Multi-beam antenna and communication device

Abstract

The invention provides a multi-beam antenna and a communication device, and the main body of the multi-beam antenna comprises a leaky-wave radiation layer, a double-mirror-image reflection ring and a quasi-optical multi-beam network, and is of a stacked structure. The leaky-wave radiation layer comprises a radiation array plane, and the radiation array plane comprises a radiator array; the quasi-optical multi-beam network comprises a feed structure, and the feed structure comprises a feed port array and is used for carrying out peripheral feed on the leaky wave radiation layer; wherein the feed port array responds to an excitation signal to generate a radial wave, the radial wave forms a traveling wave field through the double mirror reflection rings, the traveling wave field is reflected to the radiator array, and peripheral feed is carried out on the leaky wave radiation layer; and the radiator array responds to leaky wave radiation of a plurality of phase differences of the traveling wave field, and generates and emits radiation beams with different directions to the outside. The low profile and small envelope volume are achieved while radiation beams in different directions are generated, multiple beams for two-dimensional space scanning are directly generated through a multi-phase difference leaky wave radiation mechanism, and the design complexity is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the technical field of communication antennas, and in particular to a multi-beam antenna and a communication device. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of communication antenna technology, the demand for multi-target tracking, high-speed data transmission and coverage of complex environments in wireless communication is constantly increasing. Multi-beam antenna technology has been widely used in mobile communication, satellite communication and radar fields because of its advantage of being able to generate multiple high-gain directional beams at the same time.

[0003] Currently, the mainstream solution for achieving two-dimensional multi-beam coverage mainly adopts two-dimensional cascaded quasi-optical multi-beam networks, such as cascaded Rotman lenses or Pillbox structures. The principle is that the first-level network controls the beam pointing in one dimension (such as horizontal), and the second-level network controls the beam pointing in another dimension (such as vertical), ultimately driving the planar array to radiate and form a two-dimensional scanning multi-beam.

[0004] However, since the secondary networks need to be physically stacked independently, the profile of the multi-beam antenna increases significantly. Its structure relies on cascaded design, which makes the architecture complex and the volume envelope large, making it difficult to meet the application scenarios with low profile and small envelope. Secondly, the impedance matching, phase synchronization and mutual coupling effects between the secondary networks need to be precisely designed, which makes the manufacturing tolerance requirements extremely strict, significantly increasing the design complexity of the multi-beam antenna. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a multi-beam antenna that, while generating radiation beams with different directions, effectively compresses the physical stacking space required by traditional two-dimensional cascaded networks, achieves a low-profile structure, reduces the envelope volume, and directly generates two-dimensional spatial scanning multi-beams through the multi-phase difference leakage radiation mechanism of traveling wave field, thereby reducing design complexity.

[0006] According to one aspect of the embodiments of this application, a multi-beam antenna is provided. The main body of the multi-beam antenna includes a stacked structure of a leaky radiating layer, a dual mirror reflection ring, and a quasi-optical multi-beam network. The leaky radiation layer includes a radiation array, and the radiation array includes a radiation body array; The quasi-optical multi-beam network includes a feeding structure, which includes a feeding port array. The feed port array generates radial waves in response to the excitation signal. The radial waves are reflected to the radiator array through the double mirror reflection ring to form a traveling wave field, which feeds the leakage radiation layer from the outside. The radiator array generates and emits radiation beams with different directions in response to the leakage radiation of the traveling wave field with multiple phase differences.

[0007] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this application, a communication device is provided, including the multi-beam antenna described above, and a radio frequency front-end module; The RF front-end module is electrically connected to the feed port array of the multi-beam antenna, and is used to provide excitation signals to the feed port array and process the RF signals received by the multi-beam antenna. The radio frequency front-end module includes at least one of a power amplifier, a low-noise amplifier, a filter, a mixer, and a baseband processor.

[0008] This application provides a multi-beam antenna in which a dual-mirror reflection ring double-reflects radial waves generated in a quasi-optical multi-beam network to form a traveling wave field, which is then coupled to a radiator array. This field provides peripheral feeding to the leaky wave radiation layer. While generating radiation beams with different directions, this effectively compresses the physical stacking space required by traditional two-dimensional cascaded networks, significantly reducing the profile height of the multi-beam antenna and achieving a low-profile structure, thus reducing the envelope volume. The radiator array directly generates two-dimensional spatial scanning multi-beams through the multi-phase difference leaky wave radiation mechanism of the traveling wave field, reducing design complexity. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a multi-beam antenna; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a multi-beam antenna provided in one embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the working principle of a multi-beam antenna according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of parallel feeding and peripheral feeding in the radiating array; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a radiator array in a multi-beam antenna according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the upper surface of the main body of a multi-beam antenna according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the feeding and excitation of a feed port array to generate a radiation beam according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the connection between a quasi-optical multi-beam network layer and a leaky radiation layer for radial wave propagation direction reflection provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the lower surface of the main body of a multi-beam antenna provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a quasi-optical multi-beam network for a multi-beam antenna provided in one embodiment of this application; Figure 11This is a schematic diagram of the antenna polarization pointer change of a multi-beam antenna according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 12 This is a beam coverage diagram of a multi-beam antenna provided in one embodiment of this application; Figure 13 This is a front view of the structure of a multi-beam antenna provided in one embodiment of this application; Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the back of a multi-beam antenna according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 15 This is an exploded view of the structure of a multi-beam antenna provided in one embodiment of this application; Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a multi-beam antenna provided in one embodiment of this application; Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0010] Figure label: Communication device-0; Multi-beam antenna-1; Radio frequency front-end module-2; Main body -10; Upper fixing plate -11; Lower fixing plate -12; Leaking wave radiation layer-100; Dual mirror reflection ring-101; Quasi-optical multi-beam network-102; Radiation array -1000, radiator -1001; upper mirror reflection ring -1010; lower mirror reflection ring -1011; feed structure -1020; feed port -1021; Radial via-110; Connector mounting interface-120; Connector-121. Detailed Implementation

[0011] Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a full understanding of this application. However, this application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar extensions without departing from the spirit of this application; therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0012] The terminology used in one or more embodiments of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of the one or more embodiments of this application. The singular forms “a,” “the,” and “the” used in one or more embodiments of this application and the appended claims are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the term “and / or” used in one or more embodiments of this application refers to and includes any or all possible combinations of one or more associated listed items. The term “at least one” in one or more embodiments of this application means “one or more,” and “a plurality of” means “two or more.” The term “comprising” is an open-ended description and should be understood as “including but not limiting,” and may include other content in addition to what has been described.

[0013] It should be understood that although the terms "first," "second," etc., may be used to describe various information in one or more embodiments of this application, such information should not be limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish information of the same type from one another. For example, "first" may also be referred to as "second" without departing from the scope of one or more embodiments of this application, and similarly, "second" may also be referred to as "first." Depending on the context, the word "if," as used herein, may be interpreted as "when," "in response to a determination," or "when," or "in the event of a determination."

[0014] First, the terms and concepts involved in one or more embodiments of this application will be explained.

[0015] Butler matrix: A passive beamforming network based on phase shifters and directional couplers, which generates multiple fixed-direction beams by controlling the excitation phase of each element of the array antenna through a fixed phase difference.

[0016] Blass matrix: A beamforming network consisting of serpentine transmission lines and couplers, which achieves phase control through path difference and supports continuous beam scanning.

[0017] Pillbox structure: A quasi-optical multi-beam antenna based on a parabolic reflector, where a feed array illuminates the parabola to generate a parallel beam. It has a simple structure and low loss, but only supports one-dimensional coverage.

[0018] SMP connector: Push-in millimeter-wave connector, operating at frequencies up to 40GHz, supports hot-plugging.

[0019] SSMA connector: Threaded coaxial interface, operating frequency up to 36GHz. It offers better mechanical stability than SMP, but is larger in size.

[0020] Power amplifier: Used to increase the power of transmitted signals.

[0021] Low-noise amplifier: Used to amplify received signals and suppress noise.

[0022] Filter: Cavity / ceramic bandpass filter, used to suppress out-of-band interference.

[0023] Mixer: Used for converting radio frequency (RF) and intermediate frequency (IF) signals.

[0024] Baseband processor: used for signal encoding and decoding, dynamic switching of power supply ports to achieve beam control, and support for multi-channel parallel processing.

