Antenna module and communication device mounted with same

Abstract

An antenna module (100) is provided with a dielectric substrate (130), a flat-plate-shaped radiating element (121), a ground electrode (GND), a power supply wiring (140), and an auxiliary electrode (150). The dielectric substrate (130) has main surfaces (131, 132) facing each other. The ground electrode (GND) is disposed on the main surface (132) side of the radiating element (121) so as to face the radiating element (121). The power supply wiring (140) transmits a high-frequency signal to a power supply point (SP1) of the radiating element (121). The auxiliary electrode (150) is connected to the power supply wiring (140) and is disposed between the radiating element (121) and the ground electrode (GND). The feed point (SP1) is disposed at a position shifted in the first direction from the center of the radiating element (121). The auxiliary electrode (150) protrudes in the first direction from the radiating element (121) in a plan view from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate (130).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to antenna modules and communication devices equipped with such antenna modules, and more particularly, to techniques for improving the directivity of antennas corresponding to high-frequency signals in the Asia-Pacific Hertz band. Background Technology

[0002] International Publication No. 2014 / 045966 (Patent Document 1) discloses a structure for supplying high-frequency signals to a patch antenna via a stripline and a path.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2014 / 045966 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0007] In recent years, the development of communication in the so-called Asia-Pacific Hertz (APH) band, which is above 100 GHz, has been progressing in wireless communication devices. Using the APH band expands the spectrum bandwidth, thus enabling high-capacity and high-speed communication, such as at speeds exceeding 100 Gbps.

[0008] On the other hand, in the case of signals in the frequency band greater than 100 GHz, the influence of surface waves generated on the surface of the dielectric substrate on which the radiating element is arranged tends to increase. In the case of patch antennas, a power supply point is provided at a position offset from the center of the element, thus causing asymmetry in the electromagnetic field generated from the radiating element. As mentioned above, if the influence of surface waves increases, the asymmetry of the electromagnetic field becomes significant, and therefore the beam direction (directivity) of the radiated radio wave is prone to tilting. Consequently, the antenna gain in the desired radiation direction may decrease.

[0009] This disclosure was made to solve such a problem, with the aim of improving the directivity of antenna modules corresponding to the Asia-Pacific Hertz frequency band.

[0010] Solution for solving the problem

[0011] The antenna module disclosed herein includes a dielectric substrate, a first radiating element in the shape of a flat plate, a ground electrode, a first power supply wiring, and a first electrode in the shape of a flat plate. The dielectric substrate has a first main surface and a second main surface opposite to each other. The first radiating element is disposed on the dielectric substrate. The ground electrode is disposed in the dielectric substrate opposite to the first radiating element at a position closer to the second main surface than the first radiating element. The first power supply wiring transmits a high-frequency signal to a first power supply point of the first radiating element. The first electrode is connected to the first power supply wiring and disposed between the first radiating element and the ground electrode. The first power supply point is disposed at a position offset from the center of the first radiating element in a first direction. When viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, the first electrode protrudes from the first radiating element toward the first direction.

[0012] The effects of the invention

[0013] In the antenna module of this disclosure, a planar electrode (first electrode) extending in a first direction (offset direction) is connected to the power supply wiring that transmits high-frequency signals to the radiating element. This planar electrode protrudes from the radiating element in the first direction. Consequently, a portion of the electric field lines extending from the radiating element in the first direction reach the ground electrode via the planar electrode. Therefore, compared to the case without the planar electrode, the electric field lines extending from the radiating element in the first direction couple with the ground electrode at a closer position to the radiating element. This suppresses the propagation of the electric field lines from the radiating element in the first direction, thus reducing the beam tilt in the first direction. Consequently, the directivity of the antenna module can be improved. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is an overall structural diagram of the communication device using the antenna module of Implementation Method 1.

[0015] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the antenna module in Embodiment 1.

[0016] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Top view and side perspective view of the antenna module.

[0017] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the electromagnetic field distribution and antenna gain of the antenna module in Embodiment 1 and the comparative example.

[0018] Figure 5 This is a diagram used to illustrate the antenna gain when the width of the auxiliary electrode is changed.

[0019] Figure 6 This is a side perspective view of the antenna module in Embodiment 2.

[0020] Figure 7 This is a side perspective view of the antenna module in Embodiment 3.

[0021] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of the antenna module according to embodiment 4.

[0022] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the antenna module in implementation method 5.

[0023] Figure 10 This is a top view of the antenna module according to embodiment 6.

[0024] Figure 11 This is a top view of the antenna module of Variation Example 1.

[0025] Figure 12 This is a top view of the antenna module in variant example 2.

[0026] Figure 13 This is a top view of the antenna module according to embodiment 7.

[0027] Figure 14 This is a side perspective view of the antenna module in embodiment 8.

[0028] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of the antenna module according to embodiment 9.

[0029] Figure 16 This is a side perspective view of the antenna module of embodiment 10.

[0030] Figure 17 This is a side perspective view of the antenna module of embodiment 11.

[0031] Figure 18 This is a side perspective view of the antenna module of embodiment 12. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the same or equivalent parts in the drawings will be labeled with the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will not be repeated.

[0033] [Implementation Method 1]

[0034] (Basic structure of a communication device)

[0035] Figure 1 This is an example of a block diagram of the communication device 10 of this embodiment. The communication device 10 is, for example, a portable terminal such as a mobile phone, smartphone, or tablet computer, a personal computer with communication capabilities, or a base station. The antenna module 100 of this embodiment uses radio waves in the so-called Asia-Pacific Hertz frequency band, which is greater than 100 GHz.

[0036] Reference Figure 1The communication device 10 includes an antenna module 100 and a BBIC 200 constituting a baseband signal processing circuit. The antenna module 100 includes an RFIC 110, which serves as an example of a power supply circuit, and an antenna device 120. The communication device 10 up-converts signals transmitted from the BBIC 200 to the antenna module 100 into high-frequency signals and radiates them from the antenna device 120, and down-converts high-frequency signals received by the antenna device 120 and processes the signals using the BBIC 200.

[0037] exist Figure 1 For ease of explanation, only the structures corresponding to four of the plurality of radiating elements 121 constituting the antenna device 120 are shown; structures corresponding to other radiating elements 121 having the same structure are omitted. Furthermore, in Figure 1 The example shown is an antenna device 120 formed by a plurality of radiating elements 121 arranged in a two-dimensional array. However, the radiating elements 121 do not necessarily have to be multiple; the antenna device 120 can also be formed by a single radiating element 121. Alternatively, a one-dimensional array of multiple radiating elements 121 arranged in a column can also be used. In Embodiment 1, the radiating element 121 is illustrated as a patch antenna with a generally square planar shape, but the shape of the radiating element 121 can also be other polygons such as circles, ellipses, or hexagons.

