Feed system and antenna system

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides a feed system and an antenna system, and relates to the technical field of communication. The feed system comprises a cavity shell and a feed assembly, a first side wall of the cavity shell is provided with a plurality of output jacks distributed at intervals, and each output jack is used for plugging a feed balun of the antenna array unit; the feed assembly comprises a feed network, the feed network is arranged in the cavity shell, the feed network is provided with a plurality of first coupling output ends and a feed input end, the first coupling output ends and the output sockets are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence mode, and the feed input end is used for being electrically connected with an antenna array total input component; and each first coupling output end is used for being electrically coupled with the feed balun inserted from the corresponding output socket. The antenna system comprises the feed system. According to the embodiment of the invention, the network loss of the feed system can be reduced while the assembly complexity of the feed system is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments of this application relate to, but are not limited to, the field of communication technology, and in particular to a power supply system and an antenna system. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of communication technology, antenna systems are becoming increasingly integrated. Each integrated antenna incorporates multiple antenna array elements for different frequency bands. Simultaneously, to achieve better radiation performance, the structure of the feed network in the feeding system is becoming increasingly complex. In related technologies, the feed network is often connected to the antenna array elements via connectors (such as cables or PCB adapters). Therefore, as the integration level of the antenna increases, the number of connectors also increases, leading to an increase in the weight of the antenna system. Furthermore, the use of connectors increases network loss with the increase in the number of connectors, making it difficult to improve antenna gain and increasing assembly difficulty. Therefore, how to reduce the assembly complexity of the feeding system while simultaneously reducing network loss is a pressing technical problem that needs to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The following is an overview of the subject matter described in detail herein. This overview is not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0004] This application provides a power supply system and an antenna system that can reduce the assembly complexity of the power supply system while reducing the network loss of the power supply system.

[0005] In a first aspect, according to the feeding system provided in the embodiments of this application, the feeding system includes a cavity shell and a feeding assembly. The first sidewall of the cavity shell has a plurality of spaced-apart output ports, each of which is used to connect a feeding balun of an antenna array element. The feeding assembly includes a feeding network disposed inside the cavity shell. The feeding network is provided with a plurality of first coupling output terminals and a feeding input terminal. The first coupling output terminals are configured to correspond one-to-one with the output ports. The feeding input terminal is used to electrically connect to the antenna array's main input component. Each first coupling output terminal is used to electrically couple with a feeding balun inserted from the corresponding output port.

[0006] Secondly, the antenna system provided according to the embodiments of this application includes the feeding system and antenna array assembly described in the first aspect; the antenna array assembly includes an antenna array general input component and at least one antenna array element, the antenna array general input component is electrically connected to the feeding input terminal, the feeding balun of each antenna array element is inserted into the output port, and the feeding balun is electrically coupled to the first coupling output terminal at the corresponding output port.

[0007] This embodiment of the application reduces the number of solder joints between the antenna array elements and the feed network by electrically coupling the first coupling output terminal to the feed balun, thereby reducing the assembly energy consumption of the antenna array elements and ensuring antenna intermodulation performance and stability. Furthermore, by setting multiple first coupling output terminals, multiple antenna array elements can be integrated. Additionally, by providing a cavity shell with output ports on the first sidewall of the cavity shell, the assembly of the antenna array elements and the feed network becomes more convenient. Therefore, compared with related technologies, this embodiment of the application reduces the assembly complexity of the feed system while also reducing network losses. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of the power supply system provided in this application;

[0009] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of one embodiment of the power supply system provided in this application (part of the cavity shell is not shown);

[0010] Figure 3 An exploded schematic diagram showing the connection between the feed network and the antenna array unit in one embodiment of the feed system provided in this application;

[0011] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the power supply system provided in this application (including the antenna array input component and part of the cavity housing not shown);

[0012] Figure 5 An exploded schematic diagram of the antenna array total input component in another embodiment of the feeding system provided in this application;

[0013] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the power supply system provided in this application;

[0014] Figure 7a This is a schematic diagram of the current flow in an embodiment of a dual-band antenna system in the prior art.

[0015] Figure 7b A schematic diagram of the current flow in an embodiment of the feeding system provided in this application applied to a dual-band antenna system;

[0016] Figure 8a This is a top view of an antenna system in the prior art;

[0017] Figure 8b A top view of the antenna system when the feeding system provided in this application is applied to the antenna system;

[0018] Figure 9 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the antenna system provided in this application;

[0019] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the antenna system provided in this application;

[0020] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the antenna system provided in this application;

[0021] Figure 12 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the antenna system provided in this application.

[0022] Figure label:

[0023] Cavity housing 100, output port 110,

[0024] Power supply network 210, first coupling output terminal 220, power supply input terminal 230, input coupling plate 231, coupling clamping block 240

[0025] Antenna array element 310, feed balun 311, antenna array main input component 320, second coupling output terminal 321, grounding part 322, low-frequency antenna array element 330, high-frequency antenna array element 340.

[0026] Support assembly 410, support member 411, first insulating sheet 420, second insulating sheet 430, reflector 440, cable 500. Detailed Implementation

[0027] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0028] It should be noted that although functional modules are divided in the device schematic diagram and a logical order is shown in the flowchart, in some cases, the steps shown or described may be performed in a different order than the module division in the device or the order in the flowchart. The terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and the aforementioned drawings are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence.

[0029] The flowcharts shown in the accompanying drawings are merely illustrative and do not necessarily include all content and operations / steps, nor do they necessarily have to be performed in the described order. For example, some operations / steps can be broken down, while others can be combined or partially combined; therefore, the actual execution order may change depending on the specific circumstances.

