Antenna assembly comprising two-dimensional surface wave feed array for azimuth gain control

Abstract

An antenna assembly includes a circuit board having an integrated circuit configured to process a radio frequency (RF) signal; a waveguide plate including a waveguide configured to direct an RF signal to at least one of a conductive trace extending from the integrated circuit and a conductive trace from which an RF signal is directed; and a conductive top plate over the waveguide plate. The conductive top plate comprises an outer surface and an inner surface facing the waveguide plate; a plurality of slots aligned with the waveguide and aligned in the Y direction along the conductive top plate; and a cavity defined by the conductive top plate and recessed below an outer surface of the conductive top plate. The rows of cavities are located alongside the plurality of slots. The row of cavities are aligned parallel to the plurality of slots in the Y-direction and spaced apart in the Y-direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an antenna assembly including a two-dimensional surface wave feed array for azimuth gain control. Background Art

[0002] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure, which is not necessarily prior art.

[0003] Radar uses electromagnetic signals to detect and track objects. One or more antennas are used to transmit and receive electromagnetic signals. The characteristics of an antenna can lie in terms of gain and beam width, or more specifically the pattern, which is a characterization of the relationship between gain and direction. By modifying the antenna pattern, the antenna can be customized for a specific application. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This section provides a general overview of the invention and is not a full disclosure of its entire scope or all of its features.

[0005] The present disclosure provides, among various features, an antenna assembly including: a circuit board including an integrated circuit configured to process radio frequency (RF) signals and conductive traces extending from the integrated circuit; a waveguide plate above the circuit board, the waveguide plate including waveguides configured to direct at least one of the RF signals to and from the conductive traces; and a conductive top plate above the waveguide plate. The conductive top plate includes: an outer surface and an inner surface facing the waveguide plate, the outer surface being opposite to the inner surface; a plurality of slots aligned with the waveguides and extending through the conductive top plate, the plurality of slots being aligned in the Y direction along the conductive top plate; and a cavity defined by the conductive top plate and recessed below the outer surface of the conductive top plate, rows of cavities being beside the plurality of slots, the rows of cavities being aligned parallel to the plurality of slots in the Y direction and spaced apart in the Y direction.

[0006] In a further feature, the rows of cavities are a first row on a first side of the plurality of slots, and the antenna assembly further includes a second row of cavities on a second side of the plurality of slots opposite to the first side, the second row of cavities being aligned parallel to the plurality of slots in the Y direction and spaced apart in the Y direction.

[0007] In a further feature, the cavities are spaced apart at a pitch of 3.2 mm in the Y direction.

[0008] In a further feature, the rows of cavities are one of a plurality of first rows of cavities on a first side of the plurality of slots, the plurality of first rows being spaced apart in the X direction perpendicular to the Y direction, and the antenna assembly further includes a plurality of second rows of cavities on a second side of the plurality of slots opposite to the first side, the plurality of second rows being spaced apart in the X direction perpendicular to the Y direction.

[0009] In a further feature, the plurality of first rows are spaced apart in the X direction by a pitch of 3.3 mm.

[0010] In a further feature, the first slot is located between two of the plurality of first rows and extends in the Y direction.

[0011] In a further feature, the plurality of first rows are spaced apart in the X direction by a pitch of 2.75 mm.

[0012] In a further feature, the first slot has a length of 23 mm in the Y direction, a width of 0.8 mm in the X direction, and a depth of 0.4 mm in the Z direction.

[0013] In a further feature, the second slot is located between two of the plurality of second rows and extends in the Y direction.

[0014] In a further feature, the cavities of each row of the plurality of first rows are spaced apart in the Y direction, and the cavities of each row of the plurality of second rows are spaced apart in the Y direction.

[0015] In a further feature, each cavity has a length in the Y direction, a width in the X direction perpendicular to the Y direction, and a depth in the Z direction, the length being greater than the width, and the depth being less than the length and greater than the width.

