Antenna and communication equipment

Abstract

The invention provides an antenna and communication equipment, relates to the technical field of communication, and aims to solve the problem of poor consistency of radio frequency transceiving channels. The antenna provided by the invention comprises a feed network, a correction circuit and a plurality of radiation sub-arrays, wherein each radiation sub-array comprises at least one radiation sub-array unit; the feed network is provided with a plurality of radio frequency receiving and transmitting channels, and the plurality of radio frequency receiving and transmitting channels are connected with the plurality of radiation sub-array units in a one-to-one correspondence manner; a first circuit in the correction circuit is used for realizing channel consistency correction among a plurality of radiation sub-array units in the radiation sub-array; and the second circuit is used for realizing channel consistency correction among the plurality of radiation sub-arrays, and finally realizing consistency correction of all channels. In the antenna provided by the invention, the channel consistency correction among the plurality of radiation sub-array units in the radiation sub-array is realized through the first circuit, the channel consistency correction among all the radiation sub-array units is realized through the second circuit, and the antenna has the advantages of simple circuit structure and relatively good channel correction consistency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and more particularly to an antenna and a communication device. Background Technology

[0002] With the continuous development of wireless communication technology, the number of transmit and receive channels in communication devices has increased significantly. For example, multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) technology has significantly improved the capacity, coverage, and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of antenna systems. Massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO), as an extension of MIMO technology, can further improve the capacity, coverage, and SNR of antenna systems. However, this approach significantly increases the number of transmit and receive channels. In practical applications, it is necessary to correct the phase and amplitude of the radio frequency signals transmitted within the transmit and receive channels. However, current correction circuits cannot adequately adapt to a large number of transmit and receive channels, easily leading to problems such as poor SNR, which is detrimental to achieving effective correction. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides an antenna and communication device with good channel consistency.

[0004] In a first aspect, this application provides an antenna, including a feed network, a correction circuit, and multiple radiating subarrays. Each radiating subarray includes at least one radiating subarray element. The feed network has multiple radio frequency (RF) transceiver channels, each corresponding to one of the multiple radiating subarray elements. RF signals are transmitted to the corresponding radiating subarray elements through the RF transceiver channels in the feed network, causing the radiators in the radiating subarray elements to radiate electromagnetic waves. The electromagnetic waves received by the radiators in the radiating subarray elements can also be transmitted back to the feed network through the corresponding RF transceiver channels, thereby achieving signal radiation and reception functions.

[0005] The correction circuit includes a second circuit connected to the feed network and multiple first circuits. The first circuits are used to achieve channel consistency correction among multiple radiating subarray elements. The second circuits are used to achieve channel consistency correction among multiple radiating subarrays, ultimately achieving consistency correction for all channels.

[0006] In this system, multiple first circuits correspond one-to-one with multiple radiating subarrays having multiple radiating subarray elements, and in each corresponding first circuit and radiating subarray, the first circuit is connected to each radiating subarray element. The first circuit acquires the amplitude and phase information of the initial radio frequency (RF) signal in each radiating subarray element connected to it, and generates a first calibration signal based on the amplitude and phase information of the initial RF signal in each radiating subarray element. The feed network transmits the first RF signal to each radiating subarray element connected to it according to the first calibration signal. The amplitude and phase of the first RF signal transmitted to each radiating subarray element within the same radiating subarray are identical, thereby achieving channel consistency correction among multiple radiating subarray elements.

[0007] The second circuit is connected to at least one radiating subarray element within each radiating subarray. The second circuit acquires a first radio frequency (RF) signal from the radiating subarray element connected to it and generates a second calibration signal based on the amplitude and phase information of each first RF signal. The feed network transmits the second RF signal to each RF transceiver channel according to the second calibration signal. The amplitude and phase of the second RF signal transmitted to each radiating subarray element are identical, thereby achieving channel consistency correction among multiple radiating subarray elements.

[0008] In the antenna provided in this application, the first circuit enables channel consistency correction among multiple radiating subarray elements connected in a corresponding radiating subarray. The second circuit enables channel consistency correction among all radiating subarray elements, thereby ultimately achieving effective correction among all RF transceiver channels (or radiating subarray elements). Furthermore, by combining the first and second circuits in the correction circuit, the path and complexity of the signal transmission lines can be reduced, which helps to reduce the loss of RF signals during transmission in the correction circuit and improve the signal-to-noise ratio.

[0009] In one example, the calibration circuit includes multiple calibration couplers, each with its input port connected to one of multiple RF transceiver channels. The calibration couplers are used to acquire the amplitude and phase information of the initial RF signal in the corresponding connected RF transceiver channel, and also to acquire the amplitude and phase information of the first RF signal in the corresponding connected RF transceiver channel. By configuring the calibration couplers, the calibration circuit can detect the RF signal within the RF transceiver channel without significantly affecting the transmission quality of the RF signal between the feed network and the radiating subarray.

[0010] In one example, each calibration coupler has an input port, a first output port, and a second output port. The input port is used to connect to the RF transceiver channel.

[0011] The first circuit is connected to the first output port of each correction coupler to facilitate the detection of radio frequency signals transmitted in the radio frequency transceiver channel. The correction couplers include multiple multiplexed correction couplers. The second circuit is connected to the second output ports of the multiple multiplexed correction couplers. The multiple multiplexed correction couplers are connected to each radiating subarray via interconnected radio frequency transceiver channels.

[0012] That is, among all the correction couplers, there are multiplexed correction couplers, which are multiplexed by the first circuit and the second circuit. The first output port of each multiplexed correction coupler is connected to the corresponding first circuit. In addition, the second output port of each multiplexed correction coupler is connected to the second circuit.

