A MIMO hybrid antenna array and its design and measurement method

Abstract

The present application provides a MIMO hybrid antenna array and its design and measurement method. The hybrid antenna array provided by the present application includes: a chip layer; a plurality of microwave antenna elements and a plurality of millimeter wave antenna elements are arranged on the chip layer, and the area of ​​a single microwave antenna element is larger than the area of ​​a single millimeter wave antenna element; a circuit connection layer is provided under the chip layer, and a plurality of microwave antenna elements and a plurality of millimeter wave antenna elements are respectively connected to output circuits, and the received signals are output to the same controller; the controller is used to simultaneously receive composite signals sent by the same target object, and process the microwave signals and millimeter wave signals respectively. The MIMO hybrid antenna array provided by the present application and its design and measurement method are used to realize the coordinated transmission and reception of microwave signals and millimeter wave signals, improve the performance of wireless communication systems in complex environments, expand the signal coverage range and improve the signal transmission accuracy.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of microwave and millimeter wave channel technology, and in particular to a MIMO hybrid antenna array and a design and measurement method thereof. Background Art

[0002] With the continuous development of modern wireless communication technology, the requirements for signal transmission efficiency, stability, and coverage are increasing. Traditional single-band signal transmission cannot meet the needs of complex and changing communication environments. The microwave band has advantages such as strong diffraction resistance and stable propagation characteristics, which can achieve a wide range of signal coverage and is suitable for conventional communication scenarios. The millimeter wave band, on the other hand, has the characteristics of narrow beam, strong directionality, and the ability to carry high-resolution information. It has unique advantages in fields such as high-speed, high-precision communication and precise detection. However, the current technical solutions for effectively integrating microwave antenna elements with millimeter wave antenna elements so that they work together and fully utilize their respective advantages still have many shortcomings. For example, unreasonable layout between chips leads to mutual interference, and imperfect signal output circuit design affects signal transmission quality. Therefore, it is of great practical significance to develop an array of millimeter wave and microwave antenna elements that can optimize chip layout and improve signal transmission performance. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of this, the present application provides a MIMO hybrid antenna array and its design and measurement method, which are used to realize the coordinated transmission and reception of microwave signals and millimeter wave signals, improve the performance of wireless communication systems in complex environments, expand signal coverage and improve signal transmission accuracy.

[0004] Specifically, this application is implemented through the following technical solutions:

[0005] A first aspect of the present application provides a MIMO hybrid antenna array, the hybrid antenna array comprising:

[0006] A chip layer; a plurality of microwave antenna elements and a plurality of millimeter-wave antenna elements are simultaneously arranged on the chip layer, and the area of ​​a single microwave antenna element is larger than the area of ​​a single millimeter-wave antenna element; wherein the microwave antenna elements are evenly arranged on the chip layer, the microwave antenna elements cover the entire chip layer, and the chip layer is fully covered with the millimeter-wave antenna elements except for the blank areas of the microwave antenna elements, and the distance between adjacent antenna elements is a communication safety distance;

[0007] A circuit connection layer is provided below the chip layer, and the multiple microwave antenna elements and the multiple millimeter wave antenna elements are respectively connected to output circuits to output received signals to the same controller;

[0008] The controller is used to simultaneously receive composite signals sent by the same target object. The controller includes a microwave radio frequency circuit and a millimeter wave radio frequency circuit. The microwave radio frequency circuit is used to process microwave signals, and the millimeter wave radio frequency circuit is used to process millimeter wave signals. The controller combines the processed microwave signals and millimeter wave signals.

[0009] A second aspect of the present application provides a MIMO hybrid antenna array design method, the method being used to design the above-mentioned hybrid antenna array, the method comprising:

[0010] The output lines of the plurality of microwave antenna elements are connected to a first testing device, wherein the first testing device includes a microwave signal transmitting device;

[0011] The output lines of the plurality of millimeter wave antenna elements are connected to a second test device, wherein the second test device includes a millimeter wave signal transmitting device;

[0012] The design structure of the hybrid antenna array is adjusted based on the first test device and the second test device.

[0013] A third aspect of the present application provides a measurement method based on a hybrid antenna array. The method implements measurement based on the above hybrid antenna array, and the method includes:

[0014] The transmitting device sends a mixed signal;

[0015] The hybrid signal propagates toward the hybrid antenna array in a communication environment, wherein the propagation path includes a first obstacle;

[0016] On a propagation path not blocked by the first obstacle, the hybrid antenna array receives the millimeter wave signal in the hybrid signal;

[0017] On the propagation path blocked by the first obstacle, the hybrid antenna array receives the microwave signal in the hybrid signal; wherein the amount of data transmitted by the microwave signal is greater than the amount of data transmitted by the millimeter wave signal;

[0018] The hybrid antenna array aggregates the received microwave signal and the millimeter wave signal to achieve measurement of the hybrid signal.

