Antenna assembly for communication device

Abstract

An apparatus and an accompanying antenna assembly are described. The apparatus includes circuitry that processes communication signals wirelessly received and / or transmitted over a network and an antenna assembly. The antenna assembly includes an antenna structure operating within a first frequency range and a second frequency range different from the first frequency range. The antenna assembly includes first and second conductive elements, each conductive element having one end coupled to a first end and a second end of a conductive ground element on the antenna structure. The first and second elements each extend outwardly in a direction perpendicular to the ground element and away from the antenna structure, and the second element extends parallel to the first element. The first and second elements form a ground plane extension of the antenna structure that improves performance of the antenna assembly over the first frequency range and / or the second frequency range.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to antenna assemblies, and more particularly to antenna assemblies included as part of an electronic assembly in an apparatus, such as a communication device. Background Art

[0002] Any background information described herein is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of the technology that may be related to the present embodiments described below. It is believed that this discussion helps to provide the reader with background information to facilitate a better understanding of various aspects of the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that these statements should be interpreted from this perspective.

[0003] Wireless communication networks exist in many communication systems today. Many communication devices used in these systems include one or more antennas for connecting to the network. These communication devices typically include, but are not limited to, set-top boxes, gateways, cellular or wireless phones, televisions, home computers, media content players, etc. In addition, many of these communication devices may include multiple interfaces for different types of networks. Therefore, one or more antennas may be present on or in a communication device.

[0004] Antennas used in communication devices are typically designed to fit inside the structure of the device and need to fit into a small area. As the trend toward producing smaller communication devices that can operate using more communication networks continues, the need to reduce the number of antennas within communication devices has become more important. As a result, the use of multi-band antennas and the use of antenna components that are physically separated from the antenna's interface circuitry have become common. Figure 1 An exemplary antenna assembly designed to be located inside a communication device is shown. Figure 1 The antenna assembly in may be referred to as a dual-band antenna and is designed to receive and transmit frequencies used by wireless communication networks on two different frequency bands. Figure 1 The antenna assembly in is designed to operate on two cellular long-term evolution (LTE) frequency bands, called Band 28 (from 700 to 800 megahertz (MHz)) and Band 7 (from 2500 to 2700 MHz). Figure 1 A printed circuit board 105 is included as a base material for supporting a set of conductive traces in a pattern layout. The printed circuit 105 includes conductive traces 110 and 130, which form active elements of the signal transmitting and receiving portions of the antenna. Both conductive traces 110 and conductive traces 130 may include dimensional characteristics, different lengths, widths and shapes, including additional bends, directions and angles, such as Figure 1As shown. The dimensional characteristics can be configured through the design process to enhance the performance of the antenna for signals in two different frequency ranges simultaneously. Signal interface connection 120 is connected to conductive traces 110 and 130 and provides an external signal interface for communication signals between the antenna and any interface circuit in the communication device. One end of coaxial cable 190 is connected to signal interface 120. The other end of coaxial cable 190 is used to connect to another circuit.

[0005] The printed circuit board 105 also includes a set of conductive traces 140, 150 (missing or incorrectly labeled), 160 and 170 that provide ground references for the active elements of the antenna described above. Conductive traces 140, 150, 160 and 170 are not connected to conductive traces 110 and 130. As with conductive traces 110 and 130, conductive traces 140, 150, 160 and 170 can be configured to include dimensional characteristics as described above. Ground interface connection 150 is connected to conductive traces 140, 150, 160 and 170 and provides an external ground interface for communication signals between the antenna and the interface circuit in the communication device. Coaxial cable 190 is shown attached to signal interface connection 120 and ground interface connection 150 to provide electrical connection for signals between the antenna assembly and other circuits.

[0006] Figure 1 Also included is a conductive foil 180 connected at one end to the conductive trace 170. The conductive foil 180 (missing or incorrectly labeled) extends beyond the printed circuit board 105 in an outward direction perpendicular to the conductive trace 170. The end of the foil conductor 180 opposite the end connected to the conductive trace 170 is used to connect to a ground that is adjacent to a ground used for other circuits in the communication device and connected to the coaxial cable 190. In this way, the conductive foil 180 is used as a Figure 1 The antenna assembly extends relative to the ground of the interface circuit in the communication device. The dimensions of the conductive foil 180 can be configured to include the dimensional characteristics described above to improve the performance of the antenna assembly in frequency band 1 and to accommodate connection with the communication device.

[0007] Use a conductive foil (e.g. Figure 1There are some disadvantages to using the conductive foil 180 in the antenna assembly to provide a ground extension for a stand-alone antenna assembly. At or near final assembly of the communication device, the conductive foil from the antenna assembly is attached and connected to a part of the communication device, such as a printed circuit board containing the interface circuit of the antenna. Typical attachment methods are welding or bonding with conductive glue. Soldering a conductive foil with larger edge dimensions into the communication device at this assembly point may cause unexpected damage or thermal stress to other components or printed circuit boards near the welding point. The use of conductive glue can be costly and may also be unreliable because the glue can dry out over time due to environmental influences. In addition, the large attachment area required to attach the conductive foil takes up space on the part or component (such as a printed circuit board) that cannot be used for other purposes.

[0008] Finally, once assembled into a communication device, it may be difficult to remove the antenna assembly or the conductive foil for any purpose, including repairing, replacing, or reworking the antenna assembly or other components of the communication device in the vicinity of the antenna assembly or the conductive foil. The process of moving the antenna assembly may damage or destroy the conductive foil, and attempting to separate the conductive foil from its connection to the communication device may result in damage to the conductive foil, the area where the conductive foil is attached, or a portion of the communication device itself. Therefore, there is a need for an improved antenna assembly that improves manufacturability while maintaining antenna performance. Summary of the invention

[0009] The principles of the present disclosure address these and other drawbacks and deficiencies of antenna assemblies for communication devices. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present principles may also provide advantages in other types of devices and systems.

[0010] According to one embodiment, an antenna assembly is described. The antenna assembly includes an antenna structure configured to operate within a first frequency range and a second frequency range different from the first frequency range. The antenna assembly also includes a first conductive element and a second conductive element, one end of the first conductive element is coupled to a first end of a conductive ground element on the antenna structure, the first conductive element extends outward in a direction perpendicular to the ground element and away from the antenna structure, one end of the second conductive element is coupled to a second end of the ground element on the antenna structure, the second conductive element extends outward in a direction perpendicular to the conductive ground element and away from the antenna structure, and the second conductive element extends parallel to the first conductive element. The first conductive element and the second conductive element form a ground plane extension of the antenna structure, and the ground plane extension improves the performance of the antenna assembly in at least one of the first frequency range and the second frequency range of operation.

[0011] According to one embodiment, a device is described. The device includes a circuit capable of processing at least one of a communication signal wirelessly received from a network and a communication signal for wirelessly sending to a network, and an antenna assembly coupled to the circuit. The antenna assembly includes an antenna structure configured to operate in a first frequency range and a second frequency range different from the first frequency range. The antenna assembly also includes a first conductive element and a second conductive element, one end of the first conductive element is coupled to a first end of a conductive grounding element on the antenna structure, the first conductive element extends outward in a direction perpendicular to the grounding element and away from the antenna structure, one end of the second conductive element is coupled to a second end of the grounding element on the antenna structure, the second conductive element extends outward in a direction perpendicular to the conductive grounding element and away from the antenna structure, and the second conductive element extends parallel to the first conductive element. The first conductive element and the second conductive element form a ground plane extension of the antenna structure, and the ground plane extension improves the performance of the antenna assembly in at least one of the first frequency range and the second frequency range of operation. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0013] Figure 1 is a diagram of an exemplary antenna;

[0014] Figure 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary communication device to which the principles of the present disclosure may be applied;

[0015] Figure 3 is a diagram of an exemplary antenna assembly to which the principles of the present disclosure may be applied;

[0016] Figure 4 is a diagram of another exemplary antenna assembly to which the principles of the present disclosure may be applied;

[0017] Figure 5 is a graph illustrating characteristics of an exemplary antenna assembly to which the principles of the present disclosure may be applied;

[0018] Figure 6 is a perspective view of an exemplary electronic assembly with an integrated antenna assembly in a communication device to which the principles of the present disclosure may be applied; and

[0019] Figure 7 is a perspective view of another illustrative electronic assembly with an integrated antenna assembly for use in a communications device to which the principles of the present disclosure may be applied. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The present disclosure may be applied to electronic devices or apparatuses described as assembled devices or apparatuses having one or more integrated antenna assemblies. The present disclosure also addresses manufacturing and assembly issues associated with the use of one or more of the various available integrated antenna assemblies that may be used in electronic devices or apparatuses.

[0021] This specification illustrates the principles of the present disclosure. It will therefore be appreciated that those skilled in the art will be able to design various arrangements that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the present disclosure and are included within the scope of the claims.

[0022] All examples and conditional language described herein are intended for teaching purposes to help readers understand the principles of the present disclosure and the concepts contributed by the inventors to advance the art, and should be construed as not being limited to these specifically described examples and conditions.

[0023] In addition, all statements of the principles, aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure and specific examples thereof are intended to cover their structural and functional equivalents. In addition, such equivalents are intended to include currently known equivalents as well as equivalents developed in the future, i.e., any elements developed that perform the same function, regardless of structure.

[0024] In the embodiments herein, any element directly or indirectly expressed or described as a means for performing a specified function is intended to cover any manner of performing that function, including, for example: a) a combination of elements that perform that function, or b) any mechanism having a combination of electrical or mechanical elements for performing that function. The disclosure defined by such claims lies in the fact that the functions provided by the various described means are combined and brought together in the manner required by the claims. Therefore, it can be considered that any device capable of providing these functions is equivalent to those shown herein.

[0025] The present embodiments solve problems associated with antenna assemblies that utilize a ground extension element (e.g., a conductive foil) to provide an improved ground reference or ground interface between an active element of the antenna assembly and an interface component or circuit that is physically separate from the antenna assembly. These problems include, but are not limited to, assembly difficulties, long-term reliability of the connection to the conductive foil, and difficulty in disassembly for repair, replacement, or rework. In addition, removing the ground extension element from the antenna will degrade the performance of the antenna, hindering its ability to send and receive wireless signals within the operating frequency range or band of the antenna assembly.

[0026] The present disclosure solves these problems by replacing the conductive foil with one or more conductive traces or elements (e.g., wires). The wires are connected and positioned in such a way as to approximate the edge contour of two unconnected parallel sides of the peripheral shape of the conductive foil. The position, spacing, and any other dimensions of the wires can be adjusted or tuned to produce the same or similar performance level as an antenna assembly with a conductive foil, particularly with respect to signal transmission and reception characteristics in the operating frequency range or band of the antenna assembly.

[0027] Embodiments take advantage of certain aspects associated with using conductive elements or wires rather than conductive foil. Wires are easier to attach to components of an electronic device or apparatus, such as a printed circuit board. Furthermore, in some cases, wires can be attached using a plug and socket interface mechanism, making assembly and disassembly easier. Furthermore, wires are easier to manipulate or adjust, making positioning or repositioning easier, and less prone to damage.

[0028] Finally, the solid surface of the conductive foil is replaced with a conductive element or wire (tracing the edge contours of the two unconnected sides of the original conductive foil), based in part on the principle of the skin effect in conductors. The skin effect reduces the effective cross-section of the conductor, where the alternating current flows through the conductive material. The depth of the current flow decreases with increasing frequency. Therefore, the current density along the edge of the conductive foil will be higher than the current density in the interior. The wire allows similar current density to flow without significantly affecting the current density characteristics generated by the conductive foil.

[0029] Go to Figure 2 , a block diagram of an embodiment of a communication device 200 according to various aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The communication device 200 can be used as a part of a communication receiver, transmitter and / or transceiver device, including but not limited to a handheld radio, a set-top box, a gateway, a modem, a router, a cellular or wireless telephone, a cellular or wireless outdoor unit, a television, a home computer, a tablet computer, and a media content player. The communication device 200 may include one or more interfaces to a wireless network, including but not limited to a third generation (3G), LTE or fifth generation (5G) cellular, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) standard 802.11, Wi-Fi or other similar wireless communication protocols. It is worth noting that for the sake of brevity, several components and interconnections necessary for the complete operation of the communication device 200 (as a stand-alone device or included as part of another device) are not shown, as the components not shown are well known to those skilled in the art.

[0030] The communication device 200 includes a communication circuit 210 that interfaces with other processing circuits (e.g., a processor, memory, and a user interface) not shown. The communication circuit 210 is connected to an antenna 220. The antenna 220 provides an interface to radio waves for sending and receiving signals to and from the communication device 200.

[0031] The communication circuit 210 includes a circuit for performing signal transmission and reception of the following signal: the signal is connected to another device via the antenna 220 through the wireless network. The received signal from the antenna 220 can be processed by a low noise amplifier and tuned by a set of filters, mixers and oscillators included in the communication circuit 210. The tuned signal can be digitized and further demodulated and decoded. The decoded signal can be provided to other processing circuits. In addition, the communication circuit 210 generates, converts and / or formats input signals (e.g., audio, video or data signals) from other processing circuits for transmission through the antenna 220. The communication circuit 210 may include a power amplifier for increasing the transmission signal level of the signal sent from the communication device 200 through the wireless network. The amplification applied to the signal received from the antenna 220 and the adjustment of the amplification of the signal sent by the antenna 220 can be controlled by the control circuit in the communication circuit 210, or can be controlled by other processing circuits.

[0032] The communication circuit 210 also includes an interface for sending and receiving data (e.g., audio and / or video signals) to other processing circuits (not shown). The communication circuit 210 further amplifies and processes the data so as to provide the data to the antenna 220 for transmission or to provide the data to other processing circuits. The communication circuit 210 can receive or send audio, video, and / or data signals in analog or digital signal formats. In one embodiment, the communication circuit 210 has an Ethernet interface for transmitting data to other processing circuits and a wireless network interface for communicating with the antenna 220. The communication circuit 210 includes processing circuits for converting signals between Ethernet formats and wireless formats (e.g., 3G cellular formats).

[0033] Antenna 220 couples signals between communication circuit 210 and an airborne wireless network (e.g., a 3G or LTE cellular network). In some embodiments, antenna 220 may be configured to send and receive wireless signals present within a frequency range. The frequency range may be divided into separate frequency bands, thereby simplifying the design requirements and / or capabilities of the antenna. These frequency bands may be separated within the frequency range. For example, LTE cellular wireless devices use band 28 (approximately 700 to 800 MHz) and band 7 (approximately 2500 to 2700 MHz) for communication. In one embodiment, antenna 220 may be configured to optimally send and receive wireless signals in two frequency bands used within the frequency range of LTE cellular services, while reducing the sending and receiving capabilities for wireless signals in frequencies outside of these two frequency bands.

[0034] The antenna 220 can be physically separated from the communication circuit 210 in the communication device 200. Separation may be necessary to prevent interference between the operation of the antenna 220 and the communication circuit 210. Separation may additionally or alternatively be necessary to allow the operation of the antenna 220 to be properly or optimally positioned relative to an area or space within the communication device 200. In these cases, the antenna 220 may be referred to as an antenna assembly. The antenna 220 may include a connection interface for transmitting transmit and receive signals with the communication circuit 210. In some embodiments, the connection interface may utilize a coaxial cable to make a signal connection associated with a ground reference connection between the antenna 220 and the interface at the communication circuit 210. In addition, an additional ground extension element may be connected between a ground reference point at or on the antenna 220 and a ground point at or near the ground reference point of the interface at the communication circuit 210.

[0035] It is worth noting that multiple antennas 220 can be used in the communication device 200. Using multiple antennas can provide additional performance capabilities and control options. For example, in one embodiment, a first antenna can be oriented along a first direction or axis, and a second antenna can be oriented along a second direction or axis. In another embodiment, the two antennas can be physically spaced apart at opposite ends of the communication device 200 or a larger device that includes the communication device 200.

[0036] Figure 2The communication device 200 in the embodiment is primarily described as operating in accordance with a cellular wireless network (e.g., 3G or LTE). It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other network standards and protocols that include wireless physical interfaces may be used. For example, the communication device 200 may be easily configured to operate in accordance with the standards and protocols of a Bluetooth network, a WiMax network, a Wi-Fi network, or any number of wireless network standards or protocols that are or will be available. In addition, multiple of these networks may be used interchangeably or simultaneously.

[0037] Now go to Figure 3 , a diagram of an exemplary antenna assembly 300 according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The antenna assembly 300 may be included as a device for wireless communication (e.g. Figure 2 The antenna assembly 300 may be referred to as a dual-band or multi-band antenna for use with one or more frequency ranges or frequency bands associated with wireless network communications as described above.

[0038] The antenna assembly 300 includes a conductive element 310, one end of which is coupled to a signal interface connection 320 and extends in a first direction away from the signal interface connection 320. The signal interface connection 320 is also coupled to a conductive element 330, which extends outward from the signal interface connection 320 in a direction opposite to the direction of the conductive element 310. A conductive element 340 is positioned adjacent to and parallel to the conductive element 330. A signal interface connection 350 is positioned adjacent to and parallel to the signal interface connection 320 and is coupled to the conductive element 340. The signal interface connection 350 is also coupled to a conductive element 360, which is positioned adjacent to and parallel to the conductive element 340. One end of a conductive element 370 is coupled to an end of the conductive element 360 that is closest to the signal interface connection 350. The conductive element 370 extends outward in a direction perpendicular to the conductive element 360 and away from the conductive element 340. The conductive element 370 includes a signal interface connection 375 at an end farthest from the conductive element 360. Conductive element 380 is coupled to an end of conductive element 360 that is farthest from signal interface connection 350. Conductive element 380 extends outwardly in a direction adjacent to and parallel to conductive element 370. Conductive element 380 includes a signal interface connection 385 at an end farthest from conductive element 360.

[0039] It is worth noting that elements adjacent to each other can generally be considered to have a certain physical distance between them. The physical distance can be an open space, or can be occupied or filled by a certain type of material. Preferably, the material does not affect the performance of the element and the antenna. Usually, except for the coupling described, the element may not be electrically connected at any point. However, in some embodiments, the elements can be considered to be adjacent to each other while having some aspects different from those described herein. In addition, in some embodiments, the elements can be adjacent to each other, but not strictly parallel. In such embodiments, the term parallel to each other can be interpreted as keeping a certain distance between the elements while still utilizing one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

[0040] The conductive elements described in antenna assembly 300 can be formed using conductive materials, including but not limited to copper, brass, nickel, aluminum, etc. Some or all of the elements in antenna assembly 300 can be freestanding or self-supporting. In some cases, two or more elements (e.g., signal interface connection 320 and signal interface 350) can be mechanically coupled together using non-metallic structures (e.g., plastic brackets). In addition, some or all of the conductive elements described in antenna assembly 300 can be printed, etched, or laminated onto non-metallic materials, such as rigid laminate materials (e.g., printed circuit boards) or flexible plastic or polymer film materials.

[0041] Signal interface connection 320 provides an interface for communication signals, referred to as a feeder. Signal interface connections 350, 375, and 385 provide connections to signal grounds for communication signals. In some embodiments, signal interface connection 320 is connected to a center conductor or a signal conductor, and signal interface connection 350 is connected to a ground for connecting communication signals to or from antenna assembly 300 to a communication circuit (e.g., Figure 2 The outer shield or ground conductor of the coaxial cable that is engaged with the communication circuit 210 in the signal interface connection 375 and 385. The signal interface connection 375 and 385 provide a connection to the signal ground at a location close to the communication circuit. The connection mechanism at the signal interface connection 320, 350, 375 and 385 can include a solder connection or a detachable plug interface.

[0042] like Figure 3As shown, conductive element 310 may be referred to as a first driven antenna element of antenna assembly 300, which is configured to operate within a first frequency range. Conductive element 330 may be referred to as a second driven antenna element of antenna assembly 300, which is configured to operate within a second frequency range. The first frequency range and the second frequency range may be continuous, overlapping, or separate. In addition, the frequency bandwidths of the first frequency range and the second frequency range may be different. In one embodiment, the first frequency range is 700 to 800 MHz, covering Band 28, and the second frequency range is 2500 to 2700 MHz, covering Band 7, as described above. Other antennas using similar aspects of antenna assembly 300 can be configured to operate within different frequency ranges.

[0043] Conductive elements 340, 360, 370, and 380 provide a portion of the ground reference that is used as part of the operating characteristics of one or both of the first antenna element (i.e., conductive element 310) and the second antenna element (i.e., conductive element 330) of the antenna assembly 300. These operating characteristics may include, but are not limited to, the center frequency of operation, the operating frequency bandwidth around the center frequency, the input characteristic impedance or input return loss within the operating frequency bandwidth, and the antenna gain or beam width. The operating characteristics of the first antenna element and the second antenna element of the antenna assembly 300 can be determined or configured by adjusting one or more of the physical dimensions of each of the conductive elements 310 and 330, including the length, width, and / or thickness. In one embodiment, the conductive element 310 has a length of 2.25 inches and a width of 0.125 inches, and the conductive element 330 has a length of 0.75 inches and a width of 0.125 inches. The operating characteristics can also be further modified by adjusting the size of each of the conductive elements 340, 360, 370, and 380, as well as the relative position and distance between adjacent conductive elements and the distance from the conductive elements 310 and / or 330. In some embodiments, the operating characteristics of the conductive element 310 operating in the first frequency range are modified by adjusting the length and distance between the conductive elements 370 and 380. In one embodiment, the conductive elements 370 and 380 are separated by a distance of 0.6 inches. For most applications, it is expected that the conductive elements 370 and 380 will be separated by at least 0.5 inches in order to effectively function as a ground plane extension. The configuration and operation of a multi-band antenna similar to the antenna assembly 300 will be described in further detail below.

[0044] It is noted that in some embodiments, conductive elements 340 and 360 may be configured without spacing or separation. Thus, conductive elements 340 and 360 may be referred to as a single conductive element 360 connected to signal interface connection 350 and conductive elements 370 and 380 as described above.

[0045] As described above, the conductive elements 370 and 380 are positioned in such a manner as to approximate the edge contours of two unconnected parallel sides of the peripheral shape of the conductive foil. The length of each of the conductive elements 370 and 380 and the spacing therebetween may be similar to the conductive foil (e.g., Figure 1 The desired length and width of the conductive foil 180 in the antenna ( 370 ) can be determined. The width of each of the conductive elements 370 and 380 is much smaller than the width of the conductive sheet. The width of each of the conductive elements 370 and 380 can be the same or different and can be determined based on the operating frequency of the antenna. In addition, the length, position, spacing and width of the conductive elements 370 and 380 can be adjusted or tuned to produce the same or similar performance level as the conductive foil. In one embodiment, the length and width of the conductive elements 370 and 380 can be 2.25 inches and 0.020 inches, respectively.

[0046] Now go to Figure 4 , a diagram of another exemplary antenna assembly 400 according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The antenna assembly 400 may be included as a device for wireless communication (e.g. Figure 2 The antenna assembly 400 operates in the same two frequency ranges and at the same Figure 3 The antenna assembly 400 operates in a similar manner to the antenna assembly 300 described in . The antenna assembly 400 may also be referred to as a dual-band or multi-band antenna, and more specifically a meanderline dual-band or multi-band antenna.

[0047] The antenna assembly 400 includes a conductive element 410 having one end coupled to a signal interface connection 420 and extending in a first direction away from the signal interface connection 420. The signal interface connection 420 is also coupled to a conductive element 430, which extends outward from the signal interface connection 420 in a direction opposite to the direction of the conductive element 410. A conductive element 412 has one end coupled to an end of the conductive element 410 farthest from the signal interface connection 420 and extends in a direction perpendicular to the conductive element 410. A conductive element 414 is coupled to the other end of the conductive element 412. The conductive element 414 is positioned adjacent to and parallel to the conductive element 410 and extends rearwardly toward the signal interface connection 420. A conductive element 432 has one end coupled to an end of the conductive element 430 farthest from the signal interface connection 420 and extends in a direction perpendicular to the conductive element 430.

[0048] It is worth noting that elements 405, 410, 412, 414, 420, 430, 432, 440, 450, 455, and 460 may be collectively referred to as antenna structures. It is also worth noting that conductive elements 410, 412, and 414 may be collectively referred to as first driven antenna elements of antenna assembly 400, as described above. Additionally, elements 430 and 432 may be collectively referred to as second driven antenna elements, as described above.

[0049] Conductive element 440 is positioned adjacent to and parallel to conductive element 430 and is coupled at one end to signal interface connection 450, which is positioned adjacent to and parallel to signal interface connection 420. Conductive element 440 extends from signal interface connection 450 toward conductive element 432. Signal interface connection 450 is also coupled to one end of conductive element 455. Conductive element 455 is positioned adjacent to and parallel to conductive element 410 and extends toward conductive element 414. Signal interface connection 450 is also coupled to conductive element 460, which is positioned adjacent to and parallel to conductive element 440. One end of wire 470 is coupled to the end of conductive element 460 that is closest to signal interface connection 450. Wire 470 extends outward in a direction perpendicular to conductive element 460 and away from conductive element 440. Wire 480 is coupled to the end of conductive element 460 that is farthest from signal interface connection 450. The wire 480 extends outwardly in a direction adjacent to and parallel to the conductive element 470 .

[0050] The center conductor of the coaxial cable 490 is coupled to the signal interface connection 420, and the conductive shield of the coaxial cable 490 is coupled to the signal interface connection 450. The coaxial cable 490 can be any of several possible industry standard cables, including but not limited to Radio Guide (RG) Type 174, RG Type 178, RG Type 214, etc. The coupling mechanism between the coaxial cable 490 and the signal interface connections 420 and 450 can be a permanent or semi-permanent coupling, such as an electrically welded connection. In some embodiments, the coupling mechanism can include one or more plug connectors attached to the coaxial cable 490 that are mechanically coupled to compatible receptacle connectors for the signal interface connections 420 and 450. The plug and receptacle connectors can be one of several industry standard connectors, including but not limited to Micro High Frequency (MHF) type, Subminiature Version A (SMA) type, etc. Notably, the coupling between conductive element 460 and wires 470 and 480 may also include a plug and receptacle signal interface connection (not shown) that facilitates similar coupling mechanisms as described above.

[0051] Conductive elements 410, 412, 414, 430, 432, 440, 455 and 460 and signal interface connections 420 and 450 are formed on one surface of a printed circuit board 405 as a part of the antenna structure. The printed circuit board 405 is made of a non-conductive rigid laminate material, which is generally designed for radio frequency (RF) circuits. The laminate material can generally have a thickness between 0.020 inches and 0.064 inches. In the present embodiment, the printed circuit board 405 uses a single-layer printed circuit board with conductive material only on one surface. In other embodiments, a double-sided printed circuit board can be used, with conductive material on both surfaces, and a multi-layer printed circuit board with conductive material on the inner layer of the laminate. In some embodiments, the above-mentioned elements are formed by etching away a portion of the conductive layer (e.g., copper) attached to the surface of the laminate material until only the pattern of the above-mentioned elements is left. In other embodiments, conductive material can be added to the surface of the laminate material to form the conductive layer in the pattern of the above-mentioned elements. Additionally, holes or slots may be cut through the conductive layers and / or laminate materials to facilitate the coupling mechanisms described above or to adjust the operating characteristics of the antenna assembly 400 .

[0052] Wires 470 and 480 can use single conductor wires made of solid or stranded conductive materials (e.g., copper or copper alloys). The wire gauges of wires 470 and 480 can be determined based on one or more frequency ranges of operation, and the wire gauge range of the wires can be 28 to 15. One or both of the wires can be insulated using industry-standard non-conductive plastic coatings to prevent undesired connections to other conductive surfaces. In one embodiment, wires 470 and 480 can use 24-gauge insulated wires. In some embodiments, wires 470 and 480 can be connected to conductive element 460 using a soldered connection. In other embodiments, wires 470 and 480 can be connected using plug and socket connections as described above. In some embodiments, wires 470 and 480 can use multi-conductor wires, such as coaxial cables similar to those described above. In some cases, each conductor in the multi-conductor wire can be connected together at the connection with conductive element 460.

[0053] The spatial distance and positional relationship between the wires 470 and 480 are similar to the conductive elements 370 and 380 described above. The wires 470 and 480 serve to form a portion of an effective ground plane surface that acts as a ground extension, improving the performance of the antenna assembly 400 over at least one operating frequency range. The use of the wires 470 and 480 provides additional advantages. The wires 470 and 480 can be configured for easier attachment and removal, such as through a plug and connector mechanism. The wires 470 and 480 can also allow for more flexible positioning and placement because the wires are easily shaped and bent, and because of the presence of an insulating layer on the conductors, allowing positioning and placement near other conductive surfaces or elements.

[0054] Now go to Figure 5 , a graph 500 illustrates electrical characteristics of an antenna assembly according to aspects of the present disclosure. Graph 500 represents Figure 4 The antenna assembly 400 described in Figure 1 Design simulation results of scalar values ​​of return loss over a frequency range for an antenna assembly similar to the antenna assembly described in . The return loss values ​​were measured at the coaxial cables connected to the antenna assembly (i.e., coaxial cable 490 and coaxial cable 190). The ground plane extension elements of each antenna (i.e., wires 470 and 480 and conductive foil 170) are connected to the ground reference for the coaxial cables.

[0055] Graph 500 includes an x-axis 510 showing frequency in gigahertz (GHz). Graph 500 also includes a y-axis 520 showing return loss in decibels (dB). Line 530 shows Figure 4 The relationship between the return loss value and the frequency of the antenna assembly 400 described in FIG. Figure 1 Indicators 550 and 560 highlight the two operating frequency ranges and show that the return loss value of line 530 is similar to the return loss value of line 540 in both operating frequency ranges.

[0056] Now go to Figure 6 , shows a perspective view of an exemplary electronic assembly 600 with an integrated antenna assembly according to aspects of the present disclosure. The electronic assembly 600 may be included as a device for wireless communication (e.g. Figure 2 The electronic assembly 600 is configured to be completely contained within the housing of the device. However, in some embodiments, certain portions of the electronic assembly 600 (including some or all of the antenna assembly) may be located outside the housing. The electronic assembly 600 includes an integrated antenna that is similar to Figure 4 The electronic assembly 600 may alternatively or additionally include an integrated antenna that operates in a manner similar to the antenna assembly 400 described in the accompanying drawings. Figure 3 The antenna assembly 300 operates in the manner described.

[0057] Electronic assembly 600 includes a metal frame 605 that mechanically secures printed circuit boards 610 and 615. Printed circuit board 610 includes circuit elements and conductive interconnect traces configured to function as a communication circuit, e.g. Figure 2 The communication circuit 210 in the printed circuit board 615 may have components and interconnect traces configured to function as other circuits required for the operation of the electronic component or device, such as a processor, memory, etc.

[0058] The electronic assembly 600 also includes an antenna structure 620. Although the antenna structure 620 is shown as being mechanically separate from the electronic assembly 600, the antenna structure 620 can be mounted to an additional portion of the frame or to one of the printed circuit boards 610, 615 using a bracket assembly. The mounting details are not shown in order to more clearly illustrate the structure and arrangement of the antenna structure 620 within the electronic assembly 600. The antenna structure 620 is configured to include a pattern of conductive elements formed from a copper foil adhered to a printed circuit board laminate by an etching process. The pattern of the conductive elements is formed similar to Figure 3 and Figure 4 For example, the pattern of the conductive element may be similar to that for Figure 3 Alternatively, the pattern of the conductive elements may be similar to that for the dual-band antenna described in FIG. Figure 4 Conductive elements 410 to 460 are described in the dual band meander line antenna.

[0059] The coaxial cable 630 couples the communication signal between the antenna structure 620 and the circuit board 610. The center conductor and shield at one end of the coaxial cable 630 are connected to the above Figure 3 or Figure 4 The center conductor and shield at the other end of the coaxial cable 630 are connected to the circuit board 610 via an interface connection 635. The interface connection 635 may include one or more socket connectors that are coupled to the conductive traces for connecting the signal and ground to the circuits on the circuit board 610. The one or more socket connectors are compatible with corresponding plug connectors attached to the coaxial cable 630 as described above. The interface connection 635 may alternatively include one or more solder terminals that are further coupled to the signal and ground conductive traces on the circuit board 610. At least one of the conductive traces is coupled to a signal input and / or signal output of one or more electrical components that are used as part of a communications circuit for receiving and / or sending communications signals (e.g., Figure 2 The remaining conductive traces are coupled to a signal ground on a circuit board 610 associated with the electrical component.

[0060] Wires 640 and 650 are also coupled between antenna structure 620 and circuit board 610 and form Figure 3 or Figure 46, which is not included as part of antenna structure 620. Wires 640 and 650 may be permanently or semi-permanently attached to circuit board 610 via interface connections 645 and 655. One or both of interface connections 645 and 655 may each include a socket connector coupled to a conductive trace for grounding associated with an electrical component that operates as part of a communications circuit on circuit board 610, as described above. One or more socket connections are compatible with corresponding plug connectors attached to wires 640 and 650 as described above. One or both of interface connections 645 and 655 may alternatively include one or more solder terminals that are further coupled to a conductive trace for grounding associated with the electrical component.

[0061] It is noteworthy that, as shown, wires 640 and 650 have specific directions and positions, and further follow a specific path to couple antenna structure 620 to circuit board 610, while remaining adjacent and parallel to each other in the manner described above. In some embodiments, as part of the previous design and analysis work of electronic assembly 600, it may be advantageous to replicate the directions, positions, and paths used for any similar antenna (e.g., an antenna assembly including a conductive foil). However, different directions, positions, and / or paths may be used to couple wires 640 and 650 while still utilizing the principles of the present disclosure. In addition, the position, direction, and / or path followed by coaxial cable 630 when coupling antenna structure 620 to circuit board 610 may not have any significant effect on the operation of the embodiment represented by electronic assembly 600.