[0016] In a further feature, the waveguide is a first waveguide, and the plurality of slots are a plurality of first slots, and the conductive top plate further includes a plurality of second slots aligned parallel to the first plurality of slots in the Y direction above the second waveguide of the waveguide plate, and an additional row of cavities is located beside the plurality of second slots, the cavities of the additional row being aligned parallel to the plurality of second slots in the Y direction and spaced apart in the Y direction.

[0017] The present disclosure also provides, among various features, an antenna assembly including: a circuit board that includes an integrated circuit configured to process radio frequency (RF) signals and conductive traces extending from the integrated circuit; a waveguide plate above the circuit board, the waveguide plate including waveguides configured to direct RF signals to and from the conductive traces; and a conductive top plate above the waveguide plate. The conductive top plate includes: an outer surface and an inner surface facing the waveguide plate, the outer surface being opposite to the inner surface; a plurality of slots aligned with the waveguides and extending through the conductive top plate, the plurality of slots being aligned along the conductive top plate in the Y direction; and cavities defined by the conductive top plate and recessed below the outer surface of the conductive top plate, rows of cavities being located beside the plurality of slots on opposite sides of the plurality of slots, each row of cavities being aligned parallel to the plurality of slots in the Y direction and spaced apart in the Y direction, the rows being spaced apart in the X direction perpendicular to the Y direction, and each slot of the plurality of slots being misaligned with the cavities in the X direction.

[0018] In a further feature, the cavities are spaced apart in the Y direction at a pitch of 3.2 mm.

[0019] In a further feature, each cavity has a length in the Y direction, a width in the X direction perpendicular to the Y direction, and a depth in the Z direction, the length being greater than the width, and the depth being less than the length and greater than the width.

[0020] In a further feature, the length is more than twice the width.

[0021] The present disclosure also provides, among various features, an antenna assembly including: a circuit board that includes an integrated circuit configured to process radio frequency (RF) signals and conductive traces extending from the integrated circuit; a waveguide plate above the circuit board, the waveguide plate including waveguides configured to direct RF signals to and from the conductive traces; and a conductive top plate above the waveguide plate. The conductive top plate includes: an outer surface and an inner surface facing the waveguide plate, the outer surface being opposite to the inner surface; a plurality of slots aligned with the waveguides and extending through the conductive top plate, the plurality of slots being aligned along the conductive top plate in the Y direction; cavities defined by the conductive top plate and recessed below the outer surface of the conductive top plate, rows of cavities being located beside the plurality of slots on opposite sides of the plurality of slots, each row of cavities being aligned parallel to the plurality of slots in the Y direction and spaced apart in the Y direction, and each row of cavities being spaced apart in the X direction perpendicular to the Y direction; and slots defined by the conductive top plate and recessed below the outer surface of the conductive top plate, each slot extending in the Y direction and being located between adjacent rows of the rows of cavities.

[0022] In a further feature, the rows of cavities are spaced apart in the X direction at a pitch of 2.75 mm.

[0023] In a further feature, each slot has a length of 23 mm in the Y direction, a width of 0.8 mm in the X direction, and a depth of 0.4 mm in the Z direction.

[0024] In a further feature, rows of cavities are located on opposite sides of the plurality of slots.

[0025] Based on the description provided herein, other application areas will become apparent. The descriptions and specific examples in this summary are intended for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0027] Figure 1 is an exploded view of an antenna assembly in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 2 is Figure 1 a plan view of an outer surface of a conductive top plate of the antenna assembly of

[0029] Figure 3 is Figure 2 a perspective view of a region of the conductive top plate of

[0030] Figure 4 is Figure 2 a plan view of a region of the conductive top plate of

[0031] Figure 5 is Figure 2 a perspective view of a cavity of the conductive top plate of

[0032] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a region of an additional conductive top plate in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 7 is Figure 6 a perspective view of a cavity and slots of the conductive top plate of

[0034] Figure 8 is a graph showing exemplary radiation patterns of various antenna assemblies in accordance with the present disclosure, the radiation patterns differing in the y-direction spacing of cavities defined by the conductive top plate;

[0035] Figure 9 is a graph showing exemplary radiation patterns of various antenna assemblies in accordance with the present disclosure, the radiation patterns differing in the x-direction spacing of cavities defined by the conductive top plate;