[0019] The MIMO hybrid antenna array and its design and measurement method provided by this application, firstly, by evenly arranging the larger microwave antenna elements on the chip layer and covering the entire chip layer, while filling the blank spaces with smaller millimeter-wave antenna elements, fully utilizes the limited space of the chip, realizes high-density integration of two different frequency band antenna elements in the same chip layer, improves the chip space utilization rate, and provides the possibility for miniaturization of the device; secondly, by connecting multiple microwave antenna elements and millimeter-wave antenna elements to a controller at the same time, without the need to use different controllers separately, the system integration is improved. Based on the test results, the design structure of the hybrid antenna array is optimized, so that the antenna array can better adapt to the propagation characteristics of signals of different frequency bands in actual applications, improve the efficiency and accuracy of signal reception and processing, and ensure that the performance of the antenna array reaches the optimal state; thirdly, in a communication environment with a first obstacle, the hybrid antenna array can receive millimeter-wave signals on the unobstructed path and microwave signals on the obstructed path according to the different signal propagation paths. This intelligent signal reception method enables accurate measurement of mixed signals even in complex environments, effectively avoiding signal loss or inaccurate measurements due to obstacles, and greatly improving the reliability and stability of mixed signal measurements. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of the MIMO hybrid antenna array provided in this application;

[0021] Figure 2 Flowchart of Example 1 of the MIMO hybrid antenna array design method provided in this application;

[0022] Figure 3 This is a flowchart of Example 1 of the measurement method based on the MIMO hybrid antenna array provided in this application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Exemplary embodiments are described in detail herein, with examples illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description refers to the drawings, identical numerals in different drawings represent identical or similar elements unless otherwise indicated. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments are not intended to represent all embodiments consistent with this application.

[0024] The terms used in this application are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and are not intended to limit this application. The singular forms "a," "the," and "the" used in this application are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the term "and / or" as used herein refers to and includes any or all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0025] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used in this application to describe various information, such information should not be limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish information of the same type from each other. For example, without departing from the scope of this application, first information may also be referred to as second information, and similarly, second information may also be referred to as first information. Depending on the context, the word "if" as used herein may be interpreted as "at the time of" or "when" or "in response to determining".

[0026] Specific embodiments are given below to introduce the technical solutions of the present application in detail.

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the MIMO hybrid antenna array provided by this application. Please refer to Figure 1 The hybrid antenna array provided in this embodiment may include:

[0028] A chip layer; a plurality of microwave antenna elements and a plurality of millimeter-wave antenna elements are simultaneously arranged on the chip layer, and the area of ​​a single microwave antenna element is larger than the area of ​​a single millimeter-wave antenna element; wherein the microwave antenna elements are evenly arranged on the chip layer, the microwave antenna elements cover the entire chip layer, and the chip layer is fully covered with the millimeter-wave antenna elements except for the blank areas of the microwave antenna elements, and the distance between adjacent antenna elements is a communication safety distance;

[0029] A circuit connection layer is provided below the chip layer, and the multiple microwave antenna elements and the multiple millimeter wave antenna elements are respectively connected to output circuits to output received signals to the same controller;

[0030] The controller is used to simultaneously receive composite signals sent by the same target object. The controller includes a microwave radio frequency circuit and a millimeter wave radio frequency circuit. The microwave radio frequency circuit is used to process microwave signals, and the millimeter wave radio frequency circuit is used to process millimeter wave signals. The controller combines the processed microwave signals and millimeter wave signals.

[0031] Specifically, MIMO (Multiple-Input Multiple-Output) is a technology widely used in wireless communication systems. By using multiple antennas simultaneously at both the transmitting and receiving ends, it can fully utilize spatial resources, exponentially increasing the system's channel capacity and transmission reliability without increasing spectrum resources or transmission power. In this application, the target object transmits a composite signal that contains two different types of signals: microwave signals and millimeter-wave signals. This means that at the receiving end, the hybrid antenna array needs to simultaneously process inputs from these two different frequency bands, which is equivalent to having multiple different signal sources transmitting information to the receiving end at the same time. The chip layer of the hybrid antenna array is arranged with multiple microwave antenna elements and multiple millimeter-wave antenna elements. These antenna elements can receive signals simultaneously, increasing the number of signal reception channels in the spatial dimension.

[0032] Specifically, in the hybrid antenna array provided by the present invention, the input signal includes millimeter wave signals and microwave signals, that is, multiple input signals, and the output also includes millimeter wave detection signals and microwave detection signals, that is, multiple output signals. On the basis of multiple input signals and multiple output signals, a controller is used to process multiple input and multiple output signals, thereby improving the system's multi-type signal processing capabilities and improving the system's integration.

[0033] Furthermore, although the signals received by multiple microwave antenna elements and millimeter-wave antenna elements are ultimately aggregated into the same controller, these signals are transmitted via independent output circuits before reaching the controller. The process from the antenna element to the circuit connection layer and then to the controller is equivalent to multiple independent signal output channels. Each microwave antenna element and millimeter-wave antenna element has its own output circuit to output the received signal. After receiving the signal, the controller processes the microwave signal and millimeter-wave signal according to the corresponding RF circuits.

