Filter coupled antenna system

Abstract

A signal transfer method includes: transducing a first signal using a first antenna element of a device configured to resonate in a higher frequency range; transducing a second signal using a second antenna element of the device configured to resonate in a lower frequency range spanning one or more frequencies lower than frequencies in the higher frequency range; providing an approximate open circuit to a transmission line connected to the second antenna element over the lower frequency range; and providing an approximate short circuit to the transmission line over the higher frequency range to suppress a parasitic effect of the second antenna element on the first antenna element.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Application No. 18 / 522,487, filed November 29, 2023, entitled “FILTER-COUPLED ANTENNA SYSTEM,” which has been assigned to the assignee of this application, and the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Background Technology

[0003] Wireless communication devices are becoming increasingly widespread and complex. For example, mobile telecommunications devices have evolved from simple telephones to devices with multiple communication capabilities (e.g., multiple cellular communication protocols, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth). ® Smartphones, supercomputing processors, cameras, etc. (and other short-range communication protocols). Wireless communication devices have antennas that support various functions such as communication within a certain frequency range and receiving Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signals (also known as satellite positioning signals (SPS signals)).

[0004] In a single wireless communication device with multiple antennas, coupling between the antennas can degrade performance. For example, power in the transmitted communication signal can be received and dissipated by another antenna in the device (e.g., an antenna for receiving GNSS signals, an antenna for receiving and transmitting other communication signals, etc.). As another example, if two antenna systems use a common conductor for their respective radiators, power can flow between antenna systems that are close to each other. Summary of the Invention

[0005] An example device includes: a first antenna element configured to resonate in a higher frequency range; a second antenna element configured to resonate in a lower frequency range spanning one or more frequencies below the higher frequency range; and a filter connected to the second antenna element, the filter being configured to have a frequency-dependent impedance that is approximately open-circuited in the second frequency range and approximately short-circuited in the first frequency range, the filter being connected to the second antenna element in a location to suppress parasitic effects of the second antenna on the first antenna. Attached Figure Description

[0006] Figure 1 This is a diagram of a communication system.

[0007] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the simplified components of the mobile device shown.

[0008] Figure 3It is a simplified plan view of the device including the antenna system.

[0009] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A simplified circuit diagram of an example filter shown.

[0010] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A simplified circuit diagram of another example of the filter shown.

[0011] Figure 6 It is a simplified plan view of another device, including the antenna system.

[0012] Figure 7 This is a block diagram of the signal transmission method. Detailed Implementation

[0013] This paper discusses signal transmission techniques using antennas with frequency-dependent impedance filters. For example, the device may comprise two antenna systems, each with a corresponding antenna element, each configured to operate in different frequency ranges (e.g., separate frequency ranges), a lower frequency range, and a higher frequency range. The antenna elements may be configured to resonate at different frequencies. The antenna elements may be configured and arranged such that the antenna element configured to operate in the lower frequency range can act as a parasitic antenna element of the antenna element configured to operate in the higher frequency range without any precautions. A filter with frequency-dependent impedance may be connected to the lower frequency range antenna element to provide an open circuit in the lower frequency range and a short circuit in the higher frequency range to suppress parasitic effects of the lower frequency range antenna element on the higher frequency range antenna element (e.g., suppressing parasitic coupling between antenna elements, at least in the higher frequency range). However, other configurations may be used.

[0014] The items and / or techniques described herein may provide one or more of the following capabilities, as well as others not mentioned. For example, for antenna elements arranged in close proximity, antenna efficiency may be improved by reducing parasitic coupling between antenna elements. Antenna system efficiency when adapting to and / or fitting different operating frequency ranges. The performance of the antenna system may be reduced to the dependence of the energy coupling form of the parasitic antenna system. Other capabilities may be provided, and not every specific embodiment of this disclosure is required to provide any, let alone all, of the capabilities discussed. Furthermore, it is possible to achieve the above effects by means other than those indicated, and the items / techniques indicated may not necessarily produce the indicated effects.

[0015] As used herein, the terms “user equipment” and “UE” are not specific to or otherwise limited to any particular radio access technology (RAT) unless otherwise specified. Generally, a UE can be any wireless communication device (e.g., mobile phone, router, tablet computer, laptop computer, consumer asset tracking device, Internet of Things (IoT) device, etc.) used by a user to communicate over a wireless communication network. A UE can be mobile or can (e.g., at certain times) be stationary and can communicate with a radio access network (RAN). As used herein, the term “UE” can be interchangeably referred to as “access terminal” or “AT,” “client device,” “wireless device,” “subscriber equipment,” “subscriber terminal,” “subscriber station,” “user terminal” or “UT,” “mobile terminal,” “mobile station,” “mobile device,” or variations thereof. Generally, a UE can communicate with a core network via the RAN, and through the core network, a UE can connect to external networks such as the Internet and to other UEs. Of course, other mechanisms for connecting to the core network and / or the Internet are also possible for a UE, such as via a wired access network, a WiFi network (e.g., based on IEEE 802.11, etc.). In addition, two or more UEs can communicate directly in some configurations, with or without exchanging information with each other over the network.

[0016] refer to Figure 1The communication system 100 includes mobile device 112, network 114, server 116, and access points (APs) 118 and 120. The communication system 100 is a wireless communication system because its components can communicate with each other directly or indirectly (at least sometimes via wireless connections) using one or more of network 114 and / or access points 118 and 120 (and / or one or more other devices not shown, such as one or more base transceivers) using wireless connections. For indirect communication, the communication can be altered during transmission from one entity to another, for example, by changing the header information of data packets, changing the format, etc. The mobile device 112 shown is a mobile wireless communication device (although it can communicate wirelessly and via wired connections), including mobile phones (including smartphones), laptops, and tablets. Other mobile devices, whether currently existing or developed in the future, may also be used. Furthermore, other wireless devices (whether or not mobile devices) can be implemented within the communication system 100 and can communicate with each other and / or with mobile devices 112, network 114, server 116, and / or APs 118 and 120. For example, such other devices may include Internet of Things (IoT) devices, medical devices, home entertainment and / or automation devices, automotive devices, etc. Mobile devices 112 or other devices can be configured to communicate in different networks and / or for different purposes (e.g., 5G, Wi-Fi communication, Wi-Fi communication on multiple frequencies, satellite communication and / or positioning, one or more types of cellular communication (e.g., GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications), CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access), LTE (Long Term Evolution), etc.), Bluetooth). ® communications, etc.).

[0017] Reference Figure 2 Mobile devices 200 ( Figure 1An example of one of the mobile devices 112 shown includes a top cover 210, a display layer 220, a printed circuit board (PCB) layer 230, and a bottom cover 240. The mobile device 200 shown may be a smartphone or a tablet computer, but the embodiments described herein are not limited to such devices. The top cover 210 includes a screen 214. The bottom cover 240 has a bottom surface 244. The sides 212, 242 of the top cover 210 and bottom cover 240 provide edge surfaces. The top cover 210 and bottom cover 240 constitute a housing that holds the display layer 220, the PCB layer 230, and other components of the mobile device 200 that may or may not be located on the PCB layer 230. For example, the housing may hold (e.g., accommodate, contain) an antenna system, front-end circuitry, intermediate frequency circuitry, and / or a processor, some of which are discussed below. The housing may be substantially rectangular, having two sets of parallel edges in the illustrated embodiment, and may be configured to bend or fold. In this example, the housing has rounded corners, but the housing can be substantially rectangular with other corner shapes (e.g., corners at straight angles (e.g., 45º), 90º, other non-straight corners, etc.). Furthermore, the size and / or shape of the PCB layer 230 may be disproportionate to the size and / or shape of either the top or bottom cover, or otherwise disproportionate to the perimeter of the device. For example, the PCB layer 230 may have a cutout for receiving a battery. Additionally, the PCB layer 230 may include a mezzanine board and / or a PCB sub-board. The sub-board may be selected to facilitate design and / or manufacturing processes, for example, to enhance functional separation or better utilize space within the housing. Embodiments of the PCB layer 230 other than those illustrated are possible.

[0018] Device 200 may be foldable and / or bendable. For example, top cover 210, display layer 220, PCB layer 230, and bottom cover 240 may be configured to pivot (e.g., fold or bend) about an axis. PCB layer 230 and / or bottom cover 240 may be divided into multiple parts that are operatively (for the PCB layer) or physically (for the bottom cover) coupled together and configured to pivot relative to each other.

[0019] The limited space available in a UE (e.g., smartphone, tablet, etc.) presents antenna design challenges. For example, in a mobile phone with 10 or more antennas (e.g., for LTE and sub-6 GHz bands), there may be very little space or no additional space available for another antenna. Because antenna frequency bandwidth varies with antenna size, where small antennas typically have narrow bandwidths, designing a single antenna to cover a wide frequency bandwidth is challenging. Furthermore, the mechanical stability of the UE (e.g., mobile phone) can be challenging, for example, as non-conductive (e.g., plastic) gaps in the UE's metal frame may be needed to separate the antennas, but this could weaken the frame's stability and potentially lead to thermal problems due to insufficient heat dissipation.

[0020] Also refer to Figure 3 The device 300 includes antenna systems 310 and 320, which respectively include antenna elements 312 and 322. The device 300 may be an example of any of the devices in the mobile device 200 or various other devices. Antenna systems 310 and 320 may be configured to operate at various frequencies. In this example, antenna system 310 is configured to operate in a higher frequency range, and antenna system 320 is configured to operate in a lower frequency range, wherein the lower frequency range spans one or more frequencies below the frequencies in the higher frequency range. The lower frequency range and the higher frequency range may overlap or may not overlap. For example, antenna system 310 may be configured to operate in the mid-high frequency band (MHB) (e.g., 1.5 GHz to 2.7 GHz), and antenna system 320 may be configured to operate in the L1 GPS (Global Positioning System) band at 1.575 GHz. For example, antenna elements 312 and 322 of antenna systems 310 and 320 may be configured to resonate in a higher frequency band and a lower frequency band, respectively (and thus transduce signals between radio signals and pilot signals in these bands with at least threshold efficiency, the threshold efficiency level depending on application-specific requirements (e.g., network operator requirements)). The lower frequency range and the higher frequency range may have different widths, e.g., different fractional bandwidths. For example, the higher frequency range may have a wide fractional bandwidth, e.g., up to about 20%, and the lower frequency range may have a narrow fractional bandwidth, e.g., less than 10%, such as less than 3%. The higher frequency range may have at least twice the fractional bandwidth of the lower frequency range (e.g., at least four times, or at least five times, the fractional bandwidth of the lower frequency range).

[0021] Antenna elements 312 and 322 can have any of a variety of configurations. In this example, antenna elements 312 and 322 are both elongated metal conductors configured to provide corresponding portions of the frame 330 of the device 300. Both antenna systems 310 and 320 can utilize a portion of the frame 330 (e.g., a metal frame) between gaps 341, 342, and 343 (e.g., formed of an insulator such as plastic), where antenna elements 312 and 322 are therefore metal frame conductors. In this way, space is saved for providing antenna systems 310 and 320. Other configurations can be used. For example, although antenna elements 312 and 322 are positioned at the periphery 332 of the device in this example, one or both antenna elements 312 and 322 can be positioned close to the periphery of the device but offset from it, for example, within 10 mm or within 5 mm (e.g., within about 1 / 10 or about 1 / 20 of the wavelength of the highest frequency in a higher frequency band). As another example, one or both antenna elements 312 and 322 may be radiating slots. Antenna elements 312 and 322 may have different configurations from each other. Even if the antenna elements are inverses of each other, the antenna element may still be referred to as a radiating element, which is capable of radiating and receiving wireless signals.

[0022] Antenna elements 312 and 322 are configured and arranged such that when both antenna elements 322 and 312 are active concurrently (making switching detuning not an option), antenna element 322 will act as a parasitic antenna element of antenna element 312 without any preventative measures (e.g., one or more preventative devices and / or one or more preventative actions). For example, antenna element 312 may have a first end 351 and a second end 352, and antenna element 322 may have a first end 361 and a second end 362, wherein the second ends 352 and 362 are separated by a gap 342, wherein the gap 342 has a width 344 that is less than one-tenth (1 / 10) of the wavelength of the highest frequency in the higher frequency range of (antenna element 312), for example, less than 10 mm, such as between 1 mm and 3 mm. As another example, antenna elements 312 and 322 may be tightly coupled such that, without precautions, the insertion loss (also referred to as S21) will be less than -8 dB and / or the energy coupled between antenna elements 312 and 322 in conjugate matching will be less than -8 dB. The parasitic effect of antenna element 312 on antenna element 322 may reduce the efficiency of antenna system 320 by an unacceptable amount (e.g., more than 2 dB, such as more than 4 dB, at least in at least a portion of the higher frequency range).

[0023] Antenna system 310 includes a filter 324. Filter 324 is configured to have frequency-dependent impedance to provide an open circuit 326 in a lower frequency range (referred to as FR1) and a short circuit 328 in a higher frequency range (referred to as FR2). Filter 324 is connected to a location on antenna element 322 away from the feed point (energy coupler) and connected to ground 380 (e.g., PCB ground). Filter 324 is connected at a location on antenna element 312 to help reduce parasitic effects on antenna element 312 due to the short circuit 328 in the higher frequency range (e.g., negative impact on the efficiency of antenna element 312). For example, filter 324 may be connected to antenna element 322 close to it (e.g., near end 362). Figure 3 In the example shown, filter 324 is connected to antenna element 322 at end 362 via transmit line 370. This is an example, and other configurations can be used. For example, filter 324 can be connected to antenna element 322 via transmit line 370 close to but offset from end 362. For example, the nearest connection point from transmit line 370 to end 362 of antenna element 322 (e.g., the left edge 372 in this example) can be less than one-fifth of the wavelength of the highest frequency in the higher frequency range, for example, less than one-tenth (e.g., less than about 11 mm, where the higher frequency range spans 1.5 GHz to 2.7 GHz). The parasitic effects of antenna system 320 on antenna system 310 can depend on the source impedance of antenna system 320 in the higher frequency band (FR2). A short circuit is provided at the feed point of antenna element 322 in the higher frequency band (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 4 (As shown) This will cause the parasitic antenna element to operate at a higher frequency than if the feed point were open at FR2, but it may still have an unacceptably negative impact on the efficiency of antenna element 322. By providing a filter 324 near the end 362 and providing a short circuit at FR2, antenna element 322 becomes reflective to antenna element 312, such that the presence of antenna element 322 may not significantly reduce (e.g., reduce by less than 1 dB, for example, less than 0.5 dB) the efficiency of antenna element 312.

[0024] Although referred to as open circuit and short circuit, open circuit 326 and short circuit 328 can provide approximate open circuit and approximate short circuit, respectively. For example, open circuit 326 can have a normalized impedance magnitude of at least 10 (+) over the higher frequency range FR2. As another example, short circuit 328 can have a normalized impedance magnitude of less than 0.1 (e.g., less than 0.05) over the lower frequency range FR1. Therefore, for example, if transmit line 370 has an impedance of about 50 ohms (Ω), open circuit 326 can have an impedance magnitude of at least 500 ohms, and short circuit 328 can have an impedance magnