multi-layer spherical shells (nested bodies). Fig.10 Three layers of nested bodies are shown, namely a first nested body 411 , a second nested body 412 and a tail nested body 413 .

[0085] In this case, the lens medium 41 works as follows:

[0086] like Fig.10 As shown in FIG. 1 , when the electromagnetic wave signal propagates in the cross-sectional direction of the lens medium 41, in the normal direction (the direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the lens medium 41), the electromagnetic wave sequentially passes through three layers of media, namely, the first nested body 411, the second nested body 412 and the tail nested body 413. Fig.10 In the figure, letter O represents the feed position. The first electromagnetic wave of feed O passes through points A, B, C, D, E, and F before reaching point P on the equal phase plane. Letters AF represent the boundary points of different media (nested bodies). In the non-normal direction, such as Fig.10As shown in the propagation direction, there is an angle θ between the second electromagnetic wave and the first electromagnetic wave. The second electromagnetic wave of the feed source O reaches point P1 after passing through points A1, B1, E1, and F1, that is, the electromagnetic wave passes through the first nested body 411, the second nested body 412, the first nested body 413 and the air in sequence. Although the path lengths of the two propagation paths OP and OP1 of the electromagnetic wave are different, since the average dielectric constant of the medium passed by the propagation path OP is greater than the average dielectric constant of the medium passed by the propagation path OP1, the technical effect of points P and P1 being located on the same equiphase plane is achieved. The deviation of the feed position from the focal position will cause phase differences in beam paths at different angles, thereby affecting the beam efficiency and antenna gain.

[0087] The multi-beam lens antenna 1 in the embodiment of the present invention adjusts the positions of the first feed source and the second feed source so that the first feed source and the second feed source can be located at the focus or near the focus of the lens medium 41, thereby avoiding the phase difference existing in beam paths at different angles and avoiding affecting the beam efficiency and antenna gain.

[0088] refer to Fig.11 The focusing process of the multi-beam lens antenna 1 in this embodiment is described in detail below, wherein the focusing process of the multi-beam lens antenna 1 includes process a and process b.

[0089] Before starting the adjustment, the lens unit 40 and the second reflector 301 need to be adjusted to the initial position. In the initial position, the lens unit 40 is close to the first reflector 302, and the angle between the second reflector 301 and the first reflector 302 is small.

[0090] Process a:

[0091] S1A, after starting adjustment, first test the gain of the array structure 10 on the first reflector 302;

[0092] S2A, adjusting the height of the lens unit 40 by means of the first adjustment mechanism 44 (here, a telescopic motor);

[0093] S3A, testing the gain of the array structure 10 on the first reflector 302;

[0094] S4A, determine whether the current gain of the array structure 10 on the first reflector 302 minus the previous gain is greater than 0. If the determination result is yes, return to step S2A, and continue to increase the height of the lens unit 40 and the first reflector 302 through the first adjustment mechanism 44 (here, the telescopic motor); if the determination result is no, proceed to step S5A;

[0095] S5A, taking the previous position of the lens unit 40 as the focal position of the first reflector 302, and returning the lens unit 40 to the previous position, thereby achieving focusing of the first feed source.

[0096] Process b:

[0097] S1B, after starting the adjustment, first test the gain of the array structure 10 on the second reflector 301;

[0098] S2B, adjusting the angle of the second reflector 301 by a second adjustment mechanism (here, a telescopic motor);

[0099] S3B, testing the gain of the array structure 10 on the second reflector 301;

[0100] S4B, determine whether the current gain of the array structure 10 on the second reflector 301 minus the previous gain is greater than 0. If the determination result is yes, return to step S2B, and continue to increase the angle between the second reflector 301 and the first reflector 302 through the second adjustment mechanism (here, the telescopic motor); if the determination result is no, proceed to step S5B;

[0101] S5B, taking the previous position of the second reflector 301 as the focal position of the second reflector 301, and returning the second reflector 301 to the previous position, thereby achieving focusing of the second feed source.

