Antenna device

Abstract

An antenna device (10) is provided with a substrate (100) having a first surface (102), a first antenna (200) provided on the substrate (100), a second antenna provided on the substrate (100), and a third antenna (400) provided on the first surface (102) of the substrate (100), and the center point (CP) of the third antenna (400) passes through a center line (CL) passing through the center of a line (L) connecting an end (EP1) of the first antenna (200) farthest from the second antenna (300) and an end (EP2) of the second antenna (300) farthest from the first antenna (200). The second antenna (200) is located on the first surface (102) of the substrate (100), or is located on the same side as a side on which an end portion (EP2) of the second antenna (200) farthest from the first antenna (100) is located with respect to a center line (CL) of the first surface (102) of the substrate (100). The orientation of the first antenna is different from the orientation of the second antenna.

Description

[0001] This invention application is a divisional application of the invention application with an international application date of October 27, 2020, an international application number of PCT / JP2020 / 040177, a national application number entering the Chinese national phase of 202080074659.5, and an invention name of "Antenna Device". Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to an antenna device. Background Art

[0003] In recent years, antenna devices with multiple antennas mounted on a base plate have been developed. For example, the antenna devices described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 include a first antenna for a telephone, a second antenna for a telephone, a third antenna for a Global Positioning System (GPS), and a fourth antenna for Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) mounted on the base plate. The third and fourth antennas are located between the first and second antennas.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-160902

[0007] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-278591 Summary of the Invention

[0008] Antennas used in Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) such as GPS are sometimes required to have radiation directivity directed toward the zenith. However, as described in Patent Documents 1 or 2, when a GNSS antenna is located between two telephone antennas, the radiation directivity of the GNSS antenna may be tilted away from the zenith due to the presence of the telephone antenna.

[0009] One object of the present invention is to improve the radiation directivity of an antenna located between two antennas.

[0010] Furthermore, screws for securing antennas, metal parts for adjusting antenna angles, screws and pins mounted on substrates, etc., when located between two antennas for a phone and near a GNSS antenna, may contribute to GNSS oscillations.

[0011] Another example of an object of the present invention is to suppress oscillation of an antenna due to the influence of a metal-containing component located near the antenna.

[0012] Further other objects of the present invention will become apparent from the description of this specification.

[0013] An example of a first aspect of the present invention is an antenna device including:

[0014] a substrate having a first surface;

[0015] a first antenna provided on the substrate;

[0016] a second antenna provided on the substrate; and

[0017] a third antenna provided on the first surface of the substrate,

[0018] The center point of the third antenna is located on the same side as the side on which the end of the second antenna farthest from the first antenna is located, relative to a center line passing through the center of a line connecting the end of the first antenna farthest from the second antenna and the end of the second antenna farthest from the first antenna, or relative to the center line of the first surface of the substrate.

[0019] An example of a second aspect of the present invention is an antenna device including:

[0020] a substrate having a first surface;

[0021] a first antenna provided on the substrate;

[0022] a second antenna provided on the substrate;

[0023] a third antenna provided on the first surface of the substrate; and

[0024] a metal-containing component other than an antenna located between the first antenna and the second antenna,

[0025] The metal-containing component is located on the same side as the end of the second antenna farthest from the first antenna, relative to a center line passing through the center of a line connecting the end of the first antenna farthest from the second antenna and the end of the second antenna farthest from the first antenna, or relative to the center line of the first surface of the substrate.

[0026] Another example of the second aspect of the present invention is an antenna device including:

[0027] a substrate having a first surface;

[0028] a first antenna provided on the substrate;

[0029] a second antenna provided on the substrate;

[0030] a third antenna provided on the first surface of the substrate; and

[0031] a metal-containing component other than the antenna, provided on the substrate and located between the first antenna and the second antenna;

[0032] The metal-containing component is not electrically connected to the conductive pattern provided on the substrate.

[0033] Effects of the Invention

[0034] According to the first aspect of the present invention, the radiation directivity of the antenna located between the two antennas can be improved.

[0035] According to the second aspect of the present invention, it is possible to suppress the antenna from oscillating due to the influence of the metal-containing member located near the antenna. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the antenna device according to the embodiment.

[0037] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Bottom view of the antenna assembly shown.

[0038] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A partially enlarged top view of the antenna device is shown.

[0039] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 Bottom view of the substrate shown.

[0040] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the fourth antenna shown.

[0041] Figure 6 Yes Figure 5 FIG. 1 is a diagram of a modified example of .

[0042] Figure 7 Yes Figure 1 Figure 1 of the first variant.

[0043] Figure 8 Yes Figure 1 Figure 2 of the second variant.

[0044] Figure 9 Graphs showing the frequency characteristics of the gain of the antenna device according to the second modification and the frequency characteristics of the gain of the antenna device according to the embodiment.

[0045] Figure 10 Yes Figure 1 Figure 3 of the third variant.

[0046] Figure 11 Yes Figure 1Figure 4 of the fourth variant.

[0047] Figure 12 Graphs showing the frequency characteristics of the reflection loss of the antenna device according to the second modification, the frequency characteristics of the reflection loss of the antenna device according to the third modification, and the frequency characteristics of the reflection loss of the antenna device according to the fourth modification.

[0048] Figure 13 Yes Figure 1 Figure 5 of the fifth variation.

[0049] Figure 14 Yes Figure 1 Figure 6 of the sixth variant.

[0050] Description of Reference Numerals

[0051] 10 Antenna Device

[0052] 100 substrates

[0053] 102 Page 1

[0054] 104 Page 2

[0055] 110a Terminal 1

[0056] 110b second terminal

[0057] 110c third terminal

[0058] 110d 4th terminal

[0059] 110e 5th terminal

[0060] 120a 1st wiring

[0061] 120b second wiring

[0062] 130 3rd conductive pattern

[0063] 132 conductive screws

[0064] 200 1st Antenna

[0065] 202 1st conductive pattern

[0066] 210 Main Department

[0067] 220 Extension 1

[0068] 230 Branch

[0069] 240 Short-circuit section

[0070] 300 Second Antenna

[0071] 302 second conductive pattern

[0072] 310 Extension 2

[0073] 400 3rd Antenna

[0074] 402 first feeding point

[0075] 404 Second feeding point

[0076] 500 4th Antenna

[0077] 510 conductive plate

[0078] 512 Part 1

[0079] 514 Part 2

[0080] 520 support part

[0081] 522 Bottom

[0082] 522a 1st bottom part

[0083] 522b Second bottom part

[0084] 530 Helical Antenna

[0085] 532 Winding Department

[0086] 534 1st end

[0087] 536 Second End

[0088] 542 Hole 1

[0089] 544 Second hole

[0090] 552 1st engagement part

[0091] 552a 1st engaging portion

[0092] 552b 1st engaging portion

[0093] 554 Second engagement portion

[0094] 554a Second engaging portion

[0095] 554b Second engaging portion

[0096] 562a 1st convex part

[0097] 562b 2nd convex part

[0098] 562c 3rd convex part

[0099] 562d 4th convex part

[0100] 564 Third engagement part

[0101] 572 base

[0102] 574 Radiating Elements

[0103] 600 base plate

[0104] 602 Page 3

[0105] 604 Page 4

[0106] 610 Gap

[0107] 620 Opening

[0108] CL Centerline

[0109] CP Center Point

[0110] EP1 end

[0111] EP2 end

[0112] ER1 terminal region

[0113] ER2 terminal region

[0114] L Line

[0115] X 1st direction

[0116] Y 2nd direction

[0117] Z 3rd direction. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0118] Hereinafter, the embodiment of the present invention will be described using the drawings. In addition, in all the drawings, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0119] In this specification, unless otherwise specified, ordinal numbers such as "1st", "2nd", "3rd", etc. are added only to distinguish structures with the same name and do not mean specific characteristics of the structure (such as order or importance).

[0120] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of the antenna device 10 according to the embodiment. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A bottom view of the antenna assembly 10 is shown. Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A partially enlarged top view of the antenna device 10 is shown. Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A bottom view of the substrate 100 is shown. Figure 5 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the fourth antenna 500 is shown.

[0121] exist Figures 1 to 5, the first direction X is the front-back direction of the antenna device 10. The positive direction of the first direction X (the direction indicated by the arrow marked on the first direction X) is the front direction of the antenna device 10. The negative direction of the first direction X (the opposite direction to the direction indicated by the arrow marked on the first direction X) is the rear direction of the antenna device 10. Figures 1 to 5 , the second direction Y is the left-right direction of the antenna device 10 and is orthogonal to the first direction X. The positive direction of the second direction Y (the direction indicated by the arrow marked on the second direction Y) is the right direction of the antenna device 10 when viewed from the front of the antenna device 10. The negative direction of the second direction Y (the opposite direction to the direction indicated by the arrow marked on the second direction Y) is the left direction of the antenna device 10 when viewed from the front of the antenna device 10. Figures 1 to 5 , the third direction Z is the vertical direction of the antenna device 10 and is orthogonal to both the first direction X and the second direction Y. The positive direction of the third direction Z (the direction indicated by the arrow in the third direction Z) is the upward direction of the antenna device 10. The negative direction of the third direction Z (the opposite direction to the direction indicated by the arrow in the third direction Z) is the downward direction of the antenna device 10.