[0030] With the rapid development of communication technology, antenna systems are becoming increasingly integrated. Each integrated antenna incorporates multiple antenna array elements for different frequency bands. Simultaneously, to achieve better radiation performance, the structure of the feed network in the feeding system is becoming increasingly complex. In related technologies, the feed network is often connected to the antenna array elements via connectors (such as cables or PCB adapters). Therefore, as the integration level of the antenna increases, the number of connectors also increases, leading to an increase in the weight of the antenna system. Furthermore, since the feed network often involves phase shifters, a large number of cables are needed to balance the phase difference between the various ports of the phase shifters, further increasing the number of network cables, i.e., increasing the number of cables in the antenna system. This further increases network loss, making it difficult to improve antenna gain and correspondingly increasing assembly difficulty. Therefore, how to reduce the assembly complexity of the feed system while simultaneously reducing network loss is a pressing technical problem. Based on this, this application provides a feed system and antenna system that can reduce the assembly complexity of the feed system while reducing network loss.

[0031] Understandably, referring to Figures 1 to 6 As shown, a power supply system according to this application includes:

[0032] The cavity housing 100 has a plurality of spaced-apart output ports 110 on its first sidewall, each output port 110 being used to connect to the feed balun 311 of the antenna array unit 310.

[0033] The feeding assembly includes a feeding network 210 disposed within the cavity housing 100. The feeding network 210 is provided with multiple first coupling output terminals 220 and a feeding input terminal 230. The first coupling output terminals 220 are configured one-to-one with the output sockets 110. The feeding input terminal 230 is used to electrically connect to the antenna array main input component 320. Each first coupling output terminal 220 is used to electrically couple with a feeding balun 311 inserted from the corresponding output socket 110.

[0034] Therefore, by electrically coupling the first coupling output terminal 220 to the feed balun 311, the number of solder joints between the antenna array unit 310 and the feed network 210 can be reduced, thereby reducing the assembly energy consumption of the antenna array unit 310 and ensuring the antenna intermodulation performance and stability. Furthermore, by providing multiple first coupling output terminals 220, multiple antenna array units 310 can be integrated. And by providing the cavity housing 100 and opening an output port 110 on the first sidewall of the cavity housing 100, the assembly of the antenna array unit 310 and the feed network 210 becomes more convenient. Therefore, compared with related technologies, the embodiments of this application can reduce the assembly complexity of the feed system while reducing the network loss of the feed system.

[0035] It should be noted that the material of the cavity shell 100 can be selectively set according to actual needs, and this application embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this. For example, a metal cavity shell 100 made of metal materials can be used.

[0036] It should be noted that the output port 110 is used to insert the power supply terminal of the power supply balun 311. In some embodiments, the power supply balun 311 has two power supply terminals. In this case, one output port 110 can be provided for each of the two power supply terminals of the power supply balun 311, or one output port 110 can be provided for each power supply terminal. In this embodiment, the correspondence between the power supply balun 311 and the output port 110 is not limited. In subsequent embodiments, examples are given with a one-to-one correspondence between the power supply terminals and the output port 110.

[0037] It should be noted that the number of output ports 110 is not limited in this embodiment, and those skilled in the art can selectively set them according to actual needs. When one antenna array unit 310 is provided, a corresponding port is provided to allow the feed terminal of the feed balun 311 to be inserted. If two antenna array units 310 are provided, corresponding output ports 110 are provided to allow the feed terminals of both feed baluns 311 to be inserted. For example, such as... Figure 2 As shown, each power supply balun 311 has an output port 110 at its power supply terminal. Figure 2 Two sets of output ports 110 are provided on the first side wall of the cavity housing 100. Each set of output ports 110 is used for the feeding end of the same feeding balun 311. The feeding network 210 is provided with two pairs of first coupling output terminals 220. Each first coupling output terminal 220 is set in correspondence with one output port 110. At this time, the feeding system can simultaneously meet the power supply of two antenna array units 310.

[0038] It should be noted that the output port 110 can be used to position the power supply balun 311, thus improving the ease of assembly.

[0039] It should be noted that the feed network 210 includes lines for transmitting electrical signals sent by the device to the antenna array element 310. This application does not involve improvements to the line configuration of the feed network 210, but rather to improvements to the output terminal (i.e., the first coupling output terminal 220) and input terminal (i.e., the feed input terminal 230) of the feed network 210. Therefore, the line structure of the feed network 210 will not be described in detail here.

[0040] It should be noted that, in the case of electrical coupling, the first coupling output terminal 220 is spaced a certain distance from the feeding balun 311, and the power is supplied through the action of a magnetic field. Therefore, it is not necessary to weld the feeding network 210 and the feeding balun 311 together.

[0041] It should be noted that the embodiments of this application do not limit the structural shape of the first coupling output terminal 220 and the power supply input terminal 230; for example, they can be in a sheet shape, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the first coupling output terminal 220 adopts a sheet-like structure, which allows it to be electrically coupled to N antenna array elements 310, where N is an integer greater than 0. In other embodiments, the feed input terminal 230 may also adopt a sheet-like structure for electrical coupling to the total input terminal of the antenna system (i.e., the total input component 320 of the antenna array).