[0102] Embodiment 2:

[0103] An embodiment of the present invention further provides an antenna base station, which includes but is not limited to a base station antenna for mobile cellular communications, etc., and is used to radiate and receive electromagnetic wave signals to achieve coverage of electromagnetic wave signals.

[0104] The antenna base station comprises an antenna support and the multi-beam lens antenna 1 in Embodiment 1. The feed system of the multi-beam lens antenna 1 is fixed on the antenna support.

[0105] The multi-beam lens antenna 1 can achieve focusing of multiple feed sources, improve the radiation performance of the multi-beam lens antenna 1, eliminate antenna beam deformity to meet communication needs, and reduce the design, manufacturing, and use costs of the multi-beam lens antenna 1.

[0106] The antenna bracket can increase the height of the multi-beam lens antenna 1, reduce the blocking of the electromagnetic wave signals radiated by the multi-beam lens antenna 1 by ground obstacles, and is beneficial to improving the coverage range of the electromagnetic wave signals radiated by the multi-beam lens antenna 1.

[0107] Through the above configuration, the radiation performance of the antenna base station can be improved, and the coverage range of the electromagnetic wave signal radiated by the multi-beam lens antenna 1 can be increased.

[0108] Embodiment 3:

[0109] The embodiment of the present invention further provides an adjustment method for a multi-beam lens antenna. The adjustment method uses the multi-beam lens antenna 1 in Embodiment 1. The adjustment method includes S1 and S2.

[0110] It should be noted that before adjustment, the positions of the lens unit 40 and the second reflector 301 need to be adjusted to the initial positions. In the initial positions, the lens unit 40 is close to the first reflector 302, and the angle between the second reflector 301 and the first reflector 302 is small.

[0111] S1. The position of the lens unit 40 is adjusted by the first adjustment mechanism 44, and the first feed source is located at or near the focus of the lens unit 40 according to the real-time gain change of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the first feed source during the adjustment process.

[0112] S2. The position of the second feed source is adjusted by the second adjustment mechanism, and the second feed source is located at or near the focus of the lens unit 40 according to the real-time gain change of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the second feed source during the adjustment process.

[0113] By focusing the first feed source and the second feed source separately, multiple feed sources in the multi-beam lens antenna 1 can be focused simultaneously, thereby optimizing the radiation characteristics of the multi-beam lens antenna 1.

[0114] The above step S1 specifically includes S11-S15.

[0115] S11. Detecting the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the first feed source.

[0116] S12. Adjust the position of the lens unit 40 through the first adjustment mechanism 44 to increase the distance between the lens unit 40 and the first feed source by a preset distance.

[0117] Exemplarily, the preset spacing may be 0.5 mm, 0.8 mm or 1 mm, etc. The preset spacing may be determined based on previous adjustment experience.

[0118] S13. Detect the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the first feed source again, and determine whether the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the first feed source detected this time is greater than the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal of the first feed source detected last time. If the judgment result is yes, jump to step S14; if the judgment result is no, jump to step S15.

[0119] S14, repeat steps S12-S13 until the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the first feed source detected this time is less than or equal to the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal of the first feed source detected last time, and jump to S15.

[0120] S15, adjusting the position of the lens unit 40 again by the first adjustment mechanism 44 to adjust the distance between the lens unit 40 and the first feed source forward to a preset distance, so that the first feed source is located at or near the focus of the lens unit 40.

[0121] That is, the first feed source is first set at a position close to the lens unit 40, and then the height of the lens unit 40 is continuously increased, thereby increasing the distance between the lens unit 40 and the first feed source, so that the focus of the lens unit 40 is continuously approached to the first feed source, and in this process, the real-time gain of the first feed source is detected, so as to find the maximum value of the real-time gain of the first feed source according to the real-time gain change of the first feed source. The position of the lens unit 40 corresponding to this maximum value is the position when the first feed source is located at the focus or near the focus of the lens unit 40, thereby achieving the focusing of the first feed source.

[0122] S2 specifically includes S21-S25.

[0123] S21. Detect the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the second feed source.

[0124] S22. Adjust the position of the second feed source by a second adjustment mechanism to increase the angle between the first feed source and the second feed source by a preset angle.