[0013] In one example, among multiple correction couplers, the second output port of a correction coupler other than the one multiplexed is connected to the load ground. That is, the correction coupler not connected to the second circuit is grounded through the load to achieve effective energy dissipation and impedance matching, thereby ensuring the signal transmission quality between the RF transceiver channel and the radiating subarray unit.

[0014] In one example, each first circuit includes a first power divider network and a first processor. In each first circuit, the first power divider network is connected between a calibration coupler and the first processor. The first processor is used to generate a first calibration signal based on the amplitude and phase information of each initial radio frequency signal, thereby achieving channel consistency correction among multiple radiating subarray elements within the radiating subarray.

[0015] In one example, the second circuit includes a second power divider network and a second processor. The second power divider network is connected between the calibration coupler and the second processor. The second processor is used to generate a second calibration signal based on the amplitude and phase information of each first radio frequency signal. This enables channel consistency correction among multiple radiating subarray elements.

[0016] In summary, each of the first and second circuits uses an independent power divider network and processor for independent calibration, thereby enabling efficient channel consistency calibration.

[0017] Alternatively, in one implementation, multiple first and second circuits can share a single processor and perform correction through time-sharing processing.

[0018] For example, in one embodiment, each first circuit includes a first power divider network and a processor, and the second circuit includes a second power divider network and a processor. The processor in the first circuit and the processor in the second circuit are the same processor. Each first power divider network is connected between the processor and a calibration coupler. The second power divider network is connected between the processor and the calibration coupler. The processor is used to generate a first calibration signal based on the amplitude and phase information of each initial RF signal, and also to generate a second calibration signal based on the amplitude and phase information of each first RF signal.

[0019] In one example, the correction circuit also includes a switch. The switch is connected between the processor and multiple first power divider networks. The switch is also connected between the processor and a second power divider network. The switch is used to connect the processor to each of the multiple first power divider networks, and also to disconnect the processor from each first power divider network and then connect it to the second power divider network. Thus, channel consistency correction between multiple radiating subarray elements within a single processor can be achieved, and channel consistency correction for all radiating subarray elements can also be achieved. This reduces the number of processors required and facilitates lower antenna manufacturing costs.

[0020] In one example, each radiating subarray includes multiple radiating subarray elements. Alternatively, among multiple radiating subarrays, at least one radiating subarray includes one subarray element. In some implementations, when some radiating subarrays include one radiating subarray element, internal correction of the radiating subarray is not required. That is, the radiating subarray may not be equipped with the first circuit. In other words, the first circuit is required to implement internal correction of the radiating subarray only when the radiating subarray includes two or more radiating subarray elements.

[0021] Secondly, this application also provides a communication device including the aforementioned antenna. By employing the aforementioned antenna, the beam scanning capability, signal coverage capability, and other performance characteristics of the communication device can be effectively improved.

[0022] In one example, the communication device may further include a baseband processing unit. The baseband processing unit is connected to a feed network in the antenna. The antenna can be either an active or passive antenna. For example, when the antenna is active, it may include a radio frequency (RF) processing unit, through which the baseband processing unit can be connected to the feed network. Alternatively, when the antenna is passive, the baseband processing unit can be directly connected to the feed network.

[0023] The radio frequency (RF) processing unit can be used to perform frequency selection, amplification, and down-conversion processing on the signals received by the antenna's vibrator. Alternatively, the RF processing unit can be used to transmit RF signals to the antenna, thereby enabling the antenna to perform signal transmission and reception functions.

[0024] The baseband processing unit is connected to the radio frequency (RF) processing unit. The RF processing unit can be used to perform frequency selection, amplification, and down-conversion processing on the signal received by the antenna, and convert it into an intermediate frequency (IF) signal or a baseband signal to be sent to the baseband processing unit. Alternatively, the RF processing unit can be used to up-convert and amplify the IF signal emitted by the baseband processing unit, convert it into a wireless signal through the antenna, and send it out. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an application scenario of an antenna provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figure 2 A simplified structural diagram of a base station provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 3 A simplified structural diagram of an antenna provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of an antenna provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of another antenna section structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of another antenna section structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the application of a calibration coupler provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another application of a calibration coupler provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the application of a calibration coupler provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 10 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of another antenna provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of another antenna section structure provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0036] 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.

[0037] To facilitate understanding of the antenna provided in the embodiments of this application, its application scenarios will be introduced first below.

[0038] The antenna provided in this application embodiment can be used in communication equipment such as base stations and radar to realize wireless communication functions.

[0039] like Figure 1 As shown, this application scenario can include base stations and terminals. Wireless communication can be achieved between the base station and the terminal. The base station can be located in a base station subsystem (BBS), a UMTS (Underground Radio Access Network) terrestrial radio access network (UTRAN), or an evolved terrestrial radio access network (E-UTRAN), used for cell coverage of radio signals to enable communication between the terminal device and the wireless network. Specifically, the base station can be a base transceiver station (BTS) in a Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) or Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) system, a Node B (NB) in a Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) system, an evolved Node B (eNB or eNodeB) in a Long Term Evolution (LTE) system, or a radio controller in a cloud radio access network (CRAN) scenario. Alternatively, the base station can be a relay station, access point, vehicle-mounted equipment, wearable device, or a g node (gNodeB or gNB) in a new radio (NR) system, or a base station in a future evolved network, etc., and the embodiments of this application are not limited thereto.