[0025] A multi-beam antenna is an antenna type and technology that generates multiple beams within a single antenna. In engineering, it is used to generate multiple shaped radiating beams to simultaneously cover a specific airspace. It generates multiple independently pointing radiating beams at different scanning angles, and each radiating beam can achieve high gain. A multi-beam antenna is an antenna system capable of pointing simultaneously in multiple directions or areas, achieving independent transmission and reception to multiple targets by using multiple transmitting and receiving units. This antenna system can effectively improve the performance and flexibility of communication systems and is suitable for complex communication environments and requirements.

[0026] Multi-beam antennas can generate multiple concurrent and independent directional radiation beams with high gain to cover a predetermined angular range. Multi-beam technology provides a solution to overcome the technical limitations of the constraint between beamwidth and antenna gain in single-beam antennas, achieving wide angular coverage while maintaining high antenna gain. Multi-beam antennas can improve the capacity, coverage, and anti-interference capabilities of wireless communication systems and are widely used in mobile communications, satellite communications, radar systems, and other fields.

[0027] In mobile communication systems, multi-beam antennas are widely used in communication between base stations and user equipment, improving communication coverage and system capacity. Multi-beam antennas can also effectively suppress multipath interference, improving communication quality.

[0028] In satellite communication systems, multi-beam antennas are used for communication links between satellites and ground stations or users, as well as between satellites, improving the spectral efficiency and data transmission rate of the communication system. Multi-beam technology also provides more flexible communication connection options.

[0029] In radar systems, multi-beam antennas can be used to track multiple targets, suppress interference, and improve radar system performance. Multi-beam technology enables radar systems to monitor multiple areas simultaneously, improving the accuracy of target identification and tracking.

[0030] Common multibeam antennas come in three basic forms: reflector type, lens type, and phased array type.

[0031] A reflector-type multibeam antenna is a quasi-optical element with a continuous aperture based on a reflector, with the feed located near the focal point of the reflector. By exciting the feed at different positions, reflected beams pointing at different angles can be generated.

[0032] A typical lens-based multi-beam antenna has a continuous aperture, with one side of the lens receiving the input wave emitted from the feed and the other side serving as the radiation aperture. Similar to reflector antennas, the radiating beams of a lens-based multi-beam antenna are directed at different angles, with different feed positions corresponding to different radiating beam directions. The advantages of multi-beam lens antennas lie in their greater design flexibility compared to reflector antennas. They offer greater design freedom, better rotational symmetry, and superior optical characteristics, while avoiding aperture obstruction. Disadvantages include higher weight and higher losses in low-frequency applications. Beamforming networks are a common method that allows for complete integration with antenna arrays onto a single substrate. The phase distribution of the linear antenna array required to achieve radiating beams directed at different angles is obtained through phase-shift transmission lines and directional couplers.

[0033] Phased array multi-beam antennas utilize multi-input multi-output (MIMO) beamforming networks to generate different antenna array phase distributions to form multiple beams. Examples include Butler matrices and Blass matrices.

[0034] In lens-type and reflector-type multibeam antennas, the lenses or reflectors have curved structures and employ three-dimensional spatial feeding methods, resulting in a large overall structural envelope. The higher the antenna gain, the larger the required structural envelope and profile. Phased array multibeam antennas, on the other hand, achieve beam performance through the application of multibeam networks. However, the number of beams is related to the complexity of the multibeam network; increasing the number of beams often leads to extremely complex design and manufacturing of the multibeam network, resulting in higher costs. Multibeam networks typically contain multiple well-isolated input ports, each connected to a transceiver to generate a high-gain radiation beam in a fixed direction. The design of the multibeam network is crucial to the performance of the antenna system. However, the design of multibeam networks is complex, requiring consideration of various factors such as impedance matching, power distribution, and phase control to ensure the stability and efficiency of signal transmission.

[0035] To simplify multi-beam network structures and meet the needs of efficient large-scale beam production, a quasi-optical approach can be adopted in the multi-beam network, using Rotman lenses or pillboxes to generate multi-beam excitation. This method allows the multi-beam network to be constructed in a planar circuit structure, achieving multi-beam formation through cascading with an array antenna, with each radiating beam corresponding to a feed port (excitation port). However, Rotman lenses and pillbox structures can be viewed as planar lenses and parabolic reflectors, and their number of beams and beam scanning range are limited by phase aberration caused by changes in the feed position. Furthermore, this type of structure can only achieve one-dimensional multi-beam coverage; achieving two-dimensional multi-beam coverage requires cascading two-dimensional networks. Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a multi-beam antenna structure is shown below: A two-dimensional cascaded Rotman lens network is employed to achieve two-dimensional multi-beam coverage through two-stage beamforming networks in the horizontal and vertical directions. The first-stage network generates multi-beams in the horizontal dimension, and its output port is connected to the input port of the second-stage network. The second-stage network superimposes beam control in the vertical dimension on this basis, and finally forms a spatial two-dimensional scanning multi-beam through radiation by a planar array antenna.

[0036] The multi-beam antenna structure resulting from the cascaded two-dimensional networks described above requires each network stage to be physically stacked independently, increasing the antenna system thickness and making it difficult to meet the requirements of low-profile applications. This leads to an increase in the envelope volume and profile of the multi-beam antenna. Furthermore, the impedance matching, phase synchronization, and mutual coupling effects of the second-level networks require precise design, resulting in stringent manufacturing tolerances and high design complexity for cascaded two-level networks.

[0037] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides a multi-beam antenna that, while generating radiation beams with different directions, effectively compresses the physical stacking space required by traditional two-dimensional cascaded networks, achieves a low-profile structure, reduces the envelope volume, and directly generates two-dimensional spatial scanning multi-beams through the multi-phase difference leakage radiation mechanism of traveling wave fields, thereby reducing design complexity.

[0038] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a multi-beam antenna provided in an embodiment of this application. The main body 10 of the multi-beam antenna 1 includes a stacked structure of a leaky radiation layer 100, a dual mirror reflection ring 101, and a quasi-optical multi-beam network 102. The leaky radiation layer 100 includes a radiation array 1000, which includes an array of radiators 1001. The quasi-optical multi-beam network 102 includes a feeding structure 1020, which includes an array of feeding ports 1021. The feed port 1021 array generates a radial wave in response to the excitation signal. The radial wave is reflected to the radiator 1001 array through the double mirror reflection ring 101 to form a traveling wave field, which feeds the leakage wave radiation layer 100 from the outside. The radiator 1001 array generates and emits radiation beams with different directions in response to the leakage wave radiation of multiple phase differences in the traveling wave field.

[0039] The multi-beam antenna 1 is a composite antenna structure that achieves two-dimensional spatial scanning through the coordinated action of a quasi-optical multi-beam network 102 and a dual mirror reflection ring 101. The main body 10 is composed of a leaky radiation layer 100, a dual mirror reflection ring 101, and a quasi-optical multi-beam network 102 stacked together, generating an independently controllable high-gain beam through a multi-phase difference leaky radiation mechanism. For example, a low-profile multi-beam antenna 1 in a certain Ka-band (19~20GHz).

[0040] The main body 10 is the core functional module integration of the multi-beam antenna 1. The main body 10 includes a three-layer stacked structure, from top to bottom: a leaky radiating layer 100 (radiating end), a dual mirror reflection ring 101 (beam control end), and a quasi-optical multi-beam network 102 (feeding end). For example, the main body 10 is made of a high dielectric constant material with a dielectric constant of 4.3. The main body is disk-shaped with a diameter of 270 mm and a structural height of 6.75 mm.

[0041] The leaky wave radiation layer 100 is a planar waveguide structure layer containing an array of radiators 1001. The leaky wave radiation layer 100 couples the traveling wave field energy into free space through the leaky wave effect, and its radiation phase difference is modulated by the reflection path of the double mirror reflection ring 101.