[0125] Exemplarily, the preset angle may be 1°, 2° or 3°, etc. The preset angle may be determined based on previous adjustment experience.

[0126] S23. Detect the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the second feed source again, and determine whether the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the second feed source detected this time is greater than the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal of the second feed source detected last time, and when the judgment result is yes, jump to step S24; when the judgment result is no, jump to step S25.

[0127] S24, repeat the above steps S22-S23 until the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the second feed source detected this time is less than or equal to the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal of the second feed source detected last time, and jump to S25.

[0128] S25 , adjusting the position of the second feed source again by the second adjustment mechanism to adjust the angle between the first feed source and the second feed source forward to a preset angle, so that the second feed source is located at or near the focus of the lens unit 40 .

[0129] Similarly, the initial angle between the second feed and the first feed is small, so the second feed is set at the position closest to the focus of the lens unit 40. In the process of continuously increasing the angle between the first feed and the second feed, the distance between the second feed and the lens unit 40 can be increased, so that the second feed is continuously close to the focus of the lens unit 40. In this process, the real-time gain of the second feed is detected, and the maximum value of the real-time gain of the second feed can be found according to the change of the real-time gain of the second feed. The position of the second feed corresponding to this maximum value is the focal position of the second feed, thereby achieving the focusing of the second feed.

[0130] It is to be understood that the above embodiments are merely exemplary embodiments used to illustrate the principles of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For those of ordinary skill in the art, various modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the spirit and essence of the present invention, and these modifications and improvements are also considered to be within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A multi-beam lens antenna, characterized in that: include: A lens unit (40) for beamforming electromagnetic wave signals; A feed system is arranged opposite to the lens unit (40); the feed system comprises a first feed and a second feed connected to each other, each feed being used to input an electromagnetic wave signal toward the lens unit (40) to generate electromagnetic wave signals of multiple beams; and, A position adjustment component comprises a first adjustment mechanism (44) and a second adjustment mechanism; the first adjustment mechanism (44) is used to adjust the position of the lens unit (40) to adjust the distance between the lens unit (40) and the first feed source and the second feed source, so that the first feed source is located at the focus or near the focus of the lens unit (40); the second adjustment mechanism is used to adjust the position of the second feed source to adjust the angle between the first feed source and the second feed source, so that the second feed source is located at the focus or near the focus of the lens unit (40).

2. The multi-beam lens antenna according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also includes a reflector assembly (30); The reflection plate assembly (30) comprises a first reflection plate (302) and a second reflection plate (301) connected to each other; the first feed source is arranged on the first reflection plate (302), and the second feed source is arranged on the second reflection plate (301); The first adjustment mechanism (44) is arranged on the first reflection plate (302) and connected to the lens unit (40), and is used to adjust the position of the lens unit (40) so as to adjust the distance between the lens unit (40) and the first reflection plate (302) and the second reflection plate (301), thereby adjusting the distance between the lens unit (40) and the first feed source and the second feed source; The second adjustment mechanism is arranged on the first reflecting plate (302) and connected to the second reflecting plate (301), and is used for adjusting the position of the second reflecting plate (301) to adjust the angle between the first reflecting plate (302) and the second reflecting plate (301), thereby adjusting the angle between the first feed source and the second feed source.

3. The multi-beam lens antenna according to claim 2, characterized in that: The number of the second reflecting plates (301) is two, and the two second reflecting plates (301) are arranged on two opposite sides of the first reflecting plate (302) in the transverse direction; The number of the second feed sources and the number of the second adjustment mechanisms are both two, and the two second feed sources are respectively arranged on two second reflection plates (301); one end of each second adjustment mechanism is fixed on the first reflection plate (302), and the other end is connected to one of the second reflection plates (301).

4. The multi-beam lens antenna according to claim 2, characterized in that: A bracket (34) is fixed on the first reflecting plate (302); The second adjustment mechanism comprises a telescopic motor (32) and a ball hinge (33); the telescopic motor (32) is fixed on the bracket (34); the free end of the telescopic motor (32) is connected to one end of the ball hinge (33); and the other end of the ball hinge (33) is connected to the second reflector (301).