[0034] Furthermore, in order to ensure the beamforming of large-scale MIMO, the minimum communication safety distance between each antenna element is 1 / 2 wavelength. For example, in one embodiment, the communication safety distance between microwave antenna elements is 1 / 2 microwave frequency wavelength, and the communication safety distance between millimeter wave antenna elements is 1 / 2 millimeter wave frequency wavelength.

[0035] Optionally, the microwave antenna element is a rectangular element, the millimeter wave antenna element is a circular element, and the length of the microwave antenna element is greater than the diameter of the millimeter wave antenna element;

[0036] The microwave antenna element is used to receive microwave signals, and the millimeter wave antenna element is used to receive millimeter wave signals. Under the same wireless propagation environment, the transmission data rate of the microwave signal is lower than the transmission data rate of the millimeter wave signal, and the diffraction capability of the microwave signal is greater than the diffraction capability of the millimeter wave signal.

[0037] Optionally, the plurality of microwave antenna elements are evenly arranged in rows and columns in a matrix form, and the spacing between the microwave antenna elements in each row is greater than the spacing between the microwave antenna elements in each column;

[0038] The millimeter wave antenna elements are arranged in the blank areas between rows of the microwave antenna elements and in the blank areas between columns of the microwave antenna elements.

[0039] Furthermore, a row of the millimeter wave antenna elements is arranged in the blank area between rows of each row of the microwave antenna elements;

[0040] A row of the millimeter wave antenna elements is arranged in the blank area between rows of each row of the microwave antenna elements.

[0041] For further information, please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 1 The yellow rectangular elements shown in the figure are microwave antenna elements, and the red circular elements are millimeter-wave antenna elements. Within the chip layer, multiple microwave antenna elements are arranged in rows and columns, forming a matrix. The distance between adjacent microwave antenna elements in the horizontal (row) direction is greater than the distance between adjacent microwave antenna elements in the vertical (column) direction. Furthermore, multiple millimeter-wave antenna elements are arranged in the blank areas between rows and columns of the microwave antenna element matrix, ensuring that both microwave and millimeter-wave antenna elements exist in every region of the chip layer. Regardless of where a composite signal arrives within the chip layer, both a microwave and millimeter-wave antenna element can receive and process it. Regardless of whether the composite signal arriving at a specific region of the chip layer is a microwave or millimeter-wave signal, the chip layer can receive and process the signal. It should be noted that the number of rows and columns of microwave antenna elements arranged within the chip layer is determined based on practical needs and is not limited in this embodiment.

[0042] Furthermore, the microwave antenna element and the millimeter wave antenna element work together to transmit the same composite signal, which contains a microwave signal and a millimeter wave signal. Microwave signals are suitable for large-area coverage due to their long wavelength and strong diffraction ability. For example, in urban environments, they can bypass obstacles such as buildings and provide basic signal connections for many devices. Millimeter wave signals, on the other hand, have short wavelengths and can carry high-resolution information. However, if there is an obstacle blocking them, the millimeter wave signal will disappear. At this time, there will be a short blank period in the received signal, and the communication experience is poor. Millimeter wave signals can be used to accurately identify and locate targets, such as in autonomous driving scenarios, to accurately detect the distance and shape of obstacles ahead. The method provided by the present invention uses millimeter waves to achieve fast and high-quality communication during the time period when the millimeter wave signal is present. When the millimeter wave signal is blocked, the millimeter wave signal is blank. The millimeter wave signal corresponding to the same time period is used to supplement the blank communication during this period, thereby improving the communication reliability while ensuring communication efficiency.

[0043] Microwave antenna elements are specifically designed to receive signals within the microwave frequency band. When a microwave signal is transmitted from the outside world, the microwave antenna element, with its integrated signal processing circuitry, can amplify, filter, and demodulate the signal, extracting useful information for conventional communications, such as the connection between a mobile phone and a base station. Millimeter-wave antenna elements are responsible for receiving signals within the millimeter-wave frequency band. Their high sensitivity and high-precision signal processing capabilities enable precise analysis of millimeter-wave signals and detailed information on the target, meeting the requirements of applications such as high-precision positioning and high-speed data transmission, such as high-speed data exchange between 5G millimeter-wave communication base stations and terminal devices. Furthermore, due to the limited transmission bandwidth of microwave signals, the data transmission rate of microwave signals is lower than that of millimeter-wave signals.

[0044] Optionally, the hybrid antenna array is rectangular, and a first side and a second side of the hybrid antenna array that are parallel to each other are provided with the microwave antenna element in a direction parallel to the first side;

[0045] The millimeter wave antenna element is provided on the third and fourth sides of the chip array which are parallel to each other and in a direction parallel to the third side; wherein the first side is perpendicular to the third side, and the second side is perpendicular to the fourth side.

