Communication device, base station, and communication system

Abstract

The invention provides a communication device, a base station and a communication system. The communication device comprises a plurality of channels and a plurality of antenna oscillators, the plurality of antenna oscillators are arranged in an array to form m columns of antenna oscillators, and the m columns of antenna oscillators comprise p columns of antenna oscillators and q columns of antenna oscillators which are arranged in sequence. Any column of antenna oscillators in the p columns of antenna oscillators comprises at least one first sub-array unit, and the antenna oscillators in the first sub-array unit are connected with one first channel. Any column of antenna oscillators in the q columns of antenna oscillators comprises at least two second sub-array units, and the antenna oscillators in the second sub-array units are connected with one second channel. The number Kp of the antenna oscillators included in the first sub-array unit and the number Kq of the antenna oscillators included in the second sub-array unit meet the following condition: Kpgt; kq, a * Kp = b * Kq, a is not equal to b, and a and b are respectively positive integers. The antenna aperture is utilized to the maximum extent, the spatial degree of freedom is utilized to the maximum extent, and the maximum coverage and capacity gain of the communication device are obtained.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electronic equipment technology, and in particular to communication devices, base stations and communication systems. Background Technology

[0002] Time division duplex (TDD) systems offer significant bandwidth and are often used to build enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) services. However, TDD systems typically operate at higher carrier frequencies, resulting in greater propagation and penetration losses. Consequently, TDD systems generally have weaker coverage compared to traditional lower-frequency division duplex (FDD) systems. To better leverage the advantages of TDD systems' high bandwidth and superior user experience, the adoption of massive multi-input multi-output (MIMO) antenna arrays and beamforming technologies at the base station side to enhance TDD system coverage has become a mainstream industry trend.

[0003] Extremely large-scale antenna arrays (ELAA) are a further evolution of Massive MIMO. With technological advancements, the size and number of antenna arrays and channels will continue to increase under controllable conditions of size, weight, and power consumption. For example, the number will increase from 64 channels driving 192 antenna elements to 64 channels driving 384 antenna elements, further to 128 channels driving 384 antenna elements, and will even evolve to more channels driving more antenna elements. This further expansion of antenna size and channel number will provide more degrees of freedom for spatial beamforming with extremely high spatial resolution and shaped gain, improving the multi-user multiplexing capability and interference suppression capability of wireless networks, thereby increasing spectral efficiency.

[0004] Current Massive MIMO and ELAA architectures typically employ a standard number of channels to drive a uniform planar antenna array; for example, the standard number of channels can include 32, 64, and 128. Multiple antenna elements driven by each channel are treated as a subarray unit, and the antenna array is formed by repeatedly arranging these subarray units. In practical applications, this approach lacks sufficient consideration for engineering deployment, easily leading to underutilization of the actual deployment space of the communication system and limiting further improvements in the system's capacity and coverage. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a communication device, a base station, and a communication system. It can maximize the utilization of the rooftop aperture and spatial degrees of freedom according to actual engineering constraints, thereby obtaining the maximum coverage and capacity gain of the communication device and improving the communication capabilities of the base station and communication system.

[0006] In a first aspect, this application provides a communication device. The communication device includes multiple channels and multiple antenna elements, the multiple antenna elements being arranged in an array of m columns, each column comprising p columns and q columns of antenna elements arranged sequentially. p and q are the column numbers of the antenna elements. Any column of the p columns includes at least one first subarray element, the antenna elements in the first subarray element being connected to a first channel, and the multiple antenna elements connected to the first channel forming a first subarray element. Any column of the q columns includes at least two second subarray elements, the antenna elements in the second subarray element being connected to a second channel, and the multiple antenna elements connected to the second channel forming a second subarray element. The number of antenna elements Kp in the first subarray element and the number of antenna elements Kq in the second subarray element satisfy: Kp > Kq, and a*Kp = b*Kq, where a ≠ b, and a and b are positive integers. This arrangement ensures that the number of antenna elements in column p and column q are the same, aligning the element distribution. This results in a regular matrix arrangement of the antenna elements, maximizing the use of the reflector space and improving the coverage of the communication device. Furthermore, it facilitates ensuring that the number of antenna elements in the branches of the first subarray unit is the same as the number of antenna elements in the branches of the second subarray unit. The number of antenna elements in the first subarray unit differs from that in the second subarray unit, allowing for design based on actual needs. The driving relationship between the channel and the antenna elements manifests as multiple sets of different structured mapping relationships, with no constraints on the number of antenna columns. Therefore, it allows for maximizing the use of the antenna aperture and spatial degrees of freedom according to actual engineering constraints, achieving the maximum coverage and capacity gain of the communication device.

[0007] The aforementioned communication device may include 2 channels. d , where d is a positive integer greater than 1. This satisfies the current channel quantity requirements of the communication device.

[0008] In this application, the number of columns of the antenna elements in the communication device does not necessarily have to be 2. e Specifically, the number of columns m of the aforementioned antenna elements can satisfy 2 e <m<2 e+1 Where e is a positive integer greater than 1. This allows for flexible configuration of the number of columns of antenna elements in the communication device according to requirements, fully utilizing the installation space of the communication device to obtain the maximum coverage and capacity gain.

[0009] Furthermore, in the communication device provided in this application, the spacing between any two adjacent columns of antenna elements is 0.5λ, where λ is the wavelength corresponding to the communication frequency of the communication device. This scheme exhibits a high degree of matching between the channel distribution and spatial degrees of freedom, which is beneficial for fully utilizing the antenna capacity.

[0010] In a further technical solution, the number of antenna elements Kp in the first subarray unit and the number of antenna elements Kq in the second subarray unit satisfy: Kp = s * Kq, where s is a positive integer greater than 1. The fact that the number of antenna elements in the first subarray unit is an integer multiple of the number of antenna elements in the second subarray unit ensures that the number of antenna elements in any column of p columns is the same as the number of antenna elements in any column of q columns. This results in a regular matrix arrangement of the antenna elements, fully utilizing the space of the reflector and improving the coverage of the communication device. Furthermore, it also facilitates ensuring that the number of antenna elements in the branches of the first subarray unit is the same as the number of antenna elements in the branches of the second subarray unit.

[0011] The communication device's m-column antenna elements include p-column, q-column, and p'-column antenna elements arranged sequentially, with the p-column and p'-column antenna elements symmetrically positioned on either side of the q-column antenna elements. This arrangement helps maintain the symmetry of the m-column antenna elements and the channel distribution, thereby improving the beamforming capability of the communication device. The second subarray unit includes fewer antenna elements than the first subarray unit, resulting in higher energy in the center and lower energy on the sides of the communication device. This allows the beam to suppress sidelobes and reduce interference to neighboring cells.

[0012] In a further technical solution, the q-column antenna elements include an even number of antenna elements, thus making the q-column antenna elements themselves a symmetrical structure, in order to further maintain the symmetry of the communication device.

[0013] The first subarray element includes at least two first branches, and the second subarray element includes at least one second branch. The number of antenna elements in the first branch is the same as the number of antenna elements in the second branch. This ensures that the vertical scanning range of any subarray element is the same, which is beneficial for joint beamforming, increasing the energy of the antenna beam, and improving the overall antenna gain.