[0042] The dual-mirror reflection ring 101 is a ring-shaped quasi-optical device with dual reflective surfaces. The dual-mirror reflection ring 101 directionally couples the radial wave generated by the quasi-optical multi-beam network 102 to the leaky radiation layer 100 after two reflections. The dual-mirror reflection ring 101, employing the periscope principle, reverses the propagation direction of the electromagnetic wave through two mirror reflections, converting the incident wave from the feed port 1021 array into a quasi-planar traveling wave, thus achieving precise beam pointing control. For example, if the incident wave is a spherical wave, the dual-mirror reflection ring 101, being a C-shaped ring transmission medium with concentric rings, can convert the spherical wave into a quasi-planar traveling wave. As another example, if the incident wave is a spherical wave, the dual-mirror reflection ring 101, being a dielectric-filled hyperboloidal reflection ring, can convert the spherical wave into a quasi-planar traveling wave.

[0043] The quasi-optical multibeam network 102 is a planar multibeamforming network structure based on the principle of spherical quasi-optics. The quasi-optical multibeam network 102 excites radial waves with a specific phase relationship through an array of feed ports 1021, replacing the traditional two-dimensional cascaded network structure. The quasi-optical multibeam network 102 can be a planar multibeamforming network structure based on the principle of spherical quasi-optical reflection, a gradient refractive index medium lens, or a stripline-waveguide hybrid feed network; no limitation is made here. For example, a ring with a radius of 65 mm.

[0044] Optionally, the leaky radiation layer 100, the dual mirror reflection ring 101, and the quasi-optical multi-beam network 102 may use transmission media with the same electrical parameters.

[0045] The radiating surface 1000 is the functional plane in the leaky radiating layer 100 that carries the array of radiators 1001. The geometry of the radiating surface 1000 determines the antenna gain, and the array arrangement affects the beam sidelobe level.

[0046] The radiator 1001 is a resonant unit that achieves leakage wave radiation by converting the excitation signal into spatial electromagnetic radiation. The radiator 1001 couples with the traveling wave field through the leakage wave effect. The geometric configuration of the radiator 1001 determines the polarization characteristics and operating bandwidth of the radiation field. For example, a double-ring slit radiator 1001 operates in the Ka band with a single unit outer dimension of 2.5mm × 2.5mm. The double-ring slit is used as the leakage wave structure of the radiator 1001. By changing the propagation direction of the traveling wave field with quasi-planar traveling wave characteristics, the radiation polarization is altered, allowing different beam polarizations at different wave positions.

[0047] The radiator 1001 array is a collection of radiators 1001 arranged in a specific spatial pattern. The array size is positively correlated with the beam resolution. The radiator 1001 array achieves electromagnetic coupling with the traveling wave field through a periodic structural design. The radiators 1001 are excited to generate radiation beams with different directions. For example, a radiator 1001 array with 111 radiators 1001 arranged at equal intervals in a rectangular grid has an array spacing of 7.34 mm.

[0048] The power supply structure 1020 is a functional structure for the transmission and distribution of excitation electromagnetic energy in the quasi-optical multi-beam network 102.

[0049] The feed port 1021 is the electromagnetic coupling interface for injecting the excitation signal into the quasi-optical multi-beam network 102. Each feed port 1021 corresponds to the excitation signal input point of a specific beam. The arrangement of the feed ports 1021 is in a preset relationship with the emission angle of the leaky wave radiation to generate the required multiple beams.

[0050] The feed port 1021 array is a collection of feed ports 1021 arranged in a specific spatial pattern. The feed port 1021 array can be fed in parallel or externally, and there is no limitation here. For example, 60 feed ports 1021 arranged in a ring are used as the feed structure, arranged on a ring with a radius of 65mm, in a flared trumpet shape.

[0051] The excitation signal is a radio frequency signal injected through the feed port 1021. The frequency and phase relationship of the excitation signal are controlled by the quasi-optical multi-beam network 102 to form the original excitation source for multi-beam radiation.

[0052] Radial waves are non-resonant electromagnetic wave modes propagating in the quasi-optical multi-beam network 102. Radial waves have an excitation field with a specific phase gradient and propagate with low loss in the transmission medium. For example, a TE10 mode waveguide traveling wave propagating on a dielectric substrate with a dielectric constant of 4.3.

[0053] The traveling wave field of a radial wave is a traveling wave field mode that propagates in the radial direction. Energy is transmitted in a continuous non-resonant manner, and beam direction control is achieved through a specific phase gradient. In the transmission medium, the radial wave exhibits continuous outward radiation of energy rather than resident resonance, avoiding energy localization loss. The wavefront shows a linear phase change along the propagation path, forming a controllable beam direction.

[0054] Multiple phase differences are the relative phase offsets of the traveling wave fields received by each radiator 1001 in the radiator 1001 array.

[0055] The leakage wave radiation with multiple phase differences is the physical mechanism by which the radiator array 1001 generates spatial radiation by periodically perturbing the traveling wave field of the radial wave. The phase difference distribution causes the leakage wave energy to coherently superimpose at a preset angle, generating radiation beams with different directions.

[0056] Different directions are the angular coordinates of the main lobe extrema of each radiation beam in space. The direction of each radiation beam is uniquely determined by the phase distribution excited by a specific feed port 1021. For example, the beam direction excited by feed port P1 is (θ=10°, φ=0°), and the beam direction excited by feed port P2 is (θ=25°, φ=0°).

[0057] Different directional radiation beams are mutually isolated directional radiation beams generated through specific feed ports. For example, each radiation beam has a 3dB beamwidth greater than 5°, approximately 7°, and usually less than 10°, with an isolation of >20dB, and can simultaneously cover different airspaces.

[0058] In response to the excitation signal, a radial wave is generated. One possible approach is to synchronously inject the excitation signal through multiple feed ports 1021 to generate the radial wave. Another possible approach is to couple the excitation signal to the radial wave propagation path in the dielectric substrate through an electromagnetic coupler to generate the radial wave. Here, the electromagnetic coupler is a device used to couple energy from a source to a propagation path, and it is coupled through an electric field or a magnetic field, which is not limited here.

[0059] The traveling wave field formed by the double mirror reflection ring 101 is reflected to the radiator 1001 array. One possible method is that the incident spherical radial wave is converted into a quasi-planar traveling wave after being reflected by the hyperboloid of the double mirror reflection ring 101. The traveling wave field propagates to the radiator 1001 array at a specific angle, and the phase shift is controlled by the reflection path difference. Another possible method is to use the concentric ring structure of the double mirror reflection ring 101 to guide the electromagnetic wave through two mirror reflections to achieve beam path reversal and phase control, and finally couple it to the radiator 1001 array. No limitation is made here.

[0060] In response to the leakage wave radiation of multiple phase differences in the traveling wave field after radial wave reflection conversion, radiation beams with different directions are generated. One possible approach is that the radiator 1001 array perturbs the traveling wave field through a periodic slot structure, and the radiators 1001 at different positions introduce phase differences, which are coherently superimposed at a preset angle to form radiation beams with different directions. Another possible approach is that the phase gradient of the traveling wave field corresponds to the relative position of the radiator 1001 array, causing the leakage wave radiation to coherently form radiation beams with different directions in free space. Yet another possible approach is to adjust the period and size of the radiator 1001 array to match the phase distribution of the traveling wave field of the radial wave, thereby generating radiation beams with different directions. This approach is not limited here.

[0061] Optionally, Figure 3 This application provides a schematic diagram illustrating the working principle of a multi-beam antenna according to an embodiment of the present application: Simultaneously, utilizing the concentric ring reflection characteristics of the dual mirror reflection ring 101, the radial wave from the incident spherical surface of the feed structure 1020 is converted into a quasi-planar traveling wave field. This quasi-planar traveling wave is output through the dual mirror reflection ring 101 and propagates in the leaky radiation layer 100, thereby exciting the radiator 1001 array of the radiation array 1000, ultimately forming radiation beams with different directions. Due to the axisymmetry of the quasi-optical multi-beam network 102 (e.g., a circular ring structure with a radius of 65 mm), the illumination of the dual mirror reflection ring 101 by the feed port 1021 will form quasi-planar traveling waves with different propagation directions but the same phase deviation characteristics. When these quasi-planar traveling waves with different propagation directions propagate in the leaky radiation layer 100, they are intercepted by the radiator 1001 array and excite multiple phase differences, thereby generating radiation beams (e.g., radiation beam 1 points to θ=10°, radiation beam 2 points to θ=25°).