[0122] The antenna device 10 of the present embodiment can be used as, for example, a vehicle-mounted antenna device, and can be used in various devices in addition to the vehicle-mounted antenna device according to its application.

[0123] The antenna device 10 includes a substrate 100 , a first antenna 200 , a second antenna 300 , a third antenna 400 , a fourth antenna 500 , and a bottom plate 600 .

[0124] The substrate 100 has a first surface 102 and a second surface 104. The substrate 100 is, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB). Here, the first surface 102 of the substrate 100 is referred to as the upper surface of the substrate 100. The second surface 104 of the substrate 100 is located opposite the first surface 102 of the substrate 100 in the third direction Z and serves as the lower surface of the substrate 100.

[0125] The substrate 100 is held by a base plate 600. The base plate 600 has a third surface 602 and a fourth surface 604. The base plate 600 is, for example, a metal plate. Here, the third surface 602 of the base plate 600 serves as the upper surface of the base plate 600. The fourth surface 604 of the base plate 600 is located on the opposite side of the third surface 602 of the base plate 600 in the third direction Z and serves as the lower surface of the base plate 600. The base plate 600 holds the substrate 100 so that the second surface 104 of the substrate 100 faces the third surface 602 of the base plate 600. The base plate 600 has a notch 610 (described later in detail) and an opening 620. The notch 610 of the base plate 600 is located on the rear side of the antenna device 10 (the negative side in the first direction X), and the opening 620 of the base plate 600 is located on the front side of the antenna device 10 (the positive side in the first direction X). The first terminal 110a, the second terminal 110b, the third terminal 110c, the fourth terminal 110d, and the fifth terminal 110e of the substrate 100 are exposed through the opening 620 of the base plate 600. Wiring for electrically connecting the first terminal 110a, the second terminal 110b, the third terminal 110c, the fourth terminal 110d, and the fifth terminal 110e to external elements of the antenna device 10 can be passed through the opening 620 of the base plate 600, for example.

[0126] The first antenna 200 is an antenna for transmitting and receiving radio waves. In this embodiment, the first antenna 200 is a telephone antenna, more specifically, a main antenna for the telephone. However, the first antenna 200 may be an antenna for a purpose other than the telephone.

[0127] The first antenna 200 includes a first conductive pattern 202. The first conductive pattern 202 is provided on the first surface 102 side of the substrate 100. However, the first conductive pattern 202 may be provided at a location on the substrate 100 other than the first surface 102 side of the substrate 100. The first conductive pattern 202 (first antenna 200) includes a main portion 210, a first extension portion 220, a branch portion 230, and a short-circuit portion 240.

[0128] The main portion 210 and the first extension portion 220 have shapes that enable operation in multiple frequency bands (e.g., telephone frequency bands). The main portion 210 has a self-similar shape, thereby widening the operating frequency band of the first antenna 200. The first extension portion 220 extends linearly from the main portion 210 along the outer edge of the substrate 100. For example, antennas with self-similar shapes, such as biconical antennas and bowtie antennas, maintain similar shapes even when their proportions (dimension ratios) are changed. If the antenna size and frequency are inversely proportional, as a prerequisite for self-similar antennas, the electrical characteristics of the antenna remain essentially the same even when the antenna size or frequency changes. In actual design, the shape of the isosceles triangle radiating element, such as that of the biconical antenna or bowtie antenna, can be modified to a semi-elliptical shape or a trapezoidal shape like the main portion 210 in this embodiment, for impedance adjustment. Even in this case, the stable electrical characteristics achieved by the self-similar shape can be utilized. In this embodiment, by configuring the main portion 210, which is part of a radiating element with a self-similar shape, relative to the ground, an effect that is similar to that of a bow tie antenna can be obtained, and by grounding, an effect as if another radiating element is configured relative to the opposite side can be obtained.

[0129] In this embodiment, a portion of the first extension portion 220 extends from the outer edge of the substrate 100 toward the inside of the substrate 100 (in the negative direction of the second direction Y). This prevents degradation of isolation caused by the high frequency band within the operating frequency band and by the close proximity of the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300.

[0130] At least one branch portion 230 branches off from the first extension portion 220 at the front end of the first extension portion 220 (the end of the first extension portion 220 located on the rear side of the antenna device 10). Specifically, at least one branch portion 230 extends from a portion of the first extension portion 220 that extends along the second direction Y and along the outer edge of the substrate 100, and extends toward the front of the antenna device 10 along the first direction X. As a result, the operating frequency band can be further widened. In addition, by providing a plurality of branch portions 230, a number of resonances corresponding to the number of branches 230 can be achieved. Therefore, in this embodiment, two branch portions 230 are provided, and two resonances are achieved. By setting it as such a structure, the operating frequency band can be further widened. In addition, the number of branches 230 is not limited to a specific number, and can be only one or more.

[0131] In addition, the branch portion 230 in this embodiment is a shape that extends linearly from the first extension portion 220 along the first direction X, but the shape of the branch portion 230 is not limited to a linear shape, and can also be other shapes such as a meander shape, a fractal shape, a folded shape, a curved shape, and a spiral shape.

[0132] The main portion 210 of the first conductive pattern 202 overlaps with the base plate 600 in the third direction Z. In contrast, at least one branch portion 230 of the first conductive pattern 202 does not overlap with the base plate 600 in the third direction Z. Specifically, at least one branch portion 230 overlaps with the notch 610 of the base plate 600 (a portion where the base plate 600 is physically absent due to the notch 610) in the third direction Z. Considering the impact of the base plate 600 on the radiation characteristics and VSWR (voltage standing wave ratio) of the first antenna 200, if the first antenna 200 is configured so that the entirety of the antenna does not overlap with the base plate 600, the length of the antenna device 10 in the first direction X and the length in the second direction Y will increase, resulting in a larger antenna device 10. On the other hand, as in the present embodiment, by setting a structure in which the main portion 210 of the first conductive pattern 202 in the first antenna 200 overlaps with the base plate 600 and the branch portion 230 of the first conductive pattern 202 does not overlap with the base plate 600, the desired characteristics of the first antenna 200 can be achieved while miniaturizing the antenna device 10.

[0133] Furthermore, in the configuration of this embodiment, the effects of the current generated on the base plate 600 during power feeding to the first antenna 200 on the branch portions 230 of the first conductive pattern 202 can be reduced compared to a case where the branch portions 230 of the first conductive pattern 202 overlap with the base plate 600. On the other hand, as will be described later, the main portion 210 is short-circuited to ground via the short-circuit portion 240, and the potential of the main portion 210 and the vicinity of the main portion 210 in the first conductive pattern 202 is close to ground. Therefore, even if the main portion 210 overlaps with the base plate 600, the effects of the current generated on the base plate 600 during power feeding to the first antenna 200 on the main portion 210 and the vicinity of the main portion 210 in the first conductive pattern 202 are reduced. In other words, the desired characteristics of the first antenna 200 can be achieved without increasing the size of the structure (e.g., the notch 610 in the base plate 600) that prevents the base plate 600 from overlapping a portion of the first conductive pattern 202 (e.g., the multiple branch portions 230). That is, the desired characteristics of the first antenna 200 can be achieved without further reducing the area of ​​the base plate 600. Since the area of ​​the base plate 600 does not need to be further reduced, leakage current flowing to cables and the like in the low frequency band and destabilizing electrical characteristics can be suppressed.

[0134] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the entire main portion 210 of the first conductive pattern 202 overlaps with the base plate 600. However, only a portion of the main portion 210 of the first conductive pattern 202 (for example, 50% or more or 75% or more of the total area of ​​the main portion 210 of the first conductive pattern 202 when viewed from the third direction Z) may overlap with the base plate 600. In other words, at least a portion of the main portion 210 of the first conductive pattern 202 (the entire main portion 210 of the first conductive pattern 202 or a portion thereof) may overlap with the base plate 600.

[0135] The short-circuit portion 240 extends from the main portion 210. The short-circuit portion 240 passes through the first wiring 120a ( Figure 4 ) and the first terminal 110a ( Figure 2 ) is electrically connected. The short-circuit portion 240 is short-circuited to ground. The current distribution of the first conductive pattern 202 can be controlled according to the connection position of the short-circuit portion 240 to the main portion 210. In other words, impedance matching is performed according to the connection position of the short-circuit portion 240 to the main portion 210. This can improve the VSWR in the operating frequency band of the first antenna 200, and as a result, the radiation efficiency of the first antenna 200 can be improved. In this embodiment, the short-circuit portion 240 is connected to the outer edge of the main portion 210 on the side facing the second antenna 300.

[0136] Second antenna 300 receives radio waves. That is, second antenna 300 does not transmit radio waves. Therefore, the intensity of radio waves propagating near second antenna 300 is weaker than that propagating near first antenna 200. In this embodiment, second antenna 300 is a telephone antenna, more specifically, a telephone sub-antenna. However, second antenna 300 may also be used for purposes other than telephones.

