Control methods, control circuits, and communication equipment for phased array antennas

Abstract

This invention proposes a control method, control circuit, and communication device for a phased array antenna. The control method first controls multiple antenna groups to radiate beams with a target main lobe direction sequentially according to a preset timing sequence. Each antenna group operates sequentially in a first time period and a second time period. In two adjacent antenna groups radiating beams, the second time period of the preceding antenna group coincides with the first time period of the following antenna group. During the first time period, a bias voltage is output to each liquid crystal antenna in the antenna group to bias the liquid crystal in the liquid crystal phase-shifting unit within the antenna group. During the second time period, a first radio frequency signal is output to the waveguide of the antenna group to form a beam with the target main lobe direction. Each liquid crystal antenna in the phased array antenna only requires one liquid crystal phase-shifting unit, simplifying the structure and design cost of the phased array antenna. Simultaneously, adjacent radiating antenna groups can be time-divisionally biased and radiated, improving the scanning speed of the phased array antenna.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of phased array antenna technology, and particularly relates to a control method, control circuit and communication equipment for a phased array antenna. Background Technology

[0002] With the gradual evolution of communication systems, phased array antennas have been widely used. In existing technologies, phased array antennas consist of multiple antenna elements. These elements are used to phase-shift radio frequency (RF) signals and radiate the phase-shifted signals. The RF signals radiated by multiple antenna elements interfere with each other, forming a beam with a single main lobe direction. Since existing phase shifters are fixed-phase devices, if each antenna element includes only one phase shifter, one antenna element can only radiate an RF signal of one phase. When the RF signals emitted by multiple antenna elements interfere, the antenna can only form a beam with a specific main lobe direction, making it impossible to adjust the main lobe direction. Therefore, currently, each antenna element corresponds to multiple phase shifters. Different phase shifters are selected by electronic switches to perform phase shifting, resulting in different phases of the RF signals emitted by the antenna elements, thereby achieving adjustment of the main lobe direction of the phased array antenna.

[0003] However, this would require a large number of phase shifters in the phased array antenna, leading to high cost and power consumption. Especially with the advent of 5G and even 6G, the demand for phased array antennas is increasing in areas such as base stations, vehicle-mounted systems, and low-orbit satellite communications. Therefore, reducing the manufacturing cost of phased array antennas has become a pressing technical problem.

[0004] To reduce the cost of phased array antennas, liquid crystal phased array antennas offer a continuously adjustable phase shifter solution. Different phase shift amounts can be achieved by adjusting the bias voltage. However, liquid crystals have a slow response time, which affects the beam scanning speed of the phased array. This is a problem that urgently needs to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a control method for a phased array antenna, which aims to reduce the number of phase shifters required in the phased array antenna and improve the scanning speed of the phased array antenna.

[0006] A first aspect of this invention provides a control method for a phased array antenna, wherein the phased array antenna includes multiple liquid crystal antennas arranged in an array, each liquid crystal antenna including a waveguide, a liquid crystal phase-shifting unit, and a radiator, wherein a first radio frequency signal transmitted through the waveguide is phase-shifted into a second radio frequency signal by the liquid crystal phase-shifting unit and radiated outward by the radiator;

[0007] The control method for the phased array antenna includes:

[0008] Each antenna group is controlled to radiate a beam with a target main lobe direction in sequence according to a preset timing sequence. The multiple liquid crystal antennas are divided into multiple antenna groups. Each beam includes a second radio frequency signal with multiple interferences. Each antenna group includes multiple liquid crystal antennas.

[0009] Each of the antenna groups is controlled to operate sequentially in a first time period and a second time period, and in two adjacent antenna groups radiating the beam, the second time period of the former antenna group coincides with the first time period of the latter antenna group.

[0010] When each of the antenna groups is operating within the first time period, a bias voltage is output to the liquid crystal phase-shifting unit of the plurality of liquid crystal antennas of the antenna group, and the output of the first radio frequency signal to the waveguide of the plurality of liquid crystal antennas of the antenna group is cut off.

[0011] When each of the antenna groups is operating during the second time period, the liquid crystal phase-shifting units of the plurality of liquid crystal antennas of the antenna group that output the bias voltage to the antenna group are cut off, and the first radio frequency signal is output to the waveguides of the plurality of liquid crystal antennas of the antenna group.

[0012] Optionally, before controlling each antenna group to sequentially radiate a beam with the target main lobe direction according to a preset timing sequence, the method further includes:

[0013] Obtain the target main lobe direction of each beam of the phased array antenna, determine the multiple liquid crystal antennas corresponding to each beam, and divide the multiple liquid crystal antennas corresponding to each beam into a group of antenna groups;

[0014] The radiation timing of each beam is obtained, and the radiation timing of each antenna group is determined based on the radiation timing of each beam.

[0015] Optionally, the durations of the first time period and the second time period are preset durations, the output duration of the bias voltage is less than the preset duration, and the radiation duration of the second radio frequency signal is equal to the preset duration.

[0016] A second aspect of this invention provides a control circuit for a phased array antenna, the phased array antenna comprising a plurality of liquid crystal antennas arranged in an array, the liquid crystal antenna comprising a waveguide, a liquid crystal phase-shifting unit and a radiator, wherein a first radio frequency signal transmitted by the waveguide is phase-shifted into a second radio frequency signal by the liquid crystal phase-shifting unit and radiated outward by the radiator;

[0017] The control circuit of the phased array antenna includes:

[0018] The radio frequency output circuit is connected to the waveguide of each of the liquid crystal antennas, and the radio frequency output circuit is used to output the first radio frequency signal according to the first control signal;

[0019] A bias voltage output circuit is connected to the liquid crystal phase-shifting unit of each of the liquid crystal antennas. The bias voltage output circuit is used to output the bias voltage according to the second control signal.

[0020] The controller is connected to the radio frequency output circuit and the bias voltage output circuit respectively. The controller is used to output the first control signal and the second control signal to execute the control method of the liquid crystal phased array antenna described above.