[0046] For further information, please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 1The hybrid antenna array shown in the figure is in the shape of a rectangle. The two sides in the width direction of the rectangle are the first side and the second side of the hybrid antenna array, and the two sides in the length direction are the third side and the fourth side of the hybrid antenna array. It can be understood that the first side and the second side are the wide sides of the hybrid antenna array, and the third side and the fourth side are the long sides of the hybrid antenna array. Only microwave antenna elements are arranged on the sides adjacent to the wide sides of the hybrid antenna array, and only millimeter wave antenna elements are arranged on the sides adjacent to the long sides of the hybrid antenna array. The first side is perpendicular to the third side, and the second side is perpendicular to the fourth side. The perpendicular relationship ensures that the arrangement directions of the microwave antenna elements and the millimeter wave antenna elements are also perpendicular to each other. This vertical arrangement is to achieve independent reception and processing of signals in different directions or with different characteristics, avoid mutual interference between the two antenna elements, and at the same time make more full use of the space of the rectangular antenna array to improve the efficiency and quality of signal reception.

[0047] Furthermore, the two columns of microwave antenna elements arranged on the adjacent sides of the first and second sides of the hybrid antenna array, and the two rows of millimeter-wave antenna elements arranged on the adjacent sides of the third and fourth sides of the hybrid antenna array, are not fed when the hybrid antenna array is working, that is, when the hybrid antenna array is working, the two columns of microwave antenna elements and the two rows of millimeter-wave antenna elements are not used to receive signals.

[0048] Furthermore, the size of the hybrid antenna array is inversely proportional to the operating frequency band. The smaller the operating frequency band, the larger the area of ​​the hybrid antenna array. For example, in one embodiment, the size of the hybrid antenna array is 50cm*50cm or 1m*1m.

[0049] The MIMO hybrid antenna array provided in this embodiment utilizes multiple microwave antenna elements with large areas and uniform coverage on the chip layer, and multiple millimeter-wave antenna elements with smaller areas filling the blank spaces between the microwave antenna elements. Adjacent antenna elements are spaced at a safe communication distance, and the underlying circuit connection layer connects their output lines to the same controller. This fully utilizes chip space, leveraging the advantages of microwave signals' strong diffraction resistance and millimeter-wave signals' high transmission rates, enabling better adaptation to complex communication environments. Furthermore, the controller uses time-sharing to receive the microwave and millimeter-wave signals in a composite signal transmitted from the same target object, avoiding signal conflicts, improving signal reception and processing efficiency, ensuring communication stability and reliability, and enhancing overall communication performance.

[0050] Corresponding to the aforementioned embodiment of a MIMO hybrid antenna array, the present application also provides an embodiment of a MIMO hybrid antenna array design method.

[0051] Figure 2 This is a structural diagram of the first embodiment of the MIMO hybrid antenna array design method provided by this application. Figure 2, the method provided in this embodiment includes:

[0052] S201. Output lines of multiple microwave antenna elements are connected to a first testing device, where the first testing device includes a microwave signal sending device.

[0053] Specifically, multiple microwave antenna elements are connected to a first test device via their respective output lines. The first test device includes a microwave signal transmitter, whose primary function is to transmit microwave signals. During the test, the microwave signal transmitter transmits microwave signals to the microwave antenna elements in the hybrid antenna array, simulating microwave signal propagation conditions in an actual communication environment.

[0054] S202. Output lines of multiple millimeter-wave antenna elements are connected to a second testing device, where the second testing device includes a millimeter-wave signal sending device.

[0055] Specifically, multiple millimeter-wave antenna elements are connected to a second test device via their output lines, establishing a signal transmission channel between the millimeter-wave antenna elements and the second test device. The millimeter-wave signal transmitter in the second test device is responsible for transmitting millimeter-wave signals. Similarly, it transmits millimeter-wave signals to the millimeter-wave antenna elements in the hybrid antenna array at a different time period than the first test device, simulating the propagation of millimeter-wave signals in actual communication scenarios.

[0056] In other words, both the first and second test devices simultaneously adjust the structure of the microwave and millimeter-wave antenna elements, which have already completed their initial designs. Testing with the first and second test devices allows, on the one hand, the reception of the microwave and millimeter-wave antenna elements to be tested in the actual use scenario of the hybrid array without interfering with each other. On the other hand, the signal quality and propagation efficiency after reception can be measured. This facilitates the alignment of signals with inconsistent arrival times when using microwave and millimeter-wave elements simultaneously, and allows for the densest arrangement of microwave and millimeter-wave elements that ensures communication quality, thereby improving communication effectiveness.

[0057] S203: Adjust the design structure of the hybrid antenna array based on the first test device and the second test device.

[0058] The specific implementation steps include:

[0059] (1) placing the first test device, the second test device, and the hybrid antenna array in a target communication environment;

[0060] Specifically, the target communication environment refers to the actual application environment of the hybrid antenna array, which includes various interference factors, different signal propagation media, and so on. Placing the first test device (containing the microwave signal transmitter), the second test device (containing the millimeter-wave signal transmitter), and the hybrid antenna array in this environment simulates real-world communication scenarios, making the test results more practical and valuable.

[0061] (2) sending a microwave test signal to the hybrid antenna array based on the first test device, and the hybrid antenna array receiving the microwave test signal;

[0062] Specifically, the microwave signal transmitter in the first test device begins operating, sending microwave test signals to the hybrid antenna array. These microwave test signals propagate in the target communication environment, simulating actual microwave signal transmission conditions. The microwave antenna elements in the hybrid antenna array are responsible for receiving these microwave test signals. During reception, the microwave antenna elements convert the received signals into a processable form, such as electrical signals, and transmit them to the controller via output lines.