[0036] Figure 10is a graph showing exemplary radiation patterns of various antenna assemblies according to the present disclosure, these radiation patterns being different with respect to cavity depth;

[0037] Figure 11 is a graph showing exemplary radiation patterns of various antenna assemblies according to the present disclosure, these radiation patterns being different with respect to cavity length;

[0038] Figure 12 is a graph showing exemplary radiation patterns of various antenna assemblies according to the present disclosure, these radiation patterns being different with respect to slot depth; and

[0039] Figure 13 is a graph showing exemplary radiation patterns of various antenna assemblies according to the present disclosure, these radiation patterns being different with respect to slot width.

[0040] Throughout several views in the accompanying drawings, corresponding reference numerals denote corresponding components. Detailed Description

[0041] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0042] The present disclosure includes an antenna having a conductive outer plate that defines a plurality of cavities adjacent to a slot of the antenna. In some applications, the conductive outer plate may also define a parasitic bridge in the form of a slot between rows of cavities. As described herein, the cavities and slots are configured to control surface waves of radiation emitted from and flowing to the slot of the antenna to enhance the gain of the antenna. The dimensions of the cavities and slots can be customized to generate a radiation pattern of a customized width and total gain, thereby adapting to any suitable application. For example, the depth, length, and width of each cavity and slot can vary, and the spacing between the cavities and slots can vary to customize the radiation pattern, as described in detail herein.

[0043] Figure 1 An exemplary antenna assembly 10 according to the present disclosure is shown. The antenna assembly 10 is configured for any suitable application, such as being used in combination with an adaptive cruise control system of a vehicle. The antenna assembly 10 can also be configured for any other suitable automotive or non-automotive application.

[0044] The antenna assembly 10 generally includes a circuit board 20, a waveguide plate 30, and a conductive top plate 50. The circuit board 20, the waveguide plate 30, and the conductive top plate 50 are fixed together in any suitable manner, such as being fixed together using any suitable fasteners 12. The waveguide plate 30 is fixed between the circuit board 20 and the conductive top plate 50.

[0045] The circuit board 20 includes an integrated circuit (IC) 22 for processing radio frequency (RF) signals. Conductive traces 24 extend from the IC 22, and the conductive traces 24 are electrically connected to the IC 22. Conductive pads 26 are located at the distal ends of the traces 24. The pads 26 and the traces 24 are configured to conduct RF signals electrically to and from the IC 22.

[0046] The waveguide plate 30 is mounted on the circuit board 20. The waveguide plate 30 defines a plurality of waveguides 32. The waveguides 32 extend from the feed holes 34. The feed holes 34 are aligned with the pads 26 of the circuit board 20. The RF signals transmitted from the IC 22 are conducted along the traces 24 to the pads 26 and conducted through the feed holes 34 of the waveguide plate 30 to the waveguides 32. Conversely, the received RF signals are guided by the waveguides 32 to the feed holes 34 and guided to the IC 22 by means of the pads 26 and the traces 24. The distal ends 36 of the waveguides 32 opposite the feed holes 34 are positioned and shaped to correspond to the slots of the conductive top plate 50, as described herein.

[0047] The conductive top plate 50 has an outer surface 52 and an inner surface 54. The outer surface 52 is opposite to the inner surface 54. The inner surface 54 faces the waveguide plate 30. The outer surface 52 is the outer surface of the antenna assembly 10. The conductive top plate 50 is made of any suitable conductive material, such as any suitable metallic material.

[0048] Continuing to refer Figure 1 to, and additionally referring Figures 2 - 4 to, the conductive top plate 50 defines a plurality of slots 56 that extend through the conductive top plate 50 to the waveguide plate 30. The slots 56 are aligned with the distal ends 36 of the waveguides 32. The slots 56 are configured to guide the received RF signals to the distal ends 36 of the waveguides 32 and / or guide the RF signals away from the distal ends 36 of the waveguides 32 during RF transmission. To facilitate the reception and / or transmission of RF signals, the conductive top plate 50 defines inclined surfaces 58 adjacent to the plurality of slots 56. The inclined surfaces 58 extend from the outer surface 52 towards the slots 56 into the conductive top plate 50.