[0038] RFIC110 includes switches 111A-111D, 113A-113D, 117, power amplifiers 112AT-112DT, low-noise amplifiers 112AR-112DR, attenuators 114A-114D, phase shifters 115A-115D, signal synthesizer / demultiplexer 116, mixer 118, and amplifier circuit 119.

[0039] When transmitting high-frequency signals, switches 111A-111D and 113A-113D switch to the power amplifiers 112AT-112DT, and switch 117 is connected to the transmitting amplifier of amplifier circuit 119. When receiving high-frequency signals, switches 111A-111D and 113A-113D switch to the low-noise amplifiers 112AR-112DR, and switch 117 is connected to the receiving amplifier of amplifier circuit 119.

[0040] The signal received from BBIC200 is amplified by amplifier circuit 119 and up-converted by mixer 118. The up-converted high-frequency transmission signal is split into four signals by signal synthesizer / demultiplexer 116, and supplied to different radiating elements 121 through four signal paths. At this time, the directivity of antenna device 120 can be adjusted by adjusting the phase shift of phase shifters 115A to 115D arranged in each signal path. In addition, attenuators 114A to 114D adjust the strength of the transmitted signal.

[0041] The received signals, which are high-frequency signals, received by each radiating element 121 are combined by a signal synthesizer / demultiplexer 116 via four different signal paths. The combined received signal is down-converted by a mixer 118, amplified by an amplifier circuit 119, and then transmitted to the BBIC 200.

[0042] RFIC110 can be configured as a single-chip integrated circuit component, for example, containing the circuit structure described above. Alternatively, for the devices (switches, power amplifiers, low-noise amplifiers, attenuators, phase shifters) corresponding to each radiating element 121 of RFIC110, a single-chip integrated circuit component can also be configured for each corresponding radiating element 121.

[0043] (Structure of the antenna module)

[0044] Next, use Figure 2 and Figure 3 The details of the structure of the antenna module 100 in Embodiment 1 are explained below. Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional view showing the internal structure of the antenna module 100. Figure 3 These are top views (above (A)) and side perspective views (below (B)) of the antenna module 100.

[0045] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 In addition to the radiating element 121 and RFIC 110, the antenna module 100 also includes a dielectric substrate 130, a ground electrode GND, power supply wiring 140, and an auxiliary electrode 150. Furthermore, in Figure 2 In subsequent perspective views, the dielectric of the dielectric substrate 130 used for arranging various components is omitted in order to illustrate the internal structure.

[0046] The dielectric substrate 130 has a generally cuboid shape comprising two main surfaces 131 and 132 with rectangular shapes facing each other. Furthermore, in the following description, the normal direction of the main surfaces 131 and 132 of the dielectric substrate 130 will be defined as the Z-axis direction. The direction along one side of each main surface of the dielectric substrate 130 will be defined as the X-axis direction, and the direction along the other side will be defined as the Y-axis direction. Additionally, in the figures, there are cases where the positive direction of the Z-axis is also referred to as the upper side, and the negative direction of the Z-axis is also referred to as the lower side.

[0047] The dielectric substrate 130 may be, for example, a low-temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC) multilayer substrate, a multilayer resin substrate formed by stacking multiple resin layers composed of resins such as epoxy resin and polyimide resin, a multilayer resin substrate formed by stacking multiple resin layers composed of liquid crystal polymer (LCP) with a lower dielectric constant, a multilayer resin substrate formed by stacking multiple resin layers composed of fluorine-based resin, a multilayer resin substrate formed by stacking multiple resin layers composed of PET (polyethylene terephthalate) material, or a ceramic multilayer substrate other than LTCC. Furthermore, the dielectric substrate 130 may not necessarily be a multilayer structure and may be a single-layer substrate.

[0048] The dielectric substrate 130 has a rectangular shape when viewed from the normal direction (Z-axis direction). A radiating element 121 is disposed near the main surface 131 on the upper surface side of the dielectric substrate 130. The radiating element 121 can be disposed either exposed to the surface of the dielectric substrate 130 or arranged like... Figure 3 As in the example, it is arranged in the inner layer of the dielectric substrate 130.

[0049] In the dielectric substrate 130, the ground electrode GND is disposed opposite to the radiating element 121 on the main surface 132 side, covering the entire surface. Additionally, an RFIC 110 is mounted on the main surface 132 of the dielectric substrate 130 using solder bumps 160. Furthermore, the RFIC 110 can also be connected to the dielectric substrate 130 using a multi-pole connector instead of soldering.

[0050] A high-frequency signal is supplied from RFIC 110 to power point SP1 of radiating element 121 via power supply wiring 140. Power supply wiring 140 includes a wiring pattern 141 extending from solder bump 160 along the X-axis and a passage 142 extending from the end of the wiring pattern 141 along the Z-axis. Passage 142 passes through ground electrode GND and is connected to power point SP1 of radiating element 121. Power point SP1 is offset from the center of radiating element 121 in the negative X-axis direction (first direction). By supplying a high-frequency signal to power point SP1, radio waves polarized in the X-axis direction are radiated from radiating element 121 along the Z-axis direction.

[0051] The auxiliary electrode 150 is a rectangular flat plate electrode. The auxiliary electrode 150 is connected to the path 142 of the power supply wiring 140 and is positioned between the radiating element 121 and the ground electrode GND. Viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate 130, the auxiliary electrode 150 extends from the connection point to the path 142 in the negative X-axis direction and protrudes from the end of the radiating element 121 in the negative X-axis direction.

[0052] (Directional)

[0053] Next, use Figure 4 The directivity of the antenna module and the function of the auxiliary electrode 150 are explained. Figure 4 The diagram shows an example of the electromagnetic field distribution (uplink) and antenna gain (downlink) in the ZX plane of the antenna module 100 of Embodiment 1 and the antenna module 100X of the comparative example. Furthermore, in the antenna module 100X, the auxiliary electrode 150 of the antenna module 100 is not provided.

[0054] Generally, in an antenna module with a patch antenna, when a high-frequency signal is supplied to the radiating element 121 via the power supply wiring 140, electromagnetic field coupling occurs between the radiating element 121 and the ground electrode GND due to edge effects. At this time, when a signal in the Asia-Pacific Hertz band greater than 100 GHz is supplied as a high-frequency signal, the influence of surface waves generated on the surface of the dielectric substrate 130 increases, and the electric field lines tend to extend along the direction (i.e., the polarization direction) along the surface of the radiating element 121. In particular, in asymmetric structures such as patch antennas where the power supply point is offset, such as… Figure 4 As shown in the comparative example, compared with the electric field line generated in the positive direction of the X-axis (arrow AR12), the electric field line generated in the negative direction of the X-axis, which is closer to the power supply point, couples with the ground electrode GND at a position farther from the radiating element 121.