[0063] (3) sending a millimeter wave test signal to the hybrid antenna array based on the second test device, and the hybrid antenna array receiving the millimeter wave test signal;

[0064] Specifically, similarly, the millimeter-wave signal transmission device in the second test device transmits a millimeter-wave test signal to the hybrid antenna array. The millimeter-wave test signal propagates in the target communication environment, similar to actual millimeter-wave signal propagation. The millimeter-wave antenna elements in the hybrid antenna array receive the millimeter-wave test signal, convert it into a processable signal, and transmit it to the controller via output lines.

[0065] (4) Adjusting the design structure of the hybrid antenna array based on the signal quality and signal transmission data volume of the received microwave test signal and the millimeter wave test signal.

[0066] Specifically, signal quality refers to metrics such as signal strength, signal-to-noise ratio, and bit error rate. Poor signal quality may indicate issues such as an improper antenna element layout, significant interference between antennas, or a lack of compatibility with the target communication environment. For example, if the microwave test signal strength is weak, it may be necessary to increase the number of microwave antenna elements or adjust their position to improve signal reception. Signal transmission data volume refers to the amount of data transmitted by microwave and millimeter wave signals received by the controller from the time the signal is sent from the transmitter to the time the signal is successfully received and processed by the receiver.

[0067] Specifically, the specific implementation steps of adjusting the design structure of the hybrid antenna array include:

[0068] 4.1. Determine a safe communication distance based on the signal quality of the received microwave test signal and the received millimeter wave test signal;

[0069] Specifically, the safe communication distance refers to the maximum distance between the transmitter and receiver that allows reliable communication while meeting certain communication quality requirements (such as minimum acceptable signal strength and bit error rate). Microwave and millimeter-wave test signals attenuate with increasing distance during propagation, generally following a specific attenuation model, such as the free-space propagation model. By substituting the microwave test signal strength emitted by the first test device and the microwave test signal strength received by the hybrid antenna array, as well as the millimeter-wave test signal strength emitted by the second test device and the millimeter-wave test signal strength received by the hybrid antenna array, the safe communication distance can be calculated.

[0070] 4.2. Establishing a signal propagation path based on the received microwave test signal and the received millimeter wave test signal; and predicting a transmission data volume based on the signal propagation path;

[0071] Specifically, received microwave and millimeter-wave test signals contain information about signal propagation, such as the signal's arrival time and angle of arrival. This information can be used to establish the signal's propagation path through signal processing and positioning algorithms. For example, by measuring the time delay from the transmitter to the receiver and combining it with the signal's propagation speed, the distance the signal traveled can be calculated. Combined with information from multiple receiving points, the signal's propagation direction and path can be determined.

[0072] Furthermore, once the signal propagation path is determined, communication models can be used to predict the amount of data transmitted based on factors such as path characteristics (such as path length, presence of obstacles, and environmental attenuation characteristics) and the signal frequency band (microwave or millimeter wave). For example, a propagation path with many obstacles will experience greater signal attenuation, potentially resulting in a lower amount of data transmitted; whereas, a more open path may result in a relatively higher amount of data transmitted.

[0073] 4.3. Compare the predicted transmission data volume with the actual transmission data volume and correct the signal propagation path.

[0074] Specifically, the predicted amount of transmitted data is compared with the actual measured amount of signal transmitted data. If there is a difference between the predicted data and the actual data, it means that the previously established signal propagation path is inaccurate. For example, if the predicted data volume is much higher than the actual data volume, it may mean that some factors that cause signal attenuation were ignored when establishing the path, such as not taking into account certain hidden obstacles. At this time, it is necessary to re-evaluate the path and correct the relevant parameters to make the signal propagation path more in line with the actual situation. By analyzing this difference, the signal propagation path can be corrected to make it more in line with the actual situation. Some optimization algorithms can be used to continuously adjust the path parameters until the difference between the predicted data volume and the actual data volume is within an acceptable range. For the specific implementation process of adjusting the path parameters using the optimization algorithm, please refer to the description in the relevant technology and will not be repeated here.

[0075] 4.4. Determine the controller's time-sharing reception schedule based on the corrected signal propagation path.

[0076] Specifically, based on this more accurate path, combined with information such as signal transmit power, frequency band characteristics, and environmental parameters, and using appropriate communication models and algorithms, the amount of data the controller can receive can be calculated. This is crucial for evaluating system performance, optimizing communication strategies, and rationally allocating resources. For example, knowing the amount of data the controller receives can determine whether to increase transmit power or adjust the transmission protocol to improve data transmission efficiency and reliability.