[0062] like Figure 3 As shown, to achieve multi-beam antenna performance in a planar structure, a quasi-optical form can be combined with a feed port 1021 array. The reflection characteristics of the double mirror reflection ring 101 are used to achieve multi-beam formation. The radial wave generated by the feed port 1021 array is converted into a quasi-planar traveling wave after two reflections by the double mirror reflection ring 101. This quasi-planar traveling wave propagates in the leaky radiation layer 100, exciting the radiator 1001 array on the radiation array 1000. Through the leaky radiation mechanism of the radiator 1001 array, radiation beams with different directions (such as radiation beam 1 and radiation beam 2) are formed. The axisymmetric design of the quasi-optical multi-beam network 102 ensures that the phase characteristics of each beam are consistent. By switching the excitation of different feed ports 1021, two-dimensional scanning control of the beams is achieved.

[0063] Regarding the peripheral feeding of the leaky radiation layer 100, it should be noted that when the array antenna achieves multi-beamforming, parallel feeding or peripheral feeding methods can be used. Figure 4 A schematic diagram of parallel feeding and peripheral feeding in the radiating array is shown: The size of the feed port array in parallel feeding is the same as the number of feed ports. The number of feed ports is related to the area of ​​the radiating array. Increasing the size of the feed port array will make it more difficult to implement the corresponding multi-beam antenna.

[0064] To reduce the number of feed ports and simplify the design of multi-beam antennas, this application embodiment adopts an external feeding method, that is, feed ports 1021 are set on the periphery of the radiating array to excite the array. The number of feed ports 1021 is related to the perimeter of the array rather than the area.

[0065] The number of feed ports for a parallel-fed array antenna is proportional to the square of the antenna aperture, while the number of feed ports for a peripherally fed array antenna is proportional to the linear relationship with the antenna aperture. Furthermore, the larger the aperture of the radiating array, the greater the difference between these two feeding methods. Peripheral feeding is more effective in reducing the number of feed ports.

[0066] In this embodiment, the dual-mirror reflection ring 101 double-reflects the radial wave generated by the quasi-optical multi-beam network 102 to form a traveling wave field, which is then coupled to the radiator 1001 array to provide peripheral feeding for the leaky wave radiation layer 100. This effectively compresses the physical stacking space required by traditional two-dimensional cascaded networks while generating radiation beams with different directions, significantly reducing the profile height of the multi-beam antenna 1, achieving a low-profile structure, and reducing the envelope volume. The radiator 1001 array directly generates two-dimensional spatial scanning multi-beams through the multi-phase difference leaky wave radiation mechanism of the traveling wave field, reducing design complexity.

[0067] In one optional embodiment of this application, the leakage radiation layer 100 includes a stacked structure of a surface metal layer, a radiation array 1000, and a traveling wave transmission medium.

[0068] The surface metal layer is a conductive layer covering the upper and lower surfaces of the leakage radiation layer 100, used to constrain the transmission path of the traveling wave field. The surface metal layer and the traveling wave transmission medium together form a parallel plate waveguide structure to achieve low-loss traveling wave transmission. For example, a silver-plated layer with a thickness of 0.035 mm is covered on the upper and lower surfaces of a dielectric substrate with a dielectric constant of 4.3 to form a TE10 mode transmission environment.

[0069] The traveling wave transmission medium is a dielectric material layer in the leakage radiation layer 100 that carries the propagation of the traveling wave field. The dielectric constant and thickness of the traveling wave transmission medium determine the traveling wave phase velocity and coupling efficiency. For example, a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) vinyl sheet with a diameter of 270 mm and a thickness of 1.2 mm (ε=4.3) supports traveling wave transmission in the 19~20 GHz frequency band.

[0070] For example, in the Ka-band (19~20GHz) low-profile multi-beam antenna 1, the leaky wave radiating layer 100 is a disk structure with a diameter of 270mm and a total thickness of 1.5mm. The surface metal layer has silver plating on both the upper and lower surfaces (thickness 0.035mm), and the upper and lower layers are electrically connected through metallized vias at the edges to suppress edge leakage. The traveling wave transmission medium is a polytetrafluoroethylene sheet (ε=4.3, thickness 1.2mm), and 111 double-ring slot radiators 1001 are embedded in the central region.

[0071] In this embodiment, low-loss traveling wave transmission is achieved through the synergistic optimization of the surface metal layer and the traveling wave transmission medium, while the planar stacked structure maintains a low profile height.

[0072] In one optional embodiment of this application, a plurality of radiators 1001 are uniformly arranged in the radiator 1001 array, and the plurality of radiators 1001 are embedded in the traveling wave transmission medium.

[0073] In the radiator array 1001, multiple radiators 1001 are uniformly arranged. One option is that the multiple radiators 1001 in the radiator array 1001 are uniformly arranged in a rectangular grid. Another option is that the multiple radiators 1001 in the radiator array 1001 are uniformly arranged in a hexagonal grid. Yet another option is that the multiple radiators 1001 in the radiator array 1001 are uniformly arranged in a circular grid. No particular limitation is made here.

[0074] Multiple radiators 1001 are embedded in the traveling wave transmission medium. One option is to form through-holes in the dielectric substrate of the traveling wave transmission medium using laser drilling, and then embed the double-ring slit radiators 1001. Another option is to use a multilayer low-temperature co-fired ceramic process to embed the multiple radiators 1001 into the dielectric substrate of the traveling wave transmission medium. Yet another option is to etch grooves for the radiators 1001 on the surface of the dielectric substrate of the traveling wave transmission medium, fill them with heated conductive paste, and then cool them to form multiple radiators 1001; this is not limited to any particular method.

[0075] Optionally, Figure 5 The diagram shows an array of radiators 1001 in a multi-beam antenna according to an embodiment of this application: 111 double-ring slot radiators 1001 are arranged in a rectangular grid.

[0076] Correspondingly, Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the upper surface of the main body of a multi-beam antenna according to an embodiment of this application is shown: The upper surface of the main body 10 is the upper surface of the leaky wave radiation layer 100. On it, 111 double-ring slit radiators 1001 are arranged in a rectangular grid to form the radiation array 1000 of the radiator 1001 array, which is located at the center of the leaky wave radiation layer 100.

[0077] In this embodiment, by uniformly arranging the radiator 1001 array to form a high-density integration, and in conjunction with the feeding network, the sidelobes of the radiated beam are effectively suppressed while maintaining low profile characteristics.

[0078] In one optional embodiment of this application, the multiple phase differences satisfy the following relationship: The horizontal phase difference is determined based on the dielectric constant of the traveling wave transmission medium, the spacing between adjacent radiators 1001 among the multiple radiators 1001, and the cosine value of the azimuth angle of the traveling wave field. The vertical phase difference is determined based on the dielectric constant of the traveling wave transmission medium, the distance between adjacent radiators 1001, and the sine value of the azimuth angle of the traveling wave field.

[0079] The horizontal phase difference is the relative phase offset between adjacent cells in the horizontal dimension (x-axis) of the radiator 1001 array. The horizontal phase difference is determined by the x-axis component of the traveling wave propagation direction φ, and is formed in conjunction with the dielectric constant ε and the cell spacing d. The specific calculation formula is as follows: For example, when φ=30°, the x-axis phase difference causes the beam to point in the direction of θ=10°.

[0080] The vertical phase difference is the relative phase offset between adjacent cells in the vertical dimension (y-axis) of the radiator 1001 array. The vertical phase difference is determined by the y-axis component of the traveling wave propagation direction φ, and is formed in conjunction with the dielectric constant ε and the cell spacing d. The specific calculation formula is as follows: For example, when φ=30°, the y-axis phase difference causes the beam to point in the direction of φ=15°.

[0081] The dielectric constant of the traveling wave transmission medium is a relative dielectric property parameter of the dielectric material in the leakage radiating layer 100. The dielectric constant of the traveling wave transmission medium determines the traveling wave phase velocity and affects the calculation of the phase difference between adjacent radiators 1001. For example, the ε=4.3 of the polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) plate shortens the traveling wave wavelength to 1 / √4.3 times that of free space.

[0082] The spacing between adjacent radiators 1001 is the straight-line distance between the center points of adjacent cells in the radiator 1001 array. The spacing between adjacent radiators 1001, together with the operating wavelength, determines the achievable range of phase difference. For example, a 7.34 mm spacing corresponds to 0.46λ at 19 GHz, ensuring minimal sidelobe radiation.

