Array antenna and electromagnetic wave device

Abstract

An array antenna (100) is provided with: a first member (10) having a plurality of first through-holes (13) arranged in the X-axis direction; a second member (20) provided so as to overlap the first member (10), the second member (20) having a plurality of second through-holes (23) provided on one side of the plurality of first through-holes (13) in the Y-axis direction and a plurality of third through-holes (24) provided on the other side of the plurality of first through-holes (13); a plurality of ridge-shaped first waveguide members (30) that are in contact with the front surface (21) of the second member (20) and form a first gap (32) that serves as a waveguide between the first waveguide members (30) and the back surface (12) of the first member (10), one end of each of the first waveguide members (30) being fed by the plurality of second through-holes (23) or the plurality of third through-holes (24), and the other end being fed to the plurality of first through-holes (13); and a plurality of rods (40) which are provided around the plurality of first waveguide members (30), are in contact with the front surface (21) of the second member (20), extend toward the rear surface (12) of the first member (10), and form a second gap (41) between the rods (40) and the rear surface (12).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to an array antenna and an electromagnetic wave device. BACKGROUND

[0002] An array antenna having an array structure in which a plurality of antenna elements (radiating elements) are arranged in a line or on a plane is used for various uses such as a radar or a communication system. In order to radiate electromagnetic waves from the array antenna, electromagnetic waves such as high-frequency electromagnetic waves in which a signal wave is modulated are supplied from a transmission circuit that generates the electromagnetic waves to the antenna elements. Such supply of the electromagnetic waves is performed via a waveguide. The waveguide is also used to transmit electromagnetic waves received by the antenna elements to a reception circuit.

[0003] It is known that a microstrip line is used for feeding the antenna elements. However, in a case where the frequency of the electromagnetic waves transmitted or received by the antenna elements is a high frequency of 30 GHz or more such as a millimeter wave band, the dielectric loss of the microstrip line becomes large. By using a waveguide tube instead of the microstrip line to feed the antenna elements, it is possible to reduce the loss. However, in a case where the waveguide tube is used, it is necessary to make the hollow portion of the waveguide tube a width of one-half or more of the wavelength of the electromagnetic waves. In the array antenna, for example, in a case where it is desired to eliminate a round-trip virtual image of a detection target object, it is necessary to make the arrangement period of the antenna elements one-half of the wavelength. However, it is not possible to configure this structure by the waveguide tube because, in the waveguide tube, it is necessary to make the hollow portion a width of one-half or more of the wavelength of the electromagnetic waves. Therefore, in the millimeter wave band, a waffle iron ridge guide in which the waveguide loss is small and it is possible to arrange the antenna elements at a narrow interval of one-half or close to one-half of the wavelength is also used. That is, an array antenna having a waveguide structure in which a wave of electromagnetic waves is guided by an artificial magnetic conductor (AMC: Artificial Magnetic Conductor) arranged on both sides of a ridge-shaped waveguide is proposed (for example, Patent Documents 1 to 3). By using the ridge-shaped waveguide, it is possible to make the width of the waveguide narrow.

[0004] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0005] PATENT DOCUMENTS

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-118446

[0007] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-517175

[0008] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2018-207487 SUMMARY

[0009] PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0010] In a ridge waveguide structure in which a ridge-shaped waveguide member is provided between a first member and a second member, there is a case where through-holes that feed power to or from the waveguide member are arranged in one direction along the first member. In the ridge waveguide structure, the voids on the waveguide member become waveguides, and thus the voids on the plurality of waveguide members connected to the plurality of through-holes arranged in one direction are connected to each other. Therefore, there is a case where the isolation between the waveguides of the plurality of waveguide members decreases.

[0011] The present application was made in view of the above-described technical problem, and aims to suppress a decrease in isolation.

[0012] Technical solution for solving the technical problem

[0013] The present application is an array antenna including: a first member having an electrically conductive surface, the first member having a plurality of first through-holes arranged in a first direction, in a case where a first direction, a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, and a third direction orthogonal to both the first direction and the second direction are set; a second member having an electrically conductive surface, the second member being provided so as to overlap the first member when viewed in the third direction, the second member having a plurality of second through-holes provided on one side with respect to the plurality of first through-holes in the second direction and a plurality of third through-holes provided on the other side; a plurality of first waveguide members having an electrically conductive surface, the plurality of first waveguide members being in contact with one of a first surface of the first member opposite to the second member and a second surface of the second member opposite to the first member and forming a first void that becomes a waveguide between the first waveguide member and the other surface, one end of each of the first waveguide members being fed by the plurality of second through-holes or the plurality of third through-holes and the other end being fed toward the plurality of first through-holes, or one end of each of the first waveguide members being fed by the plurality of first through-holes and the other end being fed toward the plurality of second through-holes or the plurality of third through-holes; and a plurality of rods having an electrically conductive surface, the plurality of rods being provided around the plurality of first waveguide members, being in contact with one of the first surface and the second surface and extending toward the other surface, and forming a second void between the rod and the other surface.

[0014] In the above structure, the plurality of first waveguide members can be configured to extend alternately to opposite sides in the second direction with respect to the plurality of first through-holes from the plurality of first through-holes.

[0015] In the above structure, the plurality of second through-holes and the plurality of third through-holes can be arranged in the first direction, and the interval of the plurality of second through-holes in the first direction and the interval of the plurality of third through-holes in the first direction can be wider than the interval of the plurality of first through-holes in the first direction.

[0016] In the above structure, it can be configured that the plurality of second through holes and the plurality of third through holes have a rectangular shape in the plan view.

[0017] In the above structure, it can be configured that, in a case where a free space wavelength of a center frequency of a use frequency band is λ0, lengths of the plurality of first through holes, the plurality of second through holes, and / or the plurality of third through holes in the first direction are shorter than λ0 / 2.

[0018] In the above structure, it can be configured that at least one of the plurality of first waveguide members extends straight between the plurality of first through holes and the plurality of second through holes or the plurality of third through holes.

[0019] In the above structure, it can be configured that at least one of the plurality of first waveguide members extends curvedly between the plurality of first through holes and the plurality of second through holes or the plurality of third through holes.

[0020] In the above structure, it can be configured that the plurality of first through holes are antenna elements that transmit electromagnetic waves to an external space or receive electromagnetic waves from the external space.

[0021] In the above structure, it can be configured that the plurality of first waveguide members are provided to the second surface of the second member, the first gap is formed between the plurality of first waveguide members and the first surface of the first member, the plurality of rods contact the second surface of the second member and extend to the first surface of the first member, and the second gap is formed between the plurality of rods and the first surface.

[0022] In the above structure, it can be configured that a plurality of second waveguide members having a ridge shape with an electrically conductive surface contact one of the first surface and the second surface and form a third gap between the other of the first surface and the second surface to become a waveguide, the plurality of rods are provided around each of the plurality of second waveguide members, the first member has a plurality of fourth through holes arranged in a fourth direction intersecting the first direction, the second member has a plurality of fifth through holes and a plurality of sixth through holes, one end of each of the plurality of second waveguide members is fed by the plurality of fifth through holes or the plurality of sixth through holes and the other end is fed to the plurality of fourth through holes, or one end of each of the plurality of second waveguide members is fed by the plurality of fourth through holes and the other end is fed to the plurality of fifth through holes or the plurality of sixth through holes.

[0023] In the above structure, the plurality of fifth through holes can be configured such that they are disposed on the opposite side of the plurality of first through holes relative to the plurality of second through holes, and the plurality of sixth through holes are disposed on the opposite side of the plurality of first through holes relative to the plurality of third through holes.

[0024] The present invention is an electromagnetic wave device comprising an array antenna as described in claim 1 or 2; and an integrated circuit connected to the array antenna.

[0025] Invention Effects

[0026] According to the present invention, the reduction in isolation can be suppressed. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is an exploded top view of the array antenna of Embodiment 1.