[0137] The second antenna 300 includes a second conductive pattern 302. The second conductive pattern 302 is provided on the first surface 102 side of the substrate 100. However, the second conductive pattern 302 may be provided at a position on the substrate 100 different from the first surface 102 side of the substrate 100.

[0138] The second conductive pattern 302 (second antenna 300) includes a second extension portion 310. The second extension portion 310 extends linearly along the outer edge of the substrate 100, excluding both ends. The end of the second extension portion 310 located on the rear side of the antenna device 10 includes a portion extending linearly from the portion of the second extension portion 310 extending along the outer edge of the substrate 100 along the second direction Y toward the side where the first antenna 200 is located, and a portion extending linearly from this portion (the portion extending linearly from the portion of the second extension portion 310 extending along the outer edge of the substrate 100 along the second direction Y toward the side where the first antenna 200 is located) along the first direction X toward the front side of the antenna device 10. This ensures isolation between the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300 while increasing the overall length of the second extension portion 310. The other end of the second extension portion 310, located on the front side of the antenna device 10, extends linearly along the second direction Y toward the side where the first antenna 200 is located. In this case, compared to a case where this other end of the second extension portion 310, located on the front side of the antenna device 10, does not exist, the overall length of the second extension portion 310 can be increased without extending the second antenna 300 toward the rear of the antenna device 10. Furthermore, the length of the other end of the second extension portion 310 in the second direction Y must be adjusted to prevent it from short-circuiting with the ground portion of the substrate 100.

[0139] The other end portion of the second extension portion 310 located on the front side of the antenna device 10 is connected to the second wiring 120b ( Figure 4 ) and the second terminal 110b ( Figure 2 ) electrical connection.

[0140] like Figure 3As shown, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the first surface 102 of the substrate 100 (the third direction Z), the center point CP of the third antenna 400 is located on the same side as the end EP2, relative to a center line CL passing along the first direction through the center of a line L connecting end EP1 (the end of the first antenna 200 farthest from the second antenna 300) and end EP2 (the end of the second antenna 300 farthest from the first antenna 200). End EP1 of the first antenna 200 is located at the center of the end region ER1 of the first antenna 200 in the first direction X. End region ER1 of the first antenna 200 extends in the first direction X and is farthest from the second antenna 300 (e.g., end region ER2 of the second antenna 300, described later) in the second direction Y. End EP2 of the second antenna 300 is located at the center of the end region ER2 of the second antenna 300 in the first direction X. The end region ER2 of the second antenna 300 extends in the first direction X and is farthest from the first antenna 200 (e.g., the end region ER1 of the first antenna 200) in the second direction Y. The method for determining the end EP1 of the first antenna 200 and the end EP2 of the second antenna 300 is not limited to the above example. For example, even if any portion within the end region ER1 of the first antenna 200 (e.g., a portion offset from the center of the end region ER1 of the first antenna 200 in the first direction X) is used as the end EP1 of the first antenna 200, and any portion within the end region ER2 of the second antenna 300 (e.g., a portion offset from the center of the end region ER2 of the second antenna 300 in the first direction X) is used as the end EP2 of the second antenna 300, the position of the center of line L, that is, the position of the center line CL, remains fixed. In this embodiment, the center line CL also represents the center line of the first surface 102 of the substrate 100. However, in the above example, the center line CL may be deviated from the center line of the first surface 102 of the substrate 100 along the second direction Y.

[0141] In the second direction Y, at least a portion of the first antenna 200 (e.g., the entire main portion 210 and a portion of the first extension portion 220) and at least a portion of the second antenna 300 (e.g., the entire second antenna 300) are located on opposite sides of the centerline CL of the first surface 102 of the substrate 100. In this embodiment, when viewed from the front of the antenna device 10, the at least a portion of the first antenna 200 is located (close to) the right side of the centerline CL of the first surface 102 of the substrate 100, and the at least a portion of the second antenna 300 is located (close to) the left side of the centerline CL of the first surface 102 of the substrate 100. However, when viewed from the front of the antenna device 10, the at least a portion of the first antenna 200 may be located to the left of the centerline CL of the first surface 102 of the substrate 100, and the at least a portion of the second antenna 300 may be located to the right of the centerline CL of the first surface 102 of the substrate 100.

[0142] The center line CL of the first surface 102 of the substrate 100 passes through the center of the first surface 102 of the substrate 100 along the first direction X. In one example, regardless of the position within the substrate 100, the center of the first surface 102 of the substrate 100 is the center of gravity of the substrate 100 assuming that the substrate 100 has a uniform density.

[0143] The arrangement of the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300 can also be expressed as follows: That is, the center of gravity of the first antenna 200, assuming the first antenna 200 has a uniform density regardless of its position within the first antenna 200, and the center of gravity of the second antenna 300, assuming the second antenna 300 has a uniform density regardless of its position within the second antenna 300, can be located on opposite sides of the center line CL of the first surface 102 of the substrate 100 in the second direction Y.

[0144] The first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300 are formed by patterning using methods such as photolithography. Therefore, compared to a case where the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300 are formed from metal plates, the dimensional accuracy of the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300 is improved, and the antenna characteristics are enhanced. Furthermore, compared to a case where the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300 are formed from metal plates, there is no longer a need for a structure to hold the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300, which are metal plates, or for solder to connect the substrate 100 to the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300, which are metal plates. This eliminates the need for soldering, reducing the number of steps on the production line and suppressing defects. Furthermore, the reduction in the number of parts and the reduction in man-hours can reduce costs.

[0145] In this embodiment, the third antenna 400 is an antenna for a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), such as a Global Positioning System (GPS). However, the third antenna 400 may be an antenna used for a purpose different from that of the GNSS.

[0146] The third antenna 400 is located on the first surface 102 of the substrate 100. The third antenna 400 is a patch antenna. When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the first surface 102 of the substrate 100, the shape of the third antenna 400 is a quadrilateral, specifically, a substantially square. However, the shape of the third antenna 400 may be other than a quadrilateral, for example, a circle. The first feeding point 402 and the second feeding point 404 of the third antenna 400 are connected to the third terminal 110c and the fourth terminal 110d ( Figure 2 ) electrical connection.

[0147] When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the first surface of substrate 100 (third direction Z), the center point CP of third antenna 400 is located on (close to) the side of center line CL of first surface 102 of substrate 100 where the at least one portion of second antenna 300 is located. As described above, the intensity of radio waves propagating near second antenna 300 is weaker than the intensity of radio waves propagating near first antenna 200. Therefore, in this embodiment, compared to a case where the center point CP of third antenna 400 is located on center line CL of first surface 102 of substrate 100, or a case where the center point CP of third antenna 400 is located on the same side of center line CL of first surface 102 of substrate 100 as the side where the at least one portion of first antenna 200 is located, the tilt of the radiation directivity of third antenna 400 from the zenith direction (the positive direction of third direction Z) can be reduced, thereby improving the radiation directivity of third antenna 400.

[0148] Even when the center line CL is not the center line of the first surface 102 of the substrate 100 but is a center line passing through the center of the line L, the tilt of the radiation directivity of the third antenna 400 from the zenith direction (the positive direction of the third direction Z) can be reduced. That is, in this embodiment, the center line of the first surface 102 of the substrate 100 and the center line passing through the center of the line L coincide with each other as the center line CL. However, depending on the shape of the substrate 100 and the arrangement of the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300 (for example, when one of the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300 is closer to the center of the first surface 102 of the substrate 100 in the second direction Y than in this embodiment), the center line of the first surface 102 of the substrate 100 and the center line passing through the center of the line L may deviate along the second direction Y. Even in this case, when the center point CP of the third antenna 400 is located on the same side as the end EP2 of the second antenna 300 relative to the center line passing through the center of the line L, the inclination of the radiation directivity of the third antenna 400 from the zenith direction (the positive direction of the third direction Z) can be reduced, and the radiation directivity of the third antenna 400 can also be improved.

[0149] For example, regardless of the position within the third antenna 400 , the center point CP of the third antenna 400 is the center of gravity of the third antenna 400 assuming that the third antenna 400 has uniform density.

[0150] In this embodiment, the entire third antenna 400 is located (close to) the same side of the center line CL of the first surface 102 of the substrate 100 as the side on which the at least a portion of the second antenna 300 is located. However, only a portion of the third antenna 400 (for example, 50% or 75% of the total area of ​​the third antenna 400 when viewed from the third direction Z) may be located on the same side of the center line CL of the first surface 102 of the substrate 100 as the side on which the at least a portion of the second antenna 300 is located. For example, the extent to which the third antenna 400 is offset from the center line CL of the first surface 102 of the substrate 100 can be determined based on the intensity of radio waves propagated near the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300 by the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300.