[0014] The following provides several mapping structure relationships for communication devices. In one technical solution, the first subarray unit includes at least two first branches, and any one of the first branches is connected to the first channel via a first phase shifter. Specifically, the first subarray unit includes i first branches, where i is a positive integer greater than 1; the first channel is connected to i first phase shifters, and the i first branches and i first phase shifters are connected one-to-one. This enables the first subarray unit to adopt an HBF architecture. The second subarray unit includes at least one second branch, specifically, the second subarray unit includes j second branches, where j is a positive integer greater than 0. Any one of the second branches is directly connected to the second channel, enabling the second subarray unit to adopt a DBF architecture.

[0015] In one technical solution, a first subarray unit includes at least two first branches, one of which is directly connected to a first channel, and the remaining first branches are connected to the first channel via first phase shifters. Specifically, the first subarray unit includes i first branches, where i is a positive integer greater than 1; the first channel is connected to i-1 first phase shifters, one of the i first branches is directly connected to the first channel, and the i-1 first branches and i-1 first phase shifters are connected one-to-one, enabling the first subarray unit to adopt an HBF architecture. A second subarray unit includes at least one second branch; specifically, the second subarray unit includes j second branches, where j is a positive integer greater than 0. Any second branch is directly connected to a second channel, enabling the second subarray unit to adopt a DBF architecture.

[0016] In one technical solution, a first subarray unit includes at least two first branches, and any one of the first branches is connected to a first channel via a first phase shifter. Specifically, the first subarray unit includes i first branches, where i is a positive integer greater than 1; the first channel is connected to i first phase shifters, and the i first branches and i first phase shifters are connected in a one-to-one correspondence. A second subarray unit includes at least one second branch, and any one of the second branches is connected to a second channel via a second phase shifter. Specifically, the second subarray unit includes j second branches, where j is a positive integer greater than 0; the second channel is connected to j second phase shifters, and the j second branches and j second phase shifters are connected in a one-to-one correspondence. This allows both the first and second subarray units to adopt an HBF architecture.

[0017] In one technical solution, a first subarray unit includes at least two first branches, one of which is directly connected to a first channel, and the remaining first branches are connected to the first channel via first phase shifters. Specifically, the first subarray unit includes i first branches, where i is a positive integer greater than 1; the first channel is connected to i-1 first phase shifters, one of the i first branches is directly connected to the first channel, and the i-1 first branches and i-1 first phase shifters are connected in a one-to-one correspondence. A second subarray unit includes at least one second branch, one of which is directly connected to a second channel, and the remaining second branches are connected to the second channel via second phase shifters. Specifically, the second subarray unit includes j second branches, where j is a positive integer greater than 0, the second channel is connected to j-1 second phase shifters, one of the j second branches is directly connected to the second channel, and the j-1 second branches and j-1 second phase shifters are connected in a one-to-one correspondence. This also allows both the first and second subarray units to adopt an HBF architecture.

[0018] In one technical solution, a first subarray unit includes at least two first branches. Specifically, the first subarray unit includes i first branches, where i is a positive integer greater than 1; any one of the first branches is directly connected to a first channel. A second subarray unit includes at least one second branch. Specifically, the second subarray unit includes j second branches, where j is a positive integer greater than 0; any one of the second branches is directly connected to a second channel, such that the first and second subarray units adopt a DBF architecture.

[0019] Secondly, this application also provides a communication device, which includes multiple channels and multiple antenna elements. The multiple antenna elements are arranged in an array of n rows, and the n rows of antenna elements include w rows and v rows of antenna elements arranged sequentially; w and v are the column numbers of the antenna elements. The aforementioned w rows of antenna elements include multiple third subarray units, each third subarray unit including multiple antenna elements located in the same column. The antenna elements in the third subarray unit are connected to a third channel; the multiple antenna elements connected to a third channel constitute a third subarray unit, and the multiple antenna elements in a third subarray unit are located in the same column. The v rows of antenna elements include multiple fourth subarray units, each fourth subarray unit including multiple antenna elements located in the same column. The antenna elements in the fourth subarray unit are connected to a fourth channel; the multiple antenna elements connected to a fourth channel constitute a fourth subarray unit, and the multiple antenna elements in a fourth subarray unit are located in the same column. The number of antenna elements Kw in the third subarray unit and the number of antenna elements Kv in the fourth subarray unit satisfy: Kw > Kv, and C*Kw = D*Kv, where C ≠ D, and C and D are positive integers. This is beneficial because the number of antenna elements in the branches of the third subarray unit is the same as the number of antenna elements in the branches of the fourth subarray unit. The number of antenna elements in the third subarray unit differs from that in the fourth subarray unit, allowing for design based on actual needs. The driving relationship between the channel and the antenna elements manifests as multiple sets of different structured mapping relationships, with no constraints on the number of antenna columns. Therefore, the maximum utilization of the roof aperture and spatial degrees of freedom can be maximized according to actual engineering constraints to obtain the maximum coverage and capacity gain of the communication device.

[0020] The aforementioned communication device may include 2 channels. d , where d is a positive integer greater than 1. This satisfies the current channel quantity requirements of the communication device.

[0021] In this application, the number of columns of the antenna elements in the communication device does not necessarily have to be 2. e Specifically, the number of columns m of the aforementioned antenna elements can satisfy 2 e <m<2 e+1 Where e is a positive integer greater than 1. This allows for flexible configuration of the number of columns of antenna elements in the communication device according to requirements, fully utilizing the installation space of the communication device to obtain the maximum coverage and capacity gain.

[0022] Furthermore, in the communication device provided in this application, the spacing between any two adjacent columns of antenna elements is 0.5λ, where λ is the wavelength corresponding to the communication frequency of the communication device. This scheme exhibits a high degree of matching between the channel distribution and spatial degrees of freedom, which is beneficial for fully utilizing the antenna capacity.

[0023] In a further technical solution, the number of antenna elements Kw in the third subarray unit and the number of antenna elements Kv in the fourth subarray unit satisfy: Kw = t * Kv, where t is a positive integer greater than 1. This is beneficial because it ensures that the number of antenna elements in the branches of the third subarray unit is the same as the number of antenna elements in the branches of the fourth subarray unit.

[0024] In one specific technical solution, the n-row antenna elements in the aforementioned communication device include w-row antenna elements, v-row antenna elements, and w'-row antenna elements arranged sequentially, with the w-row and w'-row antenna elements symmetrically positioned on either side of the v-row antenna elements. This helps maintain the symmetry of the antenna element arrangement and the channel distribution, thereby improving the beamforming capability of the communication device. The fourth subarray unit includes fewer antenna elements than the third subarray unit, resulting in higher energy in the center and lower energy on both sides of the communication device. This allows the beam to suppress sidelobes and reduce interference to neighboring cells.

[0025] Furthermore, any column of the v-row antenna element includes an even number of fourth subarray elements, thus making the v-row antenna element itself a symmetrical structure to further maintain the symmetry of the communication device.

[0026] When mapping channels to antenna elements, the third subarray element includes at least two third branches, and the fourth subarray element includes at least one fourth branch. The number of antenna elements included in the third branch is the same as the number of antenna elements included in the fourth branch. This ensures that the vertical scanning range of any subarray element is the same, which is beneficial for joint beamforming, increasing the energy of the antenna beam, and improving the overall antenna gain.

[0027] The following provides several mapping structure relationships for communication devices. In one technical solution, the third subarray unit includes at least two third branches, and any one of the third branches is connected to the third channel via a third phase shifter. Specifically, the third subarray unit includes x third branches, where x is a positive integer greater than 1; the third channel is connected to x third phase shifters, and the x third branches and x third phase shifters are connected in a one-to-one correspondence. This enables the third subarray unit to adopt an HBF architecture. The fourth subarray unit includes at least one fourth branch. Specifically, the fourth subarray unit includes y fourth branches, where y is a positive integer greater than 0, and any one of the fourth branches is directly connected to the fourth channel, enabling the fourth subarray unit to adopt a DBF architecture.