[0049] The plurality of slots 56 are arranged in various groups, and each group is an antenna that is configured to receive and / or transmit RF signals based on the configuration of the IC 22. The conductive top plate 50 may include any suitable number of groups of slots 56. In the illustrated example, the conductive top plate 50 includes eight groups: a first group 60A; a second group 60B; a third group 60C; a fourth group 60D; a fifth group 60E; a sixth group 60F; a seventh group 60G; and an eighth group 60H. Each group 60A-60H includes a plurality of slots 56, such as six slots 56 in the illustrated example. Each group 60A-60H is aligned along the conductive top plate 50 in a first direction. In Figure 2In the example, the first direction is along the Y-axis (Y direction). Although eight groups 60A - 60H are shown, the conductive top plate 50 may include any suitable number of groups of slots 56.

[0050] Each group 60A - 60H of slots 56 can be configured as a transmitting antenna, a receiving antenna, or a transceiver antenna. For example, groups 60A - 60D can be configured as transmitting antennas, and groups 60E - 60H can be configured as receiving antennas. Alternatively, groups 60E - 60H can be configured as transmitting antennas, and groups 60A - 60D can be configured as receiving antennas.

[0051] The conductive top plate 50 further includes a plurality of cavities 70 defined by the conductive top plate 50 and recessed below the outer surface 52 of the top plate 50. The cavities 70 are configured to modify the RF signals transmitted from or received by the plurality of slots 56, as described herein. The cavities 70 are arranged in rows 80 beside the plurality of slots 56. The cavities 70 of each row 80 are aligned parallel to the plurality of slots 56 in the Y direction, and the cavities 70 of each row 80 are spaced apart in the Y direction. The rows 80 of cavities 70 are spaced apart along the X-axis (X direction) perpendicular to the Y-axis. Each cavity 70 is offset from each slot 56 in the X direction such that the slots 56 are not aligned with the cavities 70 in the X direction.

[0052] Reference Figure 5 Figure, each cavity 70 includes a length L extending in the Y direction, a width W extending in the X direction, and a depth D extending in the Z direction. The width W is perpendicular to the length L, and the depth D is perpendicular to the length L and the width W. The length L can be, for example, 2.4 mm, or approximately 2.4 mm. Additional exemplary lengths L include, but are not limited to, the following: 2.1 mm, 2.4 mm, and 2.7 mm. The depth D can be, for example, 1.35 mm, or approximately 1.35 mm. Additional exemplary depths D include, but are not limited to, the following: 1.25 mm, 1.45 mm, 1.65 mm, and 1.85 mm. The width can be, for example, 1.0 mm, or approximately 1.0 mm.

[0053] The cavities 70 of each row 80 are spaced apart in the Y direction by any suitable distance or spacing, such as, for example, 3.2 mm or approximately 3.2 mm, as measured along the midpoints of the lengths L of adjacent cavities 70. Other exemplary spacings in the Y direction include, but are not limited to, 3.0 mm, 3.5 mm, and 4.0 mm. The rows 80 of cavities 70 are spaced apart in the X direction by any suitable distance or spacing, such as, for example, 3.3 mm or approximately 3.3 mm, as measured along the midpoints of the widths W of adjacent cavities 70 in adjacent rows 80. Other exemplary spacings in the X direction include, but are not limited to, 2.7 mm, 3.1 mm, 3.3 mm, 3.5 mm, and 3.8 mm.

[0054] The rows 80 of the cavities 70 are arranged in various groups. Any suitable number of rows 80 can be included in any suitable number of groups. In Figure 2 the example of, the conductive top plate 50 includes the following groups of rows 80: a first row group 90A, a second row group 90B, a third row group 90C, a fourth row group 90D, a fifth row group 90E, a sixth row group 90F, a seventh row group 90G, an eighth row group 90H, a ninth row group 90I, a tenth row group 90J, an eleventh row group 90K, and a twelfth row group 90L. The row groups 90A - 90L are adjacent to the groups of slots 60A - 60H. The row groups 90A - 90L can be located on only one side of the slots 56 or on both sides of a plurality of slots 56. Each row group 90A - 90L can include any suitable number of rows 80, such as, for example, three rows or four rows. And each row 80 can include any suitable number of cavities 70, such as, for example, seven.