[0083] The azimuth angle of the traveling wave field is the angle between the propagation direction of the traveling wave in the leaky radiation layer 100 and the reference axis. The two-dimensional coordinates of the beam pointing are determined by the position control of the feed port 1021. For example, when φ=45°, the beam points in the direction of θ=20° and φ=30°.

[0084] Optionally, Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the feeding and excitation generating a radiation beam for a feed port array according to an embodiment of this application is shown: In the array, radiators 1001 are arranged in rectangular grids at equal intervals d, with the arrangement direction parallel to the x and y axes of the coordinate system. The phase difference between adjacent radiators 1001 along the x-axis is d, and the phase difference between adjacent radiators 1001 along the y-axis is d, where ε is the dielectric constant of the medium in which the planar traveling wave field is located, and φ defines the incident azimuth angle of the traveling wave field. Thus, each radiator 1001 in the radiating array 1000 intercepts a portion of the energy from the traveling wave field for leakage radiation. The array antenna composed of the radiators 1001 can achieve beamforming, and the phase difference between the radiators 1001 is determined by the azimuth angle φ of the traveling wave field, with different phase differences resulting in different beam directions. When the azimuth angle φ of the traveling wave field propagating in the plane in the leaky wave structure of the radiating array 1000 is changed, it will not only cause a change in the phase difference between adjacent radiators 1001, resulting in a change in the elevation angle θ of the radiation beam, but also cause a change in the azimuth angle φ of the radiation beam, thereby realizing two-dimensional beam scanning.

[0085] In this embodiment, by controlling the transmission direction of the traveling wave field and the synergistic effect of the radiator 1001 array, two-dimensional beam stacking coverage is achieved in a single-level planar multi-beam quasi-optical network.

[0086] In one optional embodiment of this application, the double mirror reflection ring 101 is a C-shaped ring transmission medium, and the outer edge chamfer of the C-shaped ring transmission medium forms the upper mirror reflection ring 1010 and the lower mirror reflection ring 1011. The leaky radiation layer 100 is bonded to the upper mirror reflection ring 1010, and the quasi-optical multi-beam network 102 is bonded to the lower mirror reflection ring 1011. The power supply port 1021 array generates a radial wave in response to the excitation signal and emits it radially to the lower mirror reflection ring 1011; the lower mirror reflection ring 1011 reflects the radial wave axially to the upper mirror reflection ring 1010 to form a traveling wave field; the upper mirror reflection ring 1010 reflects the traveling wave field radially to the radiator 1001 array to achieve ring-shaped reflection.

[0087] The C-shaped ring transmission medium is a ring waveguide structure with a double-mirror reflection ring 101, providing an electromagnetic wave transmission channel with a C-shaped cross-sectional profile. Through inner and outer curvature design, two reflection paths are controlled, and the double-mirror reflection ring 101 achieves beam direction reversal and phase modulation. For example, a polytetrafluoroethylene C-shaped ring with a dielectric constant of 4.3 has an outer diameter of 180 mm, an inner diameter of 120 mm, and a ring width of 30 mm.

[0088] The upper mirror reflection ring 1010 is the reflective surface near the leakage radiation layer 100 in the double mirror reflection ring 101. The upper mirror reflection ring 1010 reflects the radial wave from the lower mirror reflection ring 1011 into a traveling wave field through secondary reflection, which is then reflected radially to the radiator array 1001, controlling the final emission angle. For example, a hyperboloid metal coating with a curvature radius of 85 mm.

[0089] The lower mirror reflection ring 1011 is the reflective surface of the double mirror reflection ring 101 that is close to the quasi-optical multi-beam network 102. The lower mirror reflection ring 1011 receives the radial wave from the feed port 1021 and completes the first reflection, determining the initial wavefront phase distribution. For example, a hyperboloid metal coating with a curvature radius of 85 mm.

[0090] The leakage radiation layer 100 is bonded to the upper mirror reflection ring 1010. One option is that the outer annular side of the leakage radiation layer 100 is bonded to the upper mirror reflection ring 1010. The bonding method includes, but is not limited to, conductive adhesive bonding, metallized via array to achieve mechanical fixation and electrical connection, and vacuum welding.

[0091] The quasi-optical multi-beam network 102 is bonded to the lower mirror reflection ring 1011. One optional method is that the outer ring of the quasi-optical multi-beam network 102 is bonded to the lower mirror reflection ring 1011. The bonding method includes, but is not limited to, conductive adhesive bonding, metallized via array to achieve mechanical fixation and electrical connection, and vacuum welding.

[0092] Optionally, Figure 8This illustration shows a schematic diagram of the connection between a quasi-optical multi-beam network layer and a leaky radiation layer for radial wave propagation direction reflection, according to an embodiment of this application: The dual mirror reflection ring 101 is located outside the leaky radiation layer 100 and the quasi-optical multi-beam network 102. It is a C-shaped ring transmission medium with surface metallization. The ends of the upper and lower dielectric layers are respectively bonded to the leaky radiation layer 100 and the quasi-optical multi-beam network 102. The chamfered outer edges of the C-shaped ring transmission medium form the upper mirror reflection ring 1010 and the lower mirror reflection ring 1011.

[0093] The reflection path is: Feed port 1021 → Lower mirror reflection ring 1011 (first reflection); Lower mirror reflection ring 1011 → Upper mirror reflection ring 1010 (second reflection); Upper mirror reflection ring 1010 → radiator array 1001.

[0094] In this embodiment, the radial wave generated by the quasi-optical multi-beam network 102 is precisely coupled to the radiator 1001 array of the leaky wave radiation layer 100 through two directional reflections by the lower and upper reflection rings using a C-shaped ring double mirror reflection structure. This achieves the generation of radiation beams with different directions while maintaining the low profile characteristics of the overall structure.

[0095] In one optional embodiment of this application, the quasi-optical multi-beam network 102 is a jade-disc-shaped ring transmission medium structure with an array of feed ports 1021, and the array of feed ports 1021 constitutes the inner ring portion of the jade-disc-shaped ring transmission medium structure. The power supply ports 1021 are arranged in a ring and point outward radially, while the power supply structure 1020 is shaped like an angular trumpet.

[0096] Existing quasi-optical feeding networks are basically based on parabolic surfaces, such as Rotman lenses or Pillbox structures. In this embodiment, the quasi-optical multi-beam network 102 has a jade disc-shaped ring structure, which, together with the ring structure's double mirror reflection ring 101, forms a ring. The ring structure's double mirror reflection ring 101 and the ring structure's feeding structure 1020 are both jade disc-shaped, and the feeding structure 1020 forms a flared trumpet shape.

[0097] In the quasi-optical multi-beam network 102, the ring-shaped transmission medium is the electromagnetic wave transmission channel structure distributed in a ring shape. The ring geometry achieves a symmetrical distribution of the traveling wave field, supporting peripheral feeding modes. For example, a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) ring-shaped medium with a dielectric constant of 4.3, an outer diameter of 130 mm, an inner diameter of 60 mm, and a thickness of 1.2 mm.

[0098] The horn-shaped design features a horn-shaped opening structure with gradually expanding electromagnetic wave radiation characteristics. By optimizing impedance matching and beamwidth through horn-shaped design, feeding efficiency is improved. For example, a configuration of 60 horn-shaped units has a single horn opening angle of 30°, a throat width of 2mm, and a depth of 5mm.

[0099] The 1021 feed ports are arranged in a ring and point radially outward. One option is to use a uniformly distributed circular arrangement, for example, with adjacent horns spaced 6° apart (60 in total), to ensure gapless beam coverage. Another option is to use a staggered double-row ring arrangement, for example, two rows with adjacent horns spaced 12° apart (60 in total), with the upper and lower rows staggered.

[0100] Optionally, Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the lower surface of the main body of a multi-beam antenna according to an embodiment of this application is shown: The lower surface of the main body 10 is the lower surface of the quasi-optical multi-beam network 102. On this surface, 60 feed ports 1021 are arranged in a ring and point radially outwards. The feed structure 1020 forms a flared horn shape, constituting the feed port 1021 array, and is located at the center of the quasi-optical multi-beam network 102. Optionally, the feed structure 1020 is excited by probe feeding and provides an external radio frequency interface for the antenna. The ring-structured double mirror reflection ring 101 (outer edge) and the ring-structured feed structure 1020 (inner ring) are shaped like a jade disc, and the feed structure 1020 forms a flared horn shape.