[0028] In one technical solution, the third subarray unit includes at least two third branches, one of which is directly connected to the third channel, and the remaining third branches are connected to the third channel via third phase shifters. Specifically, the third subarray unit includes x third branches, where x is a positive integer greater than 1; the third channel is connected to x-1 third phase shifters; one of the x third branches is directly connected to the third channel; and the x-1 third branches are connected one-to-one with the x-1 third phase shifters. This enables the third subarray unit to adopt an HBF architecture. The fourth subarray unit includes at least one fourth branch. Specifically, the fourth subarray unit includes y fourth branches, where y is a positive integer greater than 0, and any one of the fourth branches is directly connected to the fourth channel, enabling the fourth subarray unit to adopt a DBF architecture.

[0029] In one technical solution, the third subarray unit includes at least two third branches, and any one of the third branches is connected to the third channel via a third phase shifter. Specifically, the third subarray unit includes x third branches, where x is a positive integer greater than 1; the third channel is connected to x third phase shifters, and the x third branches and x third phase shifters are connected in a one-to-one correspondence. The fourth subarray unit includes at least one fourth branch, and any one of the fourth branches is connected to the fourth channel via a fourth phase shifter. Specifically, the fourth subarray unit includes y fourth branches, where y is a positive integer greater than 0; the fourth channel is connected to y fourth phase shifters, and the y fourth branches and y fourth phase shifters are connected in a one-to-one correspondence. This allows both the third and fourth subarray units to adopt an HBF architecture.

[0030] In one technical solution, a third subarray unit includes at least two third branches, one of which is directly connected to a third channel, and the remaining third branches are connected to the third channel via third phase shifters. Specifically, the third subarray unit includes x third branches, where x is a positive integer greater than 1; the third channel is connected to x-1 third phase shifters; one of the x third branches is directly connected to the third channel, and the x-1 third branches are connected one-to-one with the x-1 third phase shifters. A fourth subarray unit includes at least one fourth branch, one of which is directly connected to a fourth channel, and the remaining fourth branches are connected to the fourth channel via fourth phase shifters. The fourth subarray unit includes y fourth branches, where y is a positive integer greater than 0; the fourth channel is connected to y-1 fourth phase shifters; one of the y fourth branches is directly connected to the fourth channel, and the y-1 fourth branches are connected one-to-one with the y-1 fourth phase shifters. This allows both the third and fourth subarray units to adopt an HBF architecture.

[0031] In one technical solution, the third subarray unit includes at least two third branches. Specifically, the third subarray unit includes x third branches, where x is a positive integer greater than 1; any one of the third branches is directly connected to the third channel. The fourth subarray unit includes at least one fourth branch, and the fourth subarray unit includes y fourth branches, where y is a positive integer greater than 0; any one of the fourth branches is directly connected to the fourth channel. This allows both the third and fourth subarray units to adopt a DBF architecture.

[0032] Thirdly, this application provides a base station. The base station includes a distributed unit and a communication device provided by either the first or second aspect described above. The distributed unit is electrically connected to the communication device. The base station can obtain the maximum coverage and capacity gain of the communication device, thereby improving the communication capabilities of the base station and the communication system.

[0033] Fourthly, this application also provides a communication system. This communication system includes at least two base stations as described in the third aspect above. The communication system can achieve maximum coverage and capacity gain for the communication device, thereby enhancing the communication capabilities of the base stations and the communication system. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the communication system in one embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a working scenario of the communication system in an embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a base station structure in one embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device in an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device in an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device in an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the mapping relationship between the antenna element and the channel of the communication terminal in an embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a mapping relationship between the antenna element and the channel of the communication terminal in an embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a mapping relationship between the antenna element and the channel of the communication terminal in an embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a mapping relationship between the antenna element and the channel of the communication terminal in an embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a mapping relationship between the antenna element and the channel of the communication terminal in an embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device in an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device in an embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram showing the mapping relationship between the antenna element and the channel of the communication terminal in an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a mapping relationship between the antenna element and the channel of the communication terminal in an embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a mapping relationship between the antenna element and the channel of the communication terminal in an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a mapping relationship between the antenna element and the channel of the communication terminal in an embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a mapping relationship between the antenna element and the channel of the communication terminal in an embodiment of this application.

[0052] Figure label:

[0053] 01-Antenna; 02-Antenna adjustment bracket;

[0054] 03-Mounting bracket; 04-Cables;

[0055] 05-RF processing unit; 06-Baseband processing unit;

[0056] 07-Grounding device; 08-Connector seal;

[0057] 11-Antenna element; 12-Antenna radome;

[0058] 13-Reflector; 14-First subarray unit;

[0059] 141 - First branch; 15 - Second subarray unit;

[0060] 151 - Second branch; 16 - First channel;

[0061] 17-First phase shifter; 18-Second channel;

[0062] 19 - Second phase shifter; 20 - Third subarray unit;

[0063] 201 - Third branch; 21 - Fourth subarray unit;

[0064] 211 - Fourth Branch; 22 - Third Channel;

[0065] 23 - Third phase shifter; 24 - Fourth channel;

[0066] 25 - Fourth phase shifter. Detailed Implementation

[0067] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0068] The terminology used in the following embodiments is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this application. As used in the specification and appended claims of this application, the singular expressions “a,” “an,” “the,” “the,” “the,” and “this” are intended to also include expressions such as “one or more” unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0069] References to “an embodiment” or “a specific embodiment” as used in this specification mean that one or more embodiments of this application include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and variations thereof mean “including, but not limited to,” unless otherwise specifically emphasized.

[0070] This application provides a communication device, a base station, and a communication system. The communication device may include, but is not limited to, any one or more of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antenna systems and massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antenna systems. In addition, the communication device may also include a passive antenna.

[0071] It is understandable that a base station can be called an access network device or access node. It can be located in a base station subsystem (BBS), a UMTS terrestrial radio access network (UTRAN), or an evolved terrestrial radio access network (E-UTRAN), used to provide cell coverage for radio signals to enable communication between terminal devices and the wireless network. It can also be an evolved NodeB (eNB or eNodeB) in a long-term evolution (LTE) system, a transmission reception point (TRP), a next-generation NodeB (gNB) in a 5G mobile communication system, a next-generation base station in a future communications system, an access network device or module of an access network device in an open RAN (ORAN) system, a base station in a future mobile communication system, or an access node in a wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) system, etc. Base stations can also include centralized units (CUs), distributed units (DUs), CU-control planes (CPs), CU-user planes (UPs), or radio units (RUs) as described below. In ORAN systems, CUs can also be called O-CUs, DUs can be called open (O)-DUs, CU-CPs can be called O-CU-CPs, CU-UPs can be called O-CUP-UPs, and RUs can be called O-RUs. The base station in this application can be a macro base station, a micro base station, a relay node, or a donor node, or it can be a radio controller in a cloud radio access network (CRAN) scenario. Alternatively, the base station can be a server, in-vehicle equipment, wearable devices, or g-nodes (gNodeBs or gNBs) in new radio (NR) systems, or access network equipment in future evolved networks. For example, the base station in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology can be a roadside unit (RSU), and this application does not specifically limit this.

[0072] The exemplary structure of the base station and communication system is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0073] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a communication system in an embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the communication system in this embodiment includes at least two base stations, which can work together to form a communication network to cover a large area.