[0151] In this embodiment, as described above, first antenna 200 and second antenna 300 include first conductive pattern 202 and second conductive pattern 302, respectively. In this case, compared to a case where first antenna 200 or second antenna 300 is formed of a metal plate and held away from first surface 102 of substrate 100 toward the top of antenna device 10 (in the positive direction of third direction Z), the position of first antenna 200 and second antenna 300 in third direction Z can be lowered. This reduces the effect of first antenna 200 or second antenna 300 on the radiation directivity of third antenna 400 in the zenith direction (in the positive direction of third direction Z), thereby improving the radiation directivity of third antenna 400. However, first antenna 200 or second antenna 300 may also be formed of a metal plate.

[0152] In this embodiment, the fourth antenna 500 (helical antenna 530 described later) is an antenna for the Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) system. However, the fourth antenna 500 may be an antenna for a purpose different from that of the ETC system.

[0153] The fourth antenna 500 includes a conductive plate 510 , a support portion 520 , and a helical antenna 530 .

[0154] The conductive plate 510 is provided on the first surface 102 side of the substrate 100. The conductive plate 510 includes a first portion 512 and a second portion 514. The first portion 512 of the conductive plate 510 is arranged along the first surface 102 of the substrate 100. In other words, the normal to the first portion 512 of the conductive plate 510 is parallel to the normal to the first surface 102 of the substrate 100 (the third direction Z). The second portion 514 of the conductive plate 510 is inclined at a first predetermined angle relative to the first surface 102 of the substrate 100 toward a predetermined side (the positive direction of the first direction X, i.e., the front side of the fourth antenna 500). In other words, the normal to the second portion 514 of the conductive plate 510 is inclined at the first predetermined angle relative to the normal to the first surface 102 of the substrate 100. In this embodiment, when the positive direction of the third direction Z is set to 0 degrees, the first predetermined angle is approximately 23 degrees toward the positive direction of the first direction X. Alternatively, when the negative direction of the first direction X is set to 0 degrees, the first predetermined angle is approximately 23 degrees toward the positive direction of the third direction Z. However, the first predetermined angle is not limited thereto and can be set to any desired angle. The support portion 520 is disposed on the conductive plate 510. The helical antenna 530 is disposed on the support portion 520 in a state in which it is tilted from the first surface 102 of the substrate 100 toward the side to which the second portion 514 of the conductive plate 510 is tilted (the positive direction side of the first direction X, i.e., the front side of the fourth antenna 500) and is tilted at a second predetermined angle relative to the first surface 102 of the substrate 100. In other words, the axis of the helical antenna 530 (the winding portion 532 described later) is tilted at the second predetermined angle relative to the normal to the first surface 102 of the substrate 100 (the positive direction of the third direction Z).

[0155] The first predetermined angle and the second predetermined angle are preferably substantially equal. For example, the second predetermined angle is 95% to 105% of the first predetermined angle. However, the first predetermined angle and the second predetermined angle may be different.

[0156] In this embodiment, compared to a case where the entire conductive plate 510 is tilted from the first surface 102 of the substrate 100, the portion of the conductive plate 510 that is parallel to the first surface 102 of the substrate 100 (i.e., the first portion 512) can be used to stably tilt the helical antenna 530 obliquely at a second predetermined angle from a direction parallel to the first surface 102 of the substrate 100 (a direction along a plane extending in both the first direction X and the second direction Y). Specifically, the first portion 512 of the conductive plate 510 has a first hole 542. A fixing member (e.g., a screw or bolt) for fixing the support portion 520 to the substrate 100, or a guide member (e.g., a positioning guide pin) for aligning the support portion 520 with respect to the substrate 100, can be inserted into the first hole 542. The fixing member and the guide member penetrate the substrate 100 from the second surface 104 toward the first surface 102 of the substrate 100, further penetrate the first hole portion 542 of the first portion 512 of the conductive plate 510, and are inserted into the support portion 520. Therefore, the support portion 520 can be stably fixed to the substrate 100 by the fixing member. In addition, the support portion 520 can be stably aligned relative to the substrate 100 by the guide member. In this embodiment, a plurality of first holes 542 (three first holes 542) are provided arranged in the second direction Y. In this case, for example, a guide member can be used for each of two of the three first holes 542 (for example, the two first holes 542 on both sides of the three first holes 542), and a fixing member can be used for the remaining first hole 542 (for example, the center first hole 542 of the three first holes 542). Therefore, compared to a case where there is only one first hole 542, the support portion 520 and the substrate 100 can be stably fixed. In addition, when a fixing member and a guide member are used, the support portion 520 and the substrate 100 can be reliably positioned and stably fixed to each other. However, the number of first hole 542 may also be only one.

[0157] The conductive plate 510 is a metal plate. Furthermore, the portion between the first portion 512 and the second portion 514 of the conductive plate 510 is bent. Therefore, the conductive plate 510 can be manufactured more easily than, for example, welding the first portion 512 and the second portion 514 of the conductive plate 510 together. However, the conductive plate 510 can also be manufactured by welding the first portion 512 and the second portion 514 of the conductive plate 510 together.

[0158] The conductive plate 510 is not electrically connected to the base plate 600. In other words, the conductive plate 510 is electrically suspended from the base plate 600. Specifically, if the conductive plate 510 and base plate 600 are in direct contact, securing the metal portion of the conductive plate 510 to the metal portion of the base plate 600 requires bolts, screws, soldering, welding, or other methods to achieve electrical continuity. However, if the conductive plate 510 and base plate 600 are both physically and electrically suspended, mounting the conductive plate 510 and base plate 600 becomes easier, eliminating the need for a securing mechanism. However, even though the conductive plate 510 and base plate 600 are both physically and electrically suspended, capacitive coupling can create a sense of electrical continuity between the conductive plate 510 and base plate 600 at high frequencies. In one example, the electrostatic capacitance between the conductive plate 510 and base plate 600 is 20 pF or greater, preferably 20 pF or greater and 100 pF or less, and more preferably 20 pF or greater and 45 pF or less.

[0159] The support portion 520 is made of an insulating material (e.g., resin). The bottom surface 522 of the support portion 520 includes a first bottom surface portion 522a and a second bottom surface portion 522b. The first bottom surface portion 522a extends along the first portion 512 of the conductive plate 510. The second bottom surface portion 522b extends along the second portion 514 of the conductive plate 510. In other words, the second bottom surface portion 522b is inclined at a first predetermined angle from the first surface 102 of the substrate 100. Therefore, the second bottom surface portion 522b facilitates the alignment of the support portion 520 with respect to the second portion 514 of the conductive plate 510. Furthermore, both the first bottom surface portion 522a and the second bottom surface portion 522b facilitate the alignment of the support portion 520 with respect to the first portion 512 and the second portion 514 of the conductive plate 510. Furthermore, the support portion 520 may not have the first bottom surface portion 522a.

[0160] The conductive plate 510 is provided with a plurality of first engaging portions 552 (a first engaging portion 552a and a first engaging portion 552b). The first engaging portion 552a is provided on the first portion 512 of the conductive plate 510 and is located on the front side of the conductive plate 510 (the positive side in the first direction X). The first engaging portion 552b is provided on the second portion 514 and is located on the rear side of the conductive plate 510 (the negative side in the first direction X). In this embodiment, the plurality of first engaging portions 552 are each a portion of the conductive plate 510. That is, the portion of the conductive plate 510 between the first portion 512 and the first engaging portion 552a is bent from the first portion 512 to the first engaging portion 552a in a direction parallel to the first portion 512 (the positive direction in the first direction X) toward the top of the fourth antenna 500 (the positive direction in the third direction Z). Furthermore, the portion of the conductive plate 510 between the second portion 514 and the first engaging portion 552b is bent from the second portion 514 to the first engaging portion 552b in a direction parallel to the second portion 514 (an oblique direction from the negative direction of the first direction X toward the positive direction of the third direction Z) toward the upper side of the fourth antenna 500 (the positive direction of the third direction Z). However, each of the plurality of first engaging portions 552 may not be a part of the conductive plate 510. For example, the first engaging portion 552 may be made of a different material from or the same material as the conductive plate 510, and may be bonded to the conductive plate 510.

[0161] In this embodiment, the first engaging portion 552b extends from the second portion 514 of the conductive plate 510 and is bent toward the positive direction of the third direction Z. The directivity of the helical antenna 530 can be adjusted by the angle of the bend and the length of the bent portion.

[0162] The support portion 520 is provided with a plurality of second engaging portions 554 (second engaging portion 554a and second engaging portion 554b). The second engaging portion 554a is located on the front side of the support portion 520 (the positive side in the first direction X). The second engaging portion 554b is located on the rear side of the support portion 520 (the negative side in the first direction X). The plurality of second engaging portions 554 are part of the support portion 520. The plurality of second engaging portions 554 may also be formed integrally with the support portion 520. In addition, at least a portion of the plurality of second engaging portions 554 may be formed separately from the support portion 520 and connected by various methods.