[0042] In summary, the feeding system and antenna array unit 310 in this embodiment can be connected without soldering, making the assembly of the feeding system and array antenna convenient, increasing production efficiency, and reducing production costs. Furthermore, since there is no need to solder the output terminals of the antenna array unit 310 and the feeding network 210, environmental pollution caused by electroplating and soldering in related technologies can be avoided, reducing costs. Also, the elimination of wiring and PCB adapter boards reduces the loss of the feeding network 210, ensuring radiation efficiency. Additionally, the reduction in solder joints ensures stable and reliable intermodulation performance. Moreover, the antenna array unit 310 is directly inserted into the cavity housing 100 through the output connector 110 to couple with the first coupling output terminal 220 of the feeding network 210, resulting in higher assembly efficiency. Furthermore, since the first coupling output terminal 220 is electrically coupled to the feeding balun 311, no cable is required, thus reducing cable usage and effectively reducing the weight of the antenna system. This further facilitates miniaturization and integration of the antenna system, reducing costs.

[0043] It should be noted that in some embodiments, the power input terminal 230 is also electrically coupled to the antenna array total input component 320. In this case, the power supply system and the antenna array total input component 320 do not need to be welded together, thereby preventing the energy of lightning from directly reaching the power supply system through the antenna array total input component 320. This prevents the power supply system from generating large surge currents and maximizes the protection of the power supply system from damage caused by lightning strikes, thus achieving the effect of lightning protection.

[0044] Understandably, referring to Figure 2 , Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the power supply system also includes a support member 411, which is disposed on the first side wall and is used to support the reflector 440 of the antenna array unit 310.

[0045] By setting up support component 411, the ease of assembling the antenna system can be further improved.

[0046] It should be noted that the reflector 440 can concentrate the radiated signal in a certain direction, thereby increasing the antenna's radiated power. An antenna system typically uses at least one reflector 440, and the antenna array element 310 is electrically coupled to the feed system through the reflector 440.

[0047] It should be noted that the material of the support member 411 is not limited in this embodiment of the application. Those skilled in the art can set it according to the function performed by the support member 411. For example, if the reflector 440 only needs to have a supporting function, it can be made of materials such as plastic or metal. If the reflector 440 needs to be conductive, it can be made of conductive metal.

[0048] It should be noted that the shape, size (thickness, height), and spacing of the support member 411 are not limited in this application, and can be selectively set according to the coverage area and weight of the reflector 440. The height is the distance between the upper surface of the cavity shell 100 and the reflector 440. The shape can be L-shaped or square.

[0049] It should be noted that in some embodiments, since the reflector 440 is supported by the support member 411, in the antenna system integrated with the multi-frequency antenna array unit 310, the high-frequency antenna array unit 340 can be further lowered in the vertical direction relative to the low-frequency antenna array unit 330. That is, the low-frequency antenna array unit 310 can be higher than the high-frequency antenna array unit 310, further increasing the distance between the high-frequency antenna array unit 310 and the low-frequency antenna array unit 310, thereby further reducing the interference characteristics of the high-frequency antenna array unit 340 on the low-frequency antenna array unit 330.

[0050] For example, such as Figure 2 As shown, along the length of the cavity housing 100, a support member 411 is provided between each two adjacent output ports 110. The support member 411 is L-shaped, and the bent side of the support member 411 is used to abut against the reflector 440. For example, exemplarily, as shown... Figure 6 As shown, two rows of support members 411 are arranged in the width direction of the cavity shell 100, and an output port 110 is provided between two adjacent support members 411 in each row. The two rows of support members 411 are arranged symmetrically.

[0051] Understandably, multiple support members 411 are provided; in the width direction of the first sidewall, support members 411 are symmetrically provided on both sides of at least one output port 110 to form a set of support components 410, and both the support components 410 and the cavity shell 100 are conductive.

[0052] It should be noted that by providing support components 410 on both sides of at least one output socket 110 in the width direction of the first sidewall, the low-frequency common-mode current on the high-frequency antenna array unit 340 can pass sequentially through the reflector 440 -> the support components 411 on both sides of the high-frequency antenna array unit 340 -> the cavity shell 100 -> the feed balun 311 -> the reflector 440, thereby forming two opposite loops to cancel the low-frequency common-mode current.

[0053] It should be noted that the support component 410 is used to offset low-frequency common-mode current. The support component 410 can be partially formed on the cavity shell 100 by the support members 411, or all the support members 411 can be formed on the support component 410. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0054] It should be noted that the antenna array element 310, as a single antenna, is a core component of the base station used to transmit and receive electromagnetic waves. However, with increasing communication demands, the number of single antennas has increased. Given the limited space available at the base station, combining multiple single antennas of different frequency bands to form an antenna array to achieve multi-frequency antennas has become a growing trend. Common multi-frequency antennas include dual-frequency and tri-frequency antennas. In multi-frequency antennas, low-frequency and high-frequency antennas often coexist. When the low-frequency antenna is working normally, its radiation field induces a low-frequency common-mode current in the high-frequency antenna. This current radiates again and superimposes with the electromagnetic field originally radiated by the low-frequency antenna, ultimately causing a decrease in the gain of the low-frequency dipole and even distortion of the radiation pattern. By setting a conductive support member 411, the induced current of the low-frequency antenna outside the feed balun 311 of the high-frequency antenna can form a loop with the reflector 440 through the nearby support member 411, so that the induced current can be partially canceled, thereby suppressing the low-frequency common-mode current of the low-frequency antenna on the high-frequency antenna, reducing the interference between high and low frequency antennas, and improving the communication efficiency of the multi-antenna system.