[0074] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a working scenario of the communication system in an embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the base station in this embodiment is used for wireless communication connection with the terminal. It is understood that the terminal can be a mobile terminal such as a mobile phone, tablet, or laptop, or it can be an IoT terminal such as a smart robot, smart home appliance, or smart car that requires communication. Furthermore, it can be customer premises equipment (CPE). The CPE can be, for example, a network device that converts mobile cellular signals, such as those from LTE, Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (W-CDMA), or Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) systems, into wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) or wireless local area networks (WLAN) signals. In some embodiments, the CPE can be a fixed wireless access (FWA) device, where FWA is a technology combining fixed-line communication and wireless communication to provide broadband access services to users. Alternatively, the terminal can also be a lampsite, which can be used to introduce base station signals indoors to solve the problem of indoor blind spot coverage.

[0075] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a base station structure in an embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the base station in this embodiment includes an antenna 01, an antenna adjustment bracket 02, a mounting bracket 03, a cable 04, a radio frequency processing unit 05, a baseband processing unit 06, a grounding device 07, and a connector seal 08.

[0076] Specifically, the communication device 01 can be mounted on the mounting bracket 03 via the adjustable bracket 02 to facilitate the reception or transmission of signals by the antenna 01. For example, the mounting bracket 03 can be a pole or a tower, etc. In some other embodiments, the antenna 01 can also be directly mounted on the mounting bracket 03.

[0077] The antenna 01 may include a radome 12. The radome 12 typically houses various components, such as an antenna element 11 and a reflector (not shown). The components within the radome 12 of the antenna 01 can be connected to the radio frequency (RF) processing unit 05 via a cable 04. The baseband processing unit 06 can also be connected to these components via the RF processing unit 05. Thus, the RF processing unit 05 can perform frequency selection, amplification, and down-conversion processing on the signal received by the antenna 01, converting it into an intermediate frequency (IF) signal or a baseband signal and sending it to the baseband processing unit 06; alternatively, the RF processing unit 05 can up-convert and amplify the baseband processing unit 06 or the IF signal, converting it into electromagnetic waves through the antenna 01 and transmitting it.

[0078] In some embodiments of this application, the radio frequency processing unit 05 may also be referred to as a remote radio unit (RRU) or a radio unit (RU), and the baseband processing unit 06 may also be referred to as a baseband unit (BBU) or a distributed unit (DU).

[0079] In this embodiment, the antenna 01 and the radio frequency processing unit 05 are configured as a communication device. In some embodiments of this application, the radio frequency processing unit 05 may be integrally disposed with the antenna 01, and the baseband processing unit 06 may be located at the far end of the antenna 01. In this case, the radio frequency processing unit 05 and the antenna 01 may be collectively referred to as an active antenna unit (AAU). It should be noted that... Figure 1 This is just one example of the positional relationship between the radio frequency processing unit 05 and the antenna 01. In other embodiments of this application, the radio frequency processing unit 05 and the baseband processing unit 06 may also be located at the far end of the antenna 01.

[0080] Grounding device 07 is installed on cable 04. Grounding device 07 can perform functions such as electrical grounding, lightning protection, overvoltage protection, and maintenance of equipment performance, which helps to ensure the stability and safety of base station operation.

[0081] The connector seal 08 is provided at the connection between the antenna cover 12 of the antenna 01 and the cable 04, and at the connection between the grounding device 07 and the cable 04, to provide insulation and sealing. The connector seal 08 can be at least one of insulating sealing tape or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) insulating adhesive. Of course, the connector seal 08 can also have other structures and is not limited to the form of tape.

[0082] In this embodiment, the antenna element 11 in the antenna 01 can also be called a radiator, radiating element, or vibrator, etc., which can effectively transmit or receive antenna signals. In the antenna 01, the frequencies of different antenna elements 11 can be the same or different. The radome 12 has good electromagnetic wave penetration characteristics in terms of electrical performance and can withstand the influence of harsh external environments in terms of mechanical performance, thereby protecting the internal components of the radome 12 from the influence of the external environment.

[0083] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a communication device in an embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 4 As shown in the embodiments of this application, antenna 01 may further include a power divider 13 comprising a cavity and a feed network. The feed network is disposed within the cavity, thereby protecting the feed network. The antenna element is connected to the feed network, which powers the antenna element. Specifically, the feed network 112 is typically composed of a controlled impedance transmission line. The feed network can feed signals to the antenna element with a certain amplitude and phase, or transmit signals received by the antenna element to the baseband processing unit of the base station with a certain amplitude and phase. Specifically, in some embodiments, the feed network can be used to achieve different radiation beam directions, or connected to a calibration network to obtain the calibration signals required by the system. The feed network may also contain modules for performance enhancement, such as combiners, which can combine signals of different frequencies into one path for transmission through the antenna element; or, in reverse, can be used to divide signals received by the antenna element into multiple paths according to different frequencies and transmit them to the baseband processing unit for processing; or filters, for example, to filter out interference signals. In specific embodiments, multiple antenna elements can form a radiating element array and operate in an array configuration.

[0084] It should be noted that the structures shown in the accompanying drawings of this application embodiment are merely illustrative. In reality, the actual shape, size, position, and construction of each component in the product of this application embodiment are not limited by the drawings. Furthermore, in addition to the structures shown in the figures, more or fewer components may be included to achieve other functions. For example, the base station may also have more antennas 01 to be able to transmit and receive more signals.

[0085] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a communication device in one embodiment of this application. Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, in one embodiment, the communication device includes multiple channels (not shown) and multiple antenna elements 11. The multiple antenna elements 11 are arranged in an m-column array, where each m-column array includes p-column antenna elements and q-column antenna elements arranged sequentially. Specifically, p is a positive integer, representing the number of columns of the antenna elements. Each p-column array includes at least one column of antenna elements, and the p-column antenna elements are arranged adjacent to each other. q is a positive integer, representing the number of columns of the antenna elements. Each q-column antenna element includes at least one column of antenna elements, and the q-column antenna elements are arranged adjacent to each other. In a specific embodiment, the multiple antenna elements 11 of the communication device can be understood as an n*m matrix, arranged in n rows and m columns. The aforementioned multiple antenna elements 11 can be arranged on the reflector 13 of the antenna.

[0086] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the mapping relationship between the antenna element and the channel of the communication terminal in an embodiment of this application. Figure 7 The mapping relationship of a first subarray unit 14 and a second subarray unit 15 is shown. Please refer to... Figures 5-7 In the aforementioned p-column antenna elements, any column of antenna elements includes at least one first subarray unit 14. The antenna elements 11 in the first subarray unit 14 are arranged along the column direction, and each antenna element 11 in the first subarray unit 14 is connected to a first channel 16. In one embodiment, the first subarray unit 14 includes Kp antenna elements 11, and these Kp antenna elements 11 are arranged sequentially in the same column, and each Kp antenna element 11 is connected to the same first channel 16. Alternatively, it can be understood that a first subarray unit 14 is formed by Kp antenna elements 11 connected to a first channel 16.

[0087] Similarly, please continue to refer to [the relevant resources]. Figures 5-7 In the aforementioned q columns of antenna elements, any column of antenna elements includes at least two second subarray units 15. The antenna elements 11 in each second subarray unit 15 are arranged along the column direction, and each antenna element 11 in the second subarray unit 15 is connected to a second channel 18. In one embodiment, the second subarray unit 15 includes Kq antenna elements 11, and these Kq antenna elements 11 are arranged sequentially in the same column, and each Kq antenna element 11 is connected to the same second channel 18. Alternatively, it can be understood that a second subarray unit 15 consists of Kq antenna elements 11 connected to a second channel 18.