[0163] The second engaging portions 554a and 554b of the support portion 520 can respectively engage with the first engaging portions 552a and 552b of the conductive plate 510. Therefore, by engaging the second engaging portions 554a and 554b of the support portion 520 with the first engaging portions 552a and 552b of the conductive plate 510, respectively, the support portion 520 is properly aligned with respect to the conductive plate 510, and the helical antenna 530 can then be supported by the support portion 520. If the first engaging portion 552 and the second engaging portion 554 of the conductive plate 510 were not provided, both the support portion 520 and the helical antenna 530 would need to be aligned with respect to the conductive plate 510 simultaneously, resulting in a complex operation. In contrast, in this embodiment, as described above, the installation of the helical antenna 530 is simplified. Furthermore, as in the present embodiment, by assembling the conductive plate 510 , the support portion 520 , and the helical antenna 530 , the mounting operation of the helical antenna 530 on the substrate 100 is simplified.

[0164] In this embodiment, a plurality of first engaging portions 552 are provided on the conductive plate 510, and a plurality of second engaging portions 554 are provided on the support portion 520. However, the number of first engaging portions 552 provided on the conductive plate 510 may be only one, and the number of second engaging portions 554 provided on the support portion 520 may be only one. Furthermore, the first engaging portions 552 of the conductive plate 510 and the second engaging portions 554 of the support portion 520 may not be provided.

[0165] In this embodiment, the second engaging portion 554 of the support portion 520 has a convex shape, and the first engaging portion 552 of the conductive plate 510 has a concave (opening) shape into which the convex shape of the second engaging portion 554 is inserted. Thus, the second engaging portion 554 of the support portion 520 can engage with the first engaging portion 552 of the conductive plate 510. However, the structure for engaging the first engaging portion 552 of the conductive plate 510 with the second engaging portion 554 of the support portion 520 is not limited to the example in this embodiment. For example, the first engaging portion 552 of the conductive plate 510 may have a convex shape, and the second engaging portion 554 of the support portion 520 may have a concave (opening) shape into which the convex shape of the first engaging portion 552 is inserted.

[0166] The support portion 520 includes a first protrusion 562a, a second protrusion 562b, a third protrusion 562c, and a fourth protrusion 562d. The first protrusion 562a, the second protrusion 562b, the third protrusion 562c, and the fourth protrusion 562d protrude upward (in the positive direction of the third direction Z) from the bottom surface 522 of the support portion 520. The first protrusion 562a is located on the front side of the support portion 520 (in the positive direction of the first direction X). The second protrusion 562b opposes the first protrusion 562a in the first direction X and is located on the rear side of the support portion 520 (in the negative direction of the first direction X). The third protrusion 562c is located on the right side of the support portion 520 (in the positive direction of the second direction Y) when viewed from the front of the support portion 520. The fourth protrusion 562d is located on the left side of the support portion 520 (the negative side in the second direction Y) when viewed from the front of the support portion 520. The third protrusion 562c and the fourth protrusion 562d face each other in the second direction Y.

[0167] The helical antenna 530 includes a winding portion 532, a first end portion 534, and a second end portion 536. The winding portion 532, the first end portion 534, and the second end portion 536 are formed of a common conductive wire material.

[0168] The winding portion 532 has a spiral shape. Specifically, the winding portion 532 extends in a circular shape when viewed from the axial direction of the winding portion 532 (as described above, the axis of the winding portion 532 is inclined obliquely from the normal line of the first surface 102 of the substrate 100 (the positive direction of the third direction Z) to the positive direction side of the first direction X). However, the winding portion 532 may extend in a shape different from a circle (for example, an ellipse, a quadrilateral, etc.) when viewed from the axial direction of the winding portion 532. The length of each winding of the winding portion 532 is determined according to the wavelength of the fourth antenna 500. In addition, the directivity of the fourth antenna 500 can be enhanced as the number of windings of the winding portion 532 increases.

[0169] The first end portion 534 is the upper end portion (the positive side in the third direction Z) of the helical antenna 530. The first end portion 534 extends in the direction in which the winding portion 532 extends (not shown). Alternatively, the first end portion 534 may extend in a direction different from the direction in which the winding portion 532 extends, specifically, from the winding portion 532 toward the inside of the winding portion 532. In this case, the axial ratio of the fourth antenna 500 (helical antenna 530) can be adjusted by adjusting the length or direction of the first end portion 534.

[0170] The second end portion 536 is the end portion on the lower side (negative direction side of the third direction Z) of the helical antenna 530. The second end portion 536 extends from the winding portion 532 toward the lower side (negative direction of the third direction Z) of the winding portion 532. The second end portion 536 passes through the support portion 520 and further passes through the second hole portion 544 of the conductive plate 510, thereby reaching the substrate 100. Furthermore, the second end portion 536 is connected to the fifth terminal 110e ( Figure 2 ) is electrically connected. Thus, power can be fed to the helical antenna 530. By setting it as such a structure, power can be easily fed to the helical antenna 530 without using a coaxial cable.

[0171] When helical antenna 530 is supported by support portion 520, winding portion 532 is positioned between third protrusion 562c and fourth protrusion 562d of support portion 520, second protrusion 562b is positioned inside winding portion 532, and first protrusion 562a is positioned outside winding portion 532. In other words, helical antenna 530 is supported in first direction X by first and second protrusions 562a, 562b, and in second direction Y by third and fourth protrusions 562c, 562d. Furthermore, first end portion 534 of helical antenna 530 engages with third engaging portion 564 (recess) of support portion 520.

[0172] In this embodiment, the fourth antenna 500 is located forward of the third antenna 400 in the antenna device 10. However, the third antenna 400 may also be located forward of the fourth antenna 500 in the antenna device 10. That is, the positional relationship between the third antenna 400 and the fourth antenna 500 may be reversed from that in this embodiment. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the fourth antenna 500 is offset toward the positive side (right side) of the second direction Y relative to the third antenna 400. However, it may be offset toward the negative side (left side) of the second direction Y. The fourth antenna 500 and the third antenna 400 may also be located on a straight line along the first direction X.

[0173] Figure 6 Yes Figure 5 FIG. 1 is a diagram of a modified example of . Figure 6 The fourth antenna 500 shown is similar to the Figure 5 The fourth antenna 500 shown is identical.

[0174] The winding portion 532 of the helical antenna 530 is wound around the support portion 520. As a result, the helical antenna 530 is tilted obliquely from the horizontal direction. The support portion 520 has a columnar shape, specifically a cylindrical shape. The support portion 520 is formed, for example, from a hollow resin or a solid resin. The bottom surface 522 of the support portion 520 has a first bottom surface portion 522a and a second bottom surface portion 522b. The first bottom surface portion 522a of the bottom surface 522 is along the first portion 512 of the conductive plate 510. The second bottom surface portion 522b of the bottom surface 522 is along the second portion 514 of the conductive plate 510. Therefore, the support portion 520 is easily aligned with the conductive plate 510.

[0175] exist Figure 6 In the example shown in FIG. 1 , a fixing member (e.g., a screw or bolt) that fixes the support portion 520 to the substrate 100 passes through the substrate 100 from the second surface 104 toward the first surface 102, further passes through the first hole 542 of the first portion 512 of the conductive plate 510, and is inserted into the support portion 520. Therefore, the helical antenna 530 can be tilted obliquely and stably from the horizontal direction (along a plane extending in both the first direction X and the second direction Y).

[0176] In this embodiment, a structure in which a helical antenna 530 is provided as an antenna element is described. However, instead of the helical antenna 530 (i.e., an antenna having a helical radiating element), an antenna having a radiating element of various shapes, such as a planar radiating element, a plate radiating element, a meandering radiating element, a fractal radiating element, or a vortex radiating element, may be used as the antenna element. A portion (e.g., one end) of the antenna element having the above-mentioned helical radiating element, planar radiating element, plate radiating element, meandering radiating element, fractal radiating element, or vortex radiating element is connected to a strip line (not shown) provided on the substrate 100 via a conductor, thereby connecting to the fifth terminal 110e ( Figure 2 ) is electrically connected. This allows power to be fed to the antenna element of the radiating element having the above-described shape. Even in this case, as in the present embodiment, power can be easily fed to the antenna element of the radiating element having the above-described shape without using a coaxial cable.

[0177] The conductor electrically connecting the radiating element of the aforementioned shape to the stripline can also be formed by, for example, a linear conductor, a plate-shaped conductor, a planar conductor, a conductor pattern, or the like. Furthermore, the conductor can also be part of the antenna element. For example, in this embodiment, the conductor can be provided as the second end portion 536 of the helical antenna 530. In this case, attachment of the conductor to the antenna element is facilitated.