[0055] Therefore, the electromagnetic field distribution generated by the radio waves radiated from the radiating element 121 becomes, as shown by arrow AR13, a distribution that tilts from the Z-axis direction (i.e., the normal direction of the radiating element 121) towards the negative X-axis direction. Consequently, the beam pattern generated by the radiating element 121 also tilts from the Z-axis direction towards the negative X-axis direction (arrow AR14), and the directivity may deteriorate.

[0056] On the other hand, in the antenna module 100 of Embodiment 1, the electric field lines generated from the negative X-axis end of the radiating element 121 are guided to the ground electrode GND via the auxiliary electrode 150 connected to the passage 142 of the power supply wiring 140 (arrows AR21, AR22). Therefore, compared to the antenna module 100X of the comparative example, the radiating element 121 and the ground electrode GND are coupled closer to the radiating element 121. Thus, by appropriately adjusting the size and position of the auxiliary electrode 150, the radiating element 121 and the ground electrode GND can be coupled at a distance equal to that of the electric field lines generated from the positive X-axis end (arrow AR23). Thus, like... Figure 4 As shown by arrow AR24, the tilt of the electromagnetic field distribution generated by the radio waves radiated from the radiating element 121 is reduced, and the beam pattern also becomes oriented along the Z-axis (arrow AR25). Therefore, even when using signals in the Asia-Pacific Hertz band, the directivity of the antenna module can be improved by configuring the auxiliary electrode 150.

[0057] In order for the auxiliary electrode 150 to function as described above, the size and configuration of the auxiliary electrode 150 need to be set appropriately.

[0058] For example, preferably, the protrusion amount L2 of the auxiliary electrode 150 protruding from the radiating element 121 is set such that it is less than half of the dimension L1 in the X-axis direction of the radiating element 121 (L2 / L1≤1 / 2). If the protrusion amount L2 of the auxiliary electrode 150 is too large, the coupling position of the electric field lines generated from the auxiliary electrode 150 with the ground electrode GND will be far away from the radiating element 121. Therefore, the effect of the auxiliary electrode 150 will be lost. On the other hand, in a non-protruding structure, the above-described guiding effect of the electric field lines is not produced.

[0059] Preferably, the dimension L3 (i.e., width) of the auxiliary electrode 150 in the Y-axis direction (second direction) is set such that it is more than 1 / 10 and less than 2 / 3 of the dimension L1 of the radiating element 121 (1 / 10≤L2 / L1≤2 / 3). If the width of the auxiliary electrode 150 is too narrow, it cannot adequately receive the electric field lines from the radiating element 121, thus failing to exert the guiding effect of the auxiliary electrode 150 on the electric field lines, and consequently, the beam pattern cannot be modified.

[0060] On the other hand, if the width of the auxiliary electrode 150 is close to that of the radiating element 121, the auxiliary electrode 150 will resonate on its own and function locally as the radiating element 121. As a result, there may be situations where the beam pattern modification effect cannot be obtained or the antenna cannot operate normally.

[0061] Figure 5 This is a graph showing the change in antenna gain when the width of the auxiliary electrode 150 is changed. Figure 5 In the example, the antenna gain is shown when the width L3 of the auxiliary electrode 150 is 150 μm, 350 μm, and 400 μm, with the size L1 of the radiating element 121 being 530 μm. The case where the width L3 is 150 μm corresponds to approximately 1 / 5 of the size L1 of the radiating element 121, and the case where the width L3 is 350 μm corresponds to approximately 2 / 3 of the size L1 of the radiating element 121. In the case where the width L3 is 350 μm, it becomes a size greater than 2 / 3 of the size L1 of the radiating element 121.

[0062] like Figure 5 As shown, if the width L3 of the auxiliary electrode 150 is greater than 2 / 3 of the size L1 of the radiating element 121, the beam pattern splits in the left-right direction, and the antenna gain in the Z-axis direction becomes extremely low. That is, the antenna no longer functions properly.

[0063] Furthermore, the connection position of the passage 142 to the auxiliary electrode 150 needs to be set within a predetermined range. If the distance between the auxiliary electrode 150 and the ground electrode GND in the Z-axis direction is set to H2, it is preferable that the auxiliary electrode 150 is positioned at a distance H2 that is more than 1 / 3 and less than 2 / 3 of the distance H1 between the radiating element 121 and the ground electrode GND. If the distance H2 is too small, the auxiliary electrode 150 will be close to the ground electrode GND, resulting in the same situation as direct coupling with the ground electrode GND, thus the guiding effect of the electric field lines will disappear. On the other hand, if the distance H2 is too large, the auxiliary electrode 150 will be close to the radiating element 121, and the auxiliary electrode 150 will function locally as the radiating element 121, thus the beam pattern modification effect cannot be obtained.

[0064] Therefore, by adjusting the size and configuration of the auxiliary electrode 150 within the range described above, the directivity of the antenna module can be improved.

[0065] As described above, by configuring an auxiliary electrode of predetermined size in the path portion of the power supply wiring that transmits high-frequency signals to the power supply point of the patch antenna in a manner that protrudes from the radiating element, the directivity of the antenna module for high-frequency signals in the Asia-Pacific Hertz band can be improved.

[0066] The "radiating element 121" in Embodiment 1 corresponds to the "first radiating element" of this disclosure. The "main surface 131" and "main surface 132" in Embodiment 1 correspond to the "first main surface" and "second main surface" of this disclosure, respectively. The "power supply wiring 140" in Embodiment 1 corresponds to the "first power supply wiring" of this disclosure. The "auxiliary electrode 150" in Embodiment 1 corresponds to the "first electrode" of this disclosure.

[0067] [Implementation Method 2]

[0068] In Embodiment 2, a structure with multiple auxiliary electrodes will be described. Figure 6 This is a side perspective view of the antenna module 100A according to Embodiment 2. In addition to the structure of the antenna module 100 of Embodiment 1, the antenna module 100A also includes auxiliary electrodes 151. Figure 6 The description of elements that are not repeated in the antenna module 100 is not repeated.

[0069] Reference Figure 6 Like auxiliary electrode 150, auxiliary electrode 151 is a planar electrode connected to the path 142 of the power supply wiring 140. Auxiliary electrode 151 is disposed between auxiliary electrode 150 and ground electrode GND in the normal direction of the dielectric substrate 130. The dimension of auxiliary electrode 151 in the X-axis direction is longer than that of auxiliary electrode 150 in the X-axis direction. Therefore, auxiliary electrode 151 protrudes in the negative X-axis direction compared to auxiliary electrode 150.

[0070] With this structure, the electric field lines generated by the radiating element 121 can be reliably guided to the ground electrode GND via the auxiliary electrode 150 and auxiliary electrode 151. Therefore, the stability of the improved directivity of the antenna module can be achieved.