[0088] The number of antenna elements Kp in the first subarray unit 14 and the number of antenna elements Kq in the second subarray unit 15 satisfy: Kp > Kq, and a*Kp = b*Kq, where a ≠ b, and a and b are positive integers. Figure 5In the illustrated embodiment: a = 2, b = 3, Kp = 9, Kq = 6. In this embodiment, the number of antenna elements in the first subarray unit 14 is different from the number of antenna elements in the second subarray unit 15. This can be designed according to actual needs. The driving relationship between the channel and the antenna elements 11 manifests as multiple sets of different structured mapping relationships. There are no constraints on the number of antenna columns. Therefore, the antenna aperture can be maximized and the spatial degrees of freedom can be maximized according to actual engineering constraints to obtain the maximum coverage and capacity gain of the communication device. Furthermore, the number of antenna elements Kp in the first subarray unit 14 and the number of antenna elements Kq in the second subarray unit 15 have a common divisor. This ensures that the number of antenna elements in column p and column q are the same, resulting in aligned element distribution. Consequently, the multiple antenna elements 11 of the antenna are arranged in a regular matrix form to fully utilize the space of the reflector 13 and improve the coverage of the communication device. In addition, it is also beneficial to ensure that the number of antenna elements 11 included in the branches of the first subarray unit 14 is the same as the number of antenna elements 11 included in the branches of the second subarray unit 15.

[0089] like Figure 6 As shown, in a further embodiment, the number of antenna elements Kp included in the first subarray unit 14 and the number of antenna elements Kq included in the second subarray unit 15 can satisfy: Kp = s * Kq, where s is a positive integer greater than 1. In this embodiment, a = 1 and b = s in the above embodiment can be considered as... Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment: s = 2, Kp = 6, Kq = 3. In this embodiment, the number of antenna elements included in the first subarray unit 14 is an integer multiple of the number of antenna elements included in the second subarray unit 15. In addition to arranging the multiple antenna elements 11 of the antenna in a regular matrix form to make full use of the space of the reflector 13 and improve the coverage of the communication device, it is also beneficial to ensure that the number of antenna elements 11 included in the branches of the first subarray unit 14 is the same as the number of antenna elements 11 included in the branches of the second subarray unit 15, which facilitates the creation of the mapping relationship between the antenna elements and the channel.

[0090] In this embodiment, the communication device may include 2 channels. d Where d is a positive integer greater than 1. This satisfies the channel quantity requirements of the current communication device. The channels here include the first channel 16 and the second channel 18 mentioned above, and may also include other channels besides the first channel 16 and the second channel 18. The total number of channels is the sum of the number of the first channel 16, the number of the second channel 18, and the number of other channels (if any).

[0091] In this embodiment, the number of columns of the antenna vibrator 11 does not necessarily have to be 2. e ,For example,Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the communication device includes 10 columns of antenna elements. Specifically, the number m of the columns of the antenna elements 11 can satisfy 2. e <m<2 e+1 Where e is a positive integer greater than 1. This allows for flexible configuration of the number of columns of antenna elements 11 in the communication device, maximizing the available space and achieving the maximum coverage and capacity gain.

[0092] In this embodiment, the spacing between any two adjacent antenna elements is 0.5λ, where λ is the wavelength corresponding to the communication frequency of the communication device. This scheme achieves a high degree of matching between the channel distribution and spatial degrees of freedom, which is beneficial for fully utilizing the antenna capacity.

[0093] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 5 and Figure 6 In a further embodiment, the m-column antenna elements of the communication device include p-column antenna elements, q-column antenna elements, and p'-column antenna elements arranged sequentially, with the p-column and p'-column antenna elements symmetrically arranged on both sides of the q-column antenna elements. The p'-column antenna elements are identical to the p-column antenna elements, maintaining the symmetry of the m-column antenna elements arrangement and the symmetry of the channel distribution, thereby improving the beamforming capability of the communication device. Furthermore, in this application, the number of antenna elements Kp in the first subarray unit 14 and the number of antenna elements Kq in the second subarray unit 15 satisfy: Kp > Kq. The q-column antenna elements are located between the p-column and p'-column antenna elements, and the second subarray unit 15 is located between the first subarray units 14. The second subarray unit 15 includes fewer antenna elements than the first subarray unit 14, resulting in higher energy in the middle and lower energy on both sides of the communication device, enabling the beam to suppress sidelobes and reduce interference to neighboring cells.

[0094] Furthermore, the q-column antenna elements can include even-numbered columns of antenna elements, thus making the q-column antenna elements themselves a symmetrical structure, further maintaining the symmetry of the communication device.

[0095] Regarding the mapping relationship between the antenna element 11 and the channel, this application provides several specific options. For example... Figure 7As shown, in one embodiment, the first subarray unit 14 includes at least two first branches 141, and any one of the first branches 141 is connected to the first channel 16 via a first phase shifter 17. Specifically, the first subarray unit 14 includes i first branches 141, where i is a positive integer greater than 1; the first channel 16 is connected to i first phase shifters 17, and the i first branches 141 and i first phase shifters 17 are connected one-to-one. The second subarray unit 15 includes at least one second branch 151, specifically, the second subarray unit 15 includes j second branches 151, where j is a positive integer greater than 0. Any one of the second branches 151 is directly connected to the second channel 18. In this embodiment, the first subarray unit 14 adopts a hybrid beamforming (HBF) architecture, and the second subarray unit 15 adopts a digital beamforming (DBF) architecture. This embodiment is more suitable for communication devices operating at a frequency of 3.5G, where the channel device includes 128 channels and operates in a time-division duplex manner.

[0096] It is worth noting that, in the embodiments of this application, the one-to-one correspondence between multiple branches and multiple phase shifters means that each branch is connected to at least one phase shifter, and the phase shifters connected to different branches are not the same phase shifter. In some embodiments, the channel can also connect to a larger number of phase shifters, so that a branch is connected to more than one phase shifter. For example, in the above embodiment, the number of phase shifters connected to the first channel 16 may not be just i, but may be greater than i, but there must be i first phase shifters 17, and each first phase shifter 17 is connected to a first branch 141. The phase shifters other than the i first phase shifters 17 can be installed in any location as needed.

[0097] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a mapping relationship between the antenna element and the channel of the communication terminal in an embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 8As shown, in one embodiment, the first subarray unit 14 includes at least two first branches 141, one of which is directly connected to the first channel 16, and the remaining first branches 141 are connected to the first channel 16 via first phase shifters 17. Specifically, the first subarray unit 14 includes i first branches 141, where i is a positive integer greater than 1; the first channel 16 is connected to i-1 first phase shifters 17, one of the i first branches 141 is directly connected to the first channel 16, and the i-1 first branches 141 and i-1 first phase shifters 17 are connected in a one-to-one correspondence. The second subarray unit 15 includes at least one second branch 151, specifically, the second subarray unit 15 includes j second branches 151, where j is a positive integer greater than 0. Any second branch 151 is directly connected to the second channel 18. In this embodiment, the first subarray unit 14 adopts an HBF architecture, and the second subarray unit 15 adopts a DBF architecture. Since the HBE architecture typically includes a first branch 141 as a reference branch, in this embodiment, the first branch 141 as the reference branch may not be connected to a phase shifter, while the other branches are connected to phase shifters, in order to reduce the cost of the communication device.