[0101] In this embodiment, the design of the annular transmission medium and the radially arranged horn-shaped feed structure 1020 reduces the feeding complexity of the large-scale feed port 1021 array by using a linear relationship between the number of feed ports 1021 and the radiation array 1000 through the annular transmission medium and the radially arranged horn-shaped feed structure 1020. The peripheral feed structure 1020 naturally matches the incident wave requirements of the double mirror reflection ring 101, and the directional radiation characteristics of the horn improve the feeding efficiency while maintaining a low profile height.

[0102] Traditional quasi-optical networks for multi-beam antennas, such as the Rotman Lens or Pillbox method, exhibit differences in the quasi-plane traveling wave generated by the feed structure at different locations. Generally, the phase deviation generated by the excitation near the focal point is smaller, while the phase deviation increases as the position moves away from the focal point, resulting in a decrease in the quality of the generated quasi-plane traveling wave.

[0103] By drawing on the optical principles of spherical reflector multi-beam antennas, a circular reflector ring structure is used to achieve multi-beam generation. In the spherical reflector, the optimal focal length is... Where R is the radius of the spherical reflector. R is the radius of the radiating aperture used by the antenna. When R is greater than or equal to 2... When the phase is small, it can be viewed as an approximate parabola with a focal length of R / 2, corresponding to a small phase deviation. Theoretically, the symmetry of a spherical reflector multi-beam antenna endows different beams with the same performance, thereby reducing beam scanning loss. In applications, this characteristic is often used to achieve wide-angle multi-beam coverage.

[0104] In one optional embodiment of this application, the radius of the annular track of the power supply port 1021 array is half the radius of the double mirror reflection ring 101.

[0105] Optionally, Figure 10 A schematic diagram of a quasi-optical multi-beam network for a multi-beam antenna according to an embodiment of this application is shown: In multi-beam generation using a planar double mirror reflection ring 101, a value greater than or equal to 2 is also selected. The structure is configured such that a ring of feed structures 1020 is arranged on the focal ring to illuminate the double mirror reflection ring 101. Thus, by switching the excitation of the ring array of feed structures 1020 arranged on the focal ring, quasi-planar traveling waves in different transmission directions can be realized on the radiator 1001 array. When a feed port 1021 is excited, after two reflections by the double mirror reflection ring 101, a quasi-plane traveling wave 1 propagating in the vertical direction is generated on the radiator array 1001.

[0106] When a feed port 1021 is excited, after two reflections by the double mirror reflection ring 101, a quasi-plane traveling wave 2 propagating in the horizontal direction is generated on the radiator array 1001.

[0107] Figure 10 In this process, different feed ports excite and generate traveling wave fields with different transmission directions (such as quasi-plane traveling wave 1 propagating vertically and traveling wave 2 propagating horizontally), thereby achieving beam pointing control.

[0108] In this embodiment, a feed port array is arranged on a focal ring of half radius, and traveling wave fields with different transmission directions are generated by excitation from different ports. After two directional reflections by the double mirror reflection ring 101, a precisely controllable phase gradient distribution is formed in the leaky radiation layer 100, achieving consistency in the performance of each beam, a natural mapping between the beam pointing and the feed port positions, and reducing the complexity of the large-scale array due to the peripheral feed structure. The overall scheme meets the requirements of two-dimensional beam scanning while maintaining a low profile height.

[0109] The multi-beam antenna 1 is a planar low-profile antenna structure based on a multilayer printed circuit board (PCB). It can achieve multi-beam performance by changing the beam direction through the switching of the feed port 1021.

[0110] Correspondingly, in an optional embodiment of this application, the feed port 1021 array includes n feed ports 1021 distributed at n azimuth angle positions, and the n feed ports correspond to n radiation beams. In the feed port 1021 array, the first feed port at the first azimuth angle responds to the excitation signal to generate a radial wave at the first azimuth angle. The radial wave at the first azimuth angle is reflected to the radiator 1001 array through the double mirror reflection ring to form a traveling wave field at the first azimuth angle. The radiator 1001 array responds to the leakage wave radiation of the traveling wave field after the reflection and conversion of the radial wave at the first azimuth angle by a specific phase difference, and generates and emits a first radiation beam corresponding to the specific phase difference.

[0111] The n azimuth angles represent the arbitrary angular coordinates of the feed port 1021 within the ring array, indicating the azimuth position of any chosen feed port 1021, corresponding to the generation of radial waves in a specific direction. These n azimuth angles are dynamically selected based on coverage requirements. For example, a feed port at any angular position such as φ=30°, φ=45°, φ=60°, etc.

[0112] The n feed ports 1021 correspond to n radiation beams. Each feed port 1021 can be independently controlled and can generate a radiation beam in any specified direction.

[0113] The feed port 1021 at the first azimuth angle is a single feed port 1021 located at any azimuth angle, and the first radiation beam corresponds to the feed port 1021 at the first azimuth angle. The radial wave at the first azimuth angle is a non-resonant electromagnetic wave mode propagating along the first azimuth angle in the quasi-optical multi-beam network 102. For example, the feed port P3 at φ=45° is selected as the feed port, and beams at θ=15° and θ=35° are generated at the azimuth angle of φ=45°.

[0114] Leakage radiation from multiple phase differences in a traveling wave field is formed by the phase gradient created by the traveling wave field at any azimuth angle in the radiator array 1001. A controllable phase difference is generated in any specified direction through periodic structural perturbations. For a selected radiation beam, the phase difference between its neighboring cells is a specific value; n beams correspond to n phase differences. For example, a traveling wave field with φ=45° generates a specific phase gradient (e.g., 15° / mm) in the array.

[0115] In this embodiment, by arbitrarily selecting a feed port at an azimuth angle in the ring feed array for excitation, a radiation beam with multiple elevation angles can be generated at that specified azimuth angle. This achieves flexibility and arbitrariness in azimuth angle selection, precise control of multiple beams at the same azimuth angle, and natural mapping between beam pointing and feed excitation. While maintaining a low profile structure, it provides a more flexible multi-beamforming capability, suitable for complex communication scenarios requiring multi-beam coverage in any direction.

[0116] In one optional embodiment of this application, the polarization of the multi-beam antenna 1 is adjusted by corresponding pointer-like changes through changes in n azimuth angles.

[0117] The polarization direction control mechanism is achieved by coordinating the spatial position of the feed port 1021 with the structure of the radiator 1001 to adjust the electromagnetic wave polarization direction. Each feed port 1021 corresponds to a specific polarization direction (n azimuth angles), and polarization reconfiguration is achieved by switching the feed port 1021. The multi-beam antenna 1 changes the polarization characteristics of the radiated beam by switching the feed port 1021, supporting dynamic switching of multiple polarization modes without mechanical adjustment. For example, vertical / horizontal / dual polarization modes can be switched in real time at 19 GHz. The signal isolation between different polarization beams is guaranteed by the array arrangement of the radiator 1001 and the design of the feed structure 1020.

[0118] Optionally, Figure 11 This application provides a schematic diagram illustrating the pointer-style change of antenna polarization in a multi-beam antenna according to an embodiment of the present application: In a Ka-band low-profile multi-beam antenna, exciting each of the 60 feed ports 1021 generates 60 radial waves, corresponding to 60 radiating beams. In applications or tests, one or more feed ports 1021 in the feed port 1021 array are selected for excitation based on the desired beam direction, while the other feed ports 1021 are connected to matched loads to achieve the corresponding beam coverage. Simultaneously, by clockwise rotating the antenna body 10 to select the feed port 1021 at the corresponding circular position for RF power application, the polarization direction of the multi-beam antenna 1 also changes accordingly. Vertical polarization: The excitation field of port 1 is perpendicularly incident on the double mirror reflection ring 101 and is reflected. The corresponding beam polarization direction of port 1 is vertical polarization.

[0119] Oblique +45° polarization: The excitation field of port 2 at -135° is reflected onto the double mirror reflection ring 101, and the corresponding beam polarization direction of port 2 is oblique +45° polarization.

[0120] Horizontal polarization: The excitation field of port 3 is horizontally irradiated onto the double mirror reflection ring 101, and is reflected. The corresponding beam polarization direction of port 3 is horizontal polarization.