[0071] In addition, Figure 6 Although not shown in the diagram, it is preferable that the dimension of the auxiliary electrode 151 in the Y-axis direction is greater than or equal to the dimension of the auxiliary electrode 150 in the Y-axis direction. If the width of the auxiliary electrode 151 is narrower than the width of the auxiliary electrode 150, it may be impossible to adequately receive the electric field lines generated from the auxiliary electrode 150 using the auxiliary electrode 151. Furthermore, as explained in Embodiment 1, it is preferable that the width of the auxiliary electrode 151 is set to be 2 / 3 or less of the dimension L1 of the radiating element 121.

[0072] The “auxiliary electrode 151” in Embodiment 2 corresponds to the “second electrode” of this disclosure.

[0073] [Implementation Method 3]

[0074] In Embodiment 3, the structure of the auxiliary electrode being formed by multiple electrodes will be described. Figure 7This is a side perspective view of the antenna module 100B according to Embodiment 3. In addition to the structure of the antenna module 100 of Embodiment 1, the antenna module 100B also includes an auxiliary electrode 152 and a passage V1. Figure 7 The description of elements that are not repeated in the antenna module 100 is not repeated.

[0075] Reference Figure 7 In antenna module 100B, a passage V1 is connected near the negative X-axis end of auxiliary electrode 150. Passage V1 extends from auxiliary electrode 150 in the negative Z-axis direction, i.e., toward ground electrode GND. Furthermore, an auxiliary electrode 152 is connected to the lower end of passage V1.

[0076] The auxiliary electrode 152 is, for example, a flat plate-shaped electrode with a rectangular shape, extending from the connection portion connected to the passage V1 in the negative direction of the X-axis. Moreover, the auxiliary electrode 152 protrudes in the negative direction of the X-axis compared to the auxiliary electrode 150.

[0077] By configuring it in this way, the electric field lines received by the auxiliary electrode 151 from the radiating element 121 can be guided from the auxiliary electrode 152 to the ground electrode GND.

[0078] Similarly, in antenna module 100B, as in antenna module 100A of embodiment 2, the electric field lines from radiating element 121 can be reliably guided to ground electrode GND in multiple stages, thereby improving the stability of the directivity of the antenna module.

[0079] Furthermore, in comparison with antenna module 100A of embodiment 2, in antenna module 100B, auxiliary electrode 152 is connected to auxiliary electrode 150 via passage V1, and auxiliary electrode 150 and auxiliary electrode 152 are integrated and function as a single auxiliary electrode. Therefore, it is easy to perform gentle adjustments to the electric field, making it suitable for fine adjustments.

[0080] Furthermore, since the auxiliary electrode 152 is disposed in the layer between the radiating element 121 and the ground electrode GND, it may have a significant impact on the operation of the antenna. Compared with the auxiliary electrode 151 of the antenna module 100A, the auxiliary electrode 152 has a smaller electrode size, thus reducing its impact on the operation of the antenna.

[0081] On the other hand, in the case of antenna module 100A of embodiment 2, the auxiliary electrode 150 and auxiliary electrode 151 are independent, so the change in electric field can be set to be larger compared with antenna module 100B of embodiment 3. That is, the structure of antenna module 100A is suitable for coarse adjustment of electric field.

[0082] The appropriate choice of whether to adopt the structure of antenna module 100A and antenna module 100B should be made according to the expected specifications and the magnitude of the changing electric field.

[0083] The "auxiliary electrode 152" of Embodiment 3 corresponds to the "third electrode" of this disclosure. The "pathway V1" of Embodiment 3 corresponds to the "first pathway" of this disclosure.

[0084] [Implementation Method 4]

[0085] In Embodiment 4, a variation of the shape of the auxiliary electrode will be described. Figure 8 This is a perspective view of the antenna device 100C according to Embodiment 4. The antenna module 100C includes an auxiliary electrode 150A instead of the auxiliary electrode 150 of the antenna module 100 in Embodiment 1. Figure 8 The description of elements that are not repeated in the antenna module 100 is not repeated.

[0086] Reference Figure 8 The auxiliary electrode 150A of the antenna module 100C is a planar electrode with a roughly T-shaped shape when viewed from the Z-axis direction. When viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate 130, the dimension in the Y-axis direction of the portion of the auxiliary electrode 150A that protrudes from the radiating element 121 (the first portion) is larger than the dimension in the Y-axis direction of the portion of the auxiliary electrode 150A that overlaps with the radiating element 121 (the second portion).

[0087] When the overlap area between the auxiliary electrode 150A and the radiating element 121 increases, the impact on the impedance between the radiating element 121 and the power supply wiring 140 may increase. Therefore, by reducing the size of the portion of the auxiliary electrode 150A that overlaps with the radiating element 121, the effect of impedance mismatch caused by the addition of the auxiliary electrode 150A can be reduced.

[0088] In addition, by setting the portion protruding from the radiating element 121 to the same size range as the auxiliary electrode 150 of the antenna module 100, the directivity of the antenna module can be improved when using high-frequency signals in the Asia-Pacific Hertz band.

[0089] [Implementation Method 5]

[0090] In Embodiment 5, the structure of a patch antenna with an auxiliary electrode grounded at one end of the radiating element will be described. Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the antenna module 100D according to Embodiment 5. The antenna module 100D includes a radiating element 122 instead of the radiating element 121 of the antenna module 100 in Embodiment 1. Figure 9 The description of elements that are not repeated in the antenna module 100 is not repeated.

[0091] Reference Figure 9 Like radiating element 121, radiating element 122 is a planar electrode, but its dimension in the X-axis direction is approximately half the size of radiating element 121. Furthermore, the end furthest from the power supply point SP1 is connected to the ground electrode GND. In other words, radiating element 122 is a so-called half-patch antenna with its polarization direction dimension set to 1 / 4 wavelength. Moreover, an auxiliary electrode 150 is connected to the path 142 of the power supply wiring 140 that transmits high-frequency signals to radiating element 122.

[0092] In the radiating element 122, electric field lines are generated from the end that is the open end in the negative direction of the X-axis toward the ground electrode GND. Therefore, by providing the auxiliary electrode 150, the electric field lines generated from the radiating element 122 can be guided toward the ground electrode GND via the auxiliary electrode 150. As a result, the influence of surface waves in the case of using high-frequency signals in the Asia-Pacific Hertz band can be suppressed, and the directivity of the antenna module can be improved.

[0093] The “radiating element 122” in Embodiment 5 corresponds to the “first radiating element” of this disclosure.

[0094] [Implementation Method 6]

[0095] In Embodiment 6 and Variations 1 and 2, the changes in the shape of the radiating element are explained.

[0096] Figure 10 This is a top view of the antenna module 100E according to Embodiment 6. The antenna module 100E includes a radiating element 121A instead of the radiating element 121 of the antenna module 100 of Embodiment 1.