[0055] Referring to Figure 6 and Figure 7 , in some applications, the conductive top plate 50 may further define slots 110 that are recessed below the outer surface 52. Each slot 110 extends in the Y direction and is located between adjacent rows in the rows 80 of the cavities 70. Each slot 110 includes a length L that extends in the Y direction parallel to the rows 80 and the slots 56, a width W that extends in the X direction, and a depth D that extends in the Z direction. Each slot 110 can be provided with any suitable dimensions of length L, width W, and depth D. For example, the length L can be 23 mm, or approximately 23 mm. The width W can be 0.8 mm, or approximately 0.8 mm. Other suitable widths W include, but are not limited to, 0.7 mm and 0.9 mm or widths approximating thereto. And the depth D can be 0.4 mm, or approximately 0.4 mm. Other suitable depths D include, but are not limited to, 0.5 mm and 0.6 mm or depths approximating thereto.

[0056] The slot 110 is configured as a parasitic bridge that artificially compresses the spacing of the rows 80 of the cavities 70 in the X direction, which allows the conductive top plate 50 to be made smaller and more compact. For example and with respect to the Figure 6 and 7 configuration, the rows 80 can be spaced apart at a spacing of 2.75 mm in the X direction.

[0057] The dimensions of the cavities 70 and the slots 10 can be customized to generate a radiation pattern of a customized width and total gain, thus being suitable for any suitable application. For example, the depth D, length L, and width W of each cavity 70 and slot 110 can vary, the spacing between the rows 80 in the X direction can vary, and the spacing between the cavities 70 in the Y direction can vary to achieve a customized radiation pattern. Figures 8 - 13 Various exemplary radiation patterns of the antenna assembly 10 achieved by changing these dimensions are shown.

[0058] Figure 8 FIG. 210 is a graph showing the radiation patterns of three antenna assemblies 10 according to the present disclosure, the radiation patterns being different with respect to the spacing between the cavities 70 of each row 80 in the Y direction. The radiation patterns represent the tunability of the antenna assemblies 10. Radiation pattern A represents the antenna assembly 10 configured with cavities 70 of each row 80 spaced apart at a spacing of 3.0 mm in the Y direction. Radiation pattern B represents the antenna assembly 10 configured with cavities 70 of each row 80 spaced apart at a spacing of 3.5 mm in the Y direction. And radiation pattern C represents the antenna assembly 10 configured with cavities 70 of each row 80 spaced apart at a spacing of 4.0 mm in the Y direction. Radiation pattern A has the widest azimuthal field of view but the lowest gain at the center. Compared with radiation pattern A, radiation patterns B and C each have a higher gain at the center, but the azimuthal field of view is narrower with respect to radiation pattern A.

[0059] Figure 9 FIG. 220 is a graph showing the radiation patterns of five antenna assemblies 10 according to the present disclosure, the radiation patterns being different with respect to the spacing between the rows 80 of cavities 70 in the X direction. The radiation patterns also represent the tunability of the antenna assemblies 10. Radiation pattern D represents the antenna assembly 10 configured with rows 80 spaced apart at a spacing of 2.7 mm in the Y direction. Radiation pattern E represents the antenna assembly 10 configured with rows 80 spaced apart at a spacing of 3.1 mm in the Y direction. Radiation pattern F represents the antenna assembly 10 configured with rows 80 spaced apart at a spacing of 3.3 mm in the Y direction. Radiation pattern G represents the antenna assembly 10 configured with rows 80 spaced apart at a spacing of 3.5 mm in the Y direction. Radiation pattern H represents the antenna assembly 10 configured with rows 80 spaced apart at a spacing of 3.8 mm in the Y direction. Radiation pattern H has the widest field of view. Radiation pattern F has the highest gain at the center and has a relatively wide azimuthal field of view. In some applications, radiation pattern F with rows 80 spaced apart at a spacing of 3.3 mm in the X direction may be considered optimal.