[0055] It should be noted that the influence of the high-frequency antenna array unit 340 on the low-frequency antenna array unit 330 can be adjusted by adjusting the height of the support member 411. For example, the height of the support member 411 can be set to 0.03 to 0.3 times the wavelength of the low-frequency center frequency point that generates the low-frequency common-mode current. For example, assuming that the low-frequency antenna array unit 330 is antenna array unit A 310 and the high-frequency antenna array unit 340 is antenna array unit B 310, and A causes B to generate a low-frequency common-mode current, then the height of the support member 411 at B is set to 0.03 to 0.3 times the wavelength of the center frequency point of A. At this time, the height of the support member 411 can be set according to the different signal frequencies that need to be suppressed. Therefore, the structural design of the embodiment of this application that can effectively suppress low-frequency common-mode current is simpler and easier to manufacture and implement.

[0056] It should be noted that in some embodiments, the support component 410 may be provided only at the high-frequency antenna array unit 340, while in other embodiments, the support component 410 may be provided near each antenna array unit 310, thereby further improving the versatility of the feeding system application and adapting to antenna systems that integrate more antenna array units 310 of different standards. It should also be noted that the support member 411 may be staggered with the output port 110 along the length direction of the first sidewall. For example, as... Figure 6 As shown, two rows of support members 411 are provided on the first sidewall, each row containing nine support members 411 spaced apart, and an output socket 110 is distributed between two adjacent support members 411 in each row. Along the width direction of the first sidewall, each row provides a support assembly 410 consisting of two support members 411, and along the width of the first sidewall, the two support members 411 of the same support assembly 410 are located on opposite sides of the nearest output socket 110.

[0057] In summary, since the support member 411 provides support, the low-frequency antenna array unit 330 can be positioned higher than the high-frequency antenna array unit 340 relative to the reflector 440, further increasing the distance between the high-frequency antenna array unit 340 and the low-frequency antenna array unit 330. At the same time, since the support member 411 is conductive, it can cancel the low-frequency common-mode current. Therefore, the embodiments of this application can further reduce the interference characteristics of the high-frequency antenna array unit 340 on the low-frequency antenna array unit 330.

[0058] For example, refer to Figure 7a and Figure 7b Taking a dual-band antenna as an example, where, Figure 7a For existing dual-band antennas, such as Figure 7a The diagram showing the common-mode current illustrates that this dual-band antenna includes a low-frequency antenna array element 330 and a high-frequency antenna array element 340. Each antenna array element 310 includes a feed balun 311 and a radiating arm located above the feed balun 311. The feed balun 311 transmits the current signal from the output port of the feed network 210 in the feed system to the radiating arm. The radiating arm can convert the current signal from the feed balun 311 into an electromagnetic signal and radiate it, or convert electromagnetic signals in space into current signals and transmit them to the feed balun 311, enabling the communication equipment to perform signal transmission and reception functions. Furthermore, since the size of the antenna array element 310 is related to the wavelength of the corresponding transmitted electromagnetic wave, the higher the frequency of the electromagnetic wave and the shorter the wavelength, the smaller the physical size of the antenna array element 310. Therefore, the size of the high-frequency antenna array element 340 is smaller than the size of the low-frequency antenna array element 330. In a multi-frequency antenna, antenna elements of different frequency bands need to share a certain physical space; therefore, the high-frequency antenna array element 340 and the low-frequency antenna array element 330 are very close to each other. Figure 7a As shown, the high-frequency antenna array element 340 is smaller and shorter, while the low-frequency antenna array element 330 is larger and taller. Therefore, the radiating arm of the low-frequency antenna array element 330 partially overlaps the radiating arm of the high-frequency antenna array element 340. For the low-frequency antenna array element 330, the electromagnetic field radiated by its radiating arm will induce a common-mode current in the high-frequency antenna array element 340 due to electromagnetic induction. Figure 7a The arrows on the low-frequency antenna array unit 330 represent the radiated current of the low-frequency antenna array unit 330, and the arrows on the high-frequency antenna array unit 340 represent the common-mode current induced in the high-frequency antenna array unit 340 by the low-frequency antenna array unit 330. For example, Figure 7a As shown, when the low-frequency antenna array element 330 and the high-frequency antenna array element 340 coexist and the low-frequency antenna array element 330 is operating normally, the radiation field of the low-frequency antenna array element 330 induces a low-frequency common-mode current in the feed balun 311 of the high-frequency antenna array element 340. This current will radiate again and superimpose with the electromagnetic field originally radiated by the low-frequency antenna element to form the final radiation pattern. At this time, as... Figure 7a As shown, the solid line represents the superimposed radiation pattern of the low-frequency antenna, formed by superimposing the radiation pattern of the low-frequency antenna and the radiation pattern formed by the common-mode current. Therefore, from Figure 7a It can be seen that, due to the presence of common-mode current on the high-frequency antenna array unit 340, the gain of the superimposed low-frequency antenna array unit 330 is lower than the gain of the low-frequency antenna array unit 330 when it works alone.

[0059] For example, taking a support member 411 that is metal and a cavity shell 100 that is metal, when a conductive support member 411 is added, then, as Figure 7b As shown, the arrows on the low-frequency antenna array unit 330 represent the radiated current of the low-frequency antenna array unit 330 itself, and the arrows on the high-frequency antenna array unit 340 represent the common-mode current induced in the high-frequency antenna array unit 340 by the low-frequency antenna array unit 330. According to Figure 7bAs shown, the support member 411 on the feeding system can form a loop with the feed balun 311 of the high-frequency antenna array unit 340 and the reflector 440. The induced current of the low-frequency antenna array unit 330 on the high-frequency feed balun 311 of the high-frequency antenna array unit 340 will flow in opposite directions in the two loops. At this time, the induced currents in the two loops can partially cancel each other out, thereby reducing the impact on the low-frequency antenna array unit 330. Furthermore, since the support member 411 of the support assembly 410 has a symmetrical structure, common-mode currents with equal amplitude and opposite phase can be generated in the two loops, which manifest as field cancellation in the far field. Therefore, the influence of the high-frequency antenna array unit 340 on the low-frequency antenna array unit 330 can be effectively eliminated.