[0028] Figure 2 (a) and (b) are cross-sectional views of the array antenna of Embodiment 1.

[0029] Figure 3 This is a top view illustrating the second component overlapping the first through hole of the first component in Embodiment 1.

[0030] Figure 4 This is a top view illustrating the second component overlapping the first through hole of the first component in a variation of Embodiment 1.

[0031] Figure 5 This is a top view illustrating the second component overlapping the first through hole of the first component in Comparative Example 1.

[0032] Figure 6 (a) is a cross-sectional view representing another example of a rod. Figure 6 (b) is a cross-sectional view showing another example of the first waveguide component.

[0033] Figure 7 (a) to (d) are top views showing another example of the first to third through holes.

[0034] Figure 8 This is a top view illustrating the second component overlapping the first through hole of the first component in Embodiment 2.

[0035] Figure 9 This is a top view illustrating the second component overlapping the first through hole of the first component in a variation of Embodiment 2.

[0036] Figure 10 This is a top view illustrating the second component overlapping the first through hole of the first component in Comparative Example 2.

[0037] Figure 11 is a plan view illustrating the second member overlapping the first through-hole of the first member in Comparative Example 3.

[0038] Figure 12 is an exploded perspective view of the electromagnetic wave device in Example 3.

[0039] Figure 13 is a plan view of the first member in Example 3.

[0040] Figure 14 is a plan view of the second member in Example 3.

[0041] Figure 15 (a) and (b) of are cross-sectional views of the array antenna in Example 3.

[0042] Figure 16 is a plan view illustrating the second member overlapping the first through-hole and the fourth through-hole of the first member in Example 3.

[0043] Figure 17 is a plan view illustrating the second member overlapping the integrated circuit in Example 3.

[0044] Figure 18 (a) and (b) of are plan views (their 1) indicating another arrangement example of the first through-hole and the fourth through-hole.

[0045] Figure 19 (a) and (b) of are plan views (their 1) indicating another arrangement example of the first through-hole and the fourth through-hole.

[0046] Figure 20 is a schematic view of the monitoring system of Example 4.

[0047] Figure 21 is a block diagram of the monitoring system of Example 4.

[0048] Figure 22 is a flowchart indicating an example of processing based on a processing circuit in Example 4.

[0049] Figure 23 is a plan view indicating arrangement of a plurality of first through-holes. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present application will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0051] Example 1

[0052] Figure 1 is an exploded plan view of the array antenna of Example 1. Figure 2 (a) and (b) of are cross-sectional views of the array antenna of Example 1. Figure 2(a) is equivalent to Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the area between AA. Figure 2 (b) is equivalent to Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the portion between BB. The mutually orthogonal directions in the front surface 21 of the second component 20 are designated as the X-axis and Y-axis directions, and the direction perpendicular to the front surface 21 is designated as the Z-axis direction. Furthermore, in this specification, the term "viewed from above in the Z-axis direction" refers to the arrangement of shapes in the top view when observing the object from the +Z direction to the -Z direction.

[0053] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 As shown in (a) and (b), the array antenna 100 of Embodiment 1 includes a first component 10 and a second component 20. The first component 10 has a conductive front side 11 and a conductive back side 12 opposite to the front side 11. The second component 20 is located on the back side 12 side of the first component 10 and overlaps with the first component 10 when viewed from above in the Z-axis direction. The second component 20 has a conductive front side 21 opposite to the back side 12 and a conductive back side 22 opposite to the front side 21. The back side 12 of the first component 10 and the front side 21 of the second component 20 extend two-dimensionally along the XY plane. The first component 10 and the second component 20 can be conductive components formed by forming or cutting conductive metal, or a conductive film such as a metal film formed by plating, coating or surface treatment can be provided on the surface of an insulating component such as resin. The first component 10 and the second component 20 are, for example, plate-shaped (plate-like) components.

[0054] The first component 10 has a plurality of first through holes 13 arranged at equal intervals in the X-axis direction. The first through holes 13 extend from the front side 11 to the back side 12 of the first component 10. When viewed from above in the Z-axis direction, the plurality of first through holes 13 are rectangular in shape of the same size. The long side of each of the plurality of first through holes 13 is in the X-axis direction.

[0055] A plurality of first waveguide members 30 having a ridge shape are provided on the front surface 21 of the second member 20. The plurality of first waveguide members 30 extend in the direction of the front surface 21 of the second member 20. The plurality of first waveguide members 30 have a front surface that is electrically conductive. The plurality of first waveguide members 30 can be members that are electrically conductive and are formed by shaping or cutting a metal that is electrically conductive, or can have a film that is electrically conductive, such as a metal film, provided on the surface of an insulating member, such as a resin, by plating, coating, or surface treatment. Also, a plurality of rods 40 are provided on the front surface 21 of the second member 20 so as to be arranged on both sides of each of the plurality of first waveguide members 30. The rods 40 have a surface that is electrically conductive. The rods 40 can be members that are electrically conductive and are formed by shaping or cutting a metal that is electrically conductive, or can have a film that is electrically conductive, such as a metal film, provided on the surface of an insulating member, such as a resin, by plating, coating, or surface treatment. The first waveguide members 30 and the rods 40 can be formed integrally with the second member 20 as part of the second member 20, or can be members that are different from the second member 20.

[0056] The end portion of the first waveguide member 30 in the -Z direction is in contact with the front surface 21 of the second member 20 that is electrically conductive. In this specification, "contact" means that a portion or all of each of the surfaces that are electrically conductive is fixed in a state in which electrical conduction is ensured between the surfaces. In addition, the two objects of "contact" include not only the case of physical contact, but also the case in which the two objects are formed integrally (molded), and the case in which the two objects are in contact via an electrically conductive object (including an electrically conductive solid object such as a metal, an electrically conductive adhesive, an electrically conductive oil, and the like). The end portion of the first waveguide member 30 in the +Z direction is not in contact with the first member 10, but is provided so as to be spaced apart from the back surface 12 of the first member 10 that is electrically conductive. The surface of the first waveguide member 30 that is opposite the back surface 12 of the first member 10 (the end surface on the +Z direction side) is a first waveguide surface 31 that is electrically conductive. The first waveguide surface 31 extends in the direction in which the first waveguide member 30 extends. A first gap 32 is formed between the back surface 12 of the first member 10 and the first waveguide surface 31 of the first waveguide member 30. In this first gap 32, a waveguide of electromagnetic waves is formed. That is, electromagnetic waves propagate in the first gap 32.

[0057] The rod 40, for example, is cuboid in shape and extends from the front face 21 of the second component 20 toward the first component 10. The -Z end of the rod 40 contacts the front face 21 of the second component 20. The +Z end (front end) of the rod 40 does not contact the first component 10, forming a second gap 41 between them. Multiple rods 40 arranged around the first waveguide component 30 form a structure that artificially realizes the properties of an ideal magnetic conductor, i.e., an artificial magnetic conductor. An artificial magnetic conductor is a structure that artificially realizes the properties of an ideal magnetic conductor (PMC: Perfect Magnetic Conductor) that does not exist in nature. An ideal magnetic conductor has the property that the tangential component of the magnetic field on its surface is zero. The artificial magnetic conductor functions as an ideal magnetic conductor in a specific frequency band determined by its construction, suppressing electromagnetic waves with frequencies contained in that specific frequency band from propagating along the surface of the artificial magnetic conductor. In this way, by arranging multiple rods 40 around the first waveguide component 30, which function as magnetic walls, lateral leakage of electromagnetic waves propagating in the first gap 32 on the first waveguide component 30 can be suppressed. The ridge-shaped waveguide (WRG) formed by the ridge-shaped first waveguide component 30 disposed between the multiple rods 40 that function as artificial magnetic conductors enables the realization of low-loss array antennas in the microwave or millimeter-wave bands.

[0058] Alternatively, the rod 40 can be a shape other than a cuboid, such as a cylinder or an elliptical cylinder. Additionally, at least a portion of the side surface of the rod 40 can be conical. Furthermore, the corners of the front end face and the corners of the side surfaces of the rod 40 can have rounded or chamfered corners.