[0077] As an optional embodiment, a first test device and a second test device are used successively to send test signals to the hybrid antenna array. The test signals sent by each test device are single-dimensional signals, such as millimeter wave signals and micrometer wave signals. On this basis, the controller of the hybrid antenna array outputs the test signal for line transmission, and establishes the channel propagation characteristics of the millimeter wave antenna elements and the microwave antenna elements based on the received test signals and the test signals of the transmitting end; and determines the number and design spacing of the millimeter wave antenna elements and the microwave antenna elements based on the channel propagation characteristics and the target communication requirements.

[0078] In a specific implementation, the steps of determining the first distance and the second distance according to the channel characteristics of the millimeter wave and the microwave include:

[0079] 1.1. Construct two radio measurement systems, including a millimeter-wave radio measurement system and a microwave radio measurement system, wherein the millimeter-wave radio measurement system receives millimeter-wave signals, and the microwave radio measurement system receives microwave signals;

[0080] Specifically, the millimeter-wave radio measurement system is primarily responsible for processing millimeter-wave frequency signals and is capable of receiving millimeter-wave signals. It consists of a millimeter-wave antenna and millimeter-wave signal processing circuits, and is used to receive, amplify, and demodulate millimeter-wave signals. Similarly, the microwave radio measurement system is designed for the microwave frequency band and consists of a microwave antenna and microwave signal processing module. It specifically receives microwave signals and performs the corresponding signal processing.

[0081] 1.2. Controlling the millimeter wave radio measurement system and the microwave radio measurement system to transmit the same signal and receive corresponding signals;

[0082] Specifically, the two systems are controlled to transmit the same signal, allowing for comparison of the propagation performance of signals in different frequency bands under identical initial conditions. This transmitted signal can be a standard test signal with specific parameters such as frequency, power, and modulation. Subsequently, the two systems are instructed to receive signals in the corresponding frequency bands. Specifically, the millimeter-wave radio measurement system receives the propagated millimeter-wave signal, while the microwave radio measurement system receives the propagated microwave signal. This process simulates signal propagation in a real-world environment, facilitating subsequent comparative analysis.

[0083] 1.3. Determine the first distance and the second distance according to the millimeter wave signal difference and the microwave signal difference.

[0084] Specifically, millimeter wave signal difference and microwave signal difference refer to the differences between transmitted and received millimeter wave and microwave signals, respectively. These differences can manifest in various aspects, including signal strength (power), phase, and latency. For example, due to factors such as loss, reflection, and scattering along the propagation path, the received millimeter wave signal power may be lower than that at the time of transmission. This power difference is a manifestation of millimeter wave signal difference.

[0085] Furthermore, the first and second distances are closely related to signal propagation characteristics. Different distances affect the signal to varying degrees during propagation, resulting in different signal differences. By establishing a relationship model between signal difference and distance (which can be based on electromagnetic wave propagation theory, relevant channel models, etc.), the first distance (the distance between the microwave antenna element and the millimeter wave antenna element) and the second distance (the distance between the millimeter wave antenna element and the millimeter wave antenna element) can be inferred based on the measured millimeter wave signal difference and microwave signal difference. For example, in the free-space propagation model, there is a certain mathematical relationship between signal strength and distance. By measuring the signal strength difference, the corresponding distance can be calculated.

[0086] (2) Arranging the millimeter wave antenna element around the microwave antenna element based on the first distance and the second distance, wherein the microwave antenna element and the millimeter wave antenna element are arranged in the same layer.

[0087] Specifically, after obtaining the first distance and the second distance, the microwave antenna elements are first installed on the chip array in a preset matrix form. Furthermore, based on the edge of each microwave antenna element, the millimeter wave antenna elements are placed in sequence around each microwave antenna element according to the first distance and the second distance.

[0088] Furthermore, the microwave antenna element is connected to a first output end through a first circuit, and the millimeter wave antenna element is connected to a second output end through a second circuit; wherein the first output end is used to output a microwave signal, and the second output end is used to output a millimeter wave signal.

[0089] Furthermore, the microwave signal output by the first output end is used for communicating with conventional communication equipment, and the millimeter wave signal output by the second output end is used for high-precision positioning and high-speed data transmission.

[0090] Furthermore, the present application also provides an embodiment of a measurement method based on a hybrid antenna array.

[0091] Figure 3 This is a structural diagram of the embodiment 1 of the measurement method based on the hybrid antenna array provided by this application. Figure 3 , the method provided in this embodiment includes:

[0092] S301, a sending device sends a mixed signal;

[0093] S302: The hybrid signal propagates toward the hybrid antenna array in a communication environment, and a propagation path includes a first obstacle;

[0094] Specifically, a mixed signal is a hybrid signal containing microwaves and millimeter waves. The communication environment is the space in which the signal propagates, where various factors affect signal propagation. When the mixed signal propagates in the communication environment, it encounters a first obstacle. According to the propagation principle of electromagnetic waves, when encountering the first obstacle, the signal will undergo reflection, refraction, scattering, and diffraction. Millimeter wave signals, due to their shorter wavelengths, are more easily blocked when encountering obstacles, while microwave signals are relatively easy to diffract or bypass obstacles through other means to continue propagating.