[0060] Understandably, referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the power supply assembly also includes multiple coupling clamping blocks 240, which are correspondingly arranged with the first coupling output terminal 220. The coupling clamping blocks 240 are used to fix the corresponding first coupling output terminal 220 and the power supply balun 311 at a preset interval.

[0061] It should be noted that by setting the coupling clamping block 240, the first coupling output terminal 220 and the feed balun 311 can be further fixed, thereby ensuring that the first coupling output terminal 220 and the feed balun 311 always maintain a preset interval, further reducing the risk of inter-link intermodulation and improving the consistency of the antenna system. Compared with the traditional method of using a PCB board or coaxial cable 500 to feed the antenna array unit 310, the coupling clamping block 240, the first coupling output terminal 220, and the feed balun 311 can significantly reduce the amount of feed cable used, reduce the number of connections that consume a lot of feed cables, simplify the layout, increase productivity, and reduce the loss of the feed network 210. While optimizing the radiation pattern, the antenna system can be effectively reduced in weight, which is conducive to the miniaturization and integration of the antenna system, reducing size and cost. The gain of the antenna system is greatly improved; and the feed structure of the entire antenna is simplified, thereby improving the assembly efficiency of the antenna system and reducing production costs.

[0062] For example, such as Figure 3 As shown, the number of coupling clamping blocks 240 is the same as the number of antenna array elements 310 supported in the feeding system. Figure 3 The feeding system supports the assembly of two antenna array units 310. Therefore, two coupling clamping blocks 240 are provided. Each coupling clamping block 240 fixes two first coupling output terminals 220 respectively. When the feeding balun of the antenna array unit 310 is inserted into the corresponding output socket 110, the feeding terminal of the feeding balun 311 is inserted into the corresponding coupling clamping block 240.

[0063] Understandably, referring to Figure 3As shown, the first sidewall is located above the first coupling output terminal 220 and the feed input terminal 230, and the first coupling output terminal 220 is located above the feed input terminal 230. The feed input terminal 230 is located near the first end of the cavity housing 100, and the antenna array total input component 320 passes through the first end and is electrically connected to the feed input terminal 230.

[0064] It should be noted that the gain of the antenna array unit 310 is related to the horizontal spacing between the antenna array units 310. The larger the horizontal spacing, the wider the horizontal plane of the antenna system, requiring more horizontal site resources, and the increased windward area is unsuitable for coastal areas. Therefore, by placing the first coupling output terminal 220 above the feed input terminal 230, and placing the output socket 110 above the first coupling output terminal 220 and the feed input terminal 230, the cavity shell 100 can be placed vertically, the cross-section of the antenna array unit 310 becomes narrower, the overall windward area of ​​the antenna system becomes smaller, saving horizontal site resources on the tower pole; and the smaller windward area is suitable for coastal areas. Therefore, the above arrangement can reduce the overall windward area of ​​the antenna system compared to placing the cavity shell 100 horizontally, while ensuring antenna gain.

[0065] For example, such as Figure 8a The diagram shows a top view of an antenna system with the cavity housing 100 placed horizontally in the prior art. The antenna array elements 310 are arranged in 4 columns and 8 rows, resulting in a relatively wide cross-section of the antenna system. When the cavity housing 100 is placed vertically, the antenna cross-section can be narrower with the same number of elements arranged in the same way. This results in a smaller overall horizontal windward area for the antenna system, which can save horizontal site resources on the base station.

[0066] Understandably, referring to Figure 3 As shown, the power supply system also includes a first insulating sheet 420, which is used to physically isolate the first coupled output terminal 220 from the corresponding power supply balun 311.

[0067] It should be noted that by setting the first insulating sheet 420, it can be further ensured that the first coupling output terminal 220 and the corresponding power supply balun 311 are electrically coupled.

[0068] It should be noted that the shape of the first insulating sheet 420 is not limited in this application embodiment. It can be set as a planar sheet or as a U-shaped sheet. Those skilled in the art can selectively set it according to actual needs.

[0069] It should be noted that the number of the first insulating sheet 420 can be selectively set according to the requirements. One first insulating sheet 420 can be used for the first coupling output terminal 220 in the same cavity shell 100, or one first insulating sheet 420 can be set for each first coupling output terminal 220. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0070] It should be noted that this application does not limit the position of the first insulating sheet 420. The first insulating sheet 420 can be set on the side wall opposite to the first coupling output terminal 220 and the feed balun 311, or it can wrap around the first coupling output terminal 220, or it can be set on the feed balun 311.

[0071] Understandably, referring to Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the power input terminal 230 and the antenna array total input component 320 are electrically coupled. The power supply system also includes a second insulating sheet 430, which is used to physically isolate the power input terminal 230 and the antenna array total input component 320.

[0072] It should be noted that the electrical coupling between the feed input terminal 230 and the antenna array main input component 320 prevents lightning energy from directly reaching the feed system through the main input terminal, thus preventing large surge currents in the feed system and maximizing its protection against lightning damage, achieving lightning protection. Furthermore, the inclusion of a second insulating sheet 430 further ensures physical isolation between the feed input terminal 230 and the antenna array main input component 320, achieving electrical coupling.

[0073] It should be noted that the shape of the second insulating sheet 430 is not limited in the embodiments of this application. Those skilled in the art can selectively set it according to actual needs, such as setting the second insulating sheet 430 as a sheet-like plane, or setting the second insulating sheet 430 as a U-shape.