[0098] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a mapping relationship between the antenna element and the channel of the communication terminal in an embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 9 As shown, in one embodiment, the first subarray unit 14 includes at least two first branches 141, and any one of the first branches 141 is connected to the first channel 16 via a first phase shifter 17. Specifically, the first subarray unit 14 includes i first branches 141, where i is a positive integer greater than 1; the first channel 16 is connected to i first phase shifters 17, and the i first branches 141 and i first phase shifters 17 are connected in a one-to-one correspondence. The second subarray unit 15 includes at least one second branch 151, and any one of the second branches 151 is connected to the second channel 18 via a second phase shifter 19. Specifically, the second subarray unit 15 includes j second branches 151, where j is a positive integer greater than 0. The second channel 18 is connected to j second phase shifters 19, and the j second branches 151 and j second phase shifters 19 are connected in a one-to-one correspondence. In this embodiment, both the first subarray unit 14 and the second subarray unit 15 adopt the HBF architecture. This embodiment is more suitable for communication devices operating at a frequency of 3.5 GHz, the channel device including 64 channels, and the communication device operating in time-division duplex mode. Alternatively, this embodiment is also more suitable for communication devices operating at a frequency of 6.7 GHz, the channel device including 256 channels, and the communication device operating in time-division duplex mode.

[0099] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a mapping relationship between the antenna element and the channel of the communication terminal in an embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 10As shown, in one embodiment, the first subarray unit 14 includes at least two first branches 141, one of which is directly connected to the first channel 16, and the remaining first branches 141 are connected to the first channel 16 via first phase shifters 17. Specifically, the first subarray unit 14 includes i first branches 141, where i is a positive integer greater than 1; the first channel 16 is connected to i-1 first phase shifters 17, one of the i first branches 141 is directly connected to the first channel 16, and the i-1 first branches 141 and i-1 first phase shifters 17 are connected in a one-to-one correspondence. The second subarray unit 15 includes at least one second branch 151, one of which is directly connected to the second channel 18, and the remaining second branches 151 are connected to the second channel 18 via second phase shifters 19. Specifically, the second subarray unit 15 includes j second branches 151, where j is a positive integer greater than 0. The second channel 18 is connected to j-1 second phase shifters 19. One of the j second branches 151 is directly connected to the second channel, and the j-1 second branches 151 are connected to the j-1 second phase shifters 19 in a one-to-one correspondence. When both the first subarray unit 14 and the second subarray unit 15 adopt the HBF architecture, the cost of the communication device can be reduced.

[0100] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a mapping relationship between the antenna element and the channel of the communication terminal in an embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 11 As shown, the first subarray unit 14 includes at least two first branches 141. Specifically, the first subarray unit includes i first branches, where i is a positive integer greater than 1. Any one of the first branches 141 is directly connected to the first channel 16. The second subarray unit 15 includes at least one second branch 151. Specifically, the second subarray unit 15 includes j second branches 151, where j is a positive integer greater than 0. Any one of the second branches 151 is directly connected to the second channel 18. In this embodiment, both the first subarray unit 14 and the second subarray unit 15 adopt a DBF architecture. This embodiment is more suitable for communication devices operating at a frequency of 1.8G or 2.1G. The channel device includes 32 channels and is a communication device operating in frequency division duplex mode.

[0101] In this embodiment, the number of antenna elements 11 included in the first branch 141 of the first subarray unit 14 is the same as the number of antenna elements 11 included in the second branch 151 of the second subarray unit 15. This ensures that the vertical scanning range of any subarray unit is the same, which is beneficial for joint beamforming, increasing the energy of the antenna beam, and improving the overall antenna gain.

[0102] Similarly, based on the same inventive concept, this application also provides a communication device. Figure 12This is a schematic diagram of a communication device in one embodiment of this application. Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of a communication device in an embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, in one embodiment, the communication device includes multiple channels (not shown) and multiple antenna elements 11. The multiple antenna elements 11 are arranged in an array of n rows of antenna elements, wherein the n rows of antenna elements include w rows and v rows of antenna elements arranged sequentially. Specifically, it can be understood that the multiple antenna elements 11 of the communication device are arranged in an n*m matrix, with n rows of antenna elements and m columns of antenna elements. The aforementioned multiple antenna elements 11 can be arranged on the reflector 13 of the antenna.

[0103] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the mapping relationship between the antenna element 11 and the channel of the communication terminal in this embodiment of the application, as shown below. Figures 12-14 As shown, the aforementioned w-row antenna elements include at least one third subarray unit 20. Each third subarray unit 20 includes multiple antenna elements 11 located in the same column, meaning the antenna elements 11 in the third subarray unit 20 are arranged along the column direction, and each antenna element 11 in the third subarray unit 20 is connected to a third channel 22. In one embodiment, the third subarray unit 20 includes Kw antenna elements 11, and these Kw antenna elements 11 are arranged sequentially in the same column, with each Kw antenna element 11 connected to the same third channel 22. Alternatively, it can be understood that a third subarray unit 20 consists of Kw antenna elements 11 connected to a third channel 22.

[0104] Similarly, please continue to refer to [the relevant resources]. Figures 12-14 The aforementioned v-row antenna elements include at least two fourth subarray units 21. Each fourth subarray unit 21 includes multiple antenna elements 11 located in the same column, meaning the antenna elements 11 in the fourth subarray unit 21 are arranged along the column direction, and each antenna element 11 in the fourth subarray unit 21 is connected to a fourth channel 24. In one embodiment, the fourth subarray unit 21 includes Kv antenna elements 11, and the Kv antenna elements 11 are arranged sequentially in the same column, and each Kv antenna element 11 is connected to the same fourth channel 24. Alternatively, it can be understood that a fourth subarray unit 21 consists of Kv antenna elements 11 connected to a fourth channel 24.

[0105] The number of antenna elements Kw in the third subarray unit 20 and the number of antenna elements Kv in the fourth subarray unit 21 satisfy: Kw > Kv, and C*Kw = D*Kv, where C ≠ D, and C and D are positive integers. Figure 12In the illustrated embodiment: C=3, D=4, Kw=4, Kv=3. In this embodiment, the number of antenna elements in the third subarray unit 20 is different from the number of antenna elements in the fourth subarray unit 21. This can be designed according to actual needs. The driving relationship between the channel and the antenna elements 11 is expressed as multiple sets of different structured mapping relationships. There are no constraints on the number of antenna columns. Therefore, the antenna aperture can be maximized and the spatial degrees of freedom can be maximized according to actual engineering constraints to obtain the maximum coverage and capacity gain of the communication device. In addition, the number of antenna elements Kw in the third subarray unit 20 and the number of antenna elements Kv in the fourth subarray unit 21 have a common divisor. This ensures that the number of antenna elements in the W-row antenna elements is the same as the number of antenna elements in the v-row antenna elements, thus aligning the element distribution. This results in the multiple antenna elements 11 of the antenna being arranged in a regular matrix form to fully utilize the space of the reflector 13 and improve the coverage of the communication device. In addition, it is also beneficial to ensure that the number of antenna elements 11 included in the branches of the third subarray unit 20 is the same as the number of antenna elements 11 included in the branches of the fourth subarray unit 21.