[0040] In this application, the antenna can also be used in access network equipment, sometimes also called access nodes. Access network equipment has wireless transceiver capabilities for communicating with terminals. Access network equipment includes, but is not limited to, base stations, evolved NodeBs (eNodeBs), transmission reception points (TRPs) in the aforementioned communication systems, next-generation NodeBs (gNBs) in 5G mobile communication systems, future communication networks, access network equipment or modules of access network equipment in Open RAN (ORAN) systems, base stations in future mobile communication systems, or access nodes in WiFi systems. Access network equipment can also be modules or units capable of implementing some of the functions of a base station. For example, access network equipment can be a central unit (CU), a distributed unit (DU), a CU-control plane (CP), a CU-user plane (UP), or a radio unit (RU), as described below. In the ORAN system, CU can also be called O-CU, DU can be called open (O)-DU, CU-CP can be called O-CU-CP, CU-UP can be called O-CUP-UP, and RU can be called O-RU. Access network equipment can be macro base stations, micro base stations, or indoor stations, relay nodes, donor nodes, or wireless controllers in cloud radio access network (CRAN) scenarios. Optionally, access network equipment can also be servers, wearable devices, or vehicle-mounted equipment. For example, in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology, the access network equipment can be a roadside unit (RSU). Multiple access network devices in a communication system can be base stations of the same type or different types. Base stations can communicate with terminals directly or through relay stations. Terminals can communicate with multiple base stations using different access technologies.

[0041] like Figure 2 As shown in the embodiment of this application, a base station includes a base station antenna feeder system. In practical applications, the base station antenna feeder system mainly includes an antenna 01, a feeder line 02, and a grounding device 03. The antenna 01 is generally fixed on a mast 04, and the downtilt angle of the antenna 01 can be adjusted by an antenna adjustment bracket 05 to adjust the signal coverage range of the antenna 01 to a certain extent.

[0042] Additionally, the base station may include a radio frequency (RF) processing unit 06 and a baseband processing unit 20. For example, the RF processing unit 06 can be used to perform frequency selection, amplification, and down-conversion processing on signals (such as echo signals) received by the antenna 01, converting them into intermediate frequency (IF) signals or baseband signals and sending them to the baseband processing unit 20. Alternatively, the RF processing unit 06 can be used to up-convert and amplify the IF signals emitted by the baseband processing unit 20, converting them into wireless signals through the antenna 01 and transmitting them. The baseband processing unit 20 can be connected to the feed network of the antenna 01 via the RF processing unit 06. In some embodiments, the RF processing unit 06 may also be referred to as a remote radio unit (RRU), and the baseband processing unit 20 may also be referred to as a baseband unit (BBU).

[0043] like Figure 2 As shown, in one possible embodiment, the radio frequency processing unit 06 can be integrated with the antenna 01, while the baseband processing unit 20 is located at the far end of the antenna 01. The radio frequency processing unit 06 and the baseband processing unit 20 can be connected via a feed line 02. In another embodiment, the radio frequency processing unit 06 and the baseband processing unit 20 can both be located at the far end of the antenna 01.

[0044] Please refer to the following: Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the antenna 01 used in the base station may also include an antenna radome 011, a reflector 012 located within the antenna radome 011, and a feed network 013, wherein the reflector 012 may also be referred to as a base plate. The main function of the feed network 013 is to feed the radio frequency signal to the vibrator 014 with a certain amplitude and phase, or to send the signal received by the vibrator 014 (such as an echo signal) to the baseband processing unit 20 of the base station with a certain amplitude and phase. It is understood that, in specific implementations, the feed network 013 may include at least one of the following devices: a phase shifter, a combiner, a transmission or calibration network, or a filter. This application does not limit the components, type, or functions that the feed network 013 can achieve.

[0045] Of course, the antenna 01 described above can also be applied to various other types of communication devices. This application does not limit the application scenarios of the antenna 01.

[0046] Regarding the radome 011, in terms of electrical performance, the radome 011 has good electromagnetic wave penetration, thus not affecting the normal transmission and reception of electromagnetic waves between the vibrator 014 and the outside world. In terms of mechanical performance, the radome 011 has good stress resistance and oxidation resistance, thus being able to withstand the corrosion of harsh external environments.

[0047] The 014 element, also known as a radiator or radiating element, is a basic structural unit of an antenna, capable of effectively transmitting or receiving electromagnetic waves. In practical applications, the 014 element can be categorized into single-stage and dual-polarized types. The appropriate type of 014 element can be selected based on actual requirements during configuration.

[0048] With the development of wireless communication technology, the number of transmit and receive channels in antenna 01 of communication equipment has also increased significantly. For example, multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) technology has significantly improved the capacity, coverage, and signal-to-noise ratio of antenna systems. Massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) technology, as an extension of MIMO technology, can further improve the capacity, coverage, and signal-to-noise ratio of antenna systems. However, this method significantly increases the number of transmit and receive channels in antenna 01. In practical applications, it is necessary to correct the phase and amplitude of the radio frequency signals transmitted in the transmit and receive channels. However, current correction circuits cannot properly adapt to a large number of transmit and receive channels, easily leading to problems such as poor signal-to-noise ratio, which is not conducive to achieving effective correction.

[0049] Therefore, this application provides an antenna with better channel consistency.

[0050] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0051] like Figure 4 As shown, in one example provided in this application, antenna 10 includes multiple radiating subarrays ( Figure 4The diagram shows four radiating subarrays and a feed network 12. Specifically, the four radiating subarrays are radiating subarray 11a, radiating subarray 11b, radiating subarray 11c, and radiating subarray 11d. Each radiating subarray includes two radiating subarray elements, which are connected to different radio frequency transceiver channels in the feed network 12. Specifically, radiating subarray 11a includes radiating subarray elements 111a and 112a. Radiating subarray 11b includes radiating subarray elements 111b and 112b. Radiating subarray 11c includes radiating subarray elements 111c and 112c. Radiating subarray 11d includes radiating subarray elements 111d and 112d. The power supply network 12 includes eight radio frequency transceiver channels, namely: radio frequency transceiver channel 121a, radio frequency transceiver channel 122a, radio frequency transceiver channel 121b, radio frequency transceiver channel 122b, radio frequency transceiver channel 121c, radio frequency transceiver channel 122c, radio frequency transceiver channel 121d and radio frequency transceiver channel 122d.