[0074] It should be noted that the number of second insulating sheets 430 can be set to two, corresponding to the negative input and positive input of the antenna array total input component 320, respectively. In some other embodiments, the number of second insulating sheets 430 can be set to one, such as a U-shape, to wrap around the positive and negative terminals of the cable in the antenna array total input component 320, so that the feed input terminal 230 is physically isolated from the antenna array total input component 320.

[0075] It should be noted that the position of the second insulating sheet 430 is not limited in this embodiment of the application, and those skilled in the art can selectively set it according to actual needs.

[0076] For example, see the appendix below. Figures 1 to 5 describe Figure 6 The system supports feeding more antenna array elements 310, such as Figure 6 As shown, the feeding system includes a metal cavity housing 100 and a feeding network 210 built into the cavity housing 100. An output port 110 is formed by an opening on the cavity housing 100, and the feeding network 210 has signal transceiver terminals. The feeding network 210 can be in the form of an air stripline (such as a metal stripline; or a PCB stripline). The feeding network 210 has one feeding input terminal 230 and N sets of first coupling output terminals 220. The N sets of first coupling output terminals 220 correspond to the N antenna array elements 310 of the antenna array, and the one feeding input terminal 230 corresponds to the total input terminal of the antenna array.

[0077] Reference Figure 2 As shown, Figure 6 The first coupling output terminal 220 of the antenna array adopts a planar structure and is used to electrically connect with the N antenna array elements. Each antenna array element 310 includes a feed balun 311. The bottom end of the feed balun 311 is provided with a feed terminal for electrical coupling with the first coupling output terminal 220. The feed terminal of the feed balun 311 is inserted into the cavity housing 100 through the output socket 110 and coupled to the first coupling output terminal 220 of the feed network 210.

[0078] like Figure 6 In the feeding system shown, during assembly, the feed balun 311 of the antenna array unit 310 is inserted into the cavity housing 100 through the output socket 110 via the feed end, and connected to the first coupling output terminal 220 of the feed network 210. This eliminates the need for soldering between the feed balun 311 of the antenna array unit 310 and the output terminal of the feed network 210, thus avoiding environmental pollution caused by electroplating and soldering in existing technologies and reducing costs; it also eliminates the need for tin plating, ensuring radiation efficiency; and it reduces solder joints, ensuring the product performance of the antenna unit and reliable intermodulation performance. Furthermore, since the feed end of the feed balun 311 at its bottom is directly inserted into the cavity housing 100 through the output socket 110 and coupled to the first coupling output terminal 220 of the feed network 210, multiple antenna array units 310 can be assembled simultaneously, resulting in higher assembly efficiency.

[0079] The first coupling output terminal 220 of the feed network 210 can be integrally formed and fixed to the feed network 210 by casting, forging, stamping or die casting. The feed terminal of the feed balun 311 of the antenna array unit 310 can be integrally formed and fixed to the feed balun 311 by casting, forging, stamping or die casting.

[0080] Reference Figure 3 As shown, Figure 6The power supply system also includes a first insulating sheet 420, which is U-shaped. The first insulating sheet 420 can be sleeved on the power supply end, or disposed on the oxide layer on the outer wall of the first coupling output end 220 near the power supply end, or disposed on the oxide layer on the outer wall of the first coupling output end 220 near the power supply end of the power supply network 210, to achieve mutual insulation and isolation between the first coupling output end 220 and the corresponding power supply end. Furthermore, the thickness of the first insulating sheet 420 can be set to be relatively thin, thereby ensuring that the distance between the first coupling output end 220 and the corresponding power supply end is relatively short, resulting in sufficient coupling strength, while maintaining a small product size.

[0081] Reference Figure 3 As shown, a coupling clamping block 240 is also fixedly installed on the first coupling output terminal 220 of the feed network 210. The coupling clamping block 240 is used to install and fix the connection between the feed balun 311 of the antenna array unit 310 and the corresponding first coupling output terminal 220. It can tightly fit the first coupling output terminal 220 and the corresponding feed terminal together. The elastic force of the coupling clamping block 240 can stably fit it and it is not easy to loosen. The assembly effect is relatively stable, which can ensure stable and smooth signal transmission between the first coupling output terminal 220 and the corresponding feed terminal.

[0082] Reference Figure 5 As shown, the feed input terminal 230 of the feed network 210 adopts a sheet structure, and the feed output terminal consists of two input coupling plates 231. The feed input terminal 230 is used to couple and electrically connect with the total input terminal of the antenna array (i.e., the antenna group formed by multiple antenna array elements 310).

[0083] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the antenna array input component 320 includes a cable 500 and a second coupling output terminal 321, wherein one end of the cable 500 and the second coupling output terminal 321 are soldered together.

[0084] Reference Figure 5 As shown, the antenna array input component 320 also includes a second insulating sheet 430. The second insulating sheet 430 is disposed between the input coupling sheet 231 and the second coupling output terminal 321. In some embodiments, the second insulating sheet 430 may also be disposed on the oxide layer on the outer wall of the input coupling sheet 231 relative to the second coupling output terminal 321. In other embodiments, the second insulating sheet 430 is disposed on the oxide layer on the outer wall of the second coupling output terminal 321 relative to the input coupling sheet 231, thereby achieving mutual insulation between the input feed terminal and the second coupling output terminal 321. The thickness of the second insulating sheet 430 can be set to be relatively thin, thereby ensuring that the distance between the input feed terminal and the second coupling output terminal 321 is relatively close, resulting in sufficient coupling strength, while also keeping the product size small.