[0059] When the representative value of the wavelength of the propagating electromagnetic wave in free space (e.g., the center wavelength corresponding to the center frequency of the operating band) is set as λ0, the width W1 of the first waveguide component 30 (refer to...) Figure 2 (a) is, for example, approximately λ0 / 8, which is smaller than λ0 / 4 and larger than λ0 / 16. The widths W2 and W3 of rod 40 (refer to...) Figure 1 For example, it could be around λ0 / 8, or smaller than λ0 / 4 but larger than λ0 / 16. Widths W1, W2, and W3 can be the same or different.

[0060] Configuration periods T1 and T2 for multiple rods 40 (refer to) Figure 1 A value smaller than λ0 / 2, for example, within the range of λ0 / 4 ± λ0 / 8, is appropriate. The configuration period T1 and configuration period T2 can be the same or different. The spacing D1 between the first waveguide component 30 and the rod 40 (refer to...) Figure 2of (a) is, for example, around λ0 / 8, for example, smaller than λ0 / 4 and larger than λ0 / 16. The interval D2 and the interval D3 (refer to Figure 1 ) are also, for example, around λ0 / 8, for example, smaller than λ0 / 4 and larger than λ0 / 16. The interval D1, the interval D2, and the interval D3 can be the same or different.

[0061] The height H1 of the first waveguide member 30 and the rod 40 (refer to Figure 2 of (a) is, for example, larger than the width W1, W2, W3 and smaller than λ0 / 2, for example, it is appropriate in the range of λ0 / 4 ± λ0 / 8. The height of the first waveguide member 30 and the height of the rod 40 can be the same or different. The height of the first gap 32 and the height H2 of the second gap 41 (refer to Figure 2 of (a) is, for example, smaller than λ0 / 2. The height of the first gap 32 and the height of the second gap 41 can be the same or different. Here, the reason for using the free space wavelength λ0 is because the wavelength of the electromagnetic wave propagating can be varied variously by the size and the shape of each constituent member and the like, and thus it is difficult to grasp. The frequency band used by the array antenna 100 is, for example, a millimeter wave frequency band of 30 GHz to 300 GHz.

[0062] The second member 20 is provided with a plurality of second through holes 23 and a plurality of third through holes 24 adjacent to the front ends 33 of the plurality of first waveguide members 30. The second through holes 23 and the third through holes 24 pass through between the front surface 21 and the back surface 22 of the second member 20. The second through holes 23 and the third through holes 24 have a rectangular shape when viewed in the Z-axis direction. In addition, the plurality of second through holes 23 and the plurality of third through holes 24 are, for example, the same size when viewed in the Z-axis direction.

[0063] Figure 3 is a plan view in which the second member of Embodiment 1 is overlapped with the first through hole of the first member. In Figure 3 , the outline of the first through hole 13 is illustrated with a thick line in order to make the drawing clear (the same in the following same drawings). As Figure 3As shown, the plurality of second through holes 23 are arranged in the +Y direction and in the X-axis direction with respect to the imaginary line 15 along which the plurality of first through holes 13 are arranged, and the plurality of third through holes 24 are arranged in the -Y direction and in the X-axis direction with respect to the imaginary line 15 along which the plurality of first through holes 13 are arranged. The plurality of second through holes 23 and the plurality of third through holes 24 have electrically conductive inner surfaces. Thus, the plurality of second through holes 23 and the plurality of third through holes 24 function as waveguides for electromagnetic waves. The plurality of first waveguide members 30 each have one end portion overlapping the first through hole 13 and the other end portion adjacent to the second through hole 23 or the third through hole 24 when viewed in the Z-axis direction. Thus, the waveguide formed by the first gap 32 in the first waveguide member 30 is fed from the second through hole 23 or the third through hole 24 and fed to the first through hole 13, or is fed from the first through hole 13 and fed to the second through hole 23 or the third through hole 24.

[0064] The plurality of rods 40 are arranged around the second through holes 23 and the third through holes 24. By providing the rods 40 near the corners of the second through holes 23 and the third through holes 24, leakage of electromagnetic waves to the side of the second through holes 23 and the third through holes 24 can be suppressed. Since the second through holes 23 and the third through holes 24 function as waveguides, the length L in the X-axis direction of the second through holes 23 and the third through holes 24 becomes a half wavelength or more of the propagating electromagnetic waves. The first waveguide members 30 are adjacent to the second through holes 23 and the third through holes 24 from a direction (Y-axis direction) orthogonal to the long side direction (X-axis direction) of the second through holes 23 and the third through holes 24, in order to align the electric field direction of the electromagnetic field with the X direction in the first waveguide members 30 and the second through holes 23 and the third through holes 24.

[0065] Multiple first through-holes 13 are arranged overlapping the ends of multiple first waveguide components 30. When a horn antenna is connected to the upper part of the first through-hole 13, for the sake of the horn antenna, or for matching the transmission line, directivity, or to ensure bandwidth, the first waveguide component 30 extends in a direction orthogonal to the length direction (X-axis direction) of the first through-hole 13, overlapping with the first through-hole 13. For example, electromagnetic waves propagating in the first gap 32 on the first waveguide component 30 are radiated into or incident from the external space via the first through-hole 13, and are supplied from the lower side of the second component 20 or extracted downwards via the second through-hole 23 and the third through-hole 24. In this case, the first through-hole 13 functions as an antenna element (radiating element) for transmitting or receiving electromagnetic waves with the external space. Electromagnetic waves propagating in the first gap 32 on the first waveguide component 30 can also be radiated into or incident on the external space through the second through-hole 23 and the third through-hole 24, and supplied from the upper side of the first component 10 or extracted upwards through the first through-hole 13. In this case, the second through-hole 23 and the third through-hole 24 function as antenna elements. In Embodiment 1, the first through-hole 13 is described as an antenna element.

[0066] Multiple first through-holes 13, serving as antenna elements, are arranged in a high-density configuration along the X-axis for wide-angle scanning of electromagnetic waves. For example, the spacing L1 between adjacent first through-holes 13 (refer to...) Figure 1 The wavelength of the electromagnetic wave is less than 1 / 4 of the wavelength. To ensure that the polarization direction of the electromagnetic wave is consistent, the length directions (X-axis direction) of the plurality of first through holes 13 are the same. When the electromagnetic wave propagating through the first gap 32 of the first waveguide component 30 is supplied or taken out through the second through hole 23 and the third through hole 24, the feed section is provided overlapping the second through hole 23 and the third through hole 24. For the structural reasons of the feed section, the spacing L2 between adjacent second through holes 23 (refer to Figure 1 The interval L3 between the second and the adjacent third through hole 24 (refer to) Figure 1 The distance L1 between adjacent first through holes 13 (refer to) Figure 1 )Width.

[0067] The plurality of first waveguide members 30 extend alternately to opposite sides with respect to the imaginary line 15 in the Y-axis direction from the plurality of first through holes 13 arranged in the X-axis direction. That is, the first waveguide member 30 located closest to the -X direction extends from the first through hole 13 in the -Y direction, the adjacent first waveguide member 30 extends from the first through hole 13 in the +Y direction, and the further adjacent first waveguide member 30 extends from the first through hole 13 in the -Y direction. For example, the plurality of first waveguide members 30 extend in the Y-axis direction from the first through hole 13, extend again in the Y-axis direction after being bent, and are adjacent to the second through hole 23 or the third through hole 24.