[0060] Figure 10FIG. 230 is a graph showing the radiation patterns of four antenna assemblies 10 in accordance with the present disclosure, the radiation patterns being different with respect to the depth D relative to the cavity 70. In this example, the cavity 70 has a uniform length of 2.4 mm, a uniform width of 1.0 mm, and the cavities 70 of each row 80 are spaced apart in the Y direction by a pitch of 3.1 mm. Radiation pattern I represents the antenna assembly 10 configured with the cavity 70 extending to a uniform depth D of 1.25 mm. Radiation pattern J represents the antenna assembly 10 configured with the cavity 70 extending to a uniform depth D of 1.45 mm. Radiation pattern K represents the antenna assembly 10 configured with the cavity 70 extending to a uniform depth D of 1.65 mm. Radiation pattern L represents the antenna assembly 10 configured with the cavity 70 extending to a uniform depth D of 1.85 mm. As shown in the exemplary graph 230, deepening the cavity 70 in the Z direction results in a narrower azimuth field of view but a higher peak gain. Thus, the shallowest cavity depth of 1.25 mm (radiation pattern I) provides the widest azimuth field of view and the lowest peak gain, while the deepest cavity depth of 1.85 mm (radiation pattern L) provides the narrowest azimuth field of view and the highest peak gain.

[0061] Figure 11 FIG. 240 is a graph showing the radiation patterns of three antenna assemblies 10 in accordance with the present disclosure, the radiation patterns being different with respect to the length L in the Y direction relative to the cavity 70. The cavity 70 has a uniform depth of 1.65 mm, a uniform width of 1.0 mm, and the cavities 70 of each row 80 are spaced apart in the Y direction by a pitch of 3.8 mm. Radiation pattern M represents the antenna assembly 10 configured with the cavity 70 having a uniform length L of 2.10 mm. Radiation pattern N represents the antenna assembly 10 configured with the cavity 70 having a uniform length L of 2.40 mm. Radiation pattern O represents the antenna assembly 10 configured with the cavity 70 having a uniform length L of 2.70 mm. As shown in the exemplary graph 240, generally, the longer cavity 70 provides a reduced peak gain but a wider azimuth field of view.

[0062] Figure 12 FIG. 250 is a graph showing the radiation patterns of three antenna assemblies 10 in accordance with the present disclosure, including slots 110 between adjacent rows 80 of the cavity 70 (e.g., as Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown). The cavity 70 has a uniform length of 2.4 mm, a uniform depth of 1.45 mm, and a uniform width of 1.0 mm. The cavities 70 of each row 80 are spaced apart in the Y direction at an interval of 3.8 mm. The slot 110 has a uniform length of 23.0 mm and a width of 0.8 mm. The radiation pattern P represents the antenna assembly 10 configured with the slot 110 having a uniform depth of 0.4 mm. The radiation pattern Q represents the antenna assembly 10 configured with the slot 110 having a uniform depth of 0.5 mm. The radiation pattern R represents the antenna assembly 10 configured with the slot 110 having a uniform depth of 0.6 mm. As shown in the exemplary graph 250, generally speaking, the deeper slot 110 provides a reduced peak gain but provides a wider azimuthal field of view.

[0063] Figure 13 FIG. 260 is a graph showing the radiation patterns of three antenna assemblies 10 according to the present disclosure, including the slots 110 (e.g., as Figure 6 and Figure 7 shown). The cavity 70 has a uniform length of 2.4 mm, a uniform depth of 1.45 mm, and a uniform width of 1.0 mm. The cavities 70 of each row 80 are spaced apart in the Y direction at an interval of 3.8 mm. The slot 110 has a uniform length of 23.0 mm and a depth of 0.5 mm. The radiation pattern S represents the antenna assembly 10 configured with the slot 110 having a uniform width of 0.7 mm. The radiation pattern T represents the antenna assembly 10 configured with the slot 110 having a uniform width of 0.8 mm. The radiation pattern U represents the antenna assembly 10 configured with the slot 110 having a uniform width of 0.9 mm. As shown in the exemplary graph 260, generally speaking, the wider slot 110 provides a reduced peak gain but provides a wider azimuthal field of view.