[0085] Reference Figure 5 As shown, the antenna array input component 320 also includes a grounding part 322, which is plate-shaped. The grounding part 322 can be a copper-aluminum composite plate grounding plate, used to fix the connection between the outer conductor of the coaxial cable 500 and the end of the cavity housing 100, and to indirectly ground the outer conductor of the coaxial cable 500 to the outer wall of the cavity housing 100. The copper-aluminum composite plate grounding plate can be laser-welded to the opening at the end of the metal cavity. It is understood that the grounding part 322 is not limited to the copper-aluminum composite plate grounding plate form; other forms, such as aluminum plate grounding, can also be used.

[0086] Reference Figure 5 As shown, during assembly, the coaxial cable 500 of the antenna array's main input component 320 passes through the copper-aluminum composite plate grounding plate and is inserted into the cavity housing 100, where it is soldered to one end of the second coupling output terminal 321. The outer conductor of the coaxial cable 500 is soldered to the copper-aluminum composite plate grounding plate. The second coupling output terminal 321 is coupled to the feed input terminal 230 of the feed network 210 to achieve signal coupling transmission from the main input terminal of the antenna array to the input terminal of the feed network 210. This prevents lightning energy from directly reaching the feed system through the main input terminal, minimizing surge current in the feed system and maximizing protection against lightning strikes, thus achieving lightning protection.

[0087] Understandably, referring to Figure 6 , Figures 9 to 11 As shown, according to an antenna system provided in this application, the antenna system includes:

[0088] The feeding system includes a cavity housing 100 and a feeding assembly. The first sidewall of the cavity housing 100 has multiple spaced-apart output ports 110, each of which is used to connect to a feeding balun 311 of the antenna array unit 310. The feeding assembly includes a feeding network 210, which is disposed inside the cavity housing 100. The feeding network 210 has multiple first coupling output terminals 220 and a feeding input terminal 230. The first coupling output terminals 220 are configured one-to-one with the output ports 110, and the feeding input terminal 230 is used to electrically connect to the antenna array main input component 320. Each first coupling output terminal 220 is used to electrically couple with the feeding balun 311 inserted from the corresponding output port 110.

[0089] The antenna array assembly includes an antenna array general input component 320 and at least one antenna array element 310. The antenna array general input component 320 is electrically connected to the feed input terminal 230. The feed balun 311 of each antenna array element 310 is inserted into the output socket 110. The feed balun 311 is electrically coupled to the first coupling output terminal 220 at the corresponding output socket 110.

[0090] Therefore, by electrically coupling the first coupling output terminal 220 to the feed balun 311, the number of solder joints between the antenna array unit 310 and the feed network 210 can be reduced, thereby reducing the assembly energy consumption of the antenna array unit 310 and ensuring the antenna intermodulation performance and stability. Furthermore, by providing multiple first coupling output terminals 220, multiple antenna array units 310 can be integrated. And by providing the cavity housing 100 and opening the output port 110 on the first sidewall of the cavity housing 100, the assembly of the antenna array unit 310 and the feed system becomes more convenient. Therefore, compared with related technologies, the embodiments of this application can reduce the assembly complexity of the feed system while reducing the network loss of the feed system.

[0091] It should be noted that an antenna system can have multiple feed systems or only one feed system. By arranging multiple feed systems in an array, more antenna configurations can be achieved. For example,... Figure 11 As shown, four feeding systems are configured, and each of the four feeding systems is connected to a reflector 440. Each feeding system is equipped with ten antenna array elements 310, as exemplarily... Figure 12 As shown, an antenna system includes a feed system with 10 antenna array elements 310. It should be noted that the number of antenna array elements 310 supported by the feed system in an antenna system can be the same or different. The frequency band types of the antenna array elements 310 in the feed system of an antenna system can also be different, such as... Figure 10 As shown, an antenna system contains both low-frequency antenna array elements 330 and high-frequency antenna array elements 340. The low-frequency antenna array elements 330 and the high-frequency antenna array elements 340 can be distributed simultaneously on a single feed system or separately on a single feed system.

[0092] It should be noted that the antenna array general input component 320 is used to provide power to the antenna array units 310 in each feeding system.

[0093] Understandably, the antenna array total input component 320 includes a second coupled output terminal 321, which is electrically coupled to the feed input terminal 230.

[0094] Understandably, the power supply system also includes a second insulating sheet 430, which is used to physically isolate the power supply input terminal 230 and the second coupled output terminal 321; the second insulating sheet 430 is positioned in one of the following locations:

[0095] Between the second coupling output terminal 321 and the power input terminal 230;

[0096] Second coupling output terminal 321 sidewall;

[0097] Power input terminal 230 sidewall.

[0098] It should be noted that the feed input terminal 230 includes two input coupling plates 231, and the antenna array total input component 320 is located between the two input coupling plates 231. In some embodiments, two second insulating plates 430 are provided, with the two second insulating plates 430 located on both sides of the antenna array total input component 320 and between the two input coupling plates 231, in which case the second insulating plates 430 are located between the second coupling output terminal 321 and the feed input terminal 230. In other embodiments, the two second insulating plates 430 are located on the opposite sidewalls of the two input coupling plates 231, and in still other embodiments, the two second insulating plates 430 are located on the opposite sidewalls of the second coupling output terminal 321 and the input coupling plates 231. Those skilled in the art can selectively configure these according to actual needs.

[0099] Understandably, the first end of the cavity housing 100 is provided with an opening, and the antenna array total input component 320 also includes a grounding part 322, which covers the opening at the first end; the grounding part 322 is provided with a mounting hole that allows the cable 500 to pass through.