[0052] Specifically, RF transceiver channel 121a is connected to radiating subarray unit 111a, and RF transceiver channel 122a is connected to radiating subarray unit 112a. RF transceiver channel 121b is connected to radiating subarray unit 111b, and RF transceiver channel 122b is connected to radiating subarray unit 112b. RF transceiver channel 121c is connected to radiating subarray unit 111c, and RF transceiver channel 122c is connected to radiating subarray unit 112c. RF transceiver channel 121d is connected to radiating subarray unit 111d, and RF transceiver channel 122d is connected to radiating subarray unit 112d. That is, all oscillators 110 located in the same radiating subarray unit are connected to the same RF transceiver channel in the feed network 12.

[0053] The radio frequency (RF) transceiver channel refers to the channel in the feed network 12 used to transmit RF signals to or receive signals (such as echo signals) from the radiating subarray. Alternatively, the RF transceiver channel is the channel in the feed network 12 used to connect to the radiating subarray. The parameters of the RF signals transmitted within the RF transceiver channel are essentially the same as the parameters of the RF signals received by the radiating subarray. Therefore, by detecting the parameter information of the RF signals within the RF transceiver channel, the parameter information of the RF signals received by the radiating subarray can be determined.

[0054] exist Figure 4 In the example provided, each radiating subarray element includes 4*16 oscillators 110. In other examples, each radiating subarray element may also include at least one oscillator 110. The number and type of oscillators 110 contained in each radiating subarray element can be the same or different. In specific applications, appropriate selection and settings can be made according to actual needs, which will not be elaborated here.

[0055] In addition, Figure 4 In the example provided, antenna 10 includes four radiating subarrays, each containing two radiating subarray elements. In other examples, antenna 10 may also include two or more radiating subarrays. Alternatively, in some examples, each radiating subarray may contain one, two, or more radiating subarray elements. The number of radiating subarray elements contained in different radiating subarrays may be the same or different.

[0056] In summary, antenna 10 may include multiple radiating subarrays, and each radiating subarray may include at least one radiating subarray element. The feed network 12 has multiple radio frequency transceiver channels, and each of the multiple radio frequency transceiver channels is connected to one of the multiple radiating subarray elements.

[0057] The radio frequency signals in the feed network 12 can be transmitted to the radiating subarray unit through the corresponding radio frequency transceiver channel, thereby radiating electromagnetic waves through the oscillator 110 in the radiating subarray unit. Alternatively, the electromagnetic waves received by the oscillator 110 in the radiating subarray unit can be transmitted to the feed network 12 through the corresponding connected radio frequency transceiver channel.

[0058] It should be noted that, in Figure 4 The examples shown illustrate some of the structures or devices in the power supply network 12. In some examples, the power supply network 12 may include devices such as phase shifters, combiners, drive or calibration networks, or filters. This application does not limit the components, types, or functions that the power supply network 12 can achieve.

[0059] To facilitate understanding of the technical solution of this application, the following example will be provided with the antenna 10 comprising four radiating subarrays, each of which includes two radiating subarray elements.

[0060] like Figure 5 As shown, in one example provided in this application, the antenna 10 further includes a correction circuit 13. Please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 4 and Figure 5 , Figure 5 and Figure 4 In comparison, Figure 5 A correction circuit 13 has been added. Additionally, for clearer demonstration, in... Figure 5 The feeder network 12 is omitted, and the radio frequency transceiver channel of the feeder network 12 is shown.

[0061] Please see Figure 5 .exist Figure 5In the example provided, antenna 10 also includes a correction circuit 13. The correction circuit 13 is used to acquire the amplitude and phase information of the radio frequency (RF) signal in each subarray element within the radiating subarray, and to correct the RF transceiver channels connected to the radiating subarray elements within the same radiating subarray. Additionally, the correction circuit 13 is also used to acquire the radiation and phase information of the RF signal transmitted in the RF transceiver channels adjacent to each radiating subarray, and to correct the RF signals between radiating subarrays. That is, the correction circuit 13 first corrects the RF signals between multiple radiating subarray elements within each radiating subarray, ensuring that the amplitude and phase of the RF signal are the same in all radiating subarray elements within the same radiating subarray. Then, it performs joint correction between multiple radiating subarrays, ensuring that the amplitude and phase of the RF signal are the same in all radiating subarray elements, ultimately correcting all RF signal transceiver channels. In the example provided in this application, by first correcting the RF signals within the radiating subarray and then correcting the RF signals between radiating subarrays, the correction circuit 13 can be effectively simplified, thereby reducing the line loss of the correction circuit 13, improving the signal-to-noise ratio during correction, and improving the consistency between RF transceiver channels.

[0062] The structure of the correction circuit 13 can be varied.

[0063] For example, please refer to the following: Figure 4 and Figure 5 In one example provided in this application, the correction circuit 13 includes multiple first circuits (such as first circuit 131a) and second circuit 132 connected to the feed network 12, and also includes multiple correction couplers (such as correction coupler 133a) connected to the RF transceiver channel. By configuring the correction couplers, the correction circuit 13 can detect the RF signal within the RF transceiver channel without significantly affecting the transmission quality of the RF signal between the feed network 12 and the radiating subarray. The approximate connection paths of the circuits in the first circuits can be referenced... Figure 5 The solid lines in the diagram represent the approximate connection path of the circuit in the second circuit 132. Figure 5 The dashed line in the middle.

[0064] Specifically, in Figure 5 The example provided shows eight calibration couplers, namely calibration coupler 133a, calibration coupler 134a, calibration coupler 133b, calibration coupler 134b, calibration coupler 133c, calibration coupler 134c, calibration coupler 133d and calibration coupler 134d.