[0097] The radiating element 121A has a generally circular shape when viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate 130. Furthermore, a power supply point SP1 is positioned offset from the center of the radiating element 121A in the negative X-axis direction, and an auxiliary electrode 150 is connected to a power supply wiring 140 that supplies a high-frequency signal to the power supply point SP1. The auxiliary electrode 150 protrudes from the radiating element 121A in the negative X-axis direction.

[0098] In the case of patch antennas with circular radiating elements, the directivity of the antenna module can also be improved by placing auxiliary electrodes in the power supply wiring path.

[0099] The “radiating element 121A” in Embodiment 6 corresponds to the “first radiating element” of this disclosure.

[0100] (Variation Example 1)

[0101] Figure 11This is a top view of antenna module 100F of Modified Example 1. Antenna module 100F includes radiating element 121B in place of radiating element 121 of antenna module 100 of Embodiment 1.

[0102] The radiating element 121B has a generally cross shape when viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate 130, and the generally cross shape has protrusions that protrude along the X-axis and Y-axis directions. In other words, the radiating element 121B has a structure in which notches are formed at the four corners of the generally square radiating element 121 in the antenna module 100.

[0103] The power supply point SP1 is located on a protrusion that extends in the negative direction of the X-axis. Furthermore, an auxiliary electrode 150 is connected to the power supply wiring 140 that supplies high-frequency signals to the power supply point SP1. The auxiliary electrode 150 protrudes from the radiating element 121B in the negative direction of the X-axis.

[0104] In the case of patch antennas with cross-shaped radiating elements, the directivity of the antenna module can be improved by placing auxiliary electrodes in the power supply wiring path. Furthermore, by forming a notch in the radiating element, impedance mismatch caused by the placement of the auxiliary electrodes can be adjusted.

[0105] The “radiating element 121B” in Modification 1 corresponds to the “first radiating element” of this disclosure.

[0106] (Variation Example 2)

[0107] Figure 12 This is a top view of the antenna module 100G of Modified Example 2. The antenna module 100G includes a radiating element 121C in place of the radiating element 121 of the antenna module 100 of Embodiment 1.

[0108] When viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate 130, the radiating element 121C has a generally cross shape, similar to the radiating element 121B of Modified Example 1, which has protrusions protruding along the X-axis and Y-axis directions. However, in the radiating element 121C, each protrusion becomes a tapered shape that narrows towards the center of the element.

[0109] Furthermore, an auxiliary electrode 150 is connected to the power supply wiring 140 that supplies high-frequency signals to the power supply point SP1, which is located in the negative direction of the X-axis. The auxiliary electrode 150 protrudes from the radiating element 121B in the negative direction of the X-axis.

[0110] In the case of a patch antenna with a cross-shaped radiating element, the directivity of the antenna module can be improved by providing auxiliary electrodes in the power supply wiring path. Furthermore, by setting the element shape to a tapered shape, resonance is generated at multiple lengths of the radiating element, allowing it to operate at different frequencies. Therefore, by setting the shape of the radiating element 121C, a wider frequency band can be achieved compared to the rectangular shape of the radiating element 121 in the antenna module 100.

[0111] The “radiating element 121C” in Modification 2 corresponds to the “first radiating element” of this disclosure.

[0112] [Implementation Method 7]

[0113] In Embodiment 7, the structure of a so-called dual-polarized antenna module that applies the features of this disclosure to radiate radio waves in two different polarization directions will be described.

[0114] Figure 13 This is a top view of the antenna module 100H according to Embodiment 7. In addition to the structure of the antenna module 100 of Embodiment 1, the antenna module 100H also includes power supply wiring 143 and auxiliary electrodes 153. Figure 13 The description of elements that are not repeated in the antenna module 100 is not repeated.

[0115] The power supply wiring 143 is connected to the radiating element 121 at a power supply point SP2 located offset from the center of the radiating element 121 in the positive direction of the Y-axis. By supplying a high-frequency signal to the radiating element 121 via the power supply wiring 143, radio waves with the Y-axis polarization direction are radiated in the positive direction of the Z-axis.

[0116] The auxiliary electrode 153 is a flat plate electrode connected to the power supply wiring 143. The auxiliary electrode 153, like the auxiliary electrode 151, is positioned between the radiating element 121 of the power supply wiring 143 and the ground electrode GND. The auxiliary electrode 153 extends from the connection point with the power supply wiring 143 in the positive Y-axis direction and protrudes from the radiating element 121 in the positive Y-axis direction.

[0117] By setting the structure in this way, in addition to radio waves polarized in the X-axis direction, the directionality of radio waves polarized in the Y-axis direction can also be improved.

[0118] The "power supply wiring 143" in Embodiment 7 corresponds to the "second power supply wiring" of this disclosure. The "auxiliary electrode 153" in Embodiment 7 corresponds to the "fourth electrode" of this disclosure. The "Y-axis direction" in Embodiment 7 corresponds to the "third direction" of this disclosure.

[0119] [Implementation Method 8]

[0120] In Embodiment 8, the structure of a so-called dual-band antenna module that applies the features of this disclosure to radiate radio waves of two different frequency bands will be described.

[0121] Figure 14 This is a side perspective view of the antenna module 100I according to Embodiment 8. In addition to the structure of the antenna module 100 of Embodiment 1, the antenna module 100I also includes a radiating element 125, power supply wiring 145, and auxiliary electrodes 155. Figure 14 The description of elements that are not repeated in the antenna module 100 is not repeated.

[0122] Reference Figure 14 The radiating element 125 is disposed within the dielectric substrate 130, opposite to the radiating element 121 and the ground electrode GND, between the auxiliary electrode 150 and the ground electrode GND. Figure 14 Although not shown, the radiating element 125 has a generally square shape when viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate 130, and is arranged such that the center of the radiating element 121 and the center of the radiating element 125 overlap.

[0123] The size of radiating element 125 is larger than that of radiating element 121. Therefore, the frequency of the radio waves radiated from radiating element 125 is lower than the frequency of the radio waves radiated from radiating element 121.

[0124] A high-frequency signal is supplied from RFIC 110 to power point SP3 of radiating element 125 via power supply wiring 145. Power supply wiring 145 includes a wiring pattern 146 extending from solder bump 160 along the X-axis and a passage 147 extending from the end of the wiring pattern 146 along the Z-axis. Passage 147 passes through ground electrode GND and is connected to power point SP3 of radiating element 125. Power point SP3 is offset from the center of radiating element 125 in the positive X-axis direction (fourth direction). Radio waves with X-axis polarization are radiated from radiating element 125 along the Z-axis.

[0125] The auxiliary electrode 155 is a rectangular flat plate electrode. The auxiliary electrode 155 is connected to the passage 147 of the power supply wiring 145. The auxiliary electrode 155 extends from the connection point connected to the passage 147 in the positive direction of the X-axis and protrudes from the end of the radiating element 125 in the positive direction of the X-axis.