[0095] S303: On a propagation path not blocked by the first obstacle, the hybrid antenna array receives the millimeter wave signal in the hybrid signal;

[0096] Specifically, millimeter-wave signals have high frequencies and short wavelengths, resulting in high data transmission rates. In a propagation path unobstructed by the first obstacle, millimeter-wave signals can propagate smoothly to the hybrid antenna array. Without direct obstruction, millimeter-wave signals can propagate according to their original propagation direction and characteristics. The hybrid antenna array can receive the millimeter-wave signal within the hybrid signal, leveraging its high data rate to transmit data.

[0097] S304. On the propagation path blocked by the first obstacle, the hybrid antenna array receives the microwave signal in the hybrid signal; wherein the amount of data transmitted by the microwave signal is greater than the amount of data transmitted by the millimeter wave signal;

[0098] Specifically, microwave signals have a relatively low frequency, long wavelength, and strong diffraction ability, allowing them to propagate around obstacles. When the primary obstacle blocks the propagation path, the millimeter-wave signal may be severely attenuated or completely blocked. At this point, the hybrid antenna array receives the microwave signal within the hybrid signal. While microwave signals do not have the same data transmission rate as millimeter-wave signals, they can still maintain a certain level of transmission capacity in the presence of obstacles. In some cases, the amount of data they transmit can exceed that of millimeter-wave signals, which are limited in transmission due to the obstacle.

[0099] S305 : The hybrid antenna array aggregates the received microwave signal and the millimeter wave signal to achieve measurement of the hybrid signal.

[0100] Specifically, the hybrid antenna array is capable of receiving and processing signals from different frequency bands. It aggregates the received microwave and millimeter-wave signals, which may include signal acquisition and merging. By measuring the aggregated mixed signal, various parameters such as signal strength, frequency, and phase can be obtained. These measurement results are crucial for evaluating communication quality, adjusting communication strategies, and implementing subsequent communication functions such as signal demodulation and data recovery. They help communication systems better adapt to complex communication environments and improve communication reliability and efficiency.

[0101] The specific implementation steps include:

[0102] (1) Determine the data difference between microwave signal propagation and millimeter wave signal propagation in the target communication environment;

[0103] Specifically, in specific target communication environments (such as indoors, outdoors, and in urban areas with tall buildings), microwave and millimeter-wave signals exhibit different propagation characteristics due to their distinct characteristics. Microwave signals have relatively low frequencies, long wavelengths, and strong diffraction capabilities, allowing for longer propagation distances but lower data rates. Millimeter-wave signals have high frequencies, short wavelengths, and high data rates, but also shorter propagation distances and weaker penetration and diffraction capabilities. The data delta refers to the difference in the amount of data transmitted by microwave and millimeter-wave signals in the same amount of time.

[0104] Furthermore, by conducting tests in the target communication environment or using relevant communication models, the difference in the amount of data transmitted by microwave and millimeter wave signals at the same time or under the same conditions can be calculated to obtain the data difference. This data difference can reflect the difference in the data transmission capabilities of the two signals in the current communication environment.

[0105] (2) the microwave antenna element and the millimeter wave antenna element in the hybrid antenna array receive the microwave signal and the millimeter wave signal respectively;

[0106] Specifically, the microwave antenna elements in the hybrid antenna array receive microwave signals, and the millimeter wave antenna elements receive millimeter wave signals.

[0107] (3) The controller receives the microwave signal, the millimeter wave signal, and the data difference;

[0108] (4) The controller aligns the microwave signal and the millimeter wave signal based on the data difference to obtain an aggregated mixed signal, and the aggregated mixed signal does not have a blank area.

[0109] Specifically, the controller aligns the microwave and millimeter wave signals based on the received data difference. The difference in data volume can lead to inconsistencies in timing or data structure between the two signals. The controller adjusts signal time synchronization and data frame arrangement to match and align the microwave and millimeter wave signals in terms of timing and data content. After processing, the two are merged into a single, aggregated mixed signal. This ensures that the data in this mixed signal is continuous and complete, without blank areas caused by signal alignment issues. This effectively integrates the two signals, improving the data transmission efficiency and reliability of the communication system.

[0110] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present application and is not intended to limit the present application. Any modifications, equivalent replacements, improvements, etc. made within the spirit and principles of the present application shall be included in the scope of protection of the present application.