[0065] Specifically, the signal input port of calibration coupler 133a is connected to RF transceiver channel 121a, and the signal input port of calibration coupler 134a is connected to RF transceiver channel 122a. The signal input port of calibration coupler 133b is connected to RF transceiver channel 121b, and the signal input port of calibration coupler 134b is connected to RF transceiver channel 122b. The signal input port of calibration coupler 133c is connected to RF transceiver channel 121c, and the signal input port of calibration coupler 134c is connected to RF transceiver channel 122c. The signal input port of calibration coupler 133d is connected to RF transceiver channel 121d, and the signal input port of calibration coupler 134d is connected to RF transceiver channel 122d.

[0066] In summary, the number of calibration couplers is the same as the number of RF transceiver channels. Multiple calibration couplers are connected one-to-one with multiple radiating subarray elements through corresponding RF transceiver channels, ensuring that the RF signal in each RF transceiver channel can be output through the calibration coupler. This facilitates the detection of the amplitude and phase information of the RF signal in each RF transceiver channel. Alternatively, the RF transceiver channel can be a channel connecting the feed network to the radiating subarray. The parameters of the RF signal transmitted within the RF transceiver channel are essentially the same as the parameters of the RF signal received by the radiating subarray. Therefore, by detecting the parameter information of the RF signal within the RF transceiver channel, the parameter information of the RF signal received by the radiating subarray can be determined.

[0067] The first circuit in the correction circuit 13 will be described in detail below.

[0068] like Figure 5 As shown in the example provided in this application, the correction circuit includes four first circuits. That is, the number of first circuits is the same as the number of radiating subarrays, and the multiple first circuits are connected one-to-one with the multiple radiating subarrays.

[0069] Specifically, in Figure 5 The example provided shows four first circuits: first circuit 131a, first circuit 131b, first circuit 131c, and first circuit 131d. First circuit 131a is connected to radiating subarray elements 111a and 112a in radiating subarray 11a. First circuit 131b is connected to radiating subarray elements 111b and 112b in radiating subarray 11b. First circuit 131c is connected to radiating subarray elements 111c and 112c in radiating subarray 11c.

[0070] For ease of understanding, the following description uses the first circuit 131a and the radiating subarray 11a as examples.

[0071] Specifically, such as Figure 6 As shown, the first circuit 131a includes a first processor ROC-A and a first power splitting network. The first power splitting network includes a power splitter (or combiner) CAL-A and corresponding communication lines.

[0072] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the calibration coupler 133a includes an input port 1331a, a first output port 1332a, and a second output port 1333a. The input port 1331a is coupled to the RF transceiver channel 121a, and the first output port 1332a is connected to the power divider CAL-A. The power divider CAL-A is connected to the processor ROC-A. Therefore, the RF signal transmitted in the RF transceiver channel 121a can be transmitted to the processor ROC-A through the calibration coupler 133a and the power divider CAL-A, allowing for the detection and processing of the RF signal's amplitude and phase information. The connection details of the second output port 1333a will be described in detail below and will not be repeated here.

[0073] like Figure 6 and Figure 8 As shown, the calibration coupler 134a includes an input port 1341a, a first output port 1342a, and a second output port 1343a. The input port 1341a is coupled to the RF transceiver channel 124a, and the first output port 1342a is connected to the power divider CAL-A, which in turn is connected to the processor ROC-A. Therefore, the RF signal transmitted in the RF transceiver channel 124a can be transmitted to the processor ROC-A through the calibration coupler 134a and the power divider CAL-A, allowing for the detection and processing of the RF signal's amplitude and phase information. The second output port 1343a is grounded via a load R, achieving effective energy dissipation and impedance matching to ensure signal transmission quality between the RF transceiver channel 124a and the radiating subarray unit 112a. In specific settings, the load R can be a resistor, with a resistance value such as 50 ohms. The resistance value of the load R can be adjusted appropriately according to actual conditions, which will not be elaborated upon here.

[0074] In summary, the RF signals transmitted in RF transceiver channel 121a and RF transceiver channel 122a can be combined in the power divider CAL-A and transmitted to the processor ROC-A from the same port. This reduces the path and complexity of the signal transmission line, helps reduce the loss of RF signals during transmission in the first circuit 131a, and improves the signal-to-noise ratio. Furthermore, including three or more subarray elements in the radiating subarray 11a can significantly reduce the path and complexity of the signal transmission link.

[0075] In other examples, the coupler CAL-A can also be omitted. Alternatively, when the radiating subarray 11a includes a large number of subarray elements, multiple couplers CAL-A can be configured, which will not be elaborated here.

[0076] The general process of channel correction implemented by the first circuit 131a is described below. The first circuit 131a can achieve the consistency of amplitude and phase of RF signals in RF transceiver channels 121a and RF transceiver channels 122a. For ease of understanding, the phase consistency achieved by the first circuit 131a will be used as an example for illustration.

[0077] When starting the calibration, it is assumed that the phase of the initial radio frequency signal transmitted in the radio frequency transceiver channel 121a is θ1 and the phase of the initial radio frequency signal transmitted in the radio frequency transceiver channel 122a is θ2, where θ1 and θ2 are different.

[0078] The processor ROC-A can perform comparisons and calculations based on the detected θ1 and θ2, and generate a first calibration signal.

[0079] Among them, the radio frequency transceiver channel 121a and the radio frequency transceiver channel 121a are connected to devices such as phase shifters.

[0080] The power supply network 12 can adjust the phase of the initial radio frequency signal through a phase shifter according to the first calibration signal, so that the first radio frequency signal with the same phase is transmitted in both the radio frequency transceiver channel 121a and the radio frequency transceiver channel 122a.