[0178] In this embodiment, the fourth antenna 500 includes a base plate 600, substrate 100, conductive plate 510, support portion 520, and helical antenna 530, arranged in this order, oriented in the positive direction of the third direction Z. However, this arrangement order may be different. For example, the base plate 600, substrate 100, support portion 520, conductive plate 510, and helical antenna 530 may be arranged in this order. In this case, the support portion 520 provided on the substrate 100 is configured to hold the conductive plate 510 and helical antenna 530. For example, a through-hole is provided in the portion of the conductive plate 510 that faces the support portion 520, and a protrusion is provided in the portion of the support portion 520 that faces the conductive plate 510. This allows the protrusion provided on the support portion 520 to penetrate the through-hole provided on the conductive plate 510, thereby engaging the conductive plate 510 and the support portion 520. Furthermore, the support portion 520 supports the helical antenna 530 by engaging the protrusion of the support portion 520 with a portion of the helical antenna 530. Alternatively, if helical antenna 530 is an antenna element having a plate-shaped radiating element, a planar radiating element, or the like, a hole is provided in at least a portion of the antenna including the radiating element, and a protrusion forming support portion 520 extends through the hole provided in a portion of the antenna, thereby supporting the antenna. Furthermore, support portion 520 and substrate 100 are secured by various means, such as fixing members (e.g., screws or bolts). Even with this configuration, as described above, since conductive plate 510 and base plate 600 act as if they are electrically connected at high frequencies through capacitive coupling, the same operational effects as those of the present embodiment are achieved.

[0179] In this embodiment, the conductive plate 510 and the base plate 600 are described as being physically and electrically floating. However, a configuration may also be employed in which the metal portions of the conductive plate 510 and the base plate 600 are directly connected, that is, fixed by screws or bolts, or fixed by soldering or welding, so that they are directly conductive. In this case, the mounting height of the helical antenna 530 can be adjusted, and the directivity of the helical antenna 530 can be adjusted.

[0180] In this embodiment, the first engaging portion 552a is described as being bent in the positive direction of the third direction Z. However, conversely, it may be bent in the negative direction of the third direction Z. Alternatively, the first engaging portion 552a may be inserted through a hole provided in the substrate 100 to be fixed. Furthermore, the first portion 512 of the conductive plate 510 may be shorter than the second portion 514 in the first direction X. Even in this case, the substrate 100 and the conductive plate 510 can be fixed, and the helical antenna 530 can be stably tilted while maintaining the second predetermined angle.

[0181] In this embodiment, a third conductive pattern 130 is provided on the substrate 100. The third antenna 400 and the fourth antenna 500 are arranged on the third conductive pattern 130. The third conductive pattern 130 is electrically connected to a conductive screw 132 located between the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300.

[0182] Figure 7 Yes Figure 1 Figure 1 of the first variant. Figure 7 The antenna device 10 shown is similar to the Figure 1 The antenna arrangements 10 shown are identical.

[0183] The fourth antenna 500 may not be Figure 1 The configuration shown includes a helical antenna 530 but a patch antenna. Figure 7 In the example shown in FIG. 5 , the fourth antenna 500 includes a base 572 and a radiating element 574. The base 572 is inclined at a first predetermined angle relative to the first surface 102 of the substrate 100 toward a predetermined side (the positive side in the first direction X, i.e., the front side of the fourth antenna 500). In other words, the normal to the base 572 is inclined at the first predetermined angle relative to the normal to the first surface 102 of the substrate 100. The radiating element 574 is located on the base 572. The base 572 can be formed of either a substrate or a metal plate.

[0184] Figure 8 Yes Figure 1 Figure 2 of the second variant. Figure 8 The antenna device 10 shown is similar to the Figure 1 The antenna arrangement 10 shown is the same.

[0185] Figure 8 The width of the first conductive pattern 202 is greater than Figure 1 By this structure, as described later, Figure 9 As described, it is possible to Figure 8 The gain of the antenna device 10 shown in the figure is higher in the relatively low range of 700 MHz to 840 MHz than in the Figure 1 The antenna device 10 shown has a gain in a relatively low range of 700 MHz to 840 MHz.

[0186] Figure 8 The interval in the second direction Y between the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300 is greater than Figure 1 The distance between the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300 in the second direction Y. Figure 8 In the antenna device 10 shown, Figure 1 Compared with the antenna device 10 shown, the isolation between the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300 can be ensured.

[0187] exist Figure 8 In the embodiment, the center of the third antenna 400 is located on an imaginary line passing through the center of the fourth antenna 500 in parallel with the first direction X. Figure 1 As shown, the center of the third antenna 400 may also be offset from the imaginary line in the second direction Y. In addition, the center of the third antenna 400 is located on the imaginary line passing through the center of the substrate 100 in parallel with the first direction X. Figure 1 As shown, the center of the third antenna 400 may be offset from the imaginary line in the second direction Y.

[0188] In addition, Figure 8 In FIG, the conductive screw 132 is located on the negative side of the second direction Y with respect to an imaginary line passing through the center of the fourth antenna 500 in parallel with the first direction X. Furthermore, the conductive screw 132 is separated from the third conductive pattern 130 .

[0189] Figure 9 Graphs showing the frequency characteristics of the gain of the antenna device 10 according to the second modification and the frequency characteristics of the gain of the antenna device 10 according to the embodiment. Figure 9 In the graph, the horizontal axis represents frequency (unit: MHz), and the vertical axis represents gain (unit: dBi).

[0190] like Figure 9 As shown, the gain in the 700 MHz to 840 MHz band in the second modification is higher than the gain in the 700 MHz to 840 MHz band in the embodiment. This result suggests that increasing the width of the first conductive pattern 202 of the first antenna 200 can improve the gain in the 700 MHz to 800 MHz band.

[0191] Figure 10 Yes Figure 1 Figure 3 of the third variant. Figure 10 The antenna device 10 shown is similar to the antenna device 10 shown in FIG. 1 except that the center of the third antenna 400 is located on an imaginary line passing through the center of the substrate 100 in parallel with the first direction X. Figure 1 The antenna arrangements 10 shown are identical.

[0192] Figure 11 Yes Figure 1 Figure 4 of the fourth variant. Figure 11 The antenna device 10 shown is similar to the antenna device 10 except that the conductive screw 132 is connected to the third conductive pattern 130. Figure 8 The antenna arrangements 10 shown are identical.

[0193] Figure 12Graphs showing the frequency characteristics of the reflection loss of the antenna device 10 according to the second modification, the frequency characteristics of the reflection loss of the antenna device 10 according to the third modification, and the frequency characteristics of the reflection loss of the antenna device 10 according to the fourth modification. Figure 12 In the graph, the horizontal axis represents frequency (unit: MHz). The vertical axis represents return loss (unit: dB). The bold line drawn parallel to the vertical axis at approximately 1550 MHz and the bold line drawn parallel to the vertical axis at approximately 1600 MHz indicate that the area between these two bold lines is the GNSS band.

[0194] In the third variant, a resonant portion with a localized reduction in reflection loss occurs near 1575 MHz. In contrast, in the fourth variant, a resonant portion with a localized reduction in reflection loss occurs near 1500 MHz. Comparing these results, it can be concluded that offsetting the conductive screw 132 toward the negative side of the second direction Y relative to an imaginary line passing through the center of the fourth antenna 500 parallel to the first direction X can shift the resonant portion of the reflection loss away from the GNSS band, compared to offsetting it toward the positive side of the second direction Y. Given that the distance relationship between the conductive screw 132 and the third antenna 400 is the same in the third and fourth variants, it can be concluded that increasing the distance between the main portion 210 of the first antenna 200 and the conductive screw 132 can shift the resonant portion of the reflection loss away from the GNSS band. That is, compared with positioning the conductive screw 132 on the side where the main portion 210 of the first antenna 200 is located, positioning the conductive screw 132 on the side where the second antenna 300 is located can suppress resonance in the GNSS band.

[0195] In the second variant, a resonant portion with a localized reduction in reflection loss occurs near 1325 MHz. Furthermore, the reduction in reflection loss in the resonant portion in the second variant is less than the reduction in reflection loss in the resonant portion in the third variant and the reduction in reflection loss in the resonant portion in the fourth variant. Thus, it can be said that offsetting the conductive screw 132 toward the negative side of the second direction Y relative to an imaginary line passing through the center of the fourth antenna 500 parallel to the first direction X, and separating the conductive screw 132 from the third conductive pattern 130 rather than connecting to it, can suppress resonance in the GNSS band. In other words, by making the conductive screw 132 and the third conductive pattern 130 non-conductive, the resonant portion of the reflection loss in the GNSS band can be moved away from the GNSS band. Furthermore, in the third variant, even if the conductive screw 132 and the third conductive pattern 130 are made non-conductive, the same effect can be achieved. That is, even if the conductive screw 132 is located on the side where the main portion 210 of the first antenna 200 is located, by configuring the conductive screw 132 to be separated from the third conductive pattern 130, the resonant portion of the return loss can be moved away from the GNSS band, thereby suppressing the resonance in the GNSS band.

[0196] Therefore, it can be said that the conductive screw 132 is relatively Figure 3 The center line CL is located on the same side as the end EP2 of the second antenna 300 farthest from the first antenna 200. Figure 3 The situation where the center line CL described or the center line relative to the first surface 102 (second surface 104) of the substrate 100 is located on the opposite side to the side where the end EP2 of the second antenna 300 farthest from the first antenna 200 is located can suppress the oscillation of the third antenna 400 caused by the influence of the conductive screw 132.