[0021] Optionally, the radio frequency output circuit includes multiple radio frequency circuits, each of which is connected to the waveguide of a liquid crystal antenna. The radio frequency circuit is also connected to the controller, and the radio frequency circuit is used to output the first radio frequency signal according to the first control signal.

[0022] Optionally, the radio frequency output circuit includes:

[0023] Radio frequency circuit, used to output the first radio frequency signal;

[0024] A plurality of first switches are provided, the first ends of which are connected to the waveguide of the liquid crystal antenna, and the second ends of which are connected to the output of the radio frequency circuit. The first switches are used to turn on when triggered by the first control signal.

[0025] Optionally, the bias voltage output circuit includes multiple bias voltage generating circuits, each bias voltage generating circuit being connected to the liquid crystal phase shifting unit of the liquid crystal antenna, and the bias voltage generating circuit being connected to the controller. The bias voltage generating circuit is used to output the bias voltage according to the second control signal.

[0026] Optionally, the radio frequency output circuit includes:

[0027] A bias voltage generating circuit is used to output the bias voltage;

[0028] Multiple second switches are provided, with their first ends connected to the liquid crystal phase-shifting unit of the liquid crystal antenna and their second ends connected to the output of the bias voltage generating circuit. The second switches are used to turn on when triggered by the second control signal.

[0029] A second aspect of this invention provides a communication device, including a phased array antenna and a control circuit for the phased array antenna, wherein the control circuit for the phased array antenna is connected to the phased array antenna.

[0030] The phased array antenna includes multiple liquid crystal antennas arranged in an array. Each liquid crystal antenna includes a waveguide, a liquid crystal phase-shifting unit, and a radiator. The first radio frequency signal transmitted through the waveguide is phase-shifted into a second radio frequency signal by the liquid crystal phase-shifting unit and radiated outward by the radiator.

[0031] Optionally, the liquid crystal phase shifting unit includes an array substrate and a counter substrate disposed opposite each other, and a liquid crystal layer located between the array substrate and the counter substrate;

[0032] The array substrate includes a first substrate and a first conductive layer stacked along a first direction, wherein the first conductive layer is used to input a bias voltage.

[0033] The opposing substrate includes a second substrate and a second conductive layer stacked along a second direction, the second conductive layer being used to input a ground signal, and the first direction and the second direction being opposite.

[0034] The waveguide layer is stacked on the side of the first substrate opposite to the first conductive layer, and the radiator is stacked on the side of the second substrate opposite to the second conductive layer.

[0035] The beneficial effects of the embodiments of the present invention compared with the prior art are as follows: In the control method of the phased array antenna described above, multiple antenna groups are first controlled to radiate beams with the target main lobe direction in sequence according to a preset timing sequence. Each antenna group includes multiple liquid crystal antennas. Each antenna group operates in sequence in a first time period and a second time period. In two adjacent antenna groups radiating beams, the second time period of the previous antenna group and the first time period of the next antenna group coincide. During the first time period, a bias voltage is output to each liquid crystal antenna of the antenna group to deflect the liquid crystal in the liquid crystal phase shifting unit within the antenna group. During the second time period, a first radio frequency signal is output to the waveguide of the antenna group and radiates multiple second radio frequency signals. After the multiple second radio frequency signals interfere with each other, a beam with the target main lobe direction is formed. Each liquid crystal antenna in the phased array antenna only needs to be equipped with one liquid crystal phase shifting unit and can sequentially form beams with different directions, which simplifies the structure and design cost of the phased array antenna. At the same time, adjacent radiating antenna groups can be time-divisionally biased and radiated, which improves the scanning speed of the phased array antenna. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the phased array antenna provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the liquid crystal antenna provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the first step in the control method of the phased array antenna provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the first signal waveform of the control method for a phased array antenna provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a second signal waveform of the control method for a phased array antenna provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the third signal waveform of the control method for the phased array antenna provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the second process of the control method for a phased array antenna provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a first module of the control circuit for a phased array antenna provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a second module of the control circuit for the phased array antenna provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the third module of the control circuit for the phased array antenna provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0046] The figures in the diagram are labeled as follows:

[0047] 01. Phased array antenna; 2. Antenna substrate; 1. Liquid crystal antenna; 10. Liquid crystal phase shifting unit; 20. Waveguide; 30. Radiator; 11. Array substrate; 12. Opposing substrate; 13. Liquid crystal layer; 111. First substrate; 112. First conductive layer; 121. Second substrate; 122. Second conductive layer; T11. First time period of the first antenna group; 200. Control circuit of the phased array antenna; 210. Bias voltage output circuit; 220. RF output circuit; 230. Controller; 221. RF circuit; 211. Bias voltage generating circuit;

[0048] K1, First switch; K2, Second switch; T12, Second time period of the first antenna group; T21, First time period of the second antenna group; T22, Second time period of the second antenna group; T31, First time period of the third antenna group; T32, Second time period of the third antenna group; V1, First bias voltage; V2, Second bias voltage; V3, Third bias voltage; V4, Fourth bias voltage; RF, First radio frequency signal. Detailed Implementation

[0049] To make the technical problems to be solved, the technical solutions, and the beneficial effects of the present invention clearer, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0050] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0051] Example 1

[0052] The first aspect of this invention provides a control method for a phased array antenna 01.

[0053] like Figure 1 As shown, the phased array antenna 01 includes multiple liquid crystal antennas 1 arranged in an array. Each liquid crystal antenna 1 is used to radiate a second radio frequency signal in a different direction. When multiple liquid crystal antennas 1 radiate the second radio frequency signal at the same time, the multiple second radio frequency signals interfere to form a beam with a main lobe direction. The phased array antenna 01 may also include an antenna substrate 2, on which the liquid crystal antennas 1 are arranged in an array.

[0054] like Figure 2 As shown, the liquid crystal antenna 1 includes a waveguide 20, a liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10, and a radiator 30. The first radio frequency signal RF transmitted by the waveguide 20 is phase-shifted into a second radio frequency signal by the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 and radiated outward by the radiator 30.