[0068] Further, the plurality of first through holes 13 can also be a case where the plurality of first through holes 13 are arranged along the X-axis while deviating from the X-axis. Arrangement along the X-axis includes a case where the plurality of first through holes 13 are arranged while deviating from the X-axis due to a processing error at the time of mass production or the like, and a case where the plurality of first through holes 13 are intentionally arranged in a direction inclined by several degrees from the X-axis. Also, as illustrated in Figure 23 the plurality of through holes 13 are arranged in the X-axis direction in a staggered (zigzag) manner in the Y-axis direction is also included in the case where the plurality of first through holes 13 are arranged along the X-axis. This is because, by these configurations, a predetermined function on a waveguide can be achieved, and the structure of the present application is used. In addition, the plurality of first waveguide members 30 can also be a case where a part is continuously extended from the first through hole 13 to the same side of the Y-axis direction with respect to the first through hole 13.

[0069] [Modified Example]

[0070] Figure 4 is a plan view illustrating that the second member overlaps the first through hole of the first member in the modified example of Embodiment 1. As illustrated in Figure 4 in the modified example of Embodiment 1, two of the plurality of first waveguide members 30 are provided to extend straight between the first through hole 13 and the second through hole 23 or the third through hole 24. The other structures are the same as those of Embodiment 1, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

[0071] [Comparative Example]

[0072] Figure 5 is a plan view illustrating that the second member overlaps the first through hole of the first member in Comparative Example 1. As illustrated in Figure 5 in Comparative Example 1, the imaginary line 15 arranged with respect to the plurality of first through holes 13 is provided with the plurality of third through holes 24 on the -Y direction side, but is not provided with the second through hole on the +Y direction side with respect to the imaginary line 15 arranged with respect to the plurality of first through holes 13. The other structures are the same as those of Embodiment 1, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

[0073] In Comparative Example 1 as well, the plurality of first through holes 13 have the length direction as the X-axis direction in a manner in which the polarization direction of electromagnetic waves is aligned, and are arranged at a high density in the X-axis direction for wide-angle scanning of electromagnetic waves. In such a case, if only the plurality of third through holes 24, which are located on the -Y direction side with respect to the imaginary line 15 aligned with the plurality of first through holes 13, are provided, the plurality of first waveguide members 30 are arranged close to each other. The artificial magnetic conductor formed by the rod 40 provided around the first waveguide member 30 suppresses the propagation of electromagnetic waves including frequencies in a certain frequency band, but the suppression effect is reduced for the propagation of electromagnetic waves deviating from the frequency band. Since the first voids 32, which become waveguides on the first waveguide member 30, are connected to each other between the plurality of first waveguide members 30, there is a case in which the isolation between the waveguides of adjacent first waveguide members 30 is reduced.

[0074] In addition, as described above, the interval of adjacent third through holes 24 is widened due to the reason of the configuration of the feed portion provided overlapping the third through hole 24. Therefore, there is a case in which the size in the X-axis direction of the region in which the plurality of third through holes 24 are provided is larger than the size in the X-axis direction of the region in which the plurality of first through holes 13 are provided. In this case, the array antenna can be caused to be large in the X-axis direction.

[0075] On the other hand, in Embodiment 1 and the modified example thereof, as shown in Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 23 , with respect to the plurality of first through holes 13 aligned in the X-axis direction, the plurality of second through holes 23 are provided on the +Y direction side (one side), and the plurality of third through holes 24 are provided on the -Y direction side (the other side). Thereby, at least a part of the plurality of first waveguide members 30 connecting between the first through hole 13 and the second through hole 23 or the third through hole 24 is provided extending in the Y-axis direction to the opposite side from the adjacent first through hole 13. Thereby, in the first waveguide member 30 extending in the Y-axis direction to the opposite side from the adjacent first through hole 13, it is possible to suppress the reduction in the isolation between the waveguides.

[0076] In addition, in Embodiment 1, as shown in Figure 3 , the plurality of first waveguide members 30 extend to the opposite side in the Y-axis direction from the first through hole 13 alternately with respect to the first through hole 13, adjacent to the second through hole 23 or the third through hole 24. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the reduction in the isolation between the waveguides in all of the plurality of first waveguide members 30.

[0077] In addition, in Embodiment 1 and the modified example thereof, as shown in Figure 1As shown, the interval L2 of the plurality of second through holes 23 and the interval L3 of the plurality of third through holes 24 are wider than the interval LI of the plurality of first through holes 13. In such a case, as in Comparative Example 1 Figure 5 As shown, in a case where the second through holes 23 are not provided and only the third through holes 24 are provided, the array antenna can become large in the X-axis direction, but in Embodiment 1, the second through holes 23 and the third through holes 24 are provided on the opposite side in the Y-axis direction with respect to the first through holes 13, and thus the array antenna can be miniaturized in the X-axis direction.

[0078] Further, in Embodiment 1 and its modification, at least one of the plurality of first waveguide members 30 extends while being bent between the first through hole 13 and the second through hole 23 or the third through hole 24. Thereby, it is easy to adjust the interval of the plurality of first through holes 13, the interval of the plurality of second through holes 23, and the interval of the plurality of third through holes 24 to an arbitrary size, respectively.

[0079] Further, in the modification of Embodiment 1, at least one of the plurality of first waveguide members 30 extends straight between the first through hole 13 and the second through hole 23 or the third through hole 24. Thereby, with the first waveguide member 30 provided straight, it is easy to obtain a configuration capable of suppressing leakage of the propagated electromagnetic wave.

[0080] Further, in Embodiment 1 and its modification, a case where the rod 40 extends from the front face 21 of the second member 20 toward the first member 10, and the second gap 41 is formed between the rod 40 and the back face 12 of the first member 10 is exemplified, but is not limited to this case. Figure 6 (a) is a cross-sectional view showing another example of the rod. As shown in (a) of FIG. 6, the rod 40 can extend from the back face 12 of the first member 10 toward the front face 21 of the second member 20, and the second gap 41 can be formed between the rod 40 and the front face 21 of the second member 20. Figure 6 (a) of FIG. 6, the rod 40 can extend from the back face 12 of the first member 10 toward the front face 21 of the second member 20, and the second gap 41 can be formed between the rod 40 and the front face 21 of the second member 20.

[0081] Further, in Embodiment 1 and its modification, a case where the rod 40 extends from the front face 21 of the second member 20 toward the first member 10, and the second gap 41 is formed between the rod 40 and the back face 12 of the first member 10 is exemplified, but is not limited to this case. Figure 6 (b) is a cross-sectional view showing another example of the first waveguide member. As shown in (b) of FIG. 7, the first waveguide member 30 can be provided to the back face 12 of the first member 10. In this case, one end of the first waveguide member 30 is adjacent to the first through hole 13, and the other end overlaps the second through hole 23 or the third through hole 24. Figure 6 (b) of FIG. 7, the first waveguide member 30 can be provided to the back face 12 of the first member 10. In this case, one end of the first waveguide member 30 is adjacent to the first through hole 13, and the other end overlaps the second through hole 23 or the third through hole 24.

[0082] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1 and its variations, the case in which the first through hole 13, the second through hole 23, and the third through hole 24 are rectangular when viewed from above in the Z-axis direction is illustrated, but it is not limited to this case. Figure 7 Views (a) to (d) are top views showing other examples of the first through hole, the second through hole, and the third through hole. For example... Figure 7 As shown in (a), the first to third through holes can also be oval-shaped when viewed from above along the Z-axis. In this case, the major radius La is set to avoid causing higher-order resonances and to prevent the impedance from becoming too small. For example, the major radius La is set to λ0 / 4 < La < λ0 / 2. In addition to the oval shape, an elliptical shape is also possible.

[0083] like Figure 7 As shown in (b), the first to third through holes can also be H-shaped when viewed from above in the Z-axis direction, having a pair of vertical portions 90 and a horizontal portion 91 connecting the pair of vertical portions 90. The horizontal portion 91 is approximately perpendicular to the pair of vertical portions 90, connecting approximately the center of the pair of vertical portions 90. In this case, its shape and size are also determined so as not to cause higher-order resonance and the impedance does not become too small. The distance between the intersection of the center line 92 of the horizontal portion 91 and the center line 93 perpendicular to the H-shaped whole of the horizontal portion 91, and the intersection of the center line 92 and the center line 94 of the vertical portion 90 is set as Lb. The distance between the intersection of the center line 92 and the center line 94 and the end of the vertical portion 90 is set as Wb. The sum of Lb and Wb is set to satisfy λ0 / 4 < Lb + Wb < λ0 / 2. By relatively extending the distance Wb, the distance Lb can be relatively shortened. Therefore, the width of the H-shape in the X-axis direction can be made smaller than, for example, λ0 / 2, and the spacing in the length direction of the horizontal portion 91 can be shortened.