[0081] For example, a phase shifter connected to the RF transceiver channel 121a can adjust the phase of the initial RF signal and convert it into a first RF signal. The phase of the first RF signal is θa. That is, the phase shifter connected to the RF transceiver channel 121a can process the phase of the RF signal and output it to the RF transceiver channel 121a, thereby making the RF signal transmitted in the RF transceiver channel 121a the first RF signal.

[0082] Furthermore, the phase shifter connected to the RF transceiver channel 122a can adjust the phase of the initial RF signal and convert it into a first RF signal. The phase of the first RF signal is θa. That is, the phase shifter connected to the RF transceiver channel 122a can process the phase of the RF signal and output it to the RF transceiver channel 122a, thereby making the RF signal transmitted in the RF transceiver channel 122a the first RF signal.

[0083] In this application, θa can be the same as θ1, or θa can be the same as θ2, or θa can be different from both θ1 and θ2. For example, θa can be an intermediate value between θ1 and θ2. This application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0084] The above method enables effective calibration between RF transceiver channels 121a and 122a, ensuring that both channels transmit first RF signals with the same phase. In other words, the first circuit 131a enables effective calibration within the radiating subarray 11a.

[0085] The first circuits 131b, 131c, and 131d are configured in the same or substantially the same way as the first circuit 131a described above. In short, as... Figure 5 As shown, the first circuit 131b includes a processor ROC-B, a power divider CAL-B, and related signal lines. The first circuit 131c includes a processor ROC-C, a power divider CAL-C, and related signal lines. The first circuit 131d includes a processor ROC-D, a power divider CAL-D, and related signal lines, which will not be described in detail here.

[0086] In summary, the first circuit 131a enables effective calibration between radiating subarray elements 111a and 112a within radiating subarray 11a. The first circuit 131b enables effective calibration between radiating subarray elements 111b and 112b within radiating subarray 11B. The first circuit 131c enables effective calibration between radiating subarray elements 111c and 112c within radiating subarray 11c. The first circuit 131d enables effective calibration between radiating subarray elements 111d and 112d within radiating subarray 11d.

[0087] Furthermore, since the different first circuits are not interconnected, the phase of the first radio frequency signal transmitted in different radiating subarrays may be different after the different first circuits are corrected separately.

[0088] For example, the phase of the first radio frequency signal transmitted in radio frequency transceiver channels 121a and 122a is θa. The phase of the first radio frequency signal transmitted in radio frequency transceiver channels 121b and 122b is θb. The phase of the first radio frequency signal transmitted in radio frequency transceiver channels 121c and 122c is θc. The phase of the first radio frequency signal transmitted in radio frequency transceiver channels 121d and 122d is θd.

[0089] Among them, θa, θb, θc, and θb may all be different. Or, at least two may be the same.

[0090] In the example provided in this application, effective calibration between all RF transceiver channels can be achieved through a second circuit.

[0091] Specifically, such as Figure 5 As shown, the second circuit 132 includes a second processor ROC-X and a second power splitting network. The second power splitting network includes a power splitter (or combiner) CAL-X1, a power splitter CAL-X2, a power splitter CAL-X, and corresponding communication lines.

[0092] like Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, the calibration coupler 133a includes an input port 1331a, a first output port 1332a, and a second output port 1333a. The input port 1331a is coupled to the RF transceiver channel 121a, and the second output port 1333a is connected to the power divider CAL-X1. Furthermore, the power divider CAL-X1 is connected to the power divider CAL-X. Therefore, the RF signal transmitted in the RF transceiver channel 121a can be transmitted to the processor ROC-X through the calibration coupler 133a, the power divider CAL-X1, and the power divider CAL-X, thereby enabling the detection and processing of the RF signal's amplitude and phase information.

[0093] In addition, 5 and Figure 9 As shown, the calibration coupler 134b includes an input port 1341b, a first output port 1342b, and a second output port 1343b. The input port 1341b is coupled to the RF transceiver channel 122b, and the second output port 1343b is connected to the power divider CAL-X1. Furthermore, the power divider CAL-X1 is connected to the power divider CAL-X. Therefore, the RF signal transmitted in the RF transceiver channel 122b can be transmitted to the processor ROC-X through the calibration coupler 134b, the power divider CAL-X1, and the power divider CAL-X, thereby enabling the detection and processing of the RF signal's amplitude and phase information.

[0094] In summary, the radio frequency signals transmitted in radio frequency transceiver channel 121a and radio frequency transceiver channel 122b can be combined in power divider CAL-X1 and then transmitted from the same port to power divider CAL-X, and then to processor ROC-X. This reduces the path and complexity of the signal transmission line, helps to reduce the loss of radio frequency signals when they are transmitted in the second circuit 132, and improves the signal-to-noise ratio.

[0095] Furthermore, the connection of the calibration coupler 133c, calibration coupler 134d, and power divider CAL-X2 is roughly the same as that of the calibration coupler 133a, calibration coupler 134b, and power divider CAL-X1 mentioned above, and will not be described in detail here.

[0096] The following describes the general process of channel correction implemented by the second circuit 132. The second circuit 132 can ensure the consistency of amplitude and phase of the RF signals in all RF transceiver channels. For ease of understanding, the implementation of phase consistency by the second circuit 132 will be used as an example for illustration.

[0097] At the start of calibration, assume the phase of the first radio frequency (RF) signal transmitted in RF transceiver channels 121a and 122a is θa. The phase of the first RF signal transmitted in RF transceiver channels 121b and 122b is θb. The phase of the first RF signal transmitted in RF transceiver channels 121c and 122c is θc. The phase of the first RF signal transmitted in RF transceiver channels 121d and 122d is θd. Assume that θa, θb, θc, and θd are all different.