[0197] In addition, it can be said that the case where the conductive screw 132 and the conductive patterns such as the third conductive pattern 130 provided on the substrate 100 are non-conductive can suppress the oscillation of the third antenna 400 caused by the influence of the conductive screw 132, compared with the case where the conductive screw 132 and the conductive patterns such as the third conductive pattern 130 provided on the substrate 100 are conductive.

[0198] exist Figure 12 The method for suppressing the oscillation of the third antenna 400 caused by the influence of the conductive screw 132 is described in FIG. Figure 12 The above-described matters apply not only to the conductive screw 132 but also to metal-containing parts such as screws, pins, bolts, springs, and retainers. In other words, oscillation of the third antenna 400 caused by metal-containing parts other than the antenna can be similarly suppressed.

[0199] Examples of metal-containing components other than the antenna include components for mounting the antenna, components for supporting the antenna, components for adjusting the angle of the antenna, components for fixing the substrate 100, components for mounting the substrate 100, and components for supporting the substrate 100. Specifically, examples of metal-containing components include screws, bolts, pins, bolts, springs, and metal or resin-made components partially containing metal. Metal-containing components may include not only the single component listed here but also multiple components.

[0200] Figure 13 Yes Figure 1 Figure 5 of the fifth variation. Figure 13 The antenna device 10 shown is similar to the antenna device 10 except for the following points: Figure 1 The antenna arrangements 10 shown are identical.

[0201] like Figure 13 As shown, the third antenna 400 may also be located on the positive direction side of the first direction X of the fourth antenna 500. Figure 13 In the example shown, the third antenna 400 is located opposite the second portion 514 of the conductive plate 510 across the first portion 512 of the conductive plate 510. The third antenna 400 is located between the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300 in the second direction Y.

[0202] In addition, Figure 13 In the example shown, the center of the third antenna 400 is offset toward the negative side of the second direction Y relative to an imaginary line passing through the center of the fourth antenna 500 parallel to the first direction X. However, the center of the third antenna 400 may be located on this imaginary line or may be offset toward the positive side of the second direction Y relative to this imaginary line.

[0203] Figure 14 Yes Figure 1 Figure 6 of the sixth variant. Figure 14 The antenna device 10 shown is similar to the antenna device 10 except for the following points: Figure 1 The antenna arrangements 10 shown are identical.

[0204] like Figure 14 As shown, the positive direction of the first direction X of the antenna device 10 can be set to be the same as Figure 1 The positive direction of the first direction X of the antenna device 10 shown is opposite, and the fourth antenna 500 may be located on the negative side of the first direction X of the first antenna 200, the second antenna 300, and the third antenna 400. Figure 14In the example shown, the first antenna 200, the second antenna 300, and the third antenna 400 are located on opposite sides of the second portion 514 of the conductive plate 510, with the first portion 512 of the conductive plate 510 interposed therebetween. In other words, a structure can be employed in which the opening 620 is located on the negative side of the first direction X, and the notch 610 is located on the positive side of the first direction X. Furthermore, the third antenna 400 is located between the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300 in the second direction Y.

[0205] In addition, Figure 14 In the example shown, the center of the third antenna 400 is offset toward the positive side of the second direction Y relative to an imaginary line passing through the center of the fourth antenna 500 parallel to the first direction X. However, the center of the third antenna 400 may be located on this imaginary line or may be offset toward the negative side of the second direction Y.

[0206] As mentioned above, although embodiment and modification of this invention were demonstrated referring drawings, these are illustrations of this invention, and various structures other than the above-mentioned can be adopted.

[0207] For example, in this embodiment, the fourth antenna 500 is provided on the substrate 100 together with the telephone main antenna (first antenna 200), the telephone sub-antenna (second antenna 300), and the GNSS antenna (third antenna 400). However, the fourth antenna 500 may be provided on the substrate 100 alone, or may be provided on the substrate 100 together with an antenna of a type different from that exemplified in this embodiment.

[0208] In the present embodiment, the first antenna 200 and the second antenna 300 are configured by providing a conductive pattern on the substrate 100 . However, they may be three-dimensionally configured by a conductor such as a metal plate, for example.

[0209] The following methods are provided according to this specification.

[0210] (Method 1-1)

[0211] An antenna device comprising:

[0212] a substrate having a first surface;

[0213] a conductive plate provided on the first surface side of the substrate; and

[0214] an antenna element provided on the conductive plate,

[0215] The conductive plate includes a first portion along the first surface of the substrate and a second portion inclined at a first predetermined angle with respect to the first surface of the substrate.

[0216] The antenna element is provided so as to be inclined at a second predetermined angle with respect to the first surface of the substrate, from the first surface of the substrate toward the side at which the second portion of the conductive plate is inclined.

[0217] According to aspect 1-1, the antenna element can be tilted obliquely and stably with respect to the substrate.

[0218] (Method 1-2)

[0219] The antenna device according to aspect 1-1 further includes a bottom plate for holding the substrate.

[0220] The conductive plate is electrically suspended from the base plate.

[0221] According to method 1-2, the conductive plate and the base plate can be easily mounted.

[0222] (Methods 1-3)

[0223] In the antenna device according to aspect 1-1 or 1-2, the antenna element and the substrate are connected via a conductor.

[0224] According to the methods 1-3, it is possible to easily feed power to the antenna element.

[0225] (Methods 1-4)

[0226] According to the antenna device described in aspect 1-3, the conductor is a part of the antenna element.

[0227] According to the embodiment 1-4, the conductor can be easily attached to the antenna element.

[0228] (Methods 1-5)

[0229] According to the antenna device of any one of aspects 1-1 to 1-4, the antenna element has a radiating element having at least one shape of a spiral shape, a planar shape, a plate shape, a meander shape, a fractal shape, and a vortex shape.

[0230] According to aspect 1-5, the antenna element having a radiating element having at least one of a spiral shape, a planar shape, a plate shape, a meander shape, a fractal shape, and a vortex shape can be tilted obliquely and stably with respect to the substrate.

[0231] (Methods 1-6)

[0232] According to the antenna device according to any one of aspects 1-1 to 1-5, a portion between the first portion and the second portion of the conductive plate is bent.

[0233] According to the method 1-6, the conductive plate can be easily manufactured.

[0234] (Methods 1-7)

[0235] The antenna device according to any one of aspects 1-1 to 1-6, further comprising a support portion that supports the antenna element.

[0236] The support portion includes a portion inclined at the first predetermined angle from the first surface of the substrate.

[0237] According to aspect 1-7, the support portion can be easily positioned relative to the second portion of the conductive plate.

[0238] (Methods 1-8)

[0239] According to the antenna device described in aspect 1-7, the bottom surface of the support portion has a first bottom surface portion along the first portion of the conductive plate, and a second bottom surface portion along the second portion of the conductive plate.

[0240] According to aspect 1-8, the support portion can be easily positioned relative to the first portion and the second portion of the conductive plate.

[0241] (Methods 1-9)

[0242] According to the antenna device described in aspect 1-7 or 1-8, the conductive plate has a first engaging portion,

[0243] The support portion includes a second engagement portion that is engageable with the first engagement portion of the conductive plate.

[0244] According to method 1-9, the antenna element can be easily installed.

[0245] (Methods 1-10)

[0246] According to the antenna device according to any one of aspects 1-7 to 1-9, the first portion of the conductive plate has a hole portion through which a fixing member that fixes the support portion to the substrate or a guide member that aligns the support portion with respect to the substrate can pass.

[0247] According to aspect 1-10, the support portion and the substrate can be stably fixed by the fixing member, and the support portion can be stably positioned relative to the substrate by the guide member.

[0248] (Methods 1-11)

[0249] The antenna device according to any one of aspects 1-1 to 1-10 further includes a GNSS antenna provided on the first surface of the substrate.

[0250] The GNSS antenna is located on the opposite side of the second portion of the conductive plate with the first portion of the conductive plate interposed therebetween.

[0251] According to aspect 1-11, in the antenna device including the GNSS antenna, the antenna element can be tilted obliquely and stably with respect to the substrate.

[0252] (Methods 1-12)

[0253] The antenna device according to any one of aspects 1-1 to 1-10, further comprising:

[0254] a telephone antenna provided on the first surface of the substrate; and

[0255] a GNSS antenna provided on the first surface of the substrate,

[0256] The telephone antenna and the GNSS antenna are located on opposite sides of the second portion of the conductive plate with the first portion of the conductive plate interposed therebetween.

[0257] According to aspect 1-12, in the antenna device including the telephone antenna and the GNSS antenna, the antenna element can be tilted obliquely and stably with respect to the substrate.

[0258] (Methods 1-13)

[0259] According to the antenna device of embodiment 1-12, the telephone antenna includes a first antenna and a second antenna.

[0260] The GNSS antenna is located between the first antenna and the second antenna.

[0261] According to aspect 1-13, in an antenna device including a plurality of telephone antennas and GNSS antennas, the antenna element can be tilted obliquely and stably with respect to the substrate.

