Antenna assembly and antenna array

Abstract

The application discloses an antenna assembly and an antenna array, wherein the antenna assembly comprises a radiation unit and a metal piece, the radiation unit comprises a radiation sheet; the metal piece is arranged at the outer periphery of the radiation sheet and is excited by the radiation sheet. The application aims to provide a wide-beam antenna.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of antenna technology, specifically to an antenna assembly and an antenna array. Background Technology

[0002] Space-air-ground integrated networking has become an inevitable trend in the future development of mobile communications, and space-based satellite communication will be an important component of this network. The goal of space-air-ground integrated networking is to achieve full coverage, thus requiring the deployment of a sufficient number of satellites, each with a sufficiently large coverage area. Since satellites are constantly in motion while in orbit, their antennas need beam scanning capabilities to generate staring beams and serve fixed areas. Therefore, satellite antennas need wide-angle (±60°) scanning capabilities. Traditional antenna arrays experience a gain drop of 4-5 dB when scanning to ±60°. In practical applications, due to increased signal propagation distance and path loss at large scanning angles, it is desirable that the gain does not decrease at large scanning angles, and even needs to be higher than the 0° pointing gain, to ensure the quality of satellite communication at large angles.

[0003] Based on this, the present invention proposes a wide-beam antenna, which effectively reduces the gain loss of array scanning at large angles by widening the beam width of the unit. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The main objective of this invention is to provide an antenna assembly and antenna array, aiming to provide a wide-beam antenna that effectively reduces gain loss during large-angle scanning of the array.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides an antenna assembly, wherein the antenna assembly comprises:

[0006] Radiation unit, including radiation sheet; and,

[0007] A metal component is disposed on the outer periphery of the radiating plate for being excited by the radiating plate.

[0008] The present invention also proposes an antenna array, wherein the antenna array includes a plurality of antenna components arranged in an array, the antenna components include radiating elements and metal parts, the radiating elements include radiating plates; the metal parts are disposed on the outer periphery of the radiating plates and are excited by the radiating plates.

[0009] In the technical solution of the present invention, by setting the metal component on the outer periphery of the radiating plate of the radiating unit, the electromagnetic waves radiated by the radiating plate excite the metal component, so that the metal component can generate a radiation pattern protruding towards the radiation direction of the radiating plate on the outer periphery of the radiating plate, while the radiating plate itself generates a radiation pattern protruding towards its radiation direction in the middle. The radiation pattern generated by the metal component and the radiation pattern generated by the radiating plate are superimposed to increase the beam width of the radiating plate towards the metal component, forming a wide beam radiation pattern. When applied to satellite antennas, this meets the requirement of low gain loss during large-angle scanning and ensures the satellite communication quality during large-angle scanning of the satellite antenna. Attached Figure Description

[0010] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0011] Figure 1 A three-dimensional half-sectional schematic diagram of a first embodiment of the antenna assembly provided by the present invention;

[0012] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A three-dimensional exploded view of the antenna components;

[0013] Figure 3 A partial three-dimensional half-sectional view of a structure of a second embodiment of the antenna assembly provided by the present invention;

[0014] Figure 4 for Figure 3 An exploded three-dimensional diagram of a portion of the antenna assembly structure.

[0015] Figure 5 A simplified perspective view of the first embodiment of the metal body provided by the present invention and some mating components;

[0016] Figure 6 A simplified perspective view of a second embodiment of the metal body provided by the present invention and some mating components;

[0017] Figure 7 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of a third embodiment of the metal body provided by the present invention and some mating components;

[0018] Figure 8 A simplified perspective view of the fourth embodiment of the metal body provided by the present invention and some mating components;

[0019] Figure 9A three-dimensional schematic diagram of an embodiment of the radiating sheet provided by the present invention;

[0020] Figure 10 A three-dimensional half-sectional view of the radiating sheet and the parasitic radiating sheet and their partially mating structure provided by the present invention;

[0021] Figure 11 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of an embodiment of the parasitic radiation sheet provided by the present invention;

[0022] Figure 12 A three-dimensional half-sectional view of the first embodiment of the dielectric provided by the present invention and a partial mating structure;

[0023] Figure 13 A partial three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the second embodiment of the dielectric provided by the present invention and a portion of the mating structure;

[0024] Figure 14 A three-dimensional half-sectional view of the first embodiment of the dielectric cover provided by the present invention and a partial mating structure;

[0025] Figure 15 A partial three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the second embodiment of the dielectric cover provided by the present invention and a portion of the mating structure;

[0026] Figure 16 A three-dimensional half-sectional view of the third embodiment of the dielectric cover provided by the present invention and a partial mating structure;

[0027] Figure 17 A three-dimensional half-sectional view of the fourth embodiment of the dielectric cover provided by the present invention and a partial mating structure;

[0028] Figure 18 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of an embodiment of the antenna array provided by the present invention;

[0029] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of the antenna array architecture connection method provided by the present invention;

[0030] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of the antenna array architecture connection method provided by the present invention;

[0031] Figure 21 A schematic diagram of the standing wave curve of the first embodiment of the antenna assembly provided by the present invention;

[0032] Figure 22 A schematic diagram of the axial ratio versus frequency curve of a first embodiment of the antenna assembly provided by the present invention;

[0033] Figure 23 A schematic diagram of the radiation pattern of a first embodiment of the antenna assembly provided by the present invention;

[0034] Figure 24 A schematic diagram of the axial ratio as a function of angle in a first embodiment of the antenna assembly provided by the present invention;

[0035] Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram of the radiation pattern of a second embodiment of the antenna assembly provided by the present invention.

[0036] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0037]

[0038]

[0039] The realization of the objective, functional features and advantages of the present invention will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0040] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0041] It should be noted that if the embodiments of the present invention involve directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indicators are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a certain specific posture (as shown in the figure). If the specific posture changes, the directional indicators will also change accordingly.

[0042] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this invention involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the meaning of "and / or" throughout the text includes three parallel solutions; for example, "A and / or B" includes solution A, solution B, or a solution where both A and B are satisfied simultaneously. Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this invention.

[0043] Space-air-ground integrated networking has become an inevitable trend in the future development of mobile communications, and space-based satellite communication will be an important component of this network. The goal of space-air-ground integrated networking is to achieve full coverage, thus requiring the deployment of a sufficient number of satellites, each with a sufficiently large coverage area. Since satellites are constantly in motion while in orbit, their antennas need beam scanning capabilities to generate staring beams and serve fixed areas. Therefore, satellite antennas need wide-angle (±60°) scanning capabilities. Traditional antenna arrays experience a gain drop of 4-5 dB when scanning to ±60°. In practical applications, due to increased signal propagation distance and path loss at large scanning angles, it is desirable that the gain does not decrease at large scanning angles, and even needs to be higher than the 0° pointing gain, to ensure the quality of satellite communication at large angles.

[0044] Based on this, the present invention proposes a wide-beam antenna, which effectively reduces the gain loss of array scanning at large angles by widening the beam width of the unit.

[0045] In view of this, the present invention provides an antenna assembly, Figures 1 to 16 The following description, in conjunction with specific accompanying drawings, will illustrate an embodiment of the antenna assembly provided by the present invention.

[0046] Please see Figure 1 The antenna assembly 100 includes a radiating element 1 and a metal component 2. The radiating element 1 includes a radiating sheet 11. The metal component 2 is disposed on the outer periphery of the radiating sheet 11 and is excited by the radiating sheet 11.

[0047] In the technical solution of the present invention, by setting the metal part 2 on the outer periphery of the radiating plate 11 of the radiating unit 1, the electromagnetic waves radiated by the radiating plate 11 excite the metal part 2, so that the metal part 2 can generate a radiation pattern protruding towards the radiation direction of the radiating plate 11 on the outer periphery of the radiating plate 11, while the radiating plate 11 itself generates a radiation pattern protruding towards its radiation direction in the middle. The radiation pattern generated by the metal part 2 and the radiation pattern generated by the radiating plate 11 are superimposed to increase the beam width of the radiating plate 11 towards the metal part 2, forming a wide beam radiation pattern. When applied to a satellite antenna, this meets the requirement of low gain loss during large-angle scanning and ensures the satellite communication quality during large-angle scanning of the satellite antenna. It should be noted that in this application, the radiating element 1 can be either a circularly polarized radiating element 1 or a linearly polarized radiating element 1. The polarization characteristics of the antenna are defined by the spatial orientation of the electric field intensity vector of the electromagnetic wave radiated by the antenna in the direction of maximum radiation. The polarization is classified into linear polarization, circular polarization, and elliptical polarization based on the trajectory of the electric field intensity vector. Linear polarization is further divided into horizontal polarization and vertical polarization, and circular polarization is divided into left-hand circular polarization and right-hand circular polarization. Elliptical polarization is linear polarization when the axial ratio is infinite, and circular polarization when the axial ratio is 1. It is understood that in actual setup, the axial ratio is difficult to reach 1. Therefore, the circularly polarized antennas described in this field are generally elliptical polarized antennas with better axial ratio characteristics. The radiating element 1 described in this application can be either circularly polarized or linearly polarized to achieve the beneficial effects of the structure of the antenna assembly 100 proposed in this application. However, the purpose of this application is for satellite applications. When electromagnetic waves pass through the ionosphere, they undergo Faraday rotation. In order to avoid polarization mismatch, satellite communication mostly adopts circular polarization. Therefore, the radiating element 1 described in this application mainly adopts circularly polarized radiating element 1. Thus, the following structural and functional description is mainly based on the radiating element 1 being circularly polarized radiating element 1.

[0048] It is understood that the metal component 2 can achieve the above-mentioned technical effect simply by being disposed on the outer periphery of the radiating plate 11. Therefore, the metal component 2 can be disposed in various forms, including but not limited to at least one metal body 21 disposed on the outer periphery of the radiating plate 11 and a metal ring 22 surrounding the radiating plate 11. Specifically, this application provides four embodiments of the metal component 2, see reference. Figure 5 In the first embodiment of the metal component 2, the metal component 2 includes a plurality of metal bodies 21 disposed along the outer periphery of the radiating plate 11. It should be noted that the plurality of metal bodies 21 can be distributed circumferentially along the radiating plate 11, or they can be disposed only on one side of the radiating plate 11, depending on actual usage requirements. Generally, to ensure that the radiation pattern of the antenna assembly 100 is spatially symmetrical, the plurality of metal bodies 21 are arranged as follows: Figure 5The structure is uniformly distributed within. Furthermore, the structure and shape of the metal component 2 are not limited; it can be a metal patch or a metal cylinder. The cross-sectional shape of the metal component 2 can be circular, square, or polygonal. Specifically, in this embodiment, i.e., in the first implementation of the metal component 2, a cylindrical structure is selected so that the radiation pattern generated by the metal component 2 after being excited by the radiation plate 11 is spatially symmetrical.

[0049] See Figure 6 In a second embodiment of the metal component 2, the metal component 2 includes a metal ring 22 extending circumferentially along the radiating plate 11. There is always a gap between the multiple metal bodies 21, meaning that the radiation pattern generated by the radiating plate 11 is not superimposed on the radiation pattern generated by the excited metal body 21 at this gap, and the beam width does not increase at this point. To improve this situation, the gap between the multiple metal bodies 21 can be set to be smaller, but obviously the structure is complex and the molding cost is high, which is not practical. In this embodiment, the metal part 2 is directly set as a metal ring 22 extending circumferentially along the radiating plate 11, and the metal ring 22 is set as a closed ring to completely cover the circumference of the radiating plate 11. This allows the metal ring 22 to generate a centrally concave annular convex radiation pattern after being excited, which is superimposed on the radiation pattern generated by the central convexity of the radiating plate 11, so that a wide beam radiation pattern can be generated in the circumference of the radiating plate 11, which meets the usage requirements. At the same time, for the case where the circularly polarized radiation of the radiating plate 11 excites the metal ring 22 to generate circularly polarized radiation of the metal ring 22, good axial ratio characteristics can be achieved in the wide angle (±60°) range. It should be noted that the shape of the metal ring 22 is not limited; it can be circular, square, or polygonal. In this embodiment, it is set to be circular, which has the same effect as described above, and also produces a spatially symmetrical direction pattern.

[0050] Furthermore, based on the second embodiment of the metal component 2, this application also proposes a third embodiment, please refer to [link / reference needed]. Figure 7 As described above, the metal ring 22 structure provides a higher circumferential coverage of the radiating plate 11 compared to multiple metal bodies 21. In the second embodiment of the metal part 2, the metal ring 22 structure is configured as a closed ring structure to achieve optimal results and lower manufacturing costs. However, it is undeniable that there may be design requirements that necessitate designing the metal ring 22 as an open ring structure, i.e., ... Figure 7 In the third embodiment of the metal component 2 described herein, the metal ring 22 is provided with a partition in the circumferential direction, which can also achieve the effect of widening the beamwidth required by this application. Therefore, all the embodiments of the metal component 2 described above can meet the effect of widening the beamwidth required by this application. The actual selection is based on the demand and is not limited here.

[0051] Furthermore, based on the structure of the metal ring 22, a slot 23 may be formed on the metal ring 22, which does not interrupt the metal ring 22 so as not to affect the corresponding radiation pattern generated by the metal ring 22 under excitation. See details. Figure 8 This application also proposes a fourth embodiment of the metal component 2, in which the slot 23 is provided on the metal ring 22. Without affecting the radiation pattern generated by the metal ring 22, the material used in the metal ring 22 is reduced, the cost is reduced and the mass of the metal ring 22 is reduced, so as to reduce the satellite load for satellite use environment and make it more practical.

[0052] Furthermore, the edge of the radiating plate 11 has a first slot 111 extending toward its center. Specifically, the shape and structure of the radiating plate 11 are not limited; that is, the radiating plate 11 can be circular, square, polygonal, etc. (See reference...) Figure 9 In this embodiment, the radiating plate 11 is circular to generate a spatially symmetrical radiation pattern. Based on this, the first slot 111 is formed along the edge of the radiating plate 11, thereby lengthening the path of current flow along its edge, equivalent to a larger radiating plate 11 without the first slot 111. This achieves the effect of increasing the current path without increasing the size of the radiating plate 11, thus miniaturizing the radiating plate 11. It should be noted that the number and shape of the first slot 111 are not limited, as long as the effect of increasing the current path is achieved. For example, the first slot 111 can be cross-shaped, T-shaped, etc., and its quantity can be one or multiple. Specifically, in this embodiment, multiple first slots 111 are formed along the circumference of the radiating plate 11. On the one hand, setting more first slots 111 can further increase the current path; on the other hand, setting multiple first slots 111 and evenly distributing them along the circumference of the radiating plate 11 also ensures that the radiating plate 11 generates a spatially symmetrical radiation pattern.

[0053] Furthermore, the forming and installation method of the radiating plate 11 is not limited in this application, as long as the metal part 2 is located on the outer periphery of the radiating plate 11 and the radiating plate 11 can normally radiate electromagnetic waves, thus meeting the functional requirements. Specifically, in the first embodiment of the antenna assembly 100, see [reference needed]. Figures 1 to 2The radiating unit 1 further includes a first substrate 12, and the radiating sheet 11 includes a first metal layer 11a disposed on the first substrate 12. The radiating sheet 11 is mounted on the first substrate 12. The radiating sheet 11 can be configured as an independent metal sheet structure, fixed to the first substrate 12 by an additional fixing structure, which includes a support structure or an adhesive structure. Alternatively, a metal plating process can be used to deposit a metal plating layer on the surface of the first substrate 12 to form the radiating sheet 11. In this embodiment, the first substrate 12 is made of plastic material and is integrally injection molded to achieve its lightweight characteristics while serving as a plating substrate to meet the plating process requirements. The radiating sheet 11 is manufactured using a plastic surface metallization process, the specific implementation process of which includes, but is not limited to, LDS (Laser Direct Structuring) plating process, selective electroplating process, magnetron sputtering vacuum plating process, and LAP (Laser Activating Plating) process. Plating (laser-activated metal plating) and plastic surface metal foil coating processes, etc., have a simple overall structure, are easy to form, and have lightweight characteristics, making them suitable for large-scale array antennas for satellite communication antennas, reducing the load during satellite launch and thus reducing launch costs.

[0054] Specifically, in the second embodiment of the antenna assembly 100, see [reference needed]. Figures 3 to 4 The radiating unit 1 does not contain the substrate. The radiating sheet 11 is an independent metal sheet structure, and the radiating sheet 11 is suspended between the metal parts 2 by a fixing structure. Specifically, the fixing structure can be a bracket erected between the metal parts 2 and the radiating sheet 11, or a bracket erected between the radiating sheet 11 and structures in other directions. The bracket is not specifically shown in the figure, and is not limited here, as long as it can ensure the function of the radiating sheet 11.

[0055] In addition, see Figure 10 The radiating unit 1 further includes a parasitic radiating plate 13 located on the radiating side of the radiating plate 11. The parasitic radiating plate 13 is spaced apart from and coupled to the radiating plate 11. With this configuration, the radiating plate 11 and the parasitic radiating plate 13 in the stacked structure can each generate a resonant frequency. By tuning the size of the parasitic radiating plate 13, it can be made to resonate with the radiating plate 11 at different frequencies, thereby achieving a widened bandwidth. The parasitic radiating plate 13 is excited by the radiating plate 11 and maintains the same polarization as the radiating plate 11. Therefore, for circularly polarized radiation, good axial ratio characteristics can be maintained over a wide impedance bandwidth.

[0056] Furthermore, the metal component 2 extends to the outer periphery of the parasitic radiating plate 13 for excitation by the parasitic radiating plate 13. The metal component 2 can be excited by the radiating plate 11 alone, meaning the height of the metal component 2 does not need to extend to the outer periphery of the parasitic radiating plate 13. This allows the radiation pattern generated by the metal component 2 to be superimposed with the radiation pattern generated by the radiating plate 11, thus widening the beamwidth. However, in this embodiment, when the metal component 2 extends to the outer periphery of the parasitic radiating plate 13, it can be simultaneously excited by the parasitic radiating plate 13, thereby increasing the coupling between the metal component 2 and the radiating unit 1 and enhancing the resulting effect.

[0057] In addition, see Figure 11 Similar to the radiating plate 11, the shape and structure of the parasitic radiating plate 13 are not limited. That is, the parasitic radiating plate 13 can also be circular, square, or polygonal. In this embodiment, the parasitic radiating plate 13 is circular to generate a spatially symmetrical radiation pattern. Furthermore, the edge of the parasitic radiating plate 13 also has a second slot 131 extending towards its center. In essence, the second slot 131 on the parasitic radiating plate 13 has the same structure and function as the first slot 111 on the radiating plate 11. Based on the above description of the specific structure and function of the first slot 111 on the radiating plate 11, the structure and function of the second slot 131 on the parasitic radiating plate 13 will not be described in detail here; refer to the description of the first slot 111 on the radiating plate 11. Of course, it should be noted that the specific slot shape and number of the first slot 111 and the second slot 131 do not need to be identical; they only need to have their required functions.

[0058] In addition, the antenna assembly 100 also includes a dielectric 3 located on the radiating side of the radiating plate 11. The dielectric 3 is an electrically insulator that can be polarized by an external electric field. The dielectric 3 modifies the transmission phase of electromagnetic waves in different radiation directions. Specifically, electromagnetic waves emitted from the radiating plate 11 at different angles pass through the dielectric 3. Due to the inconsistent path lengths of the electromagnetic waves through the dielectric 3, the phases of the electromagnetic waves at different angles differ, ultimately resulting in wide-beam radiation characteristics through their superposition in free space. Furthermore, the loading of the dielectric 3 does not affect polarization, maintaining good axial ratio characteristics over a wide angle range for circularly polarized radiation. The dielectric 3 is a dielectric material, specifically a plastic material, including but not limited to PPS-modified materials, PPO-modified materials, LCP-modified materials, PEI-modified materials, etc. The specific structure of the dielectric 3 is not limited, as long as it is located in the radiating direction of the radiating plate 11 to achieve the above functions.

[0059] Specifically, see Figure 12 In the first embodiment of the dielectric 3, the dielectric 3 can be configured as a dielectric plate covering the end of the metal component 2 away from the radiating sheet 11, mainly supported by the metal component 2, to achieve the installation and fixation of the dielectric 3, thereby achieving the aforementioned technical effects of the dielectric 3. Furthermore, see [reference needed]. Figure 13 In the second embodiment of the dielectric 3, the dielectric 3 includes a dielectric cover 31, which covers the radiating sheet 11. The dielectric cover 31 mainly achieves the aforementioned functions through its top dielectric layer, which is supported by the sidewalls of the dielectric cover 31 without needing to be fixedly mounted to the metal part 2. Conversely, the metal part 2 can be configured as a second metal layer 2a located on the sidewall of the dielectric cover 31, so that the metal part 2 can be supported by the relatively lightweight dielectric cover 31, thereby reducing the mass of the metal part 2 as much as possible. That is, forming a second metal layer 2a on the sidewall of the dielectric cover 31 reduces the overall mass of the antenna assembly 100, which is suitable for the lightweight requirements of satellite communication. Furthermore, the dielectric cover 31 covering the radiating sheet 11 facilitates the positioning of the dielectric cover 31, thereby facilitating the installation operation of the dielectric 3. Specifically, the cross-sectional shape of the dielectric cover 31 can be set to square, polygon, etc., all of which can achieve the required function, and there is no limitation here. In this embodiment, the dielectric cover 31 is set in a cylindrical shape, which is also to ensure the symmetry of the radiation pattern and to achieve wide beam characteristics in all directions.

[0060] Furthermore, the molding and mounting method of the second metal layer 2a can be the same as that of the first metal layer 11a described above, or it can be different. That is, the second metal layer 2a can also be set as an independent metal sheet structure, fixed to the dielectric cover 31 by an additional fixing structure, which includes a support structure or an adhesive structure. The second metal layer 2a can also be formed by plating a metal coating on the side wall surface of the dielectric cover 31 using a metal plating process. Specifically, the dielectric cover 31 is made of plastic material as described above, which gives it lightweight characteristics and meets the plating process requirements as a plating substrate. The second metal layer 2a is manufactured using a plastic surface metallization process, the specific implementation process of which includes, but is not limited to, LDS (Laser Direct Structuring) plating process, selective electroplating process, magnetron sputtering vacuum plating process, and LAP (Laser Activating Plating) process. Plating (laser-activated metal plating) and plastic surface metal foil coating processes, etc., have a simple overall structure, are easy to form, and have lightweight characteristics, making them suitable for large-scale array antennas for satellite communication antennas, reducing the load during satellite launch and thus reducing launch costs. It is understood that the second metal layer 2a can be disposed on the inner or outer side of the dielectric cover 31 without affecting its functional effect. In this embodiment, the second metal layer 2a is disposed on the inner side of the dielectric cover 31, and the dielectric cover 31 can form a protective layer for the second metal layer 2a.

[0061] Further, see Figure 14The radiation unit 1 further includes a parasitic radiation plate 13 located on the radiation side of the radiation plate 11. The parasitic radiation plate 13 is spaced apart from and coupled to the radiation plate 11. The parasitic radiation plate 13 includes a third metal layer 13a disposed on the top wall of the dielectric cover 31. The installation method of the parasitic radiating sheet 13 is similar to that of the radiating sheet 11, that is, the parasitic radiating sheet 13 is mounted on the dielectric cover 31. The parasitic radiating sheet 13 can be configured as an independent metal sheet structure, fixed to the dielectric cover 31 by an additional fixing structure, including a support structure or an adhesive structure; alternatively, the parasitic radiating sheet 13, configured as a metal sheet structure, can be embedded inside the dielectric cover 31; or a metal plating process can be used to plate a metal coating onto the surface of the dielectric cover 31 to form the radiating sheet 11. In this embodiment, the dielectric cover 31 is made of plastic material as described above, achieving its lightweight characteristics while serving as a plating substrate to meet the plating process requirements. The parasitic radiating sheet 13 is manufactured using a plastic surface metallization process, the specific implementation process including but not limited to LDS (Laser Direct Structuring) plating process, selective electroplating process, magnetron sputtering vacuum plating process, and LAP (Laser Activating Plating) process. Plating (laser-activated metal plating) and plastic surface metal foil coating processes, etc., have a simple overall structure, are easy to form, and have lightweight characteristics, making them suitable for large-scale array antennas for satellite communication antennas, reducing the load during satellite launch and thus reducing launch costs. It should be noted that the parasitic radiating sheet 13 can be plated on the outside or the inside of the dielectric cover 31. However, when plated on the inside of the dielectric cover 31, the electromagnetic waves emitted by the parasitic radiating sheet 13 excited by the radiating sheet 11 will also pass through the dielectric cover 31, thus having wide beam radiation characteristics. Therefore, this embodiment mainly adopts the form of plating the parasitic radiating sheet 13 on the inside of the dielectric cover 31.

[0062] Furthermore, it is understandable that when the parasitic radiation sheet 13 is fixed using a fixed structure, it does not necessarily have to be fixed to the dielectric cover 31. It can also be suspended and fixed to the metal part 2 by the fixed structure. However, this is obviously more complicated than the above-mentioned plating process, and the structure is more difficult to form and install, resulting in poor practicality.

[0063] Specifically, a protruding region 311 is formed in the middle of the inner side of the top wall of the dielectric cover 31, and the third metal layer 13a is disposed in the protruding region 311. To facilitate the installation of the parasitic radiating plate 13, the protruding region 311 is formed in the middle of the inner side of the top wall of the dielectric cover 31. The structural form of the protruding region 311 is not limited. It can be a partial protrusion or an overall protrusion forming a boss as the protruding region 311. Even when a partial protrusion occurs, the protruding region 311 can be arranged along the outer periphery of the parasitic radiating plate 13 to hold the parasitic radiating plate 13 with a metal sheet structure. The protruding region 311 can limit the position of the parasitic radiating plate 13 and play a role in assisting the installation and shaping of the parasitic radiating plate 13. It is not limited here, and the actual structure of the parasitic radiating plate 13 and the overall assembly of the antenna assembly 100 are the main considerations.

[0064] Further, please refer to Figure 15 In the second embodiment of the dielectric cover 31, an annular groove 312 is formed on the inner periphery of the top wall of the dielectric cover 31, so that the protruding area 311 is formed in the middle of the inner side of the top wall of the dielectric cover 31. In this embodiment, the parasitic radiating sheet 13 is formed by metal plating. Therefore, the annular groove 312 is opened on the inner periphery of the top wall of the dielectric cover 31 to form the protruding area 311 with a central protrusion. There is a height difference between the edge of the protruding area 311 and the bottom of the annular groove 312, so that the parasitic radiating sheet 13 can be plated and formed in the protruding area 311. And by adjusting the area of ​​the protruding area 311, it is equivalent to adjusting the size of the parasitic radiating sheet 13. The structure is simple and the effect is good. Of course, when the parasitic radiating sheet 13 is set as a metal sheet structure, the protruding area 311 in this embodiment can also play the role of edge positioning of the parasitic radiating sheet 13, which has the effect of facilitating the positioning and installation of the parasitic radiating sheet 13.

[0065] Furthermore, the metal component 2 is disposed on the inner side of the sidewall of the dielectric cover 31 and extends to the annular groove 312. The location of the metal component 2 on the inner sidewall of the dielectric cover 31 and its extension to the outer periphery of the parasitic radiating plate 13 have been described above and will not be repeated here. Based on the annular groove 312 formed to create the protruding region 311, the metal component 2 can further extend into the annular groove 312, exceeding the height of the parasitic radiating plate 13. This ensures coupling between the parasitic radiating plate 13 and the metal component 2, guaranteeing that the metal component 2 can be excited by the parasitic radiating plate 13; and also increases the coupling amount between the parasitic radiating plate 13 and the metal component 2.

[0066] Specifically, the metal component 2 includes a second metal layer 2a disposed on the sidewall of the dielectric cover 31, and the second metal layer 2a extends into the annular groove 312. The configuration of the metal component 2 as the second metal layer 2a has been described in detail above and will not be repeated here. In this embodiment, the second metal layer 2a extends into the annular groove 312 to achieve the aforementioned functions of ensuring coupling between the metal component 2 and the parasitic radiation sheet 13 and increasing the coupling amount.

[0067] Furthermore, the dielectric 3 has a main body disposed opposite to the radiating plate 11, and the main body of the dielectric 3 is recessed in the central region corresponding to the radiating plate 11. The specific function of the dielectric 3 has been described in detail above. Electromagnetic waves emitted from the radiating plate 11 at different angles pass through the dielectric 3. Due to the inconsistent path lengths of the electromagnetic waves passing through the dielectric 3, the phases of the electromagnetic waves at different angles differ, ultimately resulting in a wide-beam radiation characteristic when superimposed in free space. For example, when an electromagnetic wave emitted by the radiating plate 11 perpendicular to the dielectric 3 passes through the dielectric 3, its path is the shortest and equal to the thickness of the dielectric 3. However, an electromagnetic wave emitted by the radiating plate 11 passing through the dielectric 3 at a certain angle will have a path exceeding that of the electromagnetic wave perpendicular to the dielectric 3, creating a path difference and resulting in the aforementioned phase difference of electromagnetic waves at different angles, ultimately superimposing in free space to produce the wide-beam radiation characteristic. However, when the size difference between the dielectric 3 and the radiating plate 11 is small, the electromagnetic waves emitted by the radiating plate 11 are almost all perpendicular to the dielectric 3, or pass through the dielectric 3 at a certain angle. The small angular deviation between the two results in a small path difference, leading to a poor or even nonexistent wide beam radiation effect from their superposition. Therefore, in this application, a recess is provided in the central region of the dielectric 3 to form a first region located in the center of the dielectric 3 and a second region located around the first region. The thickness of the first region is smaller than the thickness of the second region. Even if the angular difference between the electromagnetic waves passing through the first and second regions is small, the path difference of the electromagnetic waves emitted by the radiating plate 11 passing through these two regions can be increased, ensuring the required wide beam effect. It is understood that the central recess of the dielectric 3 can be on the side facing the radiating plate 11; see attached figure for details. Figure 16 The third embodiment of the dielectric cover 31 described herein may also be the side facing away from the radiating sheet 11, as detailed in the appendix. Figure 17The fourth embodiment of the dielectric cover 31 described herein is not limited here, and all can achieve the required function. However, when the parasitic radiating plate 13 is set as a metal plating layer, it is necessary to ensure that the side of the dielectric body 3 facing the radiating plate 11 is flat so as to facilitate the plating and forming of the parasitic radiating plate 13. Therefore, this application mainly selects a recessed setting on the side of the dielectric body 3 away from the radiating plate 11. It should be noted that the above-mentioned recessed structure is not limited, but in order to ensure that the generated radiation pattern is spatially symmetrical, the above-mentioned recess needs to be set as a ring structure. In specific implementation, it can be a conical hollow, a parabolic hollow, or a curved body hollow formed by exponential gradient, etc.

[0068] Furthermore, the radiating unit 1 also includes a ground plane 14 and a feeding system 15 located on the side of the ground plane 14 facing away from the radiating plate 11. The feeding system 15 is connected to the feed point 112 of the radiating plate 11 via a connector 16, and the connector 16 passes through the ground plane 14. The ground plane 14 and the feeding system 15 are inherent structures required by the radiating unit 1, and their spatial position is not limited. In this application, the feeding system 15 is located on the side of the ground plane 14 facing away from the radiating plate 11, and is connected to the radiating plate 11 via the connector 16 passing through the ground plane 14. On the one hand, the feeding system 15, the ground plane 14, and the radiating plate 11 are stacked, reducing the spatial dimensions and thus reducing the volume of the antenna assembly 100. On the other hand, the feeding system 15 and the radiating plate 11 are separated by the ground plane 14 to avoid interference between them and improve the accuracy of the antenna assembly 100.

[0069] Furthermore, a second substrate 17 is disposed between the power supply system 15 and the ground plane 14, and the power supply system 15 includes a fourth metal layer 15a disposed on the second substrate 17. In the first embodiment of the antenna assembly 100, please refer to... Figures 1 to 2 A second substrate 17 is disposed between the power supply system 15 and the ground plane 14. The power supply system 15 is configured as a fourth metal layer 15a attached to the second substrate 17. The mounting and forming method of the fourth metal layer 15a is similar to that of the first metal layer 11a, the second metal layer 2a, and the third metal layer 13a. It can also be configured as an independent metal sheet structure, fixed by an additional fixing structure, or it can be configured as a metal plating layer plated on the second substrate 17. In this embodiment, the fourth metal layer 15a is plated on the second substrate 17 to achieve the same lightweight effect, which is suitable for satellite communication applications.

[0070] Furthermore, at least two feed points 112 are provided on the radiating plate 11, and the power supply system 15 is connected to the two feed points 112 respectively through two connectors 16. By providing multiple feed points 112, the stability of its phase center is improved.

[0071] It is important to note that due to the inherent characteristics of circular polarization, antenna transmission and reception require different directions of circular polarization. Therefore, the antenna assembly 100 needs to be designed with dual circular polarization. To meet this requirement, the radiating plate 11 is provided with multiple feed points 112 to facilitate dual circular polarization. Thus, dual circular polarization allows for a shared antenna for both transmission and reception, reducing the antenna size. Specifically, the feeding system 15 is a 3dB bridge, enabling dual circular polarization radiation. When a signal is input from one feed point 112, the antenna assembly 100 operates in the first circular polarization radiation mode; when a signal is input from the other feed point 112, the antenna assembly 100 operates in the second circular polarization radiation mode, thus forming a dual circular polarization design. The first and second circularly polarized radiation modes described above use different circular polarization modes to distinguish between transmission and reception. For example, when the first circularly polarized radiation mode is left-handed circularly polarized, the second circularly polarized radiation mode is right-handed circularly polarized; conversely, when the first circularly polarized mode is right-handed circularly polarized, the second circularly polarized radiation mode is left-handed circularly polarized. The antenna assembly 100 uses different circular polarization modes for transmission and reception; that is, when transmission uses left-handed circular polarization, reception uses right-handed circular polarization, and vice versa.

[0072] Specifically, based on the power supply system 15 being configured as a 3dB bridge, the power supply system 15 includes two input ports 151 and two output ports 152. The two input ports 151 are used to access the digital channel, and the two output ports 152 are respectively connected to the two feed points 112 on the radiating plate 11 through a connector 16. Thus, when the antenna assembly 100 is in transmit mode, the signal enters from one of the two input ports 151, and after power distribution and phase shifting by the feeding system 15, a set of orthogonal signals with a 90° phase difference are generated. These signals are then output from the two output ports 152 and fed to the radiating element 11 via the connector 16, enabling the radiating element 1 to emit electromagnetic waves and achieve spatial signal propagation. When the antenna assembly 100 is in receive mode, the electromagnetic wave signal in free space is received by the radiating element 1, mainly by the radiating element 11. The signal is then transmitted to the output port 152 of the feeding system 15 via the connector 16. After signal synthesis by the feeding system 15, the final signal is output to the radio frequency link from the input port 151.

[0073] Based on the above structural description, this application mainly presents two embodiments of the antenna assembly 100. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 1 and Figure 2 This is a first embodiment of the antenna assembly 100, see reference. Figure 3 and Figure 4 This is a second embodiment of the antenna assembly 100.

[0074] In a first embodiment of the antenna assembly 100, the first substrate 12, the dielectric cover 31, and the second substrate 17 are made of plastic, offering the advantage of lightweight construction. The radiating sheet 11 (i.e., the first metal layer 11a), the parasitic radiating sheet 13 (i.e., the third metal layer 13a), the metal component 2 (i.e., the second metal layer 2a), and the fourth metal layer 15a of the feed network are achieved through a plastic surface metallization process. Some dimensions in this embodiment include: the distance between the radiating sheet 11 and the parasitic radiating sheet 13 is 0.1λ; the bottom of the dielectric cover 31 also has a base plate attached to the first substrate 12 to ensure the installation stability of the dielectric cover 31; the side length of the base plate is 0.5λ; the height of the dielectric cover 31 is 0.25λ, and the diameter is 0.45λ; the height of the second metal layer 2a inside the dielectric cover 31 is 0.2λ. The side length of the base plate of the dielectric cover 31 is 0.5λ, which ensures the stability of the antenna assembly. The antenna assembly 100 has an aperture size of 0.5λ, allowing the antenna array 1000 to be arrayed at 0.5λ intervals, ensuring that the radiation pattern of the antenna array 1000 does not produce grating lobes. The dielectric cover 31 has a height of 0.25λ and a diameter of 0.45λ to achieve wide beam characteristics, determine the phase difference at different angles, and thus determine the geometric dimensions of the dielectric cover 31. The height of the second metal layer 2a inside the dielectric cover 31 is 0.2λ, which is the optimal height determined based on the radiation pattern characteristics and impedance matching characteristics. The above dimensions are a set of implementation schemes given in this embodiment and are not intended to limit the actual dimensions used. The above dimensions can be adjusted to a certain extent to meet the technical effects required by this application, and are not limited here.

[0075] Based on the first embodiment of the antenna assembly 100 proposed in this application, tests were conducted. This embodiment achieves a 15% impedance bandwidth by employing a stacked structure of the radiating plate 11 and the parasitic radiating plate 13. The standing wave curve is as follows: Figure 21 As shown. Furthermore, within the impedance bandwidth, the axial ratio is less than 2dB, and the axial ratio versus frequency curve is shown below. Figure 22 As shown. In the first embodiment of the antenna assembly 100 proposed in this invention, ultra-wide beam radiation characteristics are achieved through the loading of the dielectric cover 31 and the metal component 2, and its radiation pattern curve is shown in... Figure 23As shown, the 1.5dB beamwidth in the 2GHz band reaches approximately 168°, and the 3dB beamwidth reaches approximately 195°. In the 2.18GHz band, the 1.5dB beamwidth reaches approximately 190°, and the 3dB beamwidth reaches approximately 214°. Within a range of ±60°, the axial ratio is less than 3dB. The axial ratio as a function of angle is shown in the curve. Figure 24 As shown. The first embodiment of the antenna assembly 100 proposed in this invention has ultra-wide beam characteristics, which can effectively reduce the gain drop when the array is scanned at a large angle, and ensure good axial ratio characteristics over a wide angle range.

[0076] Compared to the first embodiment of the antenna assembly 100, the second embodiment of the antenna assembly 100 eliminates the first substrate 12, the second substrate 17, and the dielectric material 3, and adopts an all-metal structure. A radiation cavity is formed by the metal component 2 and the ground plane 14. The radiating plate 11 and the parasitic radiating plate 13 are fixed to the metal component 2 by the fixing structure described above to be suspended within the radiation cavity. The radiating plate 11 is electrically connected to the feed system 15 disposed on the back side of the ground plane 14 via the connector 16. The connector 16 and the feed system 15 are not attached to each other. Figure 3 Or attached Figure 4 The antenna assembly 100 is exhibited in China. Specifically, the second embodiment of the antenna assembly 100 differs from the first embodiment in the following ways: (1) The dielectric cover 31 is not loaded in the second embodiment, so the beamwidth is not as wide as that in the first embodiment; (2) The radiating plate 11 is suspended in the second embodiment, which has higher radiation efficiency than the radiating plate 11 attached to the first substrate 12 in the first embodiment; (3) The radiating plate 11 in the second embodiment is provided with the first slot 111 to achieve miniaturization of the radiating plate 11; (4) The metal part 2 is directly connected to the ground plane 14 in the second embodiment. Compared with the first embodiment where the metal part 2 and the ground plane 14 are separated by the first substrate 12, the structure in the second embodiment has a lower gain drop when performing large-angle scanning. The radiation pattern curve of the second embodiment of the antenna assembly 100 is shown in Figure 1. Figure 25 As shown.

[0077] Please see Figure 18 The present invention also proposes an antenna array 1000, which includes a plurality of antenna components 100 arranged in an array. The specific structure of the antenna components 100 is as described in the above embodiments. Since the antenna array 1000 adopts all the technical solutions of all the above embodiments, it has at least all the beneficial effects brought about by the technical solutions of the above embodiments, which will not be described in detail here.

[0078] Please see Figure 19 The radiating unit 1 includes a feeding system 15, which is connected to the feed point 112 on the radiating plate 11 via a connector 16. The feeding system 15 includes two input ports 151 and two output ports 152. At least one of the two input ports 151 of the feeding system 15 of the antenna assembly 100 is connected to a digital channel via a radio frequency link. Figure 19 The diagram illustrates the connection method of the first embodiment of the antenna array 1000 architecture. Each antenna component 100 has two input ports 151 connected to a radio frequency link, and the two input ports 151 are connected to a transmit and receive link or a receive and transmit link, respectively. N antenna components 100 correspond to N transmit and receive radio frequency links, and the N radio frequency links are connected to digital channels. The number of digital channels depends on the actual application requirements and is not limited here.

[0079] Please see Figure 20 The radiating element 1 includes a feeding system 15, which is connected to the feed point 112 on the radiating plate 11 via a connector 16. The feeding system 15 includes two input ports 151 and two output ports 152. The corresponding input ports 151 of the feeding systems 15 of at least two antenna components 100 are integrated into a digital channel via a phase-shifting network system connected to a radio frequency link. The corresponding input ports 151 of multiple antenna components 100 are connected to a phase-shifting network, such that M phase-shifting networks are connected to a transmit or receive radio frequency link, and N transmit and receive radio frequency links are connected to a digital channel. That is, multiple antenna components 100 are integrated into a radio frequency link after phase shifting through a phase-shifting network. The number of radio frequency links and digital channels depends on actual application requirements and is not limited here.

[0080] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and does not limit the patent scope of the present invention. Any equivalent structural transformations made using the contents of the present invention's specification and drawings under the inventive concept of the present invention, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An antenna assembly, characterized in that, include: Radiation unit, including radiation sheet; and, A metal component is disposed on the outer periphery of the radiating plate for being excited by the radiating plate; The antenna assembly further includes a dielectric material located on the radiating side of the radiating sheet. The dielectric has a dielectric body disposed opposite to the radiating sheet, and the dielectric body is recessed in the central region corresponding to the radiating sheet. The metal component includes a metal ring extending circumferentially along the radiating plate; The dielectric body includes a dielectric cover, which is disposed over the radiating sheet; The metal component includes a second metal layer disposed on the sidewall of the dielectric cover.

2. The antenna assembly as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The metal ring is arranged in a closed loop.

3. The antenna assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The metal ring has a slot.

4. The antenna assembly as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The edge of the radiating sheet has a first groove extending toward its center.

5. The antenna assembly as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The first slot has multiple openings along the circumference of the radiating sheet.

6. The antenna assembly as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The radiating unit further includes a first substrate, and the radiating sheet includes a first metal layer disposed on the first substrate.

7. The antenna assembly as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The radiation unit also includes a parasitic radiation plate located on the radiation side of the radiation plate, the parasitic radiation plate being spaced apart from and coupled to the radiation plate.

8. The antenna assembly as claimed in claim 7, characterized in that, The metal element extends to the outer periphery of the parasitic radiating plate for being excited by the parasitic radiating plate.

9. The antenna assembly as claimed in claim 7, characterized in that, The parasitic radiation sheet has a second slot extending toward its center along its edge.

10. The antenna assembly as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that, The second slot has multiple openings along the circumference of the parasitic radiating plate.

11. The antenna assembly as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The radiation unit also includes a parasitic radiation plate located on the radiation side of the radiation plate, the parasitic radiation plate being spaced apart from and coupled to the radiation plate; The parasitic radiation sheet includes a third metal layer disposed on the top wall of the dielectric cover.

12. The antenna assembly as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that, The third metal layer is disposed on the inner side of the top wall of the dielectric cover.

13. The antenna assembly as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that, A protruding area is formed on the inner center of the top wall of the dielectric cover, and the third metal layer is disposed in the protruding area.

14. The antenna assembly as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, An annular groove is formed on the inner periphery of the top wall of the dielectric cover, so that the protruding area is formed in the middle of the inner side of the top wall of the dielectric cover.

15. The antenna assembly as claimed in claim 14, characterized in that, The second metal layer extends into the annular groove.

16. The antenna assembly as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The radiation unit includes a circularly polarized radiation unit.

17. The antenna assembly as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The radiating unit further includes a ground plane and a power supply system located on the side of the ground plane facing away from the radiating plate. The power supply system is connected to the feed point of the radiating plate via a connector, and the connector passes through the ground plane.

18. The antenna assembly as claimed in claim 17, characterized in that, A second substrate is disposed between the power supply system and the ground plane, and the power supply system includes a fourth metal layer disposed on the second substrate.

19. The antenna assembly as claimed in claim 18, characterized in that, The radiating plate has at least two feed points, and the power supply system connects the two feed points respectively through two connectors.

20. The antenna assembly as claimed in claim 19, characterized in that, The power supply system includes two input ports and two output ports. The two input ports are used to access the digital channel, and the two output ports are respectively connected to the two feed points on the radiating sheet through a connector.

21. An antenna array, characterized in that, It includes a plurality of antenna components arranged in an array, wherein the antenna components are the antenna components as described in any one of claims 1-20.

22. The antenna array as claimed in claim 21, characterized in that, The radiating unit includes a power feeding system, which is connected to the feed point on the radiating sheet via a connector. The power feeding system includes two input ports and two output ports. At least one of the two input ports of the power supply system of the antenna assembly is connected to a digital channel via a radio frequency link.

23. The antenna array as claimed in claim 21, characterized in that, The radiating unit includes a power feeding system, which is connected to the feed point on the radiating sheet via a connector. The power feeding system includes two input ports and two output ports. The input ports corresponding to the power supply systems of at least two of the antenna assemblies are integrated into a digital channel via a phase-shifting network system connected to a radio frequency link.

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