[0062] Now go to Figure 7 , shows a perspective view of another exemplary electronic assembly 700 with an integrated antenna assembly according to aspects of the present disclosure. The electronic assembly 700 may be included as a device for wireless communication (e.g. Figure 2 The electronic assembly 700 is configured to be completely contained within the housing of the device. However, in some embodiments, some portions of the electronic assembly 700 (including some or all of the antenna assembly) may be located outside the housing. The electronic assembly 700 includes an integrated antenna that is similar to Figure 4 The electronic assembly 700 may alternatively or additionally include an integrated antenna that operates in a manner similar to the antenna assembly 400 described in the accompanying drawings. Figure 3 Except as described below, the structure, orientation and operation of elements 705, 710, 715, 720, 730, 735 and 755 are the same as above. Figure 6 The operations of elements 605, 610, 615, 620, 630, 635 and 655 described in FIG. 6 are similar and therefore will not be described in detail here.

[0063] In the electronic assembly 700, the coaxial cable 730 is not only used to couple the communication signals between the antenna structure 720 and the circuit board 710, but also used to replace the wires (e.g., Figure 6 One end of the coaxial cable 730 is connected to the interface connection 735 on the circuit board 710 in a manner similar to that described above. The coaxial cable 730 is routed to the interface connection 745. The outer conductive shield portion of the coaxial cable 730 is connected to the interface connection 745, and the coaxial cable 730 is further positioned adjacent to and parallel to the wire 750, along the same path as the wire 750 to the antenna structure 720. The other end of the coaxial cable 730 is routed to the interface connection 745 in a manner similar to that described above. Figure 3 or Figure 4 The outer conductive shield of the coaxial cable 730 can also be connected to a conductive element on the antenna assembly, such as Figure 6 Thus, a portion of the coaxial cable assembly 730 may replace one of the two wires or conductive elements used to form the above-mentioned ground plane extension.

[0064] According to the present disclosure, an antenna assembly is described, which includes an antenna structure configured to operate in a first frequency range and a second frequency range different from the first frequency range. The antenna assembly also includes a first conductive element and a second conductive element, one end of the first conductive element is coupled to a first end of a conductive ground element on the antenna structure, the first conductive element extends outward in a direction perpendicular to the ground element and away from the antenna structure, one end of the second conductive element is coupled to a second end of the ground element on the antenna structure, the second conductive element extends outward in a direction perpendicular to the conductive ground element and away from the antenna structure, and the second conductive element extends parallel to the first conductive element. The first conductive element and the second conductive element form a ground plane extension of the antenna structure, and the ground plane extension improves the performance of the antenna assembly in at least one of the first frequency range and the second frequency range of operation.

[0065] In some embodiments, the second end of the first conductive element is coupled to a ground element on the communication circuit assembly, and the second end of the second conductive element is coupled to a ground element on the communication circuit assembly.

[0066] In some embodiments, the antenna structure is coupled to the communication circuit assembly using a coaxial cable assembly having a center conductor and an outer conductive ground shield.

[0067] In some embodiments, one of the first conductive element and the second conductive element is at least a portion of an outer conductive ground shield of the coaxial cable assembly.

[0068] In some embodiments, the antenna structure includes: a first driven antenna element having one end coupled to the signal connection interface, the first driven antenna element extending outwardly from the signal connection interface along a length, the first driven antenna element being configured to at least one of wirelessly transmit and receive communication signals within a first frequency range of operation; and a second driven antenna element having one end coupled to the signal connection interface, the second driven antenna element extending outwardly in a direction opposite to the direction of the first driven antenna element, the second driven antenna element being configured to at least one of wirelessly transmit and receive communication signals within a second frequency range of operation. The signal connection interface is further coupled to a center conductor of the coaxial cable assembly.

[0069] According to the present disclosure, a device is described, which includes a circuit capable of processing at least one of a communication signal wirelessly received from a network and a communication signal wirelessly sent to a network, and an antenna assembly coupled to the circuit. The antenna assembly includes an antenna structure configured to operate in a first frequency range and a second frequency range different from the first frequency range. The antenna assembly also includes a first conductive element and a second conductive element, one end of the first conductive element is coupled to a first end of a conductive grounding element on the antenna structure, the first conductive element extends outward in a direction perpendicular to the grounding element and away from the antenna structure, one end of the second conductive element is coupled to a second end of the grounding element on the antenna structure, the second conductive element extends outward in a direction perpendicular to the conductive grounding element and away from the antenna structure, and the second conductive element extends parallel to the first conductive element. The first conductive element and the second conductive element form a ground plane extension of the antenna structure, and the ground plane extension improves the performance of the antenna assembly in at least one of the first frequency range and the second frequency range of operation.

[0070] In some embodiments, the circuit is included as part of a communication circuit assembly and the second end of the first conductive element is coupled to a ground element of the circuit and wherein the second end of the second conductive element is coupled to the ground element of the circuit.

[0071] In some embodiments, the antenna structure is coupled to the circuit using a coaxial cable assembly having a center conductor and an outer conductive ground shield.

[0072] In some embodiments, one of the first conductive element and the second conductive element is at least a portion of an outer conductive ground shield of the coaxial cable assembly.

[0073] In some embodiments, the antenna structure includes: a first driven antenna element having one end coupled to the signal connection interface, the first driven antenna element extending outwardly from the signal connection interface along a length, the first driven antenna element being configured to at least one of wirelessly transmit and receive communication signals within a first frequency range of operation; and a second driven antenna element having one end coupled to the signal connection interface, the second driven antenna element extending outwardly in a direction opposite to the direction of the first driven antenna element, the second driven antenna element being configured to at least one of wirelessly transmit and receive communication signals within a second frequency range of operation. The signal connection interface is coupled to a center conductor of the coaxial cable assembly.

[0074] In some embodiments, the length of the ground element on the antenna structure is equal to the distance between the first conductive element and the second conductive element.

[0075] In some embodiments, the distance between the first conductive element and the second conductive element is greater than 0.5 inches.

[0076] In some embodiments, at least one of the first conductive element and the second conductive element is a wire.

[0077] In some embodiments, the antenna assembly is a dual-band antenna.