[0126] According to this structure, in addition to the electromagnetic waves radiated from the radiating element 121, the directionality of the electromagnetic waves radiated from the radiating element 125 can also be improved.

[0127] The "radiating element 125" in Embodiment 8 corresponds to the "second radiating element" of this disclosure. The "power supply wiring 145" in Embodiment 8 corresponds to the "third power supply wiring" of this disclosure. The "auxiliary electrode 155" in Embodiment 8 corresponds to the "fifth electrode" of this disclosure.

[0128] [Implementation Method 9]

[0129] In Embodiment 9, a structure in which a grounding member for reducing the influence of surface waves is arranged around the radiating element will be described.

[0130] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of the antenna module 100J according to Embodiment 9. In addition to the structure of the antenna module 100 of Embodiment 1, the antenna module 100J also includes a grounding member 170. Figure 15 The description of elements that are not repeated in the antenna module 100 is not repeated.

[0131] exist Figure 15 In the example of the antenna module 100J shown, the grounding member 170 is a wall-shaped planar electrode arranged around the radiating element 121 in a manner that surrounds the radiating element 121 when viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate 130. The lower end of the grounding member 170 is connected to the ground electrode GND, and the upper end of the grounding member 170 continues to the main surface 131 of the dielectric substrate 130.

[0132] Furthermore, the grounding component 170 is not limited to Figure 15 Such a planar electrode. For example, the grounding member 170 can also be a structure in which multiple channels are arranged to surround the radiating element 121.

[0133] By configuring such a grounding member 170, the propagation of surface waves propagating on the surface of the dielectric substrate 130 can be suppressed compared to the case where the grounding member 170 is not provided. As a result, the auxiliary electrode 150 can also be miniaturized.

[0134] [Implementation Method 10]

[0135] In Embodiment 10, a structure in which an auxiliary electrode is also provided in the direction opposite to the power supply point of the radiating element will be described.

[0136] Figure 16 This is a side perspective view of the antenna module 100K according to Embodiment 10. In addition to the structure of the antenna module 100 of Embodiment 1, the antenna module 100K also includes an auxiliary electrode 154 and a passage V2. Figure 16 The description of elements that are not repeated in the antenna module 100 is not repeated.

[0137] The path V2 is connected to the radiating element 121 at a position offset from the power supply point SP1 (in the positive direction of the X-axis) relative to the center of the radiating element 121. The path V2 extends from the radiating element 121 toward the ground electrode GND. An auxiliary electrode 154 is connected to the lower end of the path V2.

[0138] The auxiliary electrode 154 is a rectangular flat plate electrode disposed in the layer between the radiating element 121 and the ground electrode GND. The auxiliary electrode 154 extends from the connection position connected to the passage V2 toward the positive X-axis direction (the fifth direction). Moreover, when viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate 130, it protrudes from the end of the radiating element 121 toward the positive X-axis direction. With this auxiliary electrode 154, a portion of the electric field lines generated from the end of the radiating element 121 in the positive X-axis direction reach the ground electrode GND via the auxiliary electrode 154.

[0139] According to the required specifications, there are also cases where the electric field lines generated from the end of the radiating element 121 in the positive direction of the X-axis need to be coupled to the ground electrode GND at a position closer to the radiating element 121. In such cases, by arranging the auxiliary electrode 154 in the opposite direction of the auxiliary electrode 150, the electric field lines can be guided to a position closer to the radiating element 121 compared to the case without the auxiliary electrode 154.

[0140] Furthermore, by appropriately adjusting the protrusion of the auxiliary electrodes 150 and 154 from the radiating element 121, their distance (height) from the ground electrode GND, and the element width in the Y-axis direction, the balance of the electric field lines generated in the positive and negative X-axis directions can be adjusted. This improves the directionality of the electromagnetic waves radiated from the radiating element 121.

[0141] The "auxiliary electrode 154" of Embodiment 10 corresponds to the "sixth electrode" of this disclosure. The "pathway V2" of Embodiment 10 corresponds to the "second pathway" of this disclosure.

[0142] [Implementation Method 11]

[0143] In Embodiment 11, a structure in which a dielectric lens for concentrating electromagnetic waves is disposed on a dielectric substrate will be described.

[0144] Figure 17 This is a side perspective view of the antenna module 100L according to Embodiment 11. In addition to the structure of the antenna module 100 of Embodiment 1, the antenna module 100L also includes a dielectric lens 180. Figure 17 The description of elements that are not repeated in the antenna module 100 is not repeated.

[0145] Reference Figure 17The dielectric lens 180 is a dielectric material with a convex portion of a curved surface protruding in the positive direction of the Z-axis. The dielectric lens 180 is disposed on the main surface 131 of the dielectric substrate 130, covering the radiating element 121 when viewed from above in the normal direction of the dielectric substrate 130. The convex portion of the dielectric lens 180 is formed in a spherical or aspherical shape, and has the function of focusing electromagnetic waves to a specific focal point by utilizing the refraction of electromagnetic waves caused by the difference in dielectric constant of the curved surface shape.

[0146] By changing the dielectric constant of the dielectric lens 180, the focal point position can be adjusted. Furthermore, the difference in dielectric constant between the dielectric lens 180 and the dielectric substrate 130, and between the dielectric lens 180 and space (air), can cause reflections of electromagnetic waves at the interfaces. Therefore, by using a material with a smaller difference in dielectric constant, reflection losses at the interfaces can be reduced.

[0147] On the other hand, when a material with a relatively high dielectric constant is used as the material of the dielectric lens 180, the effective wavelength within the dielectric lens 180 becomes shorter and the refractive index at the interface becomes larger. Therefore, compared with the case where a material with a relatively low dielectric constant is used, miniaturization can be achieved.

[0148] Compared to lower frequency signals, high-frequency signals in the Asia-Pacific Hertz band tend to have difficulty ensuring antenna gain. Therefore, by configuring such a dielectric lens 180, the radiated radio waves can be concentrated, thereby improving antenna gain.

[0149] If the beam direction of the electromagnetic wave radiated from the radiating element 121 is tilted from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate 130, it may be difficult to use the dielectric lens 180 to properly concentrate the electromagnetic wave at the desired position. Therefore, by adjusting the beam direction by configuring the auxiliary electrode 150, the concentration of antenna gain can be improved.

[0150] [Implementation Method 12]

[0151] In embodiment 12, a structure in which a dielectric material different from the dielectric substrate is disposed on the dielectric substrate for frequency band adjustment will be described.

[0152] Figure 18 This is a side perspective view of the antenna module 100M according to Embodiment 12. In addition to the structure of the antenna module 100 of Embodiment 1, the antenna module 100M also includes a dielectric 190 disposed on the main surface 131 of the dielectric substrate 130. Figure 18 The description of elements that are not repeated in the antenna module 100 is not repeated.