[0084] like Figure 7 As shown in (c), the first to third through holes can also be shaped as having a horizontal portion 91 and a pair of vertical portions 90 extending from both ends of the horizontal portion 91 when viewed from above in the Z-axis direction. The directions in which the pair of vertical portions 90 extend from the horizontal portion 91 are approximately perpendicular to the horizontal portion 91 and opposite to each other. The distance between the intersection of the center line 92 of the horizontal portion 91 and the center line 95 perpendicular to the overall shape of the horizontal portion 91, and the intersection of the center line 92 and the center line 94 of the vertical portion 90, is set as Lc. The distance between the intersection of the center line 92 and the center line 94, and the end of the vertical portion 90, is set as Wc. The sum of Lc and Wc is set to satisfy λ0 / 4 < Lc + Wc < λ0 / 2. By relatively extending the distance Wc, the distance Lc can be relatively shortened. As a result, the width of the overall shape in the X-axis direction can be made, for example, less than λ0 / 2, and the spacing in the length direction of the horizontal portions 91 can be shortened.

[0085] likeFigure 7 As shown in (d), the first to third through holes can also be a U-shaped structure having a horizontal portion 91 and a pair of vertical portions 90 extending from both ends of the horizontal portion 91 in the same direction perpendicular to the horizontal portion 91 when viewed from above in the Z-axis direction. Alternatively, this shape can also be considered as the upper half of an H-shape. The distance between the intersection of the center line 92 of the horizontal portion 91 and the center line 96 of the U-shaped structure perpendicular to the horizontal portion 91, and the intersection of the center line 92 and the center line 94 of the vertical portions 90, is set as Ld. The distance between the intersection of the center line 92 and the center line 94, and the end of the vertical portion 90, is set as Wd. The sum of Ld and Wd is set to satisfy λ0 / 4 < Ld + Wd < λ0 / 2. By relatively extending the distance Wd, the distance Ld can be relatively shortened. As a result, the width of the U-shaped structure in the X-axis direction can be made, for example, less than λ0 / 2, and the length spacing of the horizontal portions 91 can be shortened.

[0086] Example 2

[0087] In Example 2, an example of using an H-shaped through hole is described. Figure 8 This is a top view illustrating the second component overlapping the first through hole of the first component in Embodiment 2. Figure 8 As shown, in Embodiment 2, a first through-hole 13a, a second through-hole 23a, and a third through-hole 24a, which are H-shaped when viewed from above in the Z-axis direction, are used. A plurality of first waveguide components 30 are arranged extending vertically between the first through-hole 13a and the second through-hole 23a or the third through-hole 24a. Other structures are the same as in Embodiment 1, and therefore descriptions are omitted.

[0088] [Variation Example]

[0089] Figure 9 This is a top view shown in a variation of Embodiment 2, where the second component overlaps the first through hole of the first component. (See attached image.) Figure 9 As shown, in a variation of Embodiment 2, a first through-hole 13a, which is H-shaped when viewed from above in the Z-axis direction, and a second through-hole 23 and a third through-hole 24, which are rectangular when viewed from above, are used. A plurality of first waveguide components 30 are arranged extending vertically between the first through-hole 13a and the second through-hole 23 or the third through-hole 24. Other structures are the same as in Embodiment 1, and therefore descriptions are omitted.

[0090] [Comparative Example]

[0091] Figure 10 This is a top view showing the second component overlapping the first through hole of the first component in Comparative Example 2. Figure 11 This is a top view showing the second component overlapping the first through hole of the first component in Comparative Example 3. Figure 10As shown, in Comparative Example 2, a plurality of third through holes 24a are provided at positions relative to the plurality of first through holes 13a on the -Y direction side, but no second through holes are provided relative to the plurality of first through holes 13a on the +Y direction side. Other structures are the same as in Example 1, so descriptions are omitted.

[0092] like Figure 11 As shown, in Comparative Example 3, a plurality of third through holes 24 are provided on the -Y direction side relative to the plurality of first through holes 13a, but no second through holes are provided on the +Y direction side relative to the plurality of first through holes 13a. Other structures are the same as in Example 1, so descriptions are omitted.

[0093] Even when using a through-hole that is H-shaped when viewed from above in the Z-axis direction, as shown in Comparative Examples 2 and 3, if only the third through-holes 24 and 24a located on the -Y direction side relative to the first through-hole 13a are provided, the multiple first waveguide components 30 are arranged close to each other, resulting in a decrease in the isolation between the waveguides of adjacent first waveguide components 30.

[0094] In contrast, as shown in Embodiment 2 and its variations, by employing a structure in which a second through hole 23, 23a is provided on the +Y direction side relative to the first through hole 13a, and a third through hole 24, 24a is provided on the -Y direction side, the reduction in the isolation between waveguides of the first waveguide component 30 can be suppressed in the same way as in Embodiment 1, even when using H-shaped through holes.

[0095] Additionally, when using an H-shaped through hole, such as by utilizing Figure 7 As explained in (b), the width of the through hole can be made less than λ0 / 2. That is, the width of the first through hole 13a, the second through hole 23a, and the third through hole 24a in the X-axis direction can be made less than λ0 / 2. In this case, as described above, due to the structural reasons of the power supply section that overlaps with the second through hole 23a and the third through hole 24a, the spacing between adjacent second through holes 23a and adjacent third through holes 24a is wider than the spacing between adjacent first through holes 13a. Therefore, in Comparative Example 2, as Figure 10 As shown, the region with multiple third through holes 24a has a larger X-axis dimension than the region with multiple first through holes 13a, resulting in a larger array antenna in the X-axis direction. In contrast, as in Embodiment 2... Figure 8 As shown, by adopting a structure in which a second through-hole 23a is provided on the +Y direction side relative to the first through-hole 13a and a third through-hole 24a is provided on the -Y direction side, the array antenna can be miniaturized in the X-axis direction in the same way as in Embodiment 1, even when using an H-shaped through-hole.

[0096] Example 3

[0097] Figure 12 is an exploded perspective view of the electromagnetic wave device of Example 3. Figure 13 is a plan view of the first member in Example 3. Figure 14 is a plan view of the second member in Example 3. Figure 15 (a) and (b) of are cross-sectional views of the array antenna in Example 3. Figure 15 (a) of is equivalent to Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of a portion between A-A of Figure 15 (b) of is equivalent to Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of a portion between B-B of

[0098] As shown in Figure 12 , the electromagnetic wave device 300 of Example 3 includes an array antenna 100a and integrated circuits 50a and 50b, for example, as a transceiving circuit, which are connected in cascade through a wiring 51. The array antenna 100a includes a first member 10a and a second member 20a. The integrated circuits 50a and 50b are disposed on the back face 22 side of the second member 20a. The integrated circuits 50a and 50b are electrically connected to a plurality of feeding portions 52 through a wiring 53. The integrated circuits 50a and 50b are, for example, MMICs (Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuits).

[0099] As shown in Figure 13 , the first member 10a has, in addition to a plurality of first through holes 13 arranged at equal intervals in the X-axis direction, a plurality of fourth through holes 14 arranged at equal intervals in the Y-axis direction on the side of the plurality of first through holes 13 in the X-axis direction. Here, the plurality of fourth through holes 14 can be arranged along the Y-axis as with the plurality of through holes 13 shown in Figure 23 . That is, in addition to the case where the plurality of fourth through holes 14 are arranged in the Y-axis direction, there can be a case where the plurality of fourth through holes 14 are arranged deviated from the Y-axis due to a processing error at the time of mass production or the like, a case where the plurality of fourth through holes 14 are intentionally arranged in a direction inclined several degrees from the Y-axis, and a case where the plurality of fourth through holes 14 are arranged in the Y-axis direction in a staggered (zigzag) manner in the X-axis direction. The fourth through holes 14, for example, pass through from the front face 11 to the back face 12 of the first member 10a. The plurality of fourth through holes 14 have the same shape and size as the plurality of first through holes 13.