[0098] The processor ROC-X can perform comparisons and calculations based on the detected θa, θb, θc, and θb, and generate a second calibration signal.

[0099] The power supply network 12 can adjust the phase of the first radio frequency signal according to the second calibration signal through a phase shifter, so that the second radio frequency signal with the same phase is transmitted in each radio frequency transceiver channel.

[0100] For example, a phase shifter connected to the RF transceiver channel 121a can adjust the phase of the first RF signal and convert it into a second RF signal. The phase of the second RF signal is θx. That is, the phase shifter connected to the RF transceiver channel 121a can process the phase of the RF signal and output it to the RF transceiver channel 121a, thus making the RF signal transmitted in the RF transceiver channel 121a the second RF signal.

[0101] Furthermore, the phase shifter connected to the RF transceiver channel 122b can adjust the phase of the first RF signal and convert it into a second RF signal. The phase of the second RF signal is θx. That is, the phase shifter connected to the RF transceiver channel 122b can process the phase of the RF signal and output it to the RF transceiver channel 122b, thereby making the RF signal transmitted in the RF transceiver channel 122b the second RF signal.

[0102] In addition, the calibration methods for other radio frequency transceiver channels are basically the same as those described above, and will not be elaborated here.

[0103] Wherein, θx can be the same as any one of θa, θb, θc, and θd. Alternatively, θx can be different from all of θa, θb, θc, and θd; this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0104] The above method enables effective correction between all RF transceiver channels, ensuring that all RF transceiver channels transmit second RF signals with the same phase. In other words, the second circuit 132 enables effective correction between radiating subarrays.

[0105] In summary, in the examples provided in this application, effective correction between radiating subarray elements 111a and 112a within radiating subarray 11a can be achieved through the first circuit 131a. Effective correction between radiating subarray elements 111b and 112b within radiating subarray 11B can be achieved through the first circuit 131b. Effective correction between radiating subarray elements 111c and 112c within radiating subarray 11c can be achieved through the first circuit 131c. Effective correction between radiating subarray elements 111d and 112d within radiating subarray 11d can be achieved through the first circuit 131d.

[0106] In addition, the second circuit 132 can be used to achieve effective correction between each of the above-mentioned radio frequency transceiver channels.

[0107] In the example provided in this application, effective correction between all RF transceiver channels is achieved through the combination of the first and second circuits. Furthermore, it reduces the path and complexity of signal transmission lines, which helps reduce signal loss during transmission in the correction circuit 13 and improves the signal-to-noise ratio.

[0108] It should be noted that, in Figure 5In the example provided, calibration coupler 133a is connected to the first circuit 131a and the second circuit 132. Calibration coupler 134b is connected to the first circuit 131b and the second circuit 132. Calibration coupler 133c is connected to the first circuit 131c and the second circuit 132. Calibration coupler 134d is connected to the first circuit 131d and the second circuit 132. Calibration coupler 134a is connected to the first circuit 131a, calibration coupler 133b is connected to the first circuit 131b, calibration coupler 134c is connected to the first circuit 131c, and calibration coupler 133d is connected to the first circuit 131d, but none of them are connected to the second circuit 132.

[0109] Among them, the correction couplers 133a, 134b, 133c, and 134d, which are connected to both the first and second circuits, can be referred to as multiplexed correction couplers. The first output port of each of these multiplexed correction couplers is connected to the corresponding first circuit, and the second output port is connected to the second circuit, facilitating correction within and between radiating subarrays. The second output ports of the other correction couplers are connected to load ground to achieve energy dissipation and impedance matching. In other examples, correction couplers other than the multiplexed correction couplers may not have a second output port.

[0110] It should be noted that, in Figure 5 The example provided is an exemplary illustration of each radiating subarray comprising two radiating subarray elements.

[0111] In some implementations, a single radiating subarray element may be included within a radiating subarray. When a single radiating subarray element is included within a radiating subarray, internal correction of the radiating subarray is not required. That is, the radiating subarray may not be equipped with a first circuit. In other words, internal correction of the radiating subarray is only required when the radiating subarray includes two or more radiating subarray elements.

[0112] For example, such as Figure 10 As shown, in another example provided in this application, antenna 10 also includes a radiating subarray 11e having a radiating subarray element.

[0113] For details, please refer to the following: Figure 5 and Figure 10 As shown. In Figure 10 In the example provided, the radiating subarray 11e includes one radiating subarray element; therefore, there is no need for internal correction within the radiating subarray, and thus no corresponding first circuit is required. Figure 5 and Figure 10In the example provided, the number and arrangement of the first circuits are the same. However, the second circuit 132 (as shown) differs. Figure 10 (As shown by the dashed line) It is also connected to the radiating subarray 11e to achieve effective correction between all subarrays or subarray elements.

[0114] In one implementation, the input port of coupler 122e is coupled to the radio frequency transceiver channel 133e, and the output port of coupler 122e is connected to the power divider CAL-X via conductive lines.

[0115] Alternatively, in some implementations, the output port of coupler 122e can also be directly connected to the processor ROC-X via a conductive line. Alternatively, in some implementations, the output port of coupler 122e can also be connected to power divider CAL-X1 or power divider CAL-X2 via a conductive line.

[0116] In addition, Figure 5 and Figure 10 In the examples provided, each first circuit is equipped with an independent processor, and the large number of processors used results in good signal processing efficiency. In other examples, the number of processors can be reduced through alternative circuit designs to lower costs.

[0117] For example, such as Figure 11 As shown, in another example provided in this application, the correction circuit 13 is equipped with a processor ROC and a switch K.