[0064] Accordingly, the present disclosure advantageously provides the antenna assembly 10 with a top plate 50 that can be modified to customize the radiation pattern. Specifically, the cavities 70 and the slots 110 are configured to control the surface waves at the outer surface 52 of the top plate 50. The cavities 70 and the slots 110 can be modified to customize the radiation pattern. For example, the cavities 70 can be provided with various heights, widths, and depths. The spacing of the cavities 70 in the Y direction can also vary, and the spacing of the rows 80 of the cavities 70 can vary in the X direction. The height, width, and depth of the slots 110 can also vary. Accordingly, the antenna assembly 10 can be advantageously "fine-tuned" to generate a radiation pattern suitable for a specific application, such as Figures 8 - 13 any of the radiation patterns in.

[0065] The above description of the embodiments is provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. The individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment and, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in the selected embodiment even if not specifically shown or described. Similarly, they can be varied in many ways. Such variations should not be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

[0066] Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and will fully convey the scope to those skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are given, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, and that the example embodiments can be embodied in many different forms and that such different forms should not be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail.

[0067] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” and “having” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein should not be construed as necessarily requiring execution in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of execution. It should also be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0068] When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it can be directly on, engaged, connected, or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engaged to,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like manner (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0069] Although the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another. Terms such as "first", "second", and other numerical terms used herein do not imply an order or sequence unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below may be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0070] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "inner", "outer", "beneath", "below", "lower", "above", "upper", etc. may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another or other elements or features as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is inverted, an element described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features will be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term "below" can encompass both an orientation above and below. The device may be oriented in other directions (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptors used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

Claims

1. An antenna assembly, comprising: a circuit board, the circuit board including an integrated circuit configured to process radio frequency signals and conductive traces extending from the integrated circuit; a waveguide plate above the circuit board, the waveguide plate including a waveguide configured to perform at least one of guiding the radio frequency signal to the conductive traces and guiding the radio frequency signal from the conductive traces; and a conductive top plate above the waveguide plate, the conductive top plate including: an outer surface and an inner surface facing the waveguide plate, the outer surface being opposite to the inner surface; a plurality of slots aligned with the waveguide and extending through the conductive top plate, the plurality of slots being aligned along the conductive top plate in the Y direction; and a cavity defined by the conductive top plate and recessed below the outer surface of the conductive top plate, rows of the cavities being located beside the plurality of slots, the rows of cavities being aligned parallel to the plurality of slots in the Y direction and spaced apart in the Y direction.

2. The antenna assembly according to claim 1, wherein the rows of cavities are a first row on a first side of the plurality of slots, and the antenna assembly further includes a second row of the cavities on a second side of the plurality of slots opposite to the first side, the cavities of the second row being aligned parallel to the plurality of slots in the Y direction and spaced apart in the Y direction.

3. The antenna assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that The cavities are spaced apart at a pitch of 3.2 mm in the Y direction.

4. The antenna assembly according to claim 1, wherein the rows of cavities are one of a plurality of first rows of the cavities on a first side of the plurality of slots, the plurality of first rows being spaced apart in the X direction perpendicular to the Y direction, and the antenna assembly further includes a plurality of second rows of the cavities on a second side of the plurality of slots opposite to the first side, the plurality of second rows being spaced apart in the X direction perpendicular to the Y direction.

5. The antenna assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The plurality of first rows are spaced apart at a pitch of 3.3 mm in the X direction.

6. The antenna assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, It further includes a first slot between two of the first rows, the first slot extending in the Y direction.

7. The antenna assembly according to claim 6, wherein The plurality of first rows are spaced apart at a pitch of 2.75 mm in the X direction.

8. The antenna assembly according to claim 6, wherein, The first slot has a length of 23 mm in the Y direction, a width of 0.8 mm in the X direction, and a depth of 0.4 mm in the Z direction.