[0100] It should be noted that the grounding part 322 is used to fix the outer conductor of the cable 500 to the end of the cavity housing 100, and at the same time, it allows the outer conductor of the cable 500 to be indirectly grounded to the cavity housing 100 through the grounding part 322. The grounding part 322 can be configured as a sheet or other shapes. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0101] It should be noted that the material of the grounding part 322 is not limited in the embodiments of this application. For example, the grounding part 322 made of copper-aluminum composite plate can be used, or the grounding part 322 supported by aluminum sheet can be used.

[0102] Understandably, the power supply system also includes multiple first insulating sheets 420, each corresponding to a first coupled output terminal 220. The first insulating sheet 420 is used to physically isolate the first coupled output terminal 220 from the corresponding power supply balun 311. The positions of the first insulating sheet 420 include one of the following:

[0103] On the first coupling output terminal 220;

[0104] The first coupling output terminal 220 is connected to the corresponding power supply balun 311;

[0105] The first coupled output terminal 220 is connected to the feed balun 311.

[0106] It should be noted that in some embodiments, the power supply balun 311 has two power supply terminals for positive and negative input respectively. Correspondingly, each power supply balun 311 corresponds to two first coupling output terminals 220. In this case, the power supply balun 311 is located between the corresponding two first coupling output terminals 220. A single first insulating sheet 420 (e.g., U-shaped) can be provided. Physical isolation is achieved by partially positioning the first insulating sheet 420 between the first coupling output terminal 220 and the corresponding power supply balun 311. Alternatively, physical isolation can be achieved by placing the first insulating sheet 420 on the sidewall of the power supply balun 311 relative to the first coupling output terminal 220; or by partially placing the first insulating sheet 420 on the sidewall of the first coupling output terminal 220 opposite to the power supply balun 311. Alternatively, two or more independent devices (e.g., U-shaped insulating sheets) can be provided for the first insulating sheet 420, positioned according to the relative positions of the power supply balun 311 and the corresponding first coupling output terminal 220, thereby achieving physical isolation. The embodiments in this application will not be described in detail.

[0107] The above description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, illustrates some embodiments of this application, but does not limit the scope of the invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of this invention should be considered within the scope of this application.

Claims

1. A feeding system, comprising: a cavity housing, a first side wall of the cavity housing being provided with a plurality of spaced output sockets, each of the output sockets being configured to receive a feeding balun of an antenna array unit; a feeding assembly, the feeding assembly comprising a feeding network, the feeding network being disposed in the cavity housing, the feeding network being provided with a plurality of first coupling outputs and a feeding input, the first coupling outputs being provided one-to-one with the output sockets, the feeding input being configured to be electrically connected to an antenna array input component; each of the first coupling outputs being configured to be electrically coupled with the feeding balun inserted in the corresponding output socket.

2. The feed system of claim 1, wherein, a support member, the support member being disposed on the first side wall, the support member being configured to support a reflector plate of the antenna array unit.

3. The feed system of claim 2, wherein, The support member is provided with a plurality of support members; at least one of the output sockets is symmetrically provided with the support members on both sides in a width direction of the first side wall to form a set of support assemblies, the support assemblies and the cavity housing are both electrically conductive.

4. The feed system of claim 1, wherein, The feeding assembly further comprises a plurality of coupling compression blocks, the coupling compression blocks being provided corresponding to the first coupling outputs, the coupling compression blocks being configured to fix the corresponding first coupling outputs and the feeding balun at a preset interval.

5. The feed system of claim 1, wherein, The first side wall is located above the first coupling outputs and the feeding input, and the first coupling outputs are located above the feeding input, the feeding input is disposed close to a first end of the cavity housing, and the antenna array input component is electrically connected to the feeding input through the first end.

6. The feed system of claim 1, wherein, The feeding system further comprises a first insulating sheet, the first insulating sheet being configured to physically isolate the first coupling outputs and the corresponding feeding baluns.

7. The feed system of claim 1, wherein, The feeding input and the antenna array input component are electrically coupled, and the feeding system further comprises a second insulating sheet, the second insulating sheet being configured to physically isolate the feeding input and the antenna array input component.

8. An antenna system, comprising: the feeding system of claim 1; an antenna array assembly, the antenna array assembly comprising an antenna array input component and at least one antenna array unit, the antenna array input component being electrically connected to the feeding input, and the feeding balun of each of the antenna array units being inserted into an output socket and being electrically coupled with the first coupling output at the corresponding output socket.

9. The antenna system of claim 8, wherein, The antenna array input component comprises a second coupling output, the second coupling output being electrically coupled with the feeding input.

10. The antenna system of claim 9, wherein, The feeding system further comprises a second insulating sheet, the second insulating sheet being configured to physically isolate the feeding input and the second coupling output; the second insulating sheet being disposed at one of the following positions: between the second coupling output and the feeding input; a side wall of the second coupling output; a side wall of the feeding input.

11. The antenna system of claim 9, wherein, The first end opening of the cavity shell is provided, and the antenna array total input component further comprises a grounding portion which covers the opening of the first end; the grounding portion is provided with a mounting hole allowing a cable to pass through.

12. The antenna system of claim 8, wherein, The feeding system further comprises a plurality of first insulating sheets, the first insulating sheets are provided one by one corresponding to the first coupling output ends, the first insulating sheets are used to physically isolate the first coupling output ends and the corresponding feeding baluns, and the first insulating sheets are arranged at positions including one of the following: on the first coupling output ends; between the first coupling output ends and the corresponding feeding baluns; on the feeding baluns corresponding to the first coupling output ends.

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