[0262] (Methods 1-14)

[0263] The antenna device according to any one of aspects 1-1 to 1-13, wherein the antenna element is an ETC antenna.

[0264] According to aspect 1-14, the ETC antenna can be tilted obliquely and stably with respect to the substrate.

[0265] (Method 2-1)

[0266] An antenna device comprising:

[0267] a substrate having a first surface;

[0268] a first antenna provided on the substrate;

[0269] a second antenna provided on the substrate; and

[0270] a third antenna provided on the first surface of the substrate,

[0271] The center point of the third antenna is located on the same side as the side on which the end of the second antenna farthest from the first antenna is located, relative to a center line passing through the center of a line connecting the end of the first antenna farthest from the second antenna and the end of the second antenna farthest from the first antenna, or relative to the center line of the first surface of the substrate.

[0272] According to aspect 2-1, the radiation directivity of the third antenna located between the first antenna and the second antenna can be improved.

[0273] (Method 2-2)

[0274] According to the antenna device of embodiment 2-1, the first antenna includes a first conductive pattern.

[0275] The second antenna has a second conductive pattern.

[0276] According to aspect 2-2, it is possible to reduce the influence of the first antenna or the second antenna on the radiation directivity in the zenith direction of the third antenna.

[0277] (Method 2-3)

[0278] In the antenna device according to aspect 2-1 or 2-2, the first antenna includes a main portion, an extension portion extending from the main portion, and at least one branch portion branching from the extension portion.

[0279] According to the method 2-3, the operating frequency band can be widened.

[0280] (Method 2-4)

[0281] The antenna device according to embodiment 2-3 further comprises a bottom plate for holding the substrate.

[0282] At least a portion of the main portion overlaps the bottom plate,

[0283] The at least one branch portion does not overlap with the bottom plate.

[0284] According to aspect 2-4, it is possible to realize desired characteristics of the first antenna while miniaturizing the antenna device.

[0285] (Method 2-5)

[0286] According to the antenna device according to aspect 2-3 or 2-4, the first antenna further includes a short-circuit portion extending from the main portion and connected to the ground.

[0287] According to aspect 2-5, the radiation efficiency of the first antenna can be improved.

[0288] (Method 2-6)

[0289] The antenna device according to any one of aspects 2-1 to 2-5, wherein the first antenna is a telephone antenna.

[0290] The second antenna is a telephone antenna.

[0291] The third antenna is a GNSS antenna.

[0292] According to aspect 2-6, the inclination of the radiation directivity of the GNSS antenna located between the two telephone antennas from the zenith direction can be reduced, thereby improving the GNSS radiation directivity.

[0293] (Method 3-1)

[0294] An antenna device comprising:

[0295] a substrate having a first surface;

[0296] a first antenna provided on the substrate;

[0297] a second antenna disposed on the substrate;

[0298] a third antenna provided on the first surface of the substrate; and

[0299] a metal-containing component other than an antenna located between the first antenna and the second antenna,

[0300] The metal-containing component is located on the same side as the end of the second antenna farthest from the first antenna, relative to a center line passing through the center of a line connecting the end of the first antenna farthest from the second antenna and the end of the second antenna farthest from the first antenna, or relative to the center line of the first surface of the substrate.

[0301] According to aspect 3-1, compared to the case where the metal-containing member is located on the opposite side of the center line to the end of the second antenna farthest from the first antenna, oscillation of the third antenna due to the influence of the metal-containing member can be suppressed.

[0302] (Method 3-2)

[0303] In the antenna device according to aspect 3-1, the metal-containing component is not electrically connected to the conductive pattern provided on the substrate.

[0304] According to aspect 3-2, compared with the case where the metal-containing member and the conductive pattern provided on the substrate are electrically connected, the oscillation of the third antenna due to the influence of the metal-containing member can be suppressed.

[0305] (Method 3-3)

[0306] An antenna device comprising:

[0307] a substrate having a first surface;

[0308] a first antenna provided on the substrate;

[0309] a second antenna provided on the substrate;

[0310] a third antenna provided on the first surface of the substrate; and

[0311] a metal-containing component other than the antenna, provided on the substrate and located between the first antenna and the second antenna;

[0312] The metal-containing component is not electrically connected to the conductive pattern provided on the substrate.

[0313] According to the embodiment 3-3, compared with the case where the metal-containing member and the conductive pattern provided on the substrate are electrically connected, the oscillation of the third antenna due to the influence of the metal-containing member can be suppressed (embodiment 3-4).

[0314] According to the antenna device of any one of aspects 3-1 to 3-3, the metal-containing member includes at least one of a screw, a bolt, a pin, a bolt, a spring, and a holder.

[0315] According to aspect 3-4, the oscillation of the third antenna due to the influence of at least one of the screw, the bolt, the pin, the bolt, the spring, and the holder can be suppressed.

[0316] (Methods 3-5)

[0317] The antenna device according to any one of aspects 3-1 to 3-4, wherein the first antenna includes a first conductive pattern.

[0318] The second antenna has a second conductive pattern.

[0319] According to aspect 3-5, it is possible to reduce the influence of the first antenna or the second antenna on the radiation directivity in the zenith direction of the third antenna.

[0320] (Methods 3-6)

[0321] The antenna device according to any one of aspects 3-1 to 3-5, wherein the first antenna includes a main portion, an extension portion extending from the main portion, and at least one branch portion branching from the extension portion.

[0322] According to the method 3-6, the operating frequency band can be widened.

[0323] (Methods 3-7)

[0324] The antenna device according to embodiment 3-6 further comprises a bottom plate for holding the substrate.

[0325] At least a portion of the main portion overlaps the bottom plate,

[0326] The at least one branch portion does not overlap with the bottom plate.

[0327] According to aspect 3-7, it is possible to realize desired characteristics of the first antenna while miniaturizing the antenna device.

[0328] (Methods 3-8)

[0329] According to the antenna device described in aspect 3-6 or 3-7, the first antenna further includes a short-circuit portion extending from the main portion and connected to the ground.

[0330] According to aspect 3-8, the radiation efficiency of the first antenna can be improved.

[0331] (Methods 3-9)

[0332] The antenna device according to any one of aspects 3-1 to 3-8, wherein the first antenna is a telephone antenna.

[0333] The second antenna is a telephone antenna.

[0334] The third antenna is a GNSS antenna.

[0335] According to aspect 3-9, it is possible to suppress the GNSS antenna located between two telephone antennas from oscillating due to the influence of metal components.

[0336] This application claims priority based on Japanese patent application No. 2019-196598, filed on October 29, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

Claims

1. An antenna device, wherein: have: substrate; a first antenna provided on the substrate; and a second antenna provided on the substrate, The orientation of the first antenna is different from the orientation of the second antenna.

2. The antenna device according to claim 1, wherein The second antenna has a base and a radiating element, The base is inclined relative to the substrate.

3. The antenna device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The maximum height of the second antenna relative to the substrate is greater than the maximum height of the first antenna relative to the substrate.

4. The antenna device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: Further having: a bottom plate for holding the substrate; and A fixing member for fixing the substrate and the bottom plate, The bottom plate is conductive with the substrate.

5. The antenna device according to claim 4, wherein: The fixing member is offset relative to a center line passing through a center of a line connecting an end of the first antenna farthest from the second antenna and an end of the second antenna farthest from the first antenna, or relative to a center line of the substrate. The antenna device according to claim 4 , wherein: The fixing member is located between the first antenna and the second antenna.

7. An antenna device, wherein: have: a substrate having a ground portion; a first antenna provided on the substrate; and a second antenna provided on the substrate, The first antenna and the ground portion do not overlap in a direction perpendicular to the substrate.

8. The antenna device according to claim 7, wherein: Further having: a bottom plate for holding the substrate; and A fixing member for fixing the substrate and the bottom plate, The bottom plate and the ground portion are conductive.

9. The antenna device according to claim 8, wherein: The fixing member is offset relative to a center line passing through a center of a line connecting an end of the first antenna farthest from the second antenna and an end of the second antenna farthest from the first antenna, or relative to a center line of the substrate.

10. The antenna device according to claim 8 or 9, wherein: The fixing member is located between the first antenna and the second antenna.

11. An antenna device, wherein: have: Antenna element; and A substrate having the antenna element mounted on one side, On the substrate, a pattern of a conductive layer is formed that extends in a region of the substrate excluding linear wiring.

12. The antenna device according to claim 11, wherein A plurality of antenna elements are mounted on the substrate.

13. The antenna device according to claim 11 or 12, wherein: A bottom plate is provided so as to face the surface of the substrate opposite to the one surface and to be spaced a predetermined distance from the substrate. The substrate is held by the bottom plate.

14. The antenna device according to claim 13, wherein: The bottom plate has a plurality of base portions, The base portion and the substrate are combined by a fixing member. The pattern of the conductive layer is extendedly provided in a bonding region of the substrate corresponding to at least a portion of the plurality of base portions.

15. The antenna device according to claim 11 or 12, wherein: The substrate includes terminals electrically connectable to external elements and linear wiring connecting the terminals to the antenna element.

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