[0153] The dielectric 190 has a different dielectric constant than the dielectric substrate 130 and is disposed over the entire surface of the main surface 131. That is, when viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate 130, the dielectric 190 covers the radiating element 121.

[0154] Surface waves propagating from the surface of the dielectric substrate 130 are influenced by the dielectric constant of the dielectric material constituting the dielectric substrate 130. When the dielectric constant of the substrate is relatively high, the surface wave propagation is greater compared to when the dielectric constant is low.

[0155] Therefore, by using a material with a higher dielectric constant than that of the dielectric substrate 130 as the dielectric 190, the spread of surface waves can be increased and the frequency band can be expanded.

[0156] On the other hand, when the frequency band becomes excessively wide due to the influence of surface waves, making it impossible to ensure the desired antenna gain, the influence of surface waves can be reduced and the antenna gain increased by using a material with a lower dielectric constant than that of the dielectric substrate 130 as the dielectric 190.

[0157] The dielectric constant of dielectric 190 is appropriately selected by taking into account the required bandwidth, antenna gain, and dielectric constant of the dielectric material used in dielectric substrate 130.

[0158] In this case, the directivity of the antenna module can also be improved by setting auxiliary electrodes in the power supply wiring path.

[0159] [plan]

[0160] Those skilled in the art will understand that the above-described embodiments are specific examples of the following solutions.

[0161] (Item 1) An antenna module of one embodiment includes a dielectric substrate, a first radiating element in the shape of a flat plate, a ground electrode, a first power supply wiring, and a first electrode in the shape of a flat plate. The dielectric substrate has a first main surface and a second main surface opposite to each other. The first radiating element is disposed on the dielectric substrate. The ground electrode is disposed in the dielectric substrate opposite to the first radiating element at a position closer to the second main surface than the first radiating element. The first power supply wiring transmits a high-frequency signal to a first power supply point of the first radiating element. The first electrode is connected to the first power supply wiring and disposed between the first radiating element and the ground electrode. The first power supply point is disposed at a position offset from the center of the first radiating element in a first direction. When viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, the first electrode protrudes from the first radiating element toward the first direction.

[0162] (Item 2) Based on the antenna module described in Item 1, the amount of the first electrode protruding from the first radiating element is less than 1 / 2 of the dimension of the first radiating element in the first direction.

[0163] (Item 3) Based on the antenna module described in Item 1 or Item 2, the first electrode, when viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, includes a first portion protruding from the first radiating element and a second portion overlapping the first radiating element. When the direction orthogonal to the first direction along the surface of the first electrode is designated as the second direction, the dimension of the first portion in the second direction is more than 1 / 10 and less than 2 / 3 of the dimension of the first radiating element in the first direction.

[0164] (Item 4) Based on the first electrode of the antenna module described in Item 3, the dimension of the second direction of the first part is larger than the dimension of the second direction of the second part.

[0165] (Item 5) The antenna module of any one of items 1 to 4 further includes a second electrode connected to a position in the first power supply wiring located between the first electrode and the ground electrode. When viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, the second electrode protrudes from the first electrode toward the first direction.

[0166] (Item 6) The antenna module of any one of items 1 to 4 further includes: a first passage extending from the first electrode toward the ground electrode; and a third electrode in the shape of a flat plate connected to the first passage. When viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, the third electrode protrudes from the first electrode toward the first direction.

[0167] (Item 7) The antenna module of any one of items 1 to 6 further includes a second power supply wiring and a fourth electrode in the shape of a flat plate. The second power supply wiring supplies a high-frequency signal to a second power supply point disposed at a position offset from the center of the first radiating element in a third direction. The fourth electrode is connected to the second power supply wiring. The third direction intersects the first direction. The fourth electrode is connected in the second power supply wiring at a position between the first radiating element and the ground electrode. When viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, the fourth electrode protrudes from the first radiating element toward the third direction.

[0168] (Item 8) The antenna module of any one of items 1 to 6 further includes a second radiating element, a third power supply wiring, and a fifth electrode. The second radiating element is disposed between the first electrode and the ground electrode, and overlaps with the first radiating element when viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate. The third power supply wiring transmits high-frequency signals to a third power supply point disposed at a position offset from the center of the second radiating element in a fourth direction. The fifth electrode is connected to the third power supply wiring and is disposed between the second radiating element and the ground electrode. The size of the second radiating element is larger than the size of the first radiating element. When viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, the fifth electrode protrudes from the second radiating element toward the fourth direction.

[0169] (Item 9) The antenna module of any one of items 1 to 6 further includes a second path and a planar sixth electrode. The second path is connected to the first radiating element at a position offset from the center of the first radiating element in a fifth direction opposite to the first direction. The sixth electrode is connected to the second path and disposed between the first radiating element and the ground electrode. When viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, the sixth electrode protrudes from the first radiating element toward the fifth direction.

[0170] (Item 10) The antenna module of any one of items 1 to 9 further includes a grounding member, which is disposed around the first radiating element in a manner that surrounds the first radiating element when viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate and is electrically connected to a grounding electrode.

[0171] (Item 11) The antenna module of any one of items 1 to 10 further includes a dielectric material disposed on a first main surface of a dielectric substrate in such a manner as to cover the first radiating element when viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate. The dielectric constant of the dielectric material is different from the dielectric constant of the dielectric substrate.

[0172] (Item 12) The antenna module of any one of items 1 to 10 further includes a dielectric lens disposed on a first main surface of a dielectric substrate and having a shape that protrudes in the normal direction. When viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, the dielectric lens covers the first radiating element.

[0173] (Item 13) Based on the antenna module described in Item 1, when viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, the first radiating element is approximately rectangular in shape.

[0174] (Item 14) Based on the antenna module described in Item 1, when the direction orthogonal to the first direction along the surface of the first electrode is set as the second direction, when viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, the first radiating element is a generally cross-shaped protrusion with protrusions along the first and second directions.

[0175] (Item 15) Based on the antenna module described in Item 14, in the first electrode, the protrusion has a tapered shape in which the width narrows as it moves toward the center of the first radiating element.

[0176] (Item 16) Based on the antenna module described in Item 1, when viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, the first radiating element is approximately circular in shape.

[0177] (Item 17) Based on the antenna module described in Item 1, the end of the first radiating element that is closer to the side opposite to the first direction than the center of the first radiating element is connected to the ground electrode.

[0178] (Item 18) The antenna module according to any one of items 1 to 17 includes a third radiating element in the shape of a flat plate, a fourth power supply wiring, and a seventh electrode in the shape of a flat plate. The third radiating element is disposed adjacent to the first radiating element when viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, and is disposed opposite to the ground electrode. The fourth power supply wiring transmits a high-frequency signal to a fourth power supply point of the third radiating element. The seventh electrode is connected to the fourth power supply wiring and disposed between the third radiating element and the ground electrode. The fourth power supply point is disposed at a position offset from the center of the third radiating element in a first direction. When viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, the seventh electrode protrudes from the third radiating element toward the first direction.