Claims

1. A MIMO hybrid antenna array, characterized in that: The hybrid antenna array comprises: A chip layer; a plurality of microwave antenna elements and a plurality of millimeter-wave antenna elements are simultaneously arranged on the chip layer, and the area of ​​a single microwave antenna element is larger than the area of ​​a single millimeter-wave antenna element; wherein the microwave antenna elements are evenly arranged on the chip layer, the microwave antenna elements cover the entire chip layer, and the chip layer is fully covered with the millimeter-wave antenna elements except for the blank areas of the microwave antenna elements, and the distance between adjacent antenna elements is a communication safety distance; Arrange multiple millimeter wave antenna elements in the blank areas between rows and columns of the microwave antenna element matrix so that microwave antenna elements and millimeter wave antenna elements coexist in each area of ​​the chip layer; The microwave antenna element and the millimeter wave antenna element work together to transmit the same composite signal, which contains a microwave signal and a millimeter wave signal. During the time period when the millimeter wave signal is present, communication is achieved using the millimeter wave. When the millimeter wave signal is blocked, the micrometer wave signal corresponding to the same time period is used to supplement the blank communication during that period. A circuit connection layer is provided below the chip layer, and the multiple microwave antenna elements and the multiple millimeter wave antenna elements are respectively connected to output circuits to output received signals to the same controller; The controller is used to simultaneously receive composite signals sent by the same target object, and the controller includes a microwave radio frequency circuit and a millimeter wave radio frequency circuit. The microwave radio frequency circuit is used to process microwave signals, and the millimeter wave radio frequency circuit is used to process millimeter wave signals. The controller combines the processed microwave signals and millimeter wave signals; The hybrid antenna array aggregates the received microwave signals and millimeter wave signals to achieve measurement of the hybrid signals; including: Determine the data difference between microwave signal propagation and millimeter wave signal propagation in the target communication environment; The microwave antenna element and the millimeter wave antenna element in the hybrid antenna array receive the microwave signal and the millimeter wave signal respectively; A controller receives the microwave signal, the millimeter wave signal and the data difference; The controller aligns the microwave signal and the millimeter wave signal based on the data difference to obtain an aggregated mixed signal, where there is no blank area in the aggregated mixed signal.

2. The hybrid antenna array according to claim 1, wherein: The microwave antenna element is a rectangular element, the millimeter wave antenna element is a circular element, and the length of the microwave antenna element is greater than the diameter of the millimeter wave antenna element; The microwave antenna element is used to receive microwave signals, and the millimeter wave antenna element is used to receive millimeter wave signals. Under the same wireless propagation environment, the transmission data rate of the microwave signal is lower than the transmission data rate of the millimeter wave signal, and the diffraction capability of the microwave signal is greater than the diffraction capability of the millimeter wave signal.

3. The hybrid antenna array according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of microwave antenna elements are evenly arranged in rows and columns in a matrix form, and the spacing between the microwave antenna elements in each row is greater than the spacing between the microwave antenna elements in each column; The millimeter wave antenna elements are arranged in the blank areas between rows of the microwave antenna elements and in the blank areas between columns of the microwave antenna elements.

4. The hybrid antenna array according to claim 1, wherein: The hybrid antenna array is rectangular, and the microwave antenna element is provided on a first side and a second side parallel to each other in the hybrid antenna array in a direction parallel to the first side; The millimeter wave antenna element is provided on the third and fourth sides parallel to each other in the hybrid antenna array in a direction parallel to the third side; wherein the first side is perpendicular to the third side, and the second side is perpendicular to the fourth side.

5. A MIMO hybrid antenna array design method, characterized in that: The design method is used to design the hybrid antenna array according to any one of claims 1 to 4, and the method comprises: The output lines of the plurality of microwave antenna elements are connected to a first testing device, wherein the first testing device includes a microwave signal transmitting device; The output lines of the plurality of millimeter wave antenna elements are connected to a second test device, wherein the second test device includes a millimeter wave signal transmitting device; The design structure of the hybrid antenna array is adjusted based on the first test device and the second test device.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that The step of adjusting the design structure of the hybrid antenna array based on the first test device and the second test device comprises: placing the first test device, the second test device, and the hybrid antenna array in a target communication environment; Sending a microwave test signal to the hybrid antenna array based on the first test device, and the hybrid antenna array receiving the microwave test signal; Sending a millimeter wave test signal to the hybrid antenna array based on the second test device, and the hybrid antenna array receiving the millimeter wave test signal; The design structure of the hybrid antenna array is adjusted based on the signal quality and signal transmission data volume of the received microwave test signal and the millimeter wave test signal.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that The method of adjusting the design structure of the hybrid antenna array based on the signal quality and signal transmission data volume of the received microwave test signal and the received millimeter wave test signal comprises: determining a communication safety distance based on signal qualities of the received microwave test signal and the received millimeter wave test signal; Establishing a signal propagation path based on the received microwave test signal and the received millimeter wave test signal; and predicting a transmission data volume based on the signal propagation path; Comparing the predicted transmission data volume with the actual transmission data volume, and correcting the signal propagation path; The amount of received data of the controller is determined based on the corrected signal propagation path.

8. A measurement method based on a MIMO hybrid antenna array, characterized in that: The method is implemented based on the hybrid antenna array according to any one of claims 1 to 4, and the method includes: The transmitting device sends a mixed signal; The hybrid signal propagates toward the hybrid antenna array in a communication environment, wherein the propagation path includes a first obstacle; On a propagation path not blocked by the first obstacle, the hybrid antenna array receives the millimeter wave signal in the hybrid signal; On the propagation path blocked by the first obstacle, the hybrid antenna array receives the microwave signal in the hybrid signal; wherein the amount of data transmitted by the microwave signal is greater than the amount of data transmitted by the millimeter wave signal; The hybrid antenna array aggregates the received microwave signal and the millimeter wave signal to achieve measurement of the hybrid signal.

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