[0100] As shown in Figure 14 , Figure 15As shown in (a) and (b) of FIG. 10, in the front surface 21 of the second member 20a, in addition to the plurality of first waveguide members 30, a plurality of second waveguide members 30a are provided. The second waveguide members 30a are of the same configuration as the first waveguide members 30. Therefore, the second waveguide members 30a have a second waveguide surface 31a of electrical conductivity opposite to the back surface 12 of the first member 10a, and a third gap 32a is formed between the second waveguide surface 31a and the back surface 12 of the first member 10a. Electromagnetic waves propagate in the third gap 32a.

[0101] Further, in the second member 20a, in addition to the plurality of second through holes 23 and the plurality of third through holes 24, a plurality of fifth through holes 25 and a plurality of sixth through holes 26 are provided. The fifth through holes 25 and the sixth through holes 26, for example, pass through from the front surface 21 to the back surface 22 of the second member 20a. The front end 33a of the second waveguide member 30a is adjacent to the fifth through hole 25 or the sixth through hole 26. The fifth through holes 25 and the sixth through holes 26 have inner side surfaces of electrical conductivity as with the second through holes 23 and the third through holes 24. Therefore, the fifth through holes 25 and the sixth through holes 26 function as waveguides for electromagnetic waves to propagate. Electromagnetic waves propagating in the third gap 32a on the second waveguide member 30a are supplied from or extracted to the lower side of the second member 20a via the fifth through hole 25 or the sixth through hole 26.

[0102] Figure 16 is a plan view illustrating the first member 10a and the second member 20a of the embodiment 3. As shown in (a) and (b) of FIG. 11, in the front surface 21 of the second member 20a, in addition to the plurality of first waveguide members 30, a plurality of second waveguide members 30a are provided. The second waveguide members 30a are of the same configuration as the first waveguide members 30. Therefore, the second waveguide members 30a have a second waveguide surface 31a of electrical conductivity opposite to the back surface 12 of the first member 10a, and a third gap 32a is formed between the second waveguide surface 31a and the back surface 12 of the first member 10a. Electromagnetic waves propagate in the third gap 32a. Figure 16 As shown, the plurality of fifth through holes 25 are provided on the side opposite to the imaginary line 15 on which the plurality of first through holes 13 are arranged, with respect to the plurality of second through holes 23. The plurality of sixth through holes 26 are provided on the side opposite to the imaginary line 15 on which the plurality of first through holes 13 are arranged, with respect to the plurality of third through holes 24. The plurality of fifth through holes 25 are arranged along the Y-axis direction, and the plurality of sixth through holes 26 are also arranged along the Y-axis direction. Since the fifth through holes 25 and the sixth through holes 26 function as waveguides, the length L in the length direction (Y-axis direction) of the fifth through holes 25 and the sixth through holes 26 is the half wavelength or more of the electromagnetic waves to propagate.

[0103] Each of the plurality of first waveguide components 30 has one end overlapping with the first through-hole 13 when viewed from above in the Z-axis direction, and the other end of each is adjacent to the second through-hole 23 or the third through-hole 24. Furthermore, each of the plurality of second waveguide components 30a has one end overlapping with the fourth through-hole 14, and the other end of each is adjacent to the fifth through-hole 25 or the sixth through-hole 26. Therefore, electromagnetic waves propagating in the third gap 32a on the plurality of second waveguide components 30a are radiated into or incident on the external space via the fourth through-hole 14. Thus, the fourth through-hole 14 functions as an antenna element (radiating element) for transmitting or receiving electromagnetic waves between itself and the external space, just like the first through-hole 13. In Embodiment 2, the case where the plurality of first through-holes 13 function as receiving antenna elements and the plurality of fourth through-holes 14 function as transmitting antenna elements will be described as an example. The first waveguide component 30 and the second waveguide component 30a both extend from a direction (Y-axis direction) orthogonal to the long side direction (X-axis direction) of the first through hole 13 and the fourth through hole 14, in a manner that overlaps with the first through hole 13 and the fourth through hole 14.

[0104] Furthermore, the multiple second waveguide components 30a are not limited to being disposed on the front side 21 of the second component 20, but can also be combined with... Figure 6 (b) is similarly disposed on the back surface 12 of the first component 10. In this case, one end of each of the plurality of second waveguide components 30a is adjacent to the fourth through hole 14, and the other end of each overlaps with the fifth through hole 25 or the sixth through hole 26. In addition, at least one of the first through hole 13, the second through hole 23, the third through hole 24, the fourth through hole 14, the fifth through hole 25 and the sixth through hole 26 is not limited to being rectangular in shape, but may also be […]. Figure 7 Examples of other shapes, such as the H-shape, shown in (a) to (d).

[0105] Multiple rods 40 are disposed not only around the first waveguide component 30, the second through-hole 23, and the third through-hole 24, but also around the second waveguide component 30a, the fifth through-hole 25, and the sixth through-hole 26. By disposing the rods 40 around the second waveguide component 30a, lateral leakage of electromagnetic waves propagating in the third gap 32a on the second waveguide component 30a can be suppressed. Furthermore, by disposing the rods 40 near the corners of the fifth through-hole 25 and the sixth through-hole 26, lateral leakage of electromagnetic waves into the fifth through-hole 25 and the sixth through-hole 26 can be suppressed.

[0106] Figure 17 This is a top view illustrating the second component, the overlay integrated circuit, in Embodiment 3. Figure 17In the diagram, to make the figure clearer, the integrated circuits 50a and 50b, wiring 51, power supply section 52, and wiring 53 located on the back side 22 of the second component 20 are marked with shaded lines. Figure 17 As shown, integrated circuit 50a is disposed on the side opposite to the imaginary line 15 arranged with respect to the plurality of second through holes 23. Integrated circuit 50b is disposed on the side opposite to the imaginary line 15 arranged with respect to the plurality of third through holes 24.

[0107] Integrated circuit 50a is electrically connected via wiring 53 to a plurality of power supply sections 52 that overlap with a plurality of second through holes 23 and a plurality of power supply sections 52 that overlap with a plurality of fifth through holes 25 when viewed from above in the Z-axis direction. Integrated circuit 50b is electrically connected via wiring 53 to a plurality of power supply sections 52 that overlap with a plurality of third through holes 24 and a plurality of sixth through holes 26 when viewed from above in the Z-axis direction.

[0108] Electromagnetic waves generated by integrated circuits 50a and 50b are supplied to the third gap 32a on the second waveguide component 30a via multiple fifth through-holes 25 and multiple sixth through-holes 26. After propagating in the third gap 32a, they are radiated into the external space through multiple fourth through-holes 14. Electromagnetic waves propagating in the external space are taken into the first gap 32 on the first waveguide component 30 via multiple first through-holes 13. After propagating in the first gap 32, they are sent to integrated circuits 50a and 50b via multiple second through-holes 23 and multiple third through-holes 24.

[0109] like Figure 16 As shown, the length directions of the first through-hole 13, which functions as a receiving antenna terminal, and the fourth through-hole 14, which functions as a transmitting antenna terminal, are both in the X-axis direction. Thus, by making the length directions of the first through-hole 13 and the fourth through-hole 14 the same, the polarization directions of the electromagnetic waves from the receiving antenna element and the transmitting antenna element can be aligned. Furthermore, as... Figure 17 As shown, the imaginary lines 15 arranged with multiple first through holes 13 are along the X-axis direction, while the imaginary lines 16 arranged with multiple fourth through holes 14 are along the Y-axis direction. This is to form an array antenna of the MIMO structure described later.