5. The multi-beam lens antenna according to claim 2, characterized in that: Each of the feed sources comprises a plurality of radiation units (11), and the plurality of radiation units (11) are arranged on the corresponding reflection plate; In each of the feed sources, a plurality of radiation units (11) are arranged in at least one row along the longitudinal direction of the corresponding reflection plate to form an array structure (10).

6. The multi-beam lens antenna according to claim 4, characterized in that: Each of the feed sources also includes a feed network (20); The feed network (20) comprises: A phase shifter (21) is electrically connected to all the radiation units (11) in the corresponding feed source, and is used to feed the radiation units (11) by adjusting the phases of the radiation units; A transmission mechanism (22) connected to the phase shifter (21); The control module (23) is electrically connected to the transmission mechanism (22) and is used to drive the transmission mechanism (22) to operate when receiving an external control signal, so as to drive the phase shifter (21) to perform phase shifting.

7. The multi-beam lens antenna according to claim 2, characterized in that: The lens unit (40) comprises: A lens medium (41), wherein the lens medium (41) is cylindrical in shape and is used for beamforming of electromagnetic wave signals; the lens medium (41) comprises a dielectric shell (4101) and a honeycomb structure (4102) arranged in the dielectric shell (4102); and, Two dielectric covers (42) are arranged at two ends of the dielectric shell (4101); The number of the first adjustment mechanisms (44) is two, the second ends of the two first adjustment mechanisms (44) are fixed on the first reflection plate (302), and the first ends of the two first adjustment mechanisms (44) are respectively connected to the two medium covers (42) for synchronously adjusting the position of the lens medium (41).

8. An antenna base station, characterized in that: include: Antenna bracket; and, The multi-beam lens antenna according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the feed system of the multi-beam lens antenna is fixed on the antenna bracket.

9. A method for adjusting a multi-beam lens antenna, characterized in that: The multi-beam lens antenna according to any one of claims 1 to 8 comprises: S1, adjusting the position of the lens unit (40) by means of a first adjustment mechanism (44), and according to a real-time gain change of an electromagnetic wave signal output by the first feed source during the adjustment process, positioning the first feed source at or near the focus of the lens unit (40); S2. The position of the second feed source is adjusted by a second adjustment mechanism, and according to the real-time gain change of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the second feed source during the adjustment process, the second feed source is positioned at or near the focus of the lens unit (40).

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that The step S1 specifically includes: S11, detecting the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the first feed source; S12, adjusting the position of the lens unit (40) by means of the first adjustment mechanism (44) so ​​as to increase the distance between the lens unit (40) and the first feed source by a preset distance; S13, detecting the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the first feed source again, and determining whether the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the first feed source detected this time is greater than the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal of the first feed source detected last time, and if the determination result is yes, jumping to step S14, if the determination result is no, jumping to step S15; S14, repeating steps S12-S13 until the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the first feed source detected this time is less than or equal to the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal of the first feed source detected last time, and jumping to S15; S15, adjusting the position of the lens unit (40) again by means of the first adjustment mechanism (44) to adjust the distance between the lens unit (40) and the first feed source forward by a preset distance, so that the first feed source is located at or near the focus of the lens unit (40); The S2 specifically includes: S21, detecting the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the second feed source; S22, adjusting the position of the second feed source by a second adjustment mechanism to increase the angle between the first feed source and the second feed source by a preset angle; S23, detecting the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the second feed source again, and determining whether the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the second feed source detected this time is greater than the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal of the second feed source detected last time, and if the determination result is yes, jumping to step S24, if the determination result is no, jumping to step S25; S24, repeating the above steps S22-S23 until the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal output by the second feed source detected this time is less than or equal to the real-time gain of the electromagnetic wave signal of the second feed source detected last time, and jumping to S25; S25. The position of the second feed source is adjusted again by the second adjustment mechanism to adjust the angle between the first feed source and the second feed source forward to the preset angle, so that the second feed source is located at or near the focus of the lens unit (40).

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