[0055] Waveguide 20 is used to receive a first radio frequency signal RF and radiate the first radio frequency signal RF to the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10. The liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 may include an array substrate 11, a counter substrate 12 and a liquid crystal layer 13 located between the array substrate 11 and the counter substrate 12. After receiving a bias voltage, the array substrate 11 and the counter substrate 12 form an electric field. The liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer 13 is deflected under the action of the electric field, and the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal changes. The first radio frequency signal RF transmitted by the waveguide 20 is phase-shifted to generate a second radio frequency signal. The phase-shifted second radio frequency signal is radiated outward through the radiator 30. Multiple second radio frequency signals interfere to form a beam with a main lobe direction.

[0056] To simplify the structure of the phased array antenna 01 and improve the scanning speed, such as Figure 3 As shown, in this embodiment, the control method for the phased array antenna 01 includes:

[0057] S10. Control each antenna group to radiate beams with the target main lobe direction in sequence according to a preset timing sequence. Among them, multiple liquid crystal antennas 1 are divided into multiple antenna groups. Each beam includes a second radio frequency signal with multiple interferences. Each antenna group includes multiple liquid crystal antennas 1.

[0058] S20. Control each antenna group to work sequentially in the first time period and the second time period, and in the two antenna groups of adjacent radiation beams, the second time period of the previous antenna group coincides with the first time period of the next antenna group.

[0059] S30. When each antenna group is working in the first time period, the bias voltage is output to the liquid crystal phase shift unit 10 of the multiple liquid crystal antennas 1 of the antenna group, and the first radio frequency signal RF is output to the waveguide 20 of the multiple liquid crystal antennas 1 of the antenna group.

[0060] S40. When each antenna group is working in the second time period, the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 of the multiple liquid crystal antennas 1 of the antenna group is cut off, and the first radio frequency signal RF is output to the waveguide 20 of the multiple liquid crystal antennas 1 of the antenna group.

[0061] In this embodiment, each liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 can have different phase shifting phases under different bias voltages received, that is, the liquid crystal of each liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 has different dielectric constants, thereby enabling the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 to perform phase shifting on the first radio frequency signal RF to different degrees. When the bias voltage is different, the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 can radiate a second radio frequency signal with multiple phases. Therefore, by adjusting the phase of the second radio frequency signal radiated by the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10, the main lobe direction of the final beam can be adjusted after the radio frequency signals radiated by multiple liquid crystal phase shifting units 10 interfere with each other.

[0062] During the scanning process, the phased array antenna 01 needs to form multiple beams with different target main lobe directions and change the beam directions sequentially according to a preset timing sequence. When controlling the phased array antenna 01, the preset timing sequence of the beams with each target main lobe direction is first determined. For example, the scanning beams of the phased array antenna 01 include a first beam and a second beam. The first beam has a first main lobe direction and is formed by the interference of multiple second radio frequency signals radiated by multiple liquid crystal antennas 1 in the first antenna group. The second beam has a second main lobe direction and is formed by the interference of multiple second radio frequency signals radiated by multiple liquid crystal antennas 1 in the second antenna group. The first beam with the first main lobe direction leads the second main lobe direction. At this time, the multiple liquid crystal antennas 1 in the first antenna group are first controlled to radiate the beam with the first main lobe direction, and then the multiple liquid crystal antennas 1 in the second antenna group are controlled to radiate the beam with the second main lobe direction.

[0063] Simultaneously, when controlling the radiating beams of the antenna groups, each antenna group operates in a first time period and a second time period, and the second time period and the first time period of adjacent radiating beam antenna groups overlap. Taking the first beam and the second beam as examples, for instance... Figure 4 As shown, assuming the first antenna group includes a first liquid crystal antenna 1 and a second liquid crystal antenna 1, and the second antenna group includes a third liquid crystal antenna 1 and a fourth liquid crystal antenna 1, when controlling the radiation beam of the first antenna group, firstly, during the first time period T11 of the first antenna group, a bias voltage is output to the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 of each liquid crystal antenna 1 of the first antenna group. For example, a first bias voltage V1 is output to the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 of the first liquid crystal antenna 1, and a second bias voltage V2 is output to the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 of the second liquid crystal antenna 1. Each liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 is biased to form an electric field. The liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer 13 is deflected under the action of the electric field, and the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal changes, thereby forming phase shifting units with different phase shifting phases.

[0064] After the liquid crystal bias of the first antenna group is completed, the system switches to the second time period T12 of the first antenna group. At this time, it is also the first time period T21 of the second antenna group. During this time period, the first radio frequency signal RF is output to the multiple waveguides 20 of the multiple liquid crystal antennas 1 in the first antenna group. For example, the first radio frequency signal RF is output to the waveguides 20 of the first liquid crystal antenna 1 and the waveguides 20 of the second liquid crystal antenna 1. After receiving the first radio frequency signal RF, each waveguide 20 radiates the first radio frequency signal RF to the biased liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10, and generates the second radio frequency signal after phase shifting by its corresponding liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10. The multiple second radio frequency signals corresponding to the first antenna group are radiated outward through the radiator 30 and interfere to form a first beam with the first main lobe direction.

[0065] During this time period, a bias voltage is synchronously output to the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 of each liquid crystal antenna 1 in the second antenna group. For example, a third bias voltage V3 is output to the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 of the third liquid crystal antenna 1, and a fourth bias voltage V4 is output to the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 of the fourth liquid crystal antenna 1. An electric field is formed by the internal bias of each liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10. The liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer 13 is deflected under the action of the electric field, and the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal changes, thereby forming phase shifting units with different phase shifting phases. Therefore, during this time period, the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 of each liquid crystal antenna 1 in the second antenna group is biased in advance.

[0066] Then, switching to the second time period T22 of the second antenna group, the first radio frequency signal RF is output to the multiple waveguides 20 of the multiple liquid crystal antennas 1 in the second antenna group. After receiving the first radio frequency signal RF, the multiple waveguides 20 radiate the first radio frequency signal RF to the biased liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10, and generate the second radio frequency signal after phase shifting by the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10. The multiple second radio frequency signals corresponding to the second antenna group are radiated outward through the radiator 30 and interfere to form a second beam with the direction of the second main lobe, thereby completing the sequential radiation of the first beam and the second beam.

[0067] Furthermore, if the first beam and the second beam radiate outward alternately, during the second time period T22 when switching to the second antenna group, the system simultaneously switches to the first time period T11 of the first antenna group, outputting a bias voltage to the liquid crystal phase-shifting unit 10 of each liquid crystal antenna 1 in the first antenna group. An electric field is formed by the bias inside the liquid crystal phase-shifting unit 10, and the liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer 13 is deflected under the action of the electric field, causing the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal to change, thereby forming phase-shifting units with different phase shifting phases. Each liquid crystal antenna 1 in the first antenna group can be biased in advance.

[0068] By controlling the liquid crystal antennas 1 of adjacent radiating antenna groups to perform biasing and radiation in a time-division manner, the liquid crystal phase shifting units 10 of each liquid crystal antenna 1 of the subsequent radiating antenna groups can enter the biasing state in advance, and can directly perform phase shifting and radiation of the first radio frequency signal RF when entering the radiation state. There is no need to wait for one antenna group to perform biasing and radiation before the next antenna group performs biasing and radiation, which shortens the scanning time between adjacent radiating antenna groups and thus improves the scanning speed of the phased array antenna 01.

[0069] Furthermore, the liquid crystal antenna 1 corresponding to each antenna group can be selected according to the main lobe direction of the beam, such as... Figure 4 As shown, the beam in the direction of the main lobe of the first target is formed by the interference of two second radio frequency signals radiated by the first liquid crystal antenna 1 and the second liquid crystal antenna 1. Correspondingly, the first liquid crystal antenna 1 and the second liquid crystal antenna 1 form the first antenna group. The first liquid crystal antenna 1 and the second liquid crystal antenna 1 receive the first bias voltage V1 and the second bias voltage V2 respectively in the first time period T11 of the first antenna group, and form phase shifting units with different phase shifting phases. Then, in the second time period T12 of the first antenna group, the first radio frequency signal RF is received, and the second radio frequency signal is radiated respectively, thereby interfering to form the first beam in the direction of the main lobe of the first target.

[0070] The beam in the direction of the second target main lobe is formed by the interference of two second radio frequency signals radiated by the third liquid crystal antenna 1 and the fourth liquid crystal antenna 1. Correspondingly, the third liquid crystal antenna 1 and the fourth liquid crystal antenna 1 form a second antenna group. During the first time period T21 of the second antenna group, the third liquid crystal antenna 1 and the fourth liquid crystal antenna 1 respectively receive the third bias voltage V3 and the fourth bias voltage V4, and form phase shifting units with different phase shifting phases. Then, during the second time period T22 of the second antenna group, the first radio frequency signal RF is received, and the second radio frequency signal is radiated, thereby interfering to form the second beam in the direction of the second target main lobe.

[0071] Similarly, the number and position of liquid crystal antennas 1 in the antenna group corresponding to the beam in each main lobe direction may be different when the main lobe direction is different.

[0072] like Figure 5 As shown, the beam in the direction of the main lobe of the first target is formed by the interference of two second radio frequency signals radiated by the first liquid crystal antenna 1 and the third liquid crystal antenna 1. Correspondingly, the first liquid crystal antenna 1 and the third liquid crystal antenna 1 form the first antenna group. The first liquid crystal antenna 1 and the third liquid crystal antenna 1 receive the first bias voltage V1 and the third bias voltage V3 respectively in the first time period T11 of the first antenna group, and form phase shifting units with different phase shifting phases. Then, in the second time period T12 of the first antenna group, the first radio frequency signal RF is received, and the second radio frequency signal is radiated respectively, thereby interfering to form the first beam in the direction of the main lobe of the first target.

[0073] The beam in the direction of the second target main lobe is formed by the interference of two second radio frequency signals radiated by the second liquid crystal antenna 1 and the fourth liquid crystal antenna 1. Correspondingly, the second liquid crystal antenna 1 and the fourth liquid crystal antenna 1 form a second antenna group. During the first time period T21 of the second antenna group, the second liquid crystal antenna 1 and the fourth liquid crystal antenna 1 respectively receive the second bias voltage V2 and the fourth bias voltage V4, and form phase shifting units with different phase shifting phases. Then, during the second time period T22 of the second antenna group, the first radio frequency signal RF is received, and the second radio frequency signal is radiated, thereby interfering to form the second beam in the direction of the second target main lobe.

[0074] Or, such as Figure 6As shown, the beam includes a first beam, a second beam, and a third beam. The beam in the direction of the main lobe of the first target is formed by the interference of two second radio frequency signals radiated by the first liquid crystal antenna 1 and the second liquid crystal antenna 1. Correspondingly, the first liquid crystal antenna 1 and the second liquid crystal antenna 1 form the first antenna group. The first liquid crystal antenna 1 and the second liquid crystal antenna 1 receive the first bias voltage V1 and the second bias voltage V2 respectively in the first time period T11 of the first antenna group, and form phase shifting units with different phase shifting phases. Then, in the second time period T12 of the first antenna group, the first radio frequency signal RF is received, and the second radio frequency signal is radiated respectively, thereby interfering to form the first beam in the direction of the main lobe of the first target.

[0075] The beam in the direction of the main lobe of the second target is formed by the interference of two second radio frequency signals radiated by the third liquid crystal antenna 1 and the fourth liquid crystal antenna 1. Correspondingly, the third liquid crystal antenna 1 and the fourth liquid crystal antenna 1 form the second antenna group. In the first time period T21 of the second antenna group, which is also the second time period T12 of the first antenna group, the third liquid crystal antenna 1 and the fourth liquid crystal antenna 1 respectively receive the third bias voltage V3 and the fourth bias voltage V4, and form phase shifting units with different phase shifting phases. Then, in the second time period T22 of the second antenna group, they receive the first radio frequency signal RF and radiate the second radio frequency signal, thereby interfering to form the second beam in the direction of the main lobe of the second target.

[0076] The beam in the direction of the main lobe of the third target is formed by the interference of two second radio frequency signals radiated by the fifth and sixth liquid crystal antennas 1. Correspondingly, the fifth and sixth liquid crystal antennas 1 form the third antenna group. The third and fourth liquid crystal antennas 1 receive the fifth bias voltage and the sixth bias voltage respectively in the first time period T31 of the third antenna group, which is also the second time period T22 of the second antenna group, and form phase shifting units with different phase shifting phases. Then, in the second time period T32 of the third antenna group, they receive the first radio frequency signal RF and radiate the second radio frequency signal respectively, thereby interfering to form the third beam in the direction of the main lobe of the second target.

[0077] In this embodiment, the liquid crystal bias time of the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 and the radiation time of the second radio frequency signal may be equal or unequal. For example, in one optional embodiment... Figure 5 As shown, the duration of the first time period and the second time period are preset durations. The output duration of the bias voltage is less than the preset duration, and the radiation duration of the second radio frequency signal is equal to the preset duration. The liquid crystal in the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 can maintain a preset deflection angle after the bias voltage is applied until the next change of the bias voltage. Therefore, the application time of the bias voltage can be shorter, reducing energy loss.

[0078] Furthermore, in order to determine the timing of the beam and the antenna group corresponding to the beam, in an optional embodiment, such as Figure 7 As shown, before S10, it also includes:

[0079] S50. Obtain the target main lobe direction of each beam of the phased array antenna 01, determine the multiple liquid crystal antennas 1 corresponding to each beam, and divide the multiple liquid crystal antennas 1 corresponding to each beam into a group of antennas.

[0080] S60. Obtain the radiation timing of each beam and determine the radiation timing of each antenna group based on the radiation timing of each beam.

[0081] In this embodiment, when controlling the phased array antenna 01 to radiate and scan, the main lobe directions of each target to be scanned by the phased array antenna 01 can be obtained in advance. Different target main lobe directions require different phases and numbers of the second radio frequency signal. After obtaining the main lobe directions of each target, the phase and number of the required second radio frequency signal are determined according to the target main lobe directions. The liquid crystal antennas 1 corresponding to the phase and number of the second radio frequency signal are as follows: Figure 4 As shown, it is assumed that the first beam in the direction of the main lobe of the first target is formed by two second radio frequency signals from the first liquid crystal antenna 1 and the second liquid crystal antenna 1, and the second beam in the direction of the main lobe of the second target is formed by two radio frequency signals from the third liquid crystal antenna 1 and the fourth liquid crystal antenna 1. Correspondingly, the first liquid crystal antenna 1 and the second liquid crystal antenna 1 form the first antenna group, and the third liquid crystal antenna 1 and the fourth liquid crystal antenna 1 form the first antenna group.

[0082] After determining the grouping of the liquid crystal antenna 1, the radiation timing of each antenna group is determined according to the radiation order of each beam. For example, if the first beam leads the second beam, the first antenna group is biased and radiates the second radio frequency signal in the first time period T11 and the second time period T12 respectively. Then, the second antenna group is biased in the second time period T12 of the first antenna group as its own first time period, and then radiates the second radio frequency signal in its own second time period T22.

[0083] It should be understood that the sequence number of each step in the above embodiments does not imply the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0084] Example 2

[0085] A second aspect of the present invention provides a control circuit 200 for a phased array antenna. The phased array antenna 01 includes multiple liquid crystal antennas 1 arranged in an array. Each liquid crystal antenna 1 includes a waveguide 20, a liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10, and a radiator 30. A first radio frequency signal RF transmitted through the waveguide 20 is phase-shifted into a second radio frequency signal by the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 and radiated outward by the radiator 30. Each liquid crystal phase shifter has a different phase shifting phase under the drive of a bias voltage.

[0086] In this embodiment, each liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 can have different phase shifting phases under different bias voltages received, that is, the liquid crystal of each liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 has different dielectric constants, thereby enabling the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 to perform phase shifting on the first radio frequency signal RF to different degrees. When the bias voltage is different, the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 can radiate a second radio frequency signal with multiple phases. Therefore, by adjusting the phase of the second radio frequency signal radiated by the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10, the main lobe direction of the final beam can be adjusted after the radio frequency signals radiated by multiple liquid crystal phase shifting units 10 interfere with each other.

[0087] like Figure 8 As shown, in this embodiment, the control circuit 200 of the phased array antenna includes:

[0088] The radio frequency output circuit 220 is connected to the waveguide 20 of each liquid crystal antenna 1. The radio frequency output circuit 220 is used to output a first radio frequency signal RF according to the first control signal.

[0089] The bias voltage output circuit 210 is connected to the liquid crystal phase shift unit 10 of each liquid crystal antenna 1. The bias voltage output circuit 210 is used to output bias voltage according to the second control signal.

[0090] The controller 230 is connected to the RF output circuit 220 and the bias voltage output circuit 210 respectively. The controller 230 is used to output the first control signal and the second control signal to execute the control method of the liquid crystal phased array antenna 01 described above.

[0091] The controller 230 determines the grouping of the liquid crystal antenna 1 according to the beams with corresponding target main lobe directions, and determines the radiation order of each antenna group according to the radiation order of the corresponding beams. Then, according to the radiation order, it outputs the first control signal and the second control signal to the bias voltage output circuit 210 and the radio frequency output circuit 220, thereby controlling each antenna group to radiate interference in sequence to form the corresponding beam.

[0092] When controlling the radiating beams of an antenna group, each antenna group operates in a first time period and a second time period, and the second time period of adjacent radiating beam antenna groups overlaps with the first time period. Taking the first beam and the second beam as examples, for instance... Figure 4As shown, assuming the first antenna group includes a first liquid crystal antenna 1 and a second liquid crystal antenna 1, and the second antenna group includes a third liquid crystal antenna 1 and a fourth liquid crystal antenna 1, when controlling the radiation beam of the first antenna group, firstly during the first time period T11 of the first antenna group, the controller 230 controls the bias voltage output circuit 210 to output bias voltage to the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 of each liquid crystal antenna 1 of the first antenna group. For example, the first bias voltage V1 is output to the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 of the first liquid crystal antenna 1, and the second bias voltage V2 is output to the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 of the second liquid crystal antenna 1. Each liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 is biased to form an electric field. The liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer 13 is deflected under the action of the electric field, and the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal changes, thereby forming phase shifting units with different phase shifting phases.

[0093] After the liquid crystal biasing of the first antenna group is completed, the system switches to the second time period T12 of the first antenna group. At this time, it is also the first time period T21 of the second antenna group. During this time period, the controller 230 controls the RF output circuit 220 to output the first RF signal RF to the multiple waveguides 20 of the multiple liquid crystal antennas 1 in the first antenna group. For example, the first RF signal RF is output to the waveguides 20 of the first liquid crystal antenna 1 and the waveguides 20 of the second liquid crystal antenna 1. After receiving the first RF signal RF, each waveguide 20 radiates the first RF signal RF to the biased liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10, and generates the second RF signal after phase shifting by its corresponding liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10. The multiple second RF signals corresponding to the first antenna group are radiated outward through the radiator 30 and interfere to form a first beam with the first main lobe direction.

[0094] During this time period, the controller 230 synchronously controls the bias voltage output circuit 210 to output bias voltage to the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 of each liquid crystal antenna 1 in the second antenna group. For example, it outputs a third bias voltage V3 to the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 of the third liquid crystal antenna 1 and a fourth bias voltage V4 to the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 of the fourth liquid crystal antenna 1. The internal bias of each liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 forms an electric field. The liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer 13 is deflected under the action of the electric field, and the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal changes, thereby forming phase shifting units with different phase shifting phases. Therefore, during this time period, the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 of each liquid crystal antenna 1 in the second antenna group is biased in advance.

[0095] Then, switching to the second time period T22 of the second antenna group, the controller 230 controls the RF output circuit 220 to output the first RF signal RF to the multiple waveguides 20 of the multiple liquid crystal antennas 1 in the second antenna group. After receiving the first RF signal RF, the multiple waveguides 20 radiate the first RF signal RF to the biased liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10, and generate the second RF signal after phase shifting by the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10. The multiple second RF signals corresponding to the second antenna group are radiated outward through the radiator 30 and interfere to form a second beam with the direction of the second main lobe, thereby completing the sequential radiation of the first beam and the second beam.

[0096] Furthermore, if the first beam and the second beam radiate outward alternately, during the second time period T22 when switching to the second antenna group, the system simultaneously switches to the first time period T11 of the first antenna group. The controller 230 controls the bias voltage output circuit 210 to output a bias voltage to the liquid crystal phase-shifting unit 10 of each liquid crystal antenna 1 in the first antenna group. An electric field is formed by biasing inside the liquid crystal phase-shifting unit 10. The liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer 13 is deflected under the action of the electric field, and the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal changes, thereby forming phase-shifting units with different phase shifting phases. Each liquid crystal antenna 1 in the first antenna group can be biased in advance.

[0097] The controller 230 controls the liquid crystal antennas 1 of adjacent radiating antenna groups to perform biasing and radiation in a time-division manner. The liquid crystal phase shifting units 10 of each liquid crystal antenna 1 of the subsequent radiating antenna group can enter the biasing state in advance, and can directly perform phase shifting and radiation of the first radio frequency signal RF when entering the radiation state. There is no need to wait for one antenna group to perform biasing and radiation before the next antenna group performs biasing and radiation, which shortens the scanning time between adjacent radiating antenna groups and thus improves the scanning speed of the phased array antenna 01.

[0098] The RF output circuit 220 can be composed of multiple RF circuits 221 and outputs a corresponding first RF signal RF to the liquid crystal antenna 1 when a corresponding first control signal is received, or it can be composed of a single RF circuit 221 and multiple switches to output separately, and the first RF signal RF is output to different liquid crystal antennas 1 according to the switch switching.

[0099] In an alternative embodiment, such as Figure 9 As shown, the RF output circuit 220 includes multiple RF circuits 221. Each RF circuit 221 is connected to the waveguide 20 of a liquid crystal antenna 1. The RF circuit 221 is also connected to the controller 230. The RF circuit 221 is used to output a first RF signal according to a first control signal.

[0100] In this embodiment, the multiple radio frequency circuits 221 operate separately and receive the first control signal output by the controller 230 during the second time period of the corresponding antenna group, and trigger the output of the corresponding first radio frequency signal RF to the waveguide 20 of the connected liquid crystal antenna 1. The radio frequency circuits 221 can adopt the corresponding radio frequency generator and LC resonant circuit.

[0101] In another alternative embodiment, such as Figure 10 As shown, the RF output circuit 220 includes:

[0102] Radio frequency circuit 221 is used to output the first radio frequency signal RF;

[0103] Multiple first switches K1 are provided, with their first ends connected to the waveguide 20 of a liquid crystal antenna 1 and their second ends connected to the output of an RF circuit 221. The first switches K1 are used to turn on when triggered by a first control signal.

[0104] In this embodiment, the RF circuit 221 can maintain the output state when the phased array antenna 01 is working, that is, continuously output the first RF signal. When the controller 230 determines the radiation timing of each antenna group and the number and position of the liquid crystal antennas 1 of the antenna group, when controlling the corresponding antenna group to radiate the second RF signal, it outputs the corresponding first control signal to multiple first switches K1, thereby controlling the first switches K1 corresponding to the antenna group to be radiated to be turned on and the remaining first switches K1 to be turned off. After the waveguide 20 of each liquid crystal antenna 1 of the antenna group to be radiated receives the first RF signal, it can shift the phase and output the second RF signal after being biased by the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10. When switching to the next radiating antenna group, it controls the corresponding first switches K1 to be turned on and the remaining first switches K1 to be turned off, thereby controlling the liquid crystal antenna 1 of each antenna group to radiate and interfere in sequence, and generating beams in the direction of the main lobe of each target in sequence.

[0105] Correspondingly, the bias voltage output circuit 210 can use a corresponding voltage generator, power conversion circuit, etc., and under the control of the controller 230, outputs a bias voltage of a corresponding magnitude to the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 of each liquid crystal antenna 1 of the antenna group to be biased.

[0106] In an alternative embodiment, such as Figure 9 As shown, the bias voltage output circuit 210 includes multiple bias voltage generating circuits 211. Each bias voltage generating circuit 211 is connected to the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 of a liquid crystal antenna 1. The bias voltage generating circuit 211 is also connected to the controller 230. The bias voltage generating circuit 211 is used to output a bias voltage according to the second control signal.

[0107] In this embodiment, the multi-channel bias voltage generating circuit 211 operates separately and receives the second control signal output by the controller 230 within the first time period of the corresponding antenna group, and triggers the output of a bias voltage of the corresponding magnitude to the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 of the connected liquid crystal antenna 1. The bias voltage generating circuit 211 can adopt a corresponding radio frequency generator or LC resonant circuit.

[0108] Alternatively, in another alternative embodiment, such as Figure 10 As shown, the RF output circuit 220 includes:

[0109] Bias voltage generating circuit 211 is used to output bias voltage;

[0110] Multiple second switches K2 are provided. The first end of the multiple second switches K2 is connected to the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 of a liquid crystal antenna 1, and the second end of the multiple second switches K2 is connected to the output terminal of the bias voltage generating circuit 211. The second switches K2 are used to be turned on under the trigger of the second control signal.

[0111] In this embodiment, the bias voltage generating circuit 211 can maintain its output state when the phased array antenna 01 is working, that is, it continuously outputs the bias voltage, and the bias voltage is adjustable. When the controller 230 determines the bias timing of each antenna group and the number and position of the liquid crystal antennas 1 of the antenna group, before controlling the corresponding antenna group to radiate the second radio frequency signal, it outputs the corresponding second control signal to multiple second switches K2, thereby controlling the second switches K2 corresponding to the antenna group to be radiated to be turned on and controlling the remaining second switches K2 to be turned off. After the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 of each liquid crystal antenna 1 of the antenna group to be radiated receives the bias voltage, the liquid crystal in the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 is shifted and generates different dielectric constants, thereby forming different phase shifting phases, and the received first radio frequency signal RF is phase shifted to output the second radio frequency signal. When switching to the next radiating antenna group, the corresponding second switches K2 are turned on and the remaining second switches K2 are turned off, thereby controlling the liquid crystal antennas 1 of each antenna group to be biased in sequence and generating beams in the direction of the main lobe of each target in sequence.

[0112] The bias voltage generating circuit 211 can use a corresponding voltage generator, voltage conversion circuit, etc., and can output a bias voltage of a corresponding magnitude under the control of the controller 230.

[0113] Example 3

[0114] A second aspect of this invention provides a communication device, which includes a phased array antenna 01 and a control circuit 200 for the phased array antenna. The specific structure of the control circuit 200 is as described in the above embodiments. Since this communication device adopts all the technical solutions of all the above embodiments, it has at least all the beneficial effects brought about by the technical solutions of the above embodiments, which will not be described in detail here. The control circuit 200 for the phased array antenna is connected to the phased array antenna 01.

[0115] The control circuit 200 of the phased array antenna determines the grouping of the liquid crystal antenna 1 according to the beams with corresponding target main lobe directions, and determines the radiation order of each antenna group according to the radiation order of the corresponding beams. Then, it outputs the bias voltage and the first radio frequency signal RF according to the radiation order, thereby controlling each antenna group to radiate multiple second radio frequency signals in sequence and interfere to form the corresponding beam.

[0116] The phased array antenna 01 includes multiple liquid crystal antennas 1 arranged in an array. Each liquid crystal antenna 1 includes a waveguide 20, a liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10, and a radiator 30. The first radio frequency signal RF transmitted by the waveguide 20 is phase-shifted into a second radio frequency signal by the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 and radiated outward by the radiator 30. Each liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 has a different phase shifting phase under the drive of the bias voltage.

[0117] Waveguide 20 is used to receive a first radio frequency signal RF and radiate the first radio frequency signal RF to the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10. The liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 may include an array substrate 11, a counter substrate 12 and a liquid crystal layer 13 located between the array substrate 11 and the counter substrate 12. After receiving a bias voltage, the array substrate 11 and the counter substrate 12 form an electric field. The liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer 13 is deflected under the action of the electric field, and the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal changes. The first radio frequency signal RF transmitted by the waveguide 20 is phase-shifted to generate a second radio frequency signal. The phase-shifted second radio frequency signal is radiated outward through the radiator 30. Multiple second radio frequency signals interfere to form a beam with a main lobe direction.

[0118] Each liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 can have different phase shift phases under different bias voltages received, that is, the liquid crystal of each liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 has different dielectric constants, so that the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 shifts the first radio frequency signal RF to different degrees. When the bias voltage is different, the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 can radiate a second radio frequency signal with multiple phases. Therefore, by adjusting the phase of the second radio frequency signal radiated by the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10, the main lobe direction of the final beam can be adjusted after the radio frequency signals radiated by multiple liquid crystal phase shifting units 10 interfere with each other.

[0119] The liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 can be a corresponding liquid crystal panel. In an optional embodiment, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the liquid crystal phase shifting unit 10 includes an array substrate 11 and an opposing substrate 12 disposed opposite to each other, and a liquid crystal layer 13 located between the array substrate 11 and the opposing substrate 12.

[0120] The array substrate 11 includes a first substrate 111 and a first conductive layer 112 stacked along the first direction X1, wherein the first conductive layer 112 is used to input a bias voltage;

[0121] The opposing substrate 12 includes a second substrate 121 and a second conductive layer 122 stacked along the second direction X2. The second conductive layer 122 is used to input a ground signal. The first direction X1 and the second direction X2 are opposite.

[0122] Waveguide 20 is stacked on the side of the first substrate 111 facing away from the first conductive layer 112, and radiator 30 is stacked on the side of the second substrate 121 facing away from the second conductive layer 122.

[0123] In this embodiment, waveguide 20 is disposed on the lower side of the first substrate 111, and when the first radio frequency signal RF is received, it radiates the first radio frequency signal RF to the liquid crystal layer 13. The first conductive layer 112 of the liquid crystal layer 13 receives the bias voltage and forms an electric field with the ground signal of the second conductive layer 122. The liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer 13 is deflected under the action of the electric field, the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal changes, and the first radio frequency signal RF transmitted by the waveguide 20 is phase-shifted to generate a second radio frequency signal. The phase-shifted second radio frequency signal is radiated outward through the radiator 30, and multiple second radio frequency signals interfere to form a beam with a main lobe direction.

[0124] In order to simplify the structure of the phased array antenna 01, the antenna substrate 2 and the first substrate 111 are reused as the same substrate.

[0125] The above-described embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and are not intended to limit it. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, and should all be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A control method of a phased array antenna, characterized by, The phased array antenna includes multiple liquid crystal antennas arranged in an array. Each liquid crystal antenna includes a waveguide, a liquid crystal phase-shifting unit, and a radiator. The first radio frequency signal transmitted through the waveguide is phase-shifted into a second radio frequency signal by the liquid crystal phase-shifting unit and radiated outward by the radiator. The control method for the phased array antenna includes: Each antenna group is controlled to radiate a beam with a target main lobe direction in sequence according to a preset timing sequence. The multiple liquid crystal antennas are divided into multiple antenna groups. Each beam includes a second radio frequency signal with multiple interferences. Each antenna group includes multiple liquid crystal antennas. Each of the antenna groups is controlled to operate sequentially in a first time period and a second time period, and in two adjacent antenna groups radiating the beam, the second time period of the former antenna group coincides with the first time period of the latter antenna group. When each of the antenna groups is operating within the first time period, a bias voltage is output to the liquid crystal phase-shifting unit of the plurality of liquid crystal antennas of the antenna group, and the output of the first radio frequency signal to the waveguide of the plurality of liquid crystal antennas of the antenna group is cut off. When each of the antenna groups is operating during the second time period, the liquid crystal phase-shifting units of the plurality of liquid crystal antennas of the antenna group that output the bias voltage to the antenna group are cut off, and the first radio frequency signal is output to the waveguides of the plurality of liquid crystal antennas of the antenna group.

2. The control method for a phased array antenna as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Before controlling each antenna group to radiate a beam with the target main lobe direction in a preset timing sequence, the following steps are also included: Obtain the target main lobe direction of each beam of the phased array antenna, determine the multiple liquid crystal antennas corresponding to each beam, and divide the multiple liquid crystal antennas corresponding to each beam into a group of antenna groups; The radiation timing of each beam is obtained, and the radiation timing of each antenna group is determined based on the radiation timing of each beam.

3. The control method for a phased array antenna as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The durations of the first time period and the second time period are preset durations, the output duration of the bias voltage is less than the preset duration, and the radiation duration of the second radio frequency signal is equal to the preset duration.

4. A control circuit for a phased array antenna, characterized in that, The phased array antenna includes multiple liquid crystal antennas arranged in an array. Each liquid crystal antenna includes a waveguide, a liquid crystal phase-shifting unit, and a radiator. The first radio frequency signal transmitted through the waveguide is phase-shifted into a second radio frequency signal by the liquid crystal phase-shifting unit and radiated outward by the radiator. The control circuit of the phased array antenna includes: The radio frequency output circuit is connected to the waveguide of each of the liquid crystal antennas, and the radio frequency output circuit is used to output the first radio frequency signal according to the first control signal; A bias voltage output circuit is connected to the liquid crystal phase-shifting unit of each of the liquid crystal antennas. The bias voltage output circuit is used to output the bias voltage according to the second control signal. The controller is connected to the radio frequency output circuit and the bias voltage output circuit respectively. The controller is used to output the first control signal and the second control signal to execute the control method of the phased array antenna as described in any one of claims 1-3.

5. The control circuit for the phased array antenna as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The radio frequency output circuit includes multiple radio frequency circuits, each of which is connected to the waveguide of a liquid crystal antenna. The radio frequency circuit is also connected to the controller and is used to output the first radio frequency signal according to the first control signal.

6. The control circuit for the phased array antenna as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The radio frequency output circuit includes: Radio frequency circuit, used to output the first radio frequency signal; A plurality of first switches are provided, the first ends of which are connected to the waveguide of the liquid crystal antenna, and the second ends of which are connected to the output of the radio frequency circuit. The first switches are used to turn on when triggered by the first control signal.

7. The control circuit for the phased array antenna as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The bias voltage output circuit includes multiple bias voltage generating circuits. Each bias voltage generating circuit is connected to the liquid crystal phase shifting unit of the liquid crystal antenna. The bias voltage generating circuit is also connected to the controller. The bias voltage generating circuit is used to output the bias voltage according to the second control signal.

8. The control circuit for the phased array antenna as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The radio frequency output circuit includes: A bias voltage generating circuit is used to output the bias voltage; Multiple second switches are provided, with their first ends connected to the liquid crystal phase-shifting unit of the liquid crystal antenna and their second ends connected to the output of the bias voltage generating circuit. The second switches are used to turn on when triggered by the second control signal.

9. A communication device, characterized in that, It includes a phased array antenna and a control circuit for the phased array antenna as described in any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the control circuit for the phased array antenna is connected to the phased array antenna; The phased array antenna includes multiple liquid crystal antennas arranged in an array. Each liquid crystal antenna includes a waveguide, a liquid crystal phase-shifting unit, and a radiator. The first radio frequency signal transmitted through the waveguide is phase-shifted into a second radio frequency signal by the liquid crystal phase-shifting unit and radiated outward by the radiator.

10. The communication device as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The liquid crystal phase-shifting unit includes an array substrate and an opposing substrate disposed opposite each other, and a liquid crystal layer located between the array substrate and the opposing substrate; The array substrate includes a first substrate and a first conductive layer stacked along a first direction, wherein the first conductive layer is used to input a bias voltage. The opposing substrate includes a second substrate and a second conductive layer stacked along a second direction, the second conductive layer being used to input a ground signal, and the first direction and the second direction being opposite. The waveguide layer is stacked on the side of the first substrate opposite to the first conductive layer, and the radiator is stacked on the side of the second substrate opposite to the second conductive layer.

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