[0121] Oblique -45° polarization: The excitation field of port 4 at +135° is reflected onto the double mirror reflection ring 101, and the corresponding beam polarization direction of port 4 is oblique -45° polarization.

[0122] By generating and transmitting multiple radiation beams with different directions, the multi-beam antenna 1 can obtain a corresponding multi-beam coverage pattern, such as... Figure 12 As shown. Figure 12 The following is a beam coverage diagram of a multi-beam antenna according to an embodiment of this application: Beam coverage pattern of a multi-beam antenna 1 in a low profile of a certain Ka band (20 GHz Contour Patternssteered at UV coordinates). The beam pointing distribution is represented by normalized direction cosines (U, V), where the U-axis corresponds to sinθcosφ (horizontal direction cosine), the V-axis corresponds to sinθsinφ (vertical direction cosine), the origin (0, 0) represents the normal direction (θ=0°), and the unit circle boundary (U²+V²=1) corresponds to tangential radiation at θ=90°.

[0123] like Figure 12 As shown, there are 60 beams, corresponding to 60 feed ports; their polarization-pointing mapping relationship is detailed in Table 1:

[0124] Table 1 In this embodiment, the excitation port at the corresponding ring position is selected by clock-like rotation to apply radio frequency power, thereby realizing the corresponding pointer-like change of antenna polarization. While maintaining the low profile structure, it provides a more flexible multi-beamforming capability, which is suitable for complex communication scenarios that require multi-beam coverage in any direction.

[0125] In one optional embodiment of this application, the multi-beam antenna 1 further includes an upper fixing plate 11 and a lower fixing plate 12. The surface of the upper fixing plate 11 is provided with a radiation through hole 110 that matches the radiator 1001 array, and the lower fixing plate 12 is provided with a connector mounting interface 120. The upper fixing plate 11 and the lower fixing plate 12 are combined by fasteners to form an upper and lower laminated assembly that encloses the main body 10 inside.

[0126] The upper fixing plate 11 is a metallized support structure covering the leakage radiation layer 100. The upper fixing plate 11 provides mechanical protection and electromagnetic shielding, and also has a radiation window. For example, it is a metal disc with a diameter of 270 mm and a thickness of 2 mm, with a radiation window with a diameter of 120 mm in the center.

[0127] The lower mounting plate 12 is a mounting substrate located below the quasi-optical multi-beam network 102. The lower mounting plate 12 integrates radio frequency connection interfaces to achieve modular assembly. For example, it is an FR4 material substrate with a thickness of 3mm and 12 SMP connector mounting positions on the edge.

[0128] The radiation through-hole 110 is a wave-transmitting hole in the upper fixed plate 11 corresponding to the position of the radiator 1001. The radiation through-hole 110 allows electromagnetic waves to pass through while maintaining structural strength. For example, a circular hole with a diameter of 2.6 mm is aligned with the center of the 2.5 mm radiator 1001.

[0129] The connector mounting interface 120 is a standardized interface on the lower mounting plate 12 for mounting RF connectors, supporting rapid installation of millimeter-wave connectors such as SMP / SSMA. For example, an SMP connector mounting interface ring array with a spacing of 10mm.

[0130] Fasteners are components that enable the mechanical connection between the upper and lower fixed discs, including but not limited to: bolts, clamps, mortise and tenon structures, etc.

[0131] Optionally, Figure 13 A front view of a multi-beam antenna according to an embodiment of this application is shown: The upper fixed plate 11 has radiation through holes 110 on its surface that match the radiator 1001 array. It is used in conjunction with the lower fixed plate 12 to enclose the main body 10 inside by bolts.

[0132] Correspondingly, Figure 14 A schematic diagram of the back side of a multi-beam antenna according to an embodiment of this application is shown: The lower fixed plate 12 has a ring of connector mounting interfaces 120 on its surface. By cooperating with the upper fixed plate 11, the main body 10 is enclosed inside by bolts.

[0133] Correspondingly, Figure 15 An exploded view of the structure of a multi-beam antenna according to an embodiment of this application is shown: The upper mounting plate 11 has an exposed radiation through-hole 110 for the radiation array 1000 to radiate, and the lower mounting plate 12 provides a ring-shaped connector mounting interface 120. Connectors 121 are mounted on the connector mounting interface 120 to realize probe feeding of the multi-beam antenna 1.

[0134] Correspondingly, Figure 16 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of a multi-beam antenna according to an embodiment of this application is shown: The upper fixed plate 11 and lower fixed plate 12 of the metal disc structure are double-layered structures, which are assembled by screws to enclose the main body 10 inside. The connector 121 and the power supply port 1021 are aligned to complete the excitation signal transmission and realize excitation power supply.

[0135] Optionally, in the multi-beam antenna 1, except for the radiator 1001 and the feed port 1021, the outer surface of the rest is silver-plated.

[0136] In this embodiment, the low-profile multi-beam antenna 1 has a surface-metallized planar dielectric structure, and the dielectric is an integrated structure, which simplifies the use of connection flanges and screws in traditional microwave devices and facilitates the integration of the multi-beam antenna 1 with radio frequency systems that commonly use substrate-integrated waveguide circuits.

[0137] Corresponding to the above embodiments, the method for generating multiple radiation beams in an array of peripherally fed radiators 1001 using a low-profile multi-beam antenna 1 includes the following steps: (1) Select the dielectric material in the structure of the multi-beam antenna 1 according to the coverage range of the multi-beam, determine the dielectric constant of the dielectric, and require the loss tangent to be as small as possible. Generally, in the design of large-angle beam coverage, the dielectric constant of the dielectric used is required to be approximately 4.

[0138] (2) Determine the size or dimensions of the radiator 1001 array and the array spacing based on the gain requirements of the multi-beam antenna 1. Generally, in the design of large-angle beam coverage, the array spacing of the radiator 1001 array is required to be about half a wavelength.

[0139] (3) Performance requirements of multi-beam antenna 1: Select a suitable radiator 1001 structure. Selecting a single-ring or double-ring slot as the radiator 1001 can achieve rotational linear polarization radiation, while using a unit antenna with a probe interception form can achieve the circular or linear polarization radiation of that unit antenna. The leakage interception structure in the radiator 1001 structure must have no structural orientation difference.

[0140] (4) The element interception coefficient required for leakage wave radiation can be changed by adjusting the structural parameters of radiator 1001. Generally, the larger the array size, the smaller the element interception coefficient is required.

[0141] (5) Determine the upper mirror reflection ring 1010 and the lower mirror reflection ring 1011 according to the size of the radiator 1001 array in the multi-beam antenna 1. The radii of the upper mirror reflection ring 1010 and the lower mirror reflection ring 1011 are required to be greater than the size of the radiator 1001 array.

[0142] (6) Determine the radius of the trajectory line of the power supply structure 1020 based on the radii of the upper mirror reflection ring 1010 and the lower mirror reflection ring 1011.

[0143] (7) The arrangement of the feed port 1021 array is based on the number of beams and the beam pointing distribution requirements. The dielectric constants of the upper mirror reflection ring 1010 and the lower mirror reflection ring 1011 and the dielectric constant of the medium determine the maximum array size of the feed structure 1020 that can be closely arranged. The size of the feed structure 1020 should ensure that the electromagnetic wave is transmitted without nulling in the feed structure 1020 and achieve effective illumination of the upper mirror reflection ring 1010 and the lower mirror reflection ring 1011.

[0144] (8) Construct the structure of the multi-beam antenna 1 according to the above design parameters, and realize the layout and installation of the multi-beam antenna 1.

[0145] (9) Select one or more corresponding feed ports 1021 in the feed port 1021 array according to the beam direction required for the beam coverage of the multi-beam antenna 1 for excitation (amplitude and phase synthesis can also be performed during multi-port excitation), and connect the other feed ports 1021 to the matching load. In this way, multi-beam generation is achieved through the above steps.

[0146] The low-profile multi-beam antenna 1 achieves rotational excitation of the peripherally fed radiator array antenna 1001 by constructing a planar quasi-optical multi-beam network 102. Multiple radiating beams are formed through transmission and leakage radiation in the leakage radiation layer 100. The planar quasi-optical multi-beam network 102 and the peripheral feeding characteristics of the radiator array 1001 are compatible in the performance realization of the multi-beam antenna 1 through the application of a dual mirror reflection ring 101, giving the multi-beam antenna 1 excellent structural characteristics and comprehensive performance. Beam pointing is controlled by changing the transmission direction of the quasi-planar traveling wave input in the leakage radiation structure. Multiple quasi-planar traveling waves with different transmission directions are formed using the dual mirror reflection ring 101 and the feeding structure 1020. The connection and integration of the leakage radiation layer 100 and the quasi-optical multi-beam network 102 are also realized, demonstrating engineering feasibility and application value.

[0147] Figure 17 The diagram shows a structural schematic of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. The communication device 0 includes the multi-beam antenna 1 described above, and a radio frequency front-end module 2. The radio frequency front-end module 2 is electrically connected to the feed port 1021 array of the multi-beam antenna 1, and is used to provide excitation signals to the feed port 1021 array and process the radio frequency signals received by the multi-beam antenna 1. The radio frequency front-end module 2 includes at least one of a power amplifier, a low-noise amplifier, a filter, a mixer, and a baseband processor.

[0148] Communication device 0 is a complete communication system integrating multi-beam antenna 1 and radio frequency front-end module 2, which achieves high-speed data transmission and space signal processing through multi-beam collaborative operation. For example, a Ka-band satellite communication terminal operates in the 19-20 GHz frequency band and supports 60 independent beams.

[0149] The RF front-end module 2 is a functional module for amplifying, filtering, and / or modulating / demodulating RF signals. Optionally, the RF front-end module 2 supports the full-duplex operation mode of the multi-beam antenna 1 through a multi-channel transceiver link. For example, a Ka-band 8-channel RF front-end includes 4 transmit / 4 receive channels, with a single-channel bandwidth of 1 GHz.

[0150] Functions of core components in RF front-end module 2: Power amplifier: Increases the power of the transmitted signal to ensure far-field radiation intensity. For example, a GaN-based 20W power amplifier module operates at 28V.

[0151] Low-noise amplifiers: amplify weak received signals while suppressing noise. For example, an InP-based LNA with a noise figure of 1.2 dB at 20 GHz.

[0152] Filter banks: Enable bandwidth selection and interference suppression. For example, a cavity bandpass filter with a bandwidth of 1 GHz (19-20 GHz) and out-of-band rejection >60 dB.

[0153] Mixer: Performs the conversion between radio frequency (RF) and intermediate frequency (IF) signals. For example, a double-balanced mixer has a conversion loss of 6dB and an isolation of >30dB.

[0154] Baseband processor: Implements signal encoding / decoding and beam control. For example, an RFSoC chip supports 8-channel parallel processing.

[0155] In this embodiment, through the high integration of the multi-beam antenna 1 and the RF front-end module 2, the communication device 0 achieves independent control and rapid switching of multiple beams, full-duplex operation of the transmit and receive links, adaptive beamforming to suppress multipath interference, and modular design to support hot-swappable maintenance. The overall solution maintains a low profile while meeting the requirements of high throughput and high reliability in communication.

[0156] The foregoing has described specific embodiments of this application. Other embodiments are within the scope of the appended claims. In some cases, the actions or steps recited in the claims may be performed in a different order than that shown in the embodiments and may still achieve the desired results. Furthermore, the processes depicted in the drawings do not necessarily require the specific or sequential order shown to achieve the desired results. In some embodiments, multitasking and parallel processing are also possible or may be advantageous.

[0157] Those skilled in the art should also understand that the embodiments described in the specification are all preferred embodiments, and the actions and modules involved are not necessarily essential to this application. In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses, and for parts not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions of other embodiments.

[0158] The preferred embodiments disclosed above are merely illustrative of this application. The optional embodiments do not exhaustively describe all details, nor do they limit this application to the specific implementations described. Clearly, many modifications and variations can be made based on the content of this application. These embodiments are selected and specifically described in this application to better explain the principles and practical applications of this application, thereby enabling those skilled in the art to better understand and utilize this application.

Claims

1. A multi-beam antenna, characterized in that, The main body of the multi-beam antenna includes a stacked structure of a leaky radiation layer, a double mirror reflection ring, and a quasi-optical multi-beam network. The leaky wave radiation layer includes a radiation array, and the radiation array includes a radiator array. The quasi-optical multi-beam network includes a feeding structure, which includes a feeding port array. The feed port array generates a radial wave in response to the excitation signal. The radial wave is reflected by the double mirror reflection ring to form a traveling wave field and is fed to the radiator array to provide peripheral power to the leaky wave radiation layer. The radiator array generates and emits radiation beams with different directions in response to the leaky wave radiation with multiple phase differences of the traveling wave field.

2. The multi-beam antenna according to claim 1, characterized in that, The leaky wave radiation layer comprises a stacked structure of a surface metal layer, a radiation array, and a traveling wave transmission medium.

3. The multi-beam antenna according to claim 2, characterized in that, The radiator array contains multiple radiators arranged uniformly, and the multiple radiators are embedded in the traveling wave transmission medium.

4. The multi-beam antenna according to claim 3, characterized in that, The multiple phase differences satisfy the following relationship: The horizontal phase difference is determined based on the dielectric constant of the traveling wave transmission medium, the spacing between adjacent radiators among the plurality of radiators, and the cosine value of the azimuth angle of the traveling wave field. The vertical phase difference is determined based on the dielectric constant of the traveling wave transmission medium, the spacing between the adjacent radiators, and the sine value of the azimuth angle of the traveling wave field.

5. The multi-beam antenna according to claim 1, characterized in that, The dual mirror reflection ring is a C-shaped ring transmission medium, and the outer edge chamfer of the C-shaped ring transmission medium forms an upper mirror reflection ring and a lower mirror reflection ring; The leaky radiation layer is bonded to the upper mirror reflection ring, and the quasi-optical multi-beam network is bonded to the lower mirror reflection ring; The feed port array generates a radial wave in response to the excitation signal and emits it radially to the lower mirror reflection ring; the lower mirror reflection ring reflects the radial wave axially to the upper mirror reflection ring to form a traveling wave field; the upper mirror reflection ring reflects the traveling wave field radially to the radiator array to achieve ring-shaped reflection.

6. The multi-beam antenna according to claim 1, characterized in that, The quasi-optical multi-beam network is a jade-disc-shaped ring transmission medium structure with a feeding structure array, and the feeding port array constitutes the inner ring portion of the jade-disc-shaped ring transmission medium structure. The power supply port array is arranged in a ring and points radially outward, and the power supply structure forms an angular trumpet shape.

7. The multi-beam antenna according to claim 6, characterized in that, The radius of the circular trajectory of the power supply port array is half the radius of the double mirror reflection ring.

8. The multi-beam antenna according to claim 1, characterized in that, in, The feed port array includes n feed ports distributed at n azimuth angles, and the n feed ports correspond to n radiation beams; In the feed port array, the first feed port at the first azimuth angle generates a radial wave at the first azimuth angle in response to the excitation signal. The radial wave at the first azimuth angle is reflected to the radiator array through the double mirror reflection ring to form a traveling wave field at the first azimuth angle. The radiator array generates and emits a first radiation beam corresponding to the specific phase difference of the traveling wave field after reflection and conversion of the radial wave at the first azimuth angle in response to the leakage radiation of the traveling wave field with a specific phase difference.

9. The multi-beam antenna according to claim 8, characterized in that, The polarization of the multi-beam antenna is adjusted by corresponding pointer-like changes in the n azimuth angles.

10. The multi-beam antenna according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes an upper fixed plate and a lower fixed plate. The surface of the upper fixed plate is provided with radiation through holes that match the radiator array, and the lower fixed plate is provided with a connector mounting interface. The upper and lower fixing plates are assembled by fasteners to form an upper and lower laminated combination that encloses the main body inside.

11. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes the multi-beam antenna as described in any one of claims 1-10, and a radio frequency front-end module; The radio frequency front-end module is electrically connected to the feed port array of the multi-beam antenna, and is used to provide the excitation signal to the feed port array and process the radio frequency signal received by the multi-beam antenna. The radio frequency front-end module includes at least one of a power amplifier, a low-noise amplifier, a filter, a mixer, and a baseband processor.

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