9. The antenna assembly according to claim 6, wherein It further includes a second slot between two of the second rows, the second slot extending in the Y direction.

10. The antenna assembly according to claim 9, wherein, The cavities in each row of the plurality of first rows are spaced apart in the Y direction, and the cavities in each row of the plurality of second rows are spaced apart in the Y direction.

11. The antenna assembly according to claim 1, wherein each of the cavities has a length in the Y direction, a width in the X direction perpendicular to the Y direction, and a depth in the Z direction, the length is greater than the width, and the depth is less than the length and greater than the width.

12. The antenna assembly according to claim 1, wherein: the waveguide is a first waveguide, and the plurality of slots are a plurality of first slots; the conductive top plate further includes a plurality of second slots aligned parallel to the plurality of first slots in the Y direction above a second waveguide of the waveguide plate, and an additional row of cavities of the cavity is located beside the plurality of second slots, and the cavities of the additional row are aligned parallel to the plurality of second slots in the Y direction and spaced apart in the Y direction.

13. An antenna assembly, comprising: a circuit board including an integrated circuit configured to process radio frequency signals and conductive traces extending from the integrated circuit; a waveguide plate above the circuit board, the waveguide plate including a waveguide configured to perform at least one of guiding the radio frequency signal to the conductive traces and guiding the radio frequency signal from the conductive traces; and a conductive top plate above the waveguide plate, the conductive top plate including: an outer surface and an inner surface facing the waveguide plate, the outer surface being opposite to the inner surface; a plurality of slots aligned with the waveguide and extending through the conductive top plate, the plurality of slots being aligned along the conductive top plate in the Y direction; and cavities defined by the conductive top plate and recessed below the outer surface of the conductive top plate, rows of the cavities being located beside the plurality of slots on opposite sides of the plurality of slots, the cavities of each row being aligned parallel to the plurality of slots in the Y direction and spaced apart in the Y direction, the rows being spaced apart in the X direction perpendicular to the Y direction, and each of the plurality of slots being misaligned with the cavities in the X direction.

14. The antenna assembly according to claim 13, characterized in that, The cavities are spaced apart at an interval of 3.2 mm in the Y direction.

15. The antenna assembly according to claim 13, wherein: each of the cavities has a length in the Y direction, a width in the X direction perpendicular to the Y direction, and a depth in the Z direction, the length is greater than the width, and the depth is less than the length and greater than the width.

16. The antenna assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that, The length exceeds twice the width.

17. An antenna assembly, comprising: a circuit board including an integrated circuit configured to process radio frequency signals and conductive traces extending from the integrated circuit; a waveguide plate above the circuit board, the waveguide plate including a waveguide configured to perform at least one of guiding the radio frequency signal to the conductive traces and guiding the radio frequency signal from the conductive traces; and a conductive top plate above the waveguide plate, the conductive top plate including: an outer surface and an inner surface facing the waveguide plate, the outer surface being opposite to the inner surface; a plurality of slots aligned with the waveguide and extending through the conductive top plate, the plurality of slots being aligned along the conductive top plate in the Y direction; A cavity defined by the conductive top plate and recessed below the outer surface of the conductive top plate, rows of the cavities being located beside the plurality of slots, the cavities of each row being aligned parallel to the plurality of slots in the Y direction and spaced apart in the Y direction, and each row of the rows being spaced apart in the X direction perpendicular to the Y direction; and A slot defined by the conductive top plate and recessed below the outer surface of the conductive top plate, each of the slots extending in the Y direction and being located between adjacent rows of the rows of cavities.

18. The antenna assembly according to claim 17, characterized in that, The rows of cavities are spaced apart in the X direction at a pitch of 2.75 mm.

19. The antenna assembly according to claim 18, wherein Each of the slots has a length of 23 mm in the Y direction, a width of 0.8 mm in the X direction, and a depth of 0.4 mm in the Z direction.

20. The antenna assembly according to claim 17, wherein The rows of cavities are located on opposite sides of the plurality of slots.

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