[0118] Please refer to the following: Figure 11 and Figure 5 .exist Figure 11 The example provided demonstrates how circuit design using the processor ROC and switch K can achieve this. Figure 5 The processors ROC-A, ROC-B, ROC-C, ROC-D, and ROC-X are described. Switch K connects the processor to the four first power-sharing networks and also connects the processor to the second power-sharing network. Switch K allows for the connection and disconnection of the processor with different power-sharing networks.

[0119] Specifically, one end of switch K is connected to the processor ROC. The other end of switch K is connected via a communication line to power divider CAL-A in the first power dividing network. Switch K is also connected via a communication line to power divider CAL-B, power divider CAL-C, and power divider CAL-D in the first power dividing network. Additionally, switch K is also connected via a communication line to power divider CAL-X in the second power dividing network.

[0120] During calibration, switch K can first sequentially connect the processor to power dividers CAL-A, CAL-B, CAL-C, and CAL-D, thereby achieving calibration within the corresponding radiating subarray. Then, switch K can connect the processor to power divider CAL-X, thereby achieving joint calibration across all channels.

[0121] In other examples, the correction circuit may also be equipped with two or more processors. In one implementation, the number and connection relationship of processors and switches can be reasonably set according to actual needs, which will not be elaborated here.

[0122] It should be noted that, in practical applications, the antenna 10 described above can be used in various types of communication equipment such as base stations. This application does not limit the application scenario of the antenna or the specific type of communication equipment.

[0123] In the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terminology and / or descriptions between different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. Technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments based on their inherent logical relationships.

[0124] In this application, "multiple" means two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, or B exists alone, where A and B can be singular or plural.

[0125] It is understood that the various numerical designations used in the embodiments of this application are merely for descriptive convenience and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. The order of the process numbers described above does not imply the order of execution; the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic.

Claims

1. An antenna, characterized by Includes a power supply network, a correction circuit, and multiple radiating subarrays; Each of the said radiative subarrays includes at least one radiative subarray element; The power supply network has multiple radio frequency transceiver channels, and each of the multiple radio frequency transceiver channels is connected to a corresponding one-to-one radiating subarray unit. The correction circuit includes a second circuit connected to the power supply network and a plurality of first circuits; Each of the first circuits corresponds one-to-one with a plurality of said radiating subarrays having a plurality of radiating subarray units; In the one-to-one correspondence between the first circuit and the radiating subarray, the first circuit is connected to each radiating subarray element in the radiating subarray; wherein, the first circuit is used to acquire the amplitude and phase information of the initial radio frequency signal in each radiating subarray element in the radiating subarray connected to the first circuit, and generate a first calibration signal based on the amplitude and phase information of the initial radio frequency signal in each radiating subarray element, and the feed network is used to send the first radio frequency signal to each radiating subarray element in the radiating subarray connected to the first circuit according to the first calibration signal; The second circuit is connected to at least one radiating subarray element within each of the radiating subarrays; The second circuit is used to acquire a first radio frequency signal in the radiating subarray unit connected to the second circuit, and generate a second calibration signal based on the amplitude and phase information of each first radio frequency signal. The feed network is used to send a second radio frequency signal to each of the radio frequency transceiver channels according to the second calibration signal.

2. The antenna according to claim 1, characterized in that, The correction circuit includes multiple correction couplers, and the multiple correction couplers are connected one-to-one with the multiple radio frequency transceiver channels; The calibration coupler is used to acquire the amplitude and phase information of the initial radio frequency signal in the corresponding connected radio frequency transceiver channel. The calibration coupler is also used to acquire the amplitude and phase information of the first radio frequency signal in the corresponding connected radio frequency transceiver channel.

3. The antenna of claim 2, wherein, Each of the aforementioned calibration couplers has a first output port and a second output port; The first circuit is connected to the first output port of each of the correction couplers; The plurality of correction couplers includes a plurality of multiplexed correction couplers; The second circuit is connected to the second output port of multiple multiplexed correction couplers; The plurality of multiplexed correction couplers are connected to each of the radiating subarrays through interconnected radio frequency transceiver channels.

4. The antenna according to claim 3, characterized in that In the plurality of correction couplers, the second output port of the correction coupler other than the multiplexed correction coupler is connected to the load ground.

5. The antenna according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, Each of the first circuits includes a first power divider network and a first processor; In each of the first circuits, the first power divider network is connected between the correction coupler and the first processor; The first processor is used to generate the first calibration signal based on the amplitude and phase information of each of the initial radio frequency signals.

6. The antenna according to claim 5, characterized in that The second circuit includes a second power-dividing network and a second processor; The second power splitter network is connected between the calibration coupler and the second processor; The second processor is used to generate a second calibration signal based on the amplitude and phase information of each of the first radio frequency signals.

7. The antenna of any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, Each of the first circuits includes a first power-dividing network and a processor, and the second circuit includes a second power-dividing network and the processor; Each of the first power divider networks is connected between the processor and the correction coupler; The second power splitter network is connected between the processor and the calibration coupler; The processor is configured to generate a first calibration signal based on the amplitude and phase information of each of the initial radio frequency signals, and to generate a second calibration signal based on the amplitude and phase information of each of the first radio frequency signals.

8. The antenna according to claim 7, characterized in that The correction circuit also includes a switch; The switch is connected between the processor and the plurality of first power divider networks, and also between the processor and the second power divider network; The switch is used to connect the processor to each of the first power-dividing networks respectively, and also to disconnect the processor from each of the first power-dividing networks and then connect it to the second power-dividing network.

9. The antenna according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, Each of the said radiating subarrays includes multiple radiating subarray elements; or, among the multiple radiating subarrays, there is at least one radiating subarray that includes one radiating subarray element.

10. The antenna according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, Each of the aforementioned radiating subarray units includes multiple radiators.

11. A communication device, characterized in that, The antenna includes any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The communication device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The communication device further includes a baseband processing unit, which is connected to the power supply network.

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