[0179] (Item 19) The antenna module of any one of items 1 to 18 further includes a power supply circuit that supplies high-frequency signals to each radiating element.

[0180] (Item 20) A communication device of one embodiment carries an antenna module as described in any one of items 1 to 19.

[0181] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered illustrative and not limiting in all respects. The scope of the invention is defined by the claims rather than by the foregoing description of the embodiments, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0182] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0183] 10. Communication devices; 100, 100A~100M, 100X, antenna modules; 110. RFIC; 111A~111D, 113A~113D; 117. Switches; 112AR~112DR, low-noise amplifiers; 112AT~112DT, power amplifiers; 114A~114D, attenuators; 115A~115D, phase shifters; 116. Signal synthesizers / demultiplexers; 118. Mixers; 119. Amplifier circuits; 120. Antenna devices; 121. 121A~121C, 122, 125, Radiating elements; 130, Dielectric substrate; 131, 132, Main surface; 140, 143, 145, Power supply wiring; 141, 146, Wiring pattern; 142, 147, V1, V2, Path; 151~155, 150A, Auxiliary electrodes; 160, Solder bumps; 170, Grounding component; 180, Dielectric lens; 190, Dielectric; 200, BBIC; GND, Grounding electrode; SP1~SP3, Power supply points.

Claims

1. An antenna module, wherein, The antenna module includes: A dielectric substrate having a first main surface and a second main surface opposite to each other; A first radiating element in the shape of a flat plate is disposed on the dielectric substrate; A ground electrode is disposed in the dielectric substrate opposite to the first radiating element at a position closer to the second main surface than the first radiating element; A first power supply wiring transmits a high-frequency signal to a first power supply point of the first radiating element; and A first electrode in the shape of a flat plate, connected to the first power supply wiring, is positioned between the first radiating element and the ground electrode. The first power supply point is positioned at a location offset from the center of the first radiating element in the first direction. When viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, the first electrode protrudes from the first radiating element toward the first direction.

2. The antenna module according to claim 1, wherein, The amount by which the first electrode protrudes from the first radiating element is less than 1 / 2 of the dimension of the first radiating element in the first direction.

3. The antenna module according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first electrode, when viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, comprises a first portion protruding from the first radiating element and a second portion overlapping the first radiating element. When the direction orthogonal to the first direction along the surface of the first electrode is designated as the second direction, the dimension of the second direction of the first portion is more than 1 / 10 and less than 2 / 3 of the dimension of the first direction of the first radiating element.

4. The antenna module according to claim 3, wherein, In the first electrode, the dimension of the first portion in the second direction is larger than the dimension of the second portion in the second direction.

5. The antenna module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The antenna module also includes a second electrode, which is connected in the first power supply wiring at a position between the first electrode and the ground electrode. When viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, the second electrode protrudes from the first electrode toward the first direction.

6. The antenna module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The antenna module also includes: A first path, which extends from the first electrode toward the ground electrode; and A third electrode in the shape of a flat plate is connected to the first passage. When viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, the third electrode protrudes from the first electrode toward the first direction.

7. The antenna module according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The antenna module also includes: A second power supply wiring supplies a high-frequency signal to a second power supply point located at a position offset from the center of the first radiating element in a third direction; and The fourth electrode, which is in the shape of a flat plate, is connected to the second power supply wiring. The third direction intersects with the first direction. The fourth electrode is connected in the second power supply wiring at a position between the first radiating element and the grounding electrode. When viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, the fourth electrode protrudes from the first radiating element toward the third direction.

8. The antenna module according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The antenna module also includes: The second radiating element is disposed between the first electrode and the ground electrode, and overlaps with the first radiating element when viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate. A third power supply wiring transmits a high-frequency signal to a third power supply point located at a position offset from the center of the second radiating element in a fourth direction; and The fifth electrode, connected to the third power supply wiring, is positioned between the second radiating element and the ground electrode. The size of the second radiating element is larger than the size of the first radiating element. When viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, the fifth electrode protrudes from the second radiating element toward the fourth direction.

9. The antenna module according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The antenna module also includes: A second path is connected to the first radiating element at a position offset from the center of the first radiating element in a fifth direction opposite to the first direction; and A sixth electrode, in the shape of a flat plate, is connected to the second path and positioned between the first radiating element and the ground electrode. When viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, the sixth electrode protrudes from the first radiating element toward the fifth direction.

10. The antenna module according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The antenna module also includes a grounding member that is arranged around the first radiating element in a manner that surrounds the first radiating element when viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate and is electrically connected to the grounding electrode.

11. The antenna module according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The antenna module also includes a dielectric material configured on the first main surface of the dielectric substrate to cover the first radiating element when viewed from above in the direction normal to the dielectric substrate. The dielectric constant of the dielectric material is different from the dielectric constant of the dielectric substrate.

12. The antenna module according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The antenna module also includes a dielectric lens disposed on the first main surface of the dielectric substrate and having a shape that protrudes in the normal direction of the dielectric substrate. When viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, the dielectric lens covers the first radiating element.

13. The antenna module according to claim 1, wherein, When viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, the first radiating element is approximately rectangular in shape.

14. The antenna module according to claim 1, wherein, When the direction orthogonal to the first direction along the surface of the first electrode is defined as the second direction, When viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, the first radiating element is approximately cross-shaped with protrusions extending along the first and second directions.

15. The antenna module according to claim 14, wherein, In the first electrode, the protrusion has a tapered shape in which the width narrows as it moves toward the center of the first radiating element.

16. The antenna module according to claim 1, wherein, When viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, the first radiating element is approximately circular in shape.

17. The antenna module according to claim 1, wherein, The end of the first radiating element that is closer to the side opposite to the first direction than the center of the first radiating element is connected to the grounding electrode.

18. The antenna module according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein, The antenna module includes: A third radiating element in the shape of a flat plate is arranged adjacent to the first radiating element when viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, and is arranged opposite to the ground electrode; The fourth power supply wiring transmits a high-frequency signal to the fourth power supply point of the third radiating element; and A seventh electrode, in the shape of a flat plate, is connected to the fourth power supply wiring and is positioned between the third radiating element and the ground electrode. The fourth power supply point is positioned offset from the center of the third radiating element towards the first direction. When viewed from the normal direction of the dielectric substrate, the 7th electrode protrudes from the 3rd radiating element toward the 1st direction.

19. The antenna module according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein, The antenna module also includes a power supply circuit that supplies high-frequency signals to each radiating element.

20. A communication device, wherein, The communication device is equipped with the antenna module according to any one of claims 1 to 19.

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