[0078] In some embodiments, the first frequency range of operation is 700 MHz to 800 MHz, and the second frequency range of operation is 2500 MHz to 2700 MHz.

[0079] It should be understood that unless explicitly stated otherwise in the above description, the various features shown and described are interchangeable, that is, features shown in one embodiment may be incorporated in another embodiment.

[0080] Although embodiments incorporating the teachings of the present disclosure have been shown and described in detail herein, those skilled in the art can readily devise numerous other varied embodiments that still incorporate these teachings. Having described preferred embodiments of antenna assemblies for communication devices, it should be noted that modifications and variations may be made by those skilled in the art in accordance with the above teachings. Therefore, it should be understood that changes may be made to the specific embodiments of the present disclosure that are within the scope of the present disclosure as outlined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An antenna assembly, comprising: an antenna structure configured to operate in a first frequency range and in a second frequency range different from the first frequency range; a first conductive element, one end of which is coupled to a first end of a conductive ground element on the antenna structure, the first conductive element extending outwardly in a direction perpendicular to the ground element and away from the antenna structure; as well as a second conductive element, one end of which is coupled to the second end of the ground element on the antenna structure, the second conductive element extending outwardly in a direction perpendicular to the conductive ground element and away from the antenna structure, and the second conductive element extending parallel to the first conductive element; Wherein the first conductive element and the second conductive element form a ground plane extension of the antenna structure, the ground plane extension improving the performance of the antenna assembly within at least one of the first frequency range and the second frequency range of operation.

2. The antenna assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The length of the ground element on the antenna structure is equal to the distance between the first conductive element and the second conductive element.

3. The antenna assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The distance between the first conductive element and the second conductive element is greater than 0.5 inches.

4. The antenna assembly according to claim 1, wherein: A second end of the first conductive element is coupled to a ground element on the communication circuit assembly, and wherein a second end of the second conductive element is coupled to the ground element on the communication circuit assembly.

5. The antenna assembly according to claim 4, wherein: The antenna structure is coupled to the communication circuit assembly using a coaxial cable assembly having a center conductor and an outer conductive ground shield.

6. The antenna assembly according to claim 5, wherein: One of the first conductive element and the second conductive element is at least a portion of the outer conductive ground shield of the coaxial cable assembly.

7. The antenna assembly according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the first conductive element and the second conductive element is a wire.

8. The antenna assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The antenna assembly is a dual-band antenna.

9. The antenna assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The first frequency range of operation is 700 megahertz (MHz) to 800 MHz, and the second frequency range of operation is 2500 MHz to 2700 MHz.

10. The antenna assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The antenna structure comprises: a first driven antenna element, one end of the first driven antenna element being coupled to the signal connection interface, the first driven antenna element extending outwardly along a length from the signal connection interface, the first driven antenna element being configured to at least one of wirelessly transmit and receive communication signals within the first frequency range of operation; and a second driven antenna element, one end of the second driven antenna element being coupled to the signal connection interface, the second driven antenna element extending outwardly in a direction opposite to that of the first driven antenna element, the second driven antenna element being configured to at least one of wirelessly transmit and receive the communication signals within the second frequency range of operation; Wherein, the signal connection interface is coupled to the center conductor of the coaxial cable assembly.

11. An apparatus comprising: Circuitry capable of at least one of: processing communication signals wirelessly received from a network, and processing communication signals for wireless transmission to the network; as well as An antenna assembly is coupled to the circuit, the antenna assembly comprising: an antenna structure configured to operate in a first frequency range and in a second frequency range different from the first frequency range; a first conductive element, one end of which is coupled to a first end of a conductive ground element on the antenna structure, the first conductive element extending outwardly in a direction perpendicular to the ground element and away from the antenna structure; and a second conductive element, one end of which is coupled to the second end of the ground element on the antenna structure, the second conductive element extending outwardly in a direction perpendicular to the conductive ground element and away from the antenna structure, and the second conductive element extending parallel to the first conductive element; Wherein the first conductive element and the second conductive element form a ground plane extension of the antenna structure, the ground plane extension improving the performance of the antenna assembly within at least one of the first frequency range and the second frequency range of operation.

12. The device according to claim 11, wherein The length of the ground element on the antenna structure is equal to the distance between the first conductive element and the second conductive element.

13. The device according to claim 11, wherein: The distance between the first conductive element and the second conductive element is greater than 0.5 inches.

14. The device according to claim 11, wherein: The circuit is included as part of a communications circuit assembly, and wherein the second end of the first conductive element is coupled to a ground element of the circuit, and wherein the second end of the second conductive element is coupled to the ground element of the circuit.

15. The device according to claim 14, wherein: The antenna structure is coupled to the circuit using a coaxial cable assembly having a center conductor and an outer conductive ground shield.

16. The device according to claim 15, wherein: One of the first conductive element and the second conductive element is at least a portion of the outer conductive ground shield of the coaxial cable assembly.

17. The device according to claim 11, wherein: At least one of the first conductive element and the second conductive element is a wire.

18. The device according to claim 11, wherein The antenna assembly is a dual-band antenna.

19. The device according to claim 11, wherein: The first frequency range of operation is 700 MHz to 800 MHz, and the second frequency range of operation is 2500 MHz to 2700 MHz.

20. The device according to claim 11, wherein The antenna structure comprises: a first driven antenna element, one end of the first driven antenna element being coupled to the signal connection interface, the first driven antenna element extending outwardly along a length from the signal connection interface, the first driven antenna element being configured to at least one of wirelessly transmit and receive the communication signals within the first frequency range of operation; and a second driven antenna element, one end of the second driven antenna element being coupled to the signal connection interface, the second driven antenna element extending outwardly in a direction opposite to that of the first driven antenna element, the second driven antenna element being configured to at least one of wirelessly transmit and receive the communication signals within the second frequency range of operation; Wherein, the signal connection interface is coupled to the center conductor of the coaxial cable assembly.

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