[0106] Information such as the number of channels, the number of antenna element columns, and the spacing between adjacent antenna element columns of the communication device can be found in the description of the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0107] like Figure 13 As shown, in a further embodiment, the number of antenna elements Kw included in the third subarray unit 20 and the number of antenna elements Kv included in the fourth subarray unit 21 can satisfy: Kw = t * Kv, where t is a positive integer greater than 1. In this embodiment, C = 1 and D = t in the above embodiments can be considered as follows. Figure 13 In the illustrated embodiment: t = 2, Kw = 6, Kv = 3. In this embodiment, the number of antenna elements included in the third subarray unit 20 is an integer multiple of the number of antenna elements included in the fourth subarray unit 21. This ensures that the number of antenna elements in the W-row antenna elements is the same as the number of antenna elements in the v-row antenna elements, thereby arranging the multiple antenna elements 11 in a regular matrix form to fully utilize the space of the reflector 13 and improve the coverage of the communication device. Furthermore, it also facilitates ensuring that the number of antenna elements 11 in the branches of the third subarray unit 20 is the same as the number of antenna elements 11 in the branches of the fourth subarray unit 21, making it easier to establish a mapping relationship between the antenna elements and the channels.

[0108] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 12 and Figure 13In a further embodiment, the n-row antenna elements of the communication device include w-row antenna elements, v-row antenna elements, and w'-row antenna elements arranged sequentially, with the w-row and w'-row antenna elements symmetrically arranged on both sides of the v-row antenna elements. The w'-row antenna elements are identical to the w-row antenna elements, maintaining the symmetry of the n-row antenna elements arrangement and the symmetry of the channel distribution, thereby improving the beamforming capability of the communication device. Furthermore, in this application, the number of antenna elements Kw included in the third subarray unit 20 and the number of antenna elements Kv included in the fourth subarray unit 21 satisfy: Kw > Kv. The v-row antenna elements are located between the w-row and w'-row antenna elements, and the fourth subarray unit 21 is located between the third subarray units 20. The fourth subarray unit 21 includes fewer antenna elements than the third subarray unit 20, resulting in higher energy in the middle and lower energy on both sides of the communication device, enabling the beam to suppress sidelobes and reduce interference to neighboring cells.

[0109] Furthermore, the v-row antenna elements can include an even number of rows of antenna elements, thereby ensuring that any column of the v-row antenna elements includes an even number of fourth subarray elements 21. This makes the v-row antenna elements themselves a symmetrical structure, further maintaining the symmetry of the communication device.

[0110] Regarding the mapping relationship between the antenna element 11 and the channel, this application provides several specific options. For example... Figure 14 As shown, in one embodiment, the third subarray unit 20 includes at least two third branches 201, and any one of the third branches 201 is connected to the third channel 22 via a third phase shifter 23. Specifically, the third subarray unit 20 includes x third branches 201, where x is a positive integer greater than 1; the third channel 22 is connected to x third phase shifters 23, and the x third branches 201 and x third phase shifters 23 are connected in a one-to-one correspondence. The fourth subarray unit 21 includes at least one fourth branch 211, specifically, the fourth subarray unit 21 includes y fourth branches 211, where y is a positive integer greater than 0, and any one of the fourth branches 211 is directly connected to the fourth channel 24. In this embodiment, the third subarray unit 20 adopts an HBF architecture, and the fourth subarray unit 21 adopts a DBF architecture. This embodiment is more suitable for communication devices operating at a frequency of 3.5G, and the channel device includes 128 channels and is a communication device operating in a time-division duplex mode.

[0111] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a mapping relationship between the antenna element and the channel of the communication terminal in an embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 15As shown, in one embodiment, the third subarray unit 20 includes at least two third branches 201, one of which is directly connected to the third channel 22, and the remaining third branches 201 are connected to the third channel 22 via third phase shifters 23. Specifically, the third subarray unit 20 includes x third branches 201, where x is a positive integer greater than 1; the third channel 22 is connected to x-1 third phase shifters 23, one of the x third branches 201 is directly connected to the third channel 22, and the x-1 third branches 201 and x-1 third phase shifters 23 are connected in a one-to-one correspondence. The fourth subarray unit 21 includes at least one fourth branch 211, specifically, the fourth subarray unit 21 includes y fourth branches 211, where y is a positive integer greater than 0, and any one of the fourth branches 211 is directly connected to the fourth channel 24. In this embodiment, the third subarray unit 20 adopts an HBF architecture, and the fourth subarray unit 21 adopts a DBF architecture. Since the HBE architecture typically includes a third branch 201 as a reference branch, in this embodiment, the reference branch may not be connected to a phase shifter, while the other branches are connected to phase shifters to reduce the cost of the communication device.

[0112] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a mapping relationship between the antenna element and the channel of the communication terminal in an embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 16 As shown, in one embodiment, the third subarray unit 20 includes at least two third branches 201, and any one of the third branches 201 is connected to the third channel 22 via a third phase shifter 23. Specifically, the third subarray unit 20 includes x third branches 201, where x is a positive integer greater than 1; the third channel 22 is connected to x third phase shifters 23, and the x third branches 201 and x third phase shifters 23 are connected in a one-to-one correspondence. The fourth subarray unit 21 includes at least one fourth branch 211, and any one of the fourth branches 211 is connected to the fourth channel 24 via a fourth phase shifter 25. Specifically, the fourth subarray unit 21 includes y fourth branches 211, where y is a positive integer greater than 0; the fourth channel 24 is connected to y fourth phase shifters 25, and the y fourth branches 211 and y fourth phase shifters 25 are connected in a one-to-one correspondence. In this embodiment, both the third subarray unit 20 and the fourth subarray unit 21 adopt the HBF architecture. This embodiment is more suitable for communication devices operating at a frequency of 3.5 GHz, the channel device including 64 channels, and the communication device operating in time-division duplex mode. Alternatively, this embodiment is also more suitable for communication devices operating at a frequency of 6.7 GHz, the channel device including 256 channels, and the communication device operating in time-division duplex mode.

[0113] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a mapping relationship between the antenna element and the channel of the communication terminal in an embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 17As shown, in one embodiment, the third subarray unit 20 includes at least two third branches 201, one of which is directly connected to the third channel 22, and the remaining third branches 201 are connected to the third channel 22 via third phase shifters 23. Specifically, the third subarray unit 20 includes x third branches 201, where x is a positive integer greater than 1; the third channel 22 is connected to x-1 third phase shifters 23, one of the x third branches 201 is directly connected to the third channel 22, and the x-1 third branches 201 and x-1 third phase shifters 23 are connected in a one-to-one correspondence. The fourth subarray unit 21 includes at least one fourth branch 211, one of which is directly connected to the fourth channel 24, and the remaining fourth branches 211 are connected to the fourth channel 24 via fourth phase shifters 25. Specifically, the fourth subarray unit 21 includes y fourth branches 211, where y is a positive integer greater than 0. The fourth channel 24 is connected to y-1 fourth phase shifters 25. One of the y fourth branches 211 is directly connected to the fourth channel 24, and the y-1 fourth branches 211 and y-1 fourth phase shifters 25 are connected in a one-to-one correspondence. When both the third subarray unit 20 and the fourth subarray unit 21 adopt the HBF architecture, the cost of the communication device can be reduced.

[0114] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a mapping relationship between the antenna element and the channel of the communication terminal in an embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 18 As shown, the third subarray unit 20 includes at least two third branches 201. Specifically, the third subarray unit 20 includes x third branches 201, where x is a positive integer greater than 1; any third branch 201 is directly connected to the third channel 22. The fourth subarray unit 21 includes at least one fourth branch 211. Specifically, the fourth subarray unit 21 includes y fourth branches 211, where y is a positive integer greater than 0. Any fourth branch 211 is directly connected to the fourth channel 24. In this embodiment, both the third subarray unit 20 and the fourth subarray unit 21 adopt a DBF architecture. This embodiment is more suitable for communication devices operating at a frequency of 1.8G or 2.1G. The channel device includes 32 channels and is a communication device operating in frequency division duplex mode.