[0110] The array antenna 100a in Embodiment 3 is a MIMO (Multi-Input Multi-Output) array antenna in which a plurality of first through holes 13 functioning as antenna elements for reception are arranged along the X-axis direction and a plurality of fourth through holes 14 functioning as antenna elements for transmission are arranged along the Y-axis direction. In this case, an electromagnetic wave is radiated from one of the plurality of fourth through holes 14 and received by the plurality of first through holes 13, and then the process of radiating an electromagnetic wave from another of the plurality of fourth through holes 14 and receiving it by the plurality of first through holes 13 is repeated for all of the plurality of fourth through holes 14. Thus, a function equivalent to a MISO (Multi-input single output) can be obtained. The electromagnetic wave device 300 operates, for example, in an FM-CW (Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave) manner or an FCM (Fast-Chirp Modulation) manner or the like. The electromagnetic wave device 300 is, for example, a three-dimensional radar device capable of measuring a distance, an azimuth, and an elevation. The electromagnetic wave device 300 radiates, for example, a millimeter wave of 30 GHz or more and 300 GHz or less.

[0111] According to Embodiment 3, the array antenna 100a includes the first member 10a and the second member 20a. The first member 10a has a plurality of first through holes 13 arranged along the X-axis direction and a plurality of fourth through holes 14 arranged along the Y-axis direction. The second member 20a has a plurality of second through holes 23, a plurality of third through holes 24, a plurality of fifth through holes 25, and a plurality of sixth through holes 26. The plurality of second through holes 23 and the plurality of third through holes 24 are arranged on opposite sides with respect to the plurality of first through holes 13. The plurality of fifth through holes 25 are arranged on a side opposite to the plurality of first through holes 13 with respect to the plurality of second through holes 23, and the plurality of sixth through holes 26 are arranged on a side opposite to the plurality of first through holes 13 with respect to the plurality of third through holes 24. By arranging the second through holes 23 and the third through holes 24 that propagate an electromagnetic wave between the first through holes 13 via the first waveguide member 30 and the fifth through holes 25 and the sixth through holes 26 that propagate an electromagnetic wave between the fourth through holes 14 via the second waveguide member 30a in this way, the array antenna 100a can be miniaturized in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. In addition, the number of layers for constituting the array antenna 100a can be reduced.

[0112] Furthermore, in Embodiment 3, integrated circuit 50a is disposed on the side opposite to the plurality of first through holes 13 relative to the plurality of second through holes 23, and connected to the plurality of power supply sections 52 overlapping with the plurality of second through holes 23. Integrated circuit 50b is disposed on the side opposite to the plurality of first through holes 13 relative to the plurality of third through holes 24, and connected to the plurality of power supply sections 52 overlapping with the plurality of third through holes 24. This shortens the wiring 53 connecting integrated circuits 50a, 50b, and power supply sections 52. Therefore, the complexity of wiring 53 can be suppressed.

[0113] Furthermore, in embodiment 3, the length directions of the plurality of first through holes 13 and the plurality of fourth through holes 14 are all in the X-axis direction. In this way, by making the length directions of the first through holes 13 and the fourth through holes 14 the same, the polarization of electromagnetic waves can be made consistent in the first through holes 13 and the fourth through holes 14.

[0114] In Example 3, as Figure 13 As shown, the example is provided with a plurality of first through holes 13 arranged in the X-axis direction located on the side of the center portion of a plurality of fourth through holes 14 arranged in the Y-axis direction, but the case is not limited to this case. Figure 18 (a) to Figure 19 (b) is a top view showing another configuration example of the first through hole and the fourth through hole. For example... Figure 18 As shown in (a), the plurality of fourth through holes 14 may also be arranged obliquely along the Y-axis direction at an angle of 45° or more but less than 90° relative to the X-axis direction in which the plurality of first through holes 13 are arranged. For example, the plurality of fourth through holes 14 may be obliquely inclined at approximately 60° or approximately 80° relative to the X-axis direction. By adjusting the angle between the arrangement direction of the plurality of first through holes 13 and the arrangement direction of the plurality of fourth through holes 14, the hypothetical shape of the array antenna for MIMO processing based on the array antenna can be changed. Thus, an array antenna suitable for various applications can be constructed.

[0115] like Figure 18 As shown in (b), a plurality of first through holes 13 arranged along the X-axis can also be provided on the side of one end of a plurality of fourth through holes 14 arranged along the Y-axis direction. Figure 19 As shown in (a), alternatively, a plurality of first through holes 13 arranged along the X-axis can be provided on the sides of both ends of a plurality of fourth through holes 14 arranged along the Y-axis direction. Figure 19 As shown in (b), it is also possible to provide a plurality of first through holes 13 arranged in the X-axis direction between the two ends of a plurality of fourth through holes 14 arranged in the Y-axis direction, spaced apart in the X-axis direction.

[0116] Example 4

[0117] Figure 20 is a schematic view of the monitoring system of Example 4. As shown in Figure 20 Example 4, the monitoring system 400 is configured such that the electromagnetic wave device 300 of Example 3 is disposed above the ground 70 via the support body 71. The electromagnetic wave device 300 is, for example, a radar device that radiates millimeter waves. The millimeter waves are radiated obliquely downward from the electromagnetic wave device 300 toward the monitoring area 72. The monitoring area 72 is, for example, set in advance in the storage section of the electromagnetic wave device 300.

[0118] The reflector 75 is attached to the heavy machine 73 and the worker 74. For example, the reflector 75 is attached in the vicinity of the cab of the heavy machine 73. For example, the reflector 75 is attached to the vest worn by the worker 74. The reflector 75 is formed of a material having a large reflection intensity of the millimeter waves radiated from the electromagnetic wave device 300, such as a metal body or a thin film body of copper or the like having a surface on which a concave-convex is less implemented by polishing or the like. Further, the reflector 75 attached to the heavy machine 73 can be attached to a position other than the vicinity of the cab, such as an attachment (accessory) in the case of a shovel. The reflector 75 attached to the worker 74 can be attached to a position other than the vest, such as a helmet, gloves, a belt, trousers, shoes, a mask, or glasses.

[0119] Figure 21 is a block diagram of the monitoring system of Example 4. As shown in Figure 21 Example 4, the monitoring system 400 includes the electromagnetic wave device 300 of Example 3, a processing device 60 electrically connected to the electromagnetic wave device 300, and a reporting section 63 and a forced stop section 64 electrically connected to the processing device 60. The processing device 60 includes a processing circuit 61 and a storage section 62. The electromagnetic wave device 300 and the processing device 60 can be connected by wire or wirelessly. Similarly, the processing device 60 and the reporting section 63 and the forced stop section 64 can be connected by wire or wirelessly.

[0120] As shown in Figure 20 and Figure 21As shown, the electromagnetic wave device 300 irradiates the millimeter wave 76 toward the monitoring area 72. In a case where the heavy machine 73 including the reflector 75 and the worker 74 are present within the monitoring area 72, the millimeter wave 76 is irradiated to the reflector 75 of the heavy machine 73 and the worker 74. The electromagnetic wave device 300 receives the millimeter wave 77 reflected by the reflector 75. The processing circuit 61 of the processing device 60 acquires a reception signal of the millimeter wave 77 from the electromagnetic wave device 300, and detects a prescribed information based on the acquired reception signal. For example, the processing circuit 61 detects information on the positions of the heavy machine 73 and the worker 74. The electromagnetic wave device 300 irradiates the millimeter wave 76 toward the monitoring area 72 obliquely downward, receives the millimeter wave 77 reflected by the reflector 75 obliquely upward, and thus the processing circuit 61, for example, calculates the positions of the heavy machine 73 and the worker 74 in a plane coordinate, detects the distance between the heavy machine 73 and the worker 74.

[0121] In order to be able to distinguish the millimeter wave 77 reflected by the reflector 75 of the heavy machine 73 and the millimeter wave 77 reflected by the reflector 75 of the worker 74, it is also possible to make the reflection intensity different by making the materials and / or sizes of the respective reflectors 75 different. As an example, it is possible to make the reflection intensity of the reflector 75 of the heavy machine 73 larger than the reflection intensity of the reflector 75 of the worker 74. In addition, it is also possible to install a plurality of reflectors 75 to the worker 74, and install a plurality of reflectors 75 to the heavy machine 73 at a larger interval than the reflectors 75 installed to the worker 74, whereby it is possible to distinguish the millimeter wave 77 reflected by the reflector 75 of the heavy machine 73 and the millimeter wave 77 reflected by the reflector 75 of the worker 74.

[0122] The processing circuit 61, in a case where the distance between the heavy machine 73 and the worker 74 becomes a prescribed distance or less stored in advance in the storage section 62, issues an instruction to the reporting section 63 to report a visual and / or audible alarm, or issues an instruction to the forced stop section 64 to forcibly stop the heavy machine 73 by remote operation.

[0123] Figure 22 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the processing circuit in Embodiment 4. As shown, the processing circuit 61 acquires a reception signal of the millimeter wave 77 from the electromagnetic wave device 300, and detects a prescribed information based on the acquired reception signal (step S101). For example, the processing circuit 61 detects information on the positions of the heavy machine 73 and the worker 74. Figure 22As shown, the processing circuit 61 acquires a reception signal of the millimeter wave 77 reflected by the reflector 75 of the heavy machine 73 and the worker 74 from the electromagnetic wave device 300 (step S10). Next, the processing circuit 61 detects information on the positions of the heavy machine 73 and the worker 74 based on the reception signal acquired in step S10 (step S12). Next, the processing circuit 61 determines whether the distance between the heavy machine 73 and the worker 74 is below a prescribed distance stored in the storage section 62 according to the information detected in step S12 (step S14). In the case where it is not below the prescribed distance (step S14: No), the process returns to step S10. On the other hand, in the case where it is below the prescribed distance (step S14: Yes), the processing circuit 61 instructs the reporting section 63 and / or the forced stop section 64 to perform a report of a danger and / or a forced stop of the heavy machine 73 (step S16).

[0124] As described above, according to Embodiment 4, the processing device 60 acquires a reception signal of the millimeter wave 77 reflected by the reflector 75 of the heavy machine 73 and the worker 74 provided within the monitoring region 72 from the electromagnetic wave device 300. Also, information on the positions of the heavy machine 73 and the worker 74 is detected based on the acquired reception signal of the millimeter wave 77. Since the monitoring system using the electromagnetic wave device 300 is less likely to be affected by weather and the like, information on the positions of the heavy machine 73 and the worker 74 can be detected even in the case where smoke, fog, or the like is generated in the monitoring region 72, for example. Thus, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of an accident in which the worker 74 is involved in the heavy machine 73 or the like.

[0125] The embodiments of the present application have been described above, but the present application is not limited to the above specific embodiments, and various modifications and changes can be made within the scope of the gist of the present application described in the summary of the application.

[0126] Explanation of Reference Signs

[0127] 10, 10a … first member, 11 … front surface, 12 … back surface, 13 … first through-hole, 14 … fourth through-hole, 20, 20a … second member, 21 … front surface, 22 … back surface, 23 … second through-hole, 24 … third through-hole, 25 … fifth through-hole, 26 … sixth through-hole, 30 … first waveguide member, 30a … second waveguide member, 31 … first waveguide surface, 31a … second waveguide surface, 32 … first gap, 32a … third gap, 33, 33a … front end, 40 … rod, 41 … second gap, 50a, 50b … integrated circuit, 51 … wiring, 52 … feeding portion, 53 … wiring, 60 … processing device, 61 … processing circuit, 62 … storage portion, 63 … reporting portion, 64 … forced stop portion, 65 … photographing portion, 70 … ground, 71 … support body, 72 … monitoring area, 73 … heavy machine, 74 … operator, 75 … reflector, 76 … millimeter wave, 77 … millimeter wave, 90 … longitudinal portion, 91 … transverse portion, 100, 100a … array antenna, 300 … electromagnetic wave device, 400 … monitoring system.

Claims

1. An array antenna, characterized in that, include: A first component having a conductive surface, wherein a first direction, a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, and a third direction orthogonal to both the first and second directions are defined, the first component has a plurality of first through holes arranged along the first direction; A second component having a conductive surface, which is disposed overlapping the first component when viewed from above by the third party, has a plurality of second through holes disposed on one side relative to the plurality of first through holes in the second direction and a plurality of third through holes disposed on the other side. A plurality of ridge-shaped first waveguide components having conductive surfaces are in contact with one of the first surface of the first component opposite to the second component and the second surface of the second component opposite to the first component, forming a first gap between the first waveguide component and the other to form a waveguide. One end of each first waveguide component is fed by the plurality of second through holes or the plurality of third through holes and the other end is fed to the plurality of first through holes, or one end of each first waveguide component is fed by the plurality of first through holes and the other end is fed to the plurality of second through holes or the plurality of third through holes. and A plurality of rods having conductive surfaces are disposed around the plurality of first waveguide components, contacting one of the first and second surfaces and extending to the other surface, forming a second gap between the rods and the other surface.

2. The array antenna according to claim 1, characterized in that: The plurality of first waveguide components extend alternately to opposite sides from the plurality of first through holes in the second direction relative to the plurality of first through holes.

3. The array antenna according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The plurality of second through holes and the plurality of third through holes are arranged along the first direction. The spacing between the plurality of second through holes and the plurality of third through holes in the first direction is wider than the spacing between the plurality of first through holes in the first direction.

4. The array antenna according to claim 3, characterized in that: The plurality of second through holes and the plurality of third through holes are rectangular in shape when viewed from above.

5. The array antenna according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: When the free space wavelength of the center frequency of the frequency band is set to λ0, the length of the plurality of first through holes, the plurality of second through holes and / or the plurality of third through holes in the first direction is shorter than λ0 / 2.

6. The array antenna according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: At least one of the plurality of first waveguide components extends straight between the plurality of first through holes and the plurality of second through holes or the plurality of third through holes.

7. The array antenna according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: At least one of the plurality of first waveguide components extends in a curved manner between the plurality of first through holes and the plurality of second through holes or the plurality of third through holes.

8. The array antenna according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The plurality of first through holes are antenna elements that transmit electromagnetic waves to or receive electromagnetic waves from external space.

9. The array antenna according to claim 7, characterized in that: The plurality of first waveguide components are disposed on the second surface of the second component, forming the first gap between the first waveguide components and the first surface of the first component. The plurality of rods contact the second surface of the second component and extend toward the first surface of the first component, forming a second gap between the rods and the first surface.

10. The array antenna according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: It includes a plurality of ridged second waveguide components with conductive surfaces, which contact one of the first and second surfaces to form a third gap that serves as a waveguide between the second waveguide component and the other. The plurality of rods are disposed around each of the plurality of second waveguide components. The first component has a plurality of fourth through holes arranged along a fourth direction intersecting the first direction. The second component has multiple fifth through holes and multiple sixth through holes. Each of the plurality of second waveguide components has one end fed by the plurality of fifth through holes or the plurality of sixth through holes and the other end fed to the plurality of fourth through holes, or each of the plurality of second waveguide components has one end fed by the plurality of fourth through holes and the other end fed to the plurality of fifth through holes or the plurality of sixth through holes.

11. The array antenna according to claim 10, characterized in that: The plurality of fifth through holes are disposed on the opposite side of the plurality of second through holes relative to the plurality of first through holes, and the plurality of sixth through holes are disposed on the opposite side of the plurality of third through holes relative to the plurality of first through holes.

12. An electromagnetic wave device, characterized in that, include: The array antenna as described in claim 1 or 2; and An integrated circuit connected to the array antenna.

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