[0115] In this embodiment, the number of antenna elements 11 included in the third branch 201 of the third subarray unit 20 is the same as the number of antenna elements 11 included in the fourth branch 211 of the fourth subarray unit 21. This ensures that the vertical scanning range of any subarray unit is the same, which is beneficial for beamforming, increasing the energy of the antenna beam, and improving the overall antenna gain.

[0116] The above are merely specific embodiments of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication device, characterized by The antenna array includes a plurality of channels and a plurality of antenna elements, the plurality of antenna elements are arranged in m columns of antenna elements, the m columns of antenna elements include p columns of antenna elements and q columns of antenna elements arranged in sequence; Any one of the p columns of antenna elements includes at least one first subarray unit, the antenna elements in the first subarray unit are connected with a first channel; any one of the q columns of antenna elements includes at least two second subarray units, the antenna elements in the second subarray unit are connected with a second channel; The number Kp of antenna elements included in the first subarray unit and the number Kq of antenna elements included in the second subarray unit satisfy Kp > Kq, and a*Kp = b*Kq, where a ≠ b, and a and b are positive integers.

2. The communication apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The number Kp of antenna elements included in the first subarray unit and the number Kq of antenna elements included in the second subarray unit satisfy Kp = s*Kq, where s is a positive integer greater than 1.

3. The communication apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The m columns of antenna elements include the p columns of antenna elements, the q columns of antenna elements and p' columns of antenna elements arranged in sequence, the p columns of antenna elements and the p' columns of antenna elements are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the q columns of antenna elements.

4. The communication apparatus of claim 3, wherein, The q columns of antenna elements include an even number of columns of antenna elements.

5. The communication apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein The first subarray unit includes at least two first branches, the second subarray unit includes at least one second branch, the number of antenna elements included in the first branch is the same as the number of antenna elements included in the second branch.

6. The communication apparatus according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein The first subarray unit includes i first branches, i is a positive integer greater than 1; the first channel is connected with i first phase shifters, the i first branches and the i first phase shifters are connected one by one; the second subarray unit includes j second branches, j is a positive integer greater than 0, and any one of the second branches is directly connected with the second channel.

7. The communication apparatus according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein The first subarray unit includes i first branches, i is a positive integer greater than 1; the first channel is connected with i-1 first phase shifters, one of the i first branches is directly connected with the first channel, and i-1 first branches and i-1 first phase shifters are connected one by one; the second subarray unit includes j second branches, j is a positive integer greater than 0, and any one of the second branches is directly connected with the second channel.

8. The communication apparatus according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein The first subarray unit includes i first branches, i is a positive integer greater than 1; the first channel is connected with i first phase shifters, the i first branches and the i first phase shifters are connected one by one; the second subarray unit includes j second branches, j is a positive integer greater than 0, the second channel is connected with j second phase shifters, and the j second branches and the j second phase shifters are connected one by one.

9. The communication apparatus according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein The first subarray unit includes i first branches, i is a positive integer greater than 1, and any first branch is directly connected to the first channel; the second subarray unit includes j second branches, j is a positive integer greater than 0, and any second branch is directly connected to the second channel.

10. The communication apparatus according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein The first subarray unit includes i first branches, i is a positive integer greater than 1, and any first branch is directly connected to the first channel; the second subarray unit includes j second branches, j is a positive integer greater than 0, and any second branch is directly connected to the second channel.

11. A communications device, characterized by The plurality of antenna elements are arranged in n rows of antenna elements, and the n rows of antenna elements include w rows of antenna elements and v rows of antenna elements arranged in sequence. The w rows of antenna elements include a plurality of third subarray units, each third subarray unit including a plurality of antenna elements in the same column, and the antenna elements in the third subarray unit being connected to a third channel; the v rows of antenna elements include a plurality of fourth subarray units, each fourth subarray unit including a plurality of antenna elements in the same column, and the antenna elements in the fourth subarray unit being connected to a fourth channel. The number of antenna elements included in the third subarray unit Kw and the number of antenna elements included in the fourth subarray unit Kv satisfy: Kw > Kv, and C*Kw = D*Kv, where C ≠ D, and C and D are positive integers.

12. The communication apparatus of claim 11, wherein, The number of antenna elements included in the third subarray unit Kw and the number of antenna elements included in the fourth subarray unit Kv satisfy: Kw = t*Kv, where t is a positive integer greater than 1.

13. The communication apparatus according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, The n rows of antenna elements include the w rows of antenna elements, the v rows of antenna elements, and w' rows of antenna elements arranged in sequence, and the w rows of antenna elements and the w' rows of antenna elements are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the v rows of antenna elements.

14. The communication apparatus of claim 13, wherein, Any column in the v rows of antenna elements includes an even number of fourth subarray units.

15. The communication apparatus according to any one of claims 11-14, wherein, The third subarray unit includes at least two third branches, and the fourth subarray unit includes at least one fourth branch; the number of antenna elements included in the third branch is the same as the number of antenna elements included in the fourth branch.

16. The communication apparatus according to any one of claims 11-15, wherein, The third subarray unit includes x third branches, x being a positive integer greater than 1; the third channel is connected to x third phase shifters, and the x third branches and the x third phase shifters are connected one by one; the fourth subarray unit includes y fourth branches, y being a positive integer greater than 0, and any fourth branch is directly connected to the fourth channel.

17. The communication apparatus of any of claims 11-15, wherein, The third subarray unit includes x third branches, x being a positive integer greater than 1; the third channel is connected with x-1 third phase shifters, one of the x third branches is directly connected with the third channel, and x-1 third branches are connected with the x-1 third phase shifters in one-to-one correspondence; the fourth subarray unit includes y fourth branches, y being a positive integer greater than 0, and any one of the fourth branches is directly connected with the fourth channel.

18. The communication apparatus according to any one of claims 11-15, wherein, The third subarray unit includes x third branches, x being a positive integer greater than 1; the third channel is connected with x third phase shifters, and the x third branches and the x third phase shifters are connected in one-to-one correspondence; the fourth subarray unit includes y fourth branches, y being a positive integer greater than 0, the fourth channel is connected with y fourth phase shifters, and the y fourth branches and the y fourth phase shifters are connected in one-to-one correspondence.

19. The communication apparatus of any of claims 11-15, wherein, The third subarray unit includes x third branches, x being a positive integer greater than 1; the third channel is connected with x-1 third phase shifters, one of the x third branches is directly connected with the third channel, and x-1 third branches are connected with the x-1 third phase shifters in one-to-one correspondence; the fourth subarray unit includes y fourth branches, y being a positive integer greater than 0, the fourth channel is connected with y-1 fourth phase shifters, one of the y fourth branches is directly connected with the fourth channel, and y-1 fourth branches are connected with the y-1 fourth phase shifters in one-to-one correspondence.

20. The communication apparatus according to any one of claims 11-15, wherein, The third subarray unit includes x third branches, x being a positive integer greater than 1; any one of the third branches is directly connected with the third channel, the fourth subarray unit includes y fourth branches, y being a positive integer greater than 0, and any one of the fourth branches is directly connected with the fourth channel.

21. A base station, comprising: The communication device includes a distributed unit and a communication device as claimed in any one of claims 1-20, and the distributed unit is electrically connected with the communication device.

22. A communication system, characterized by The base station includes at least two base stations as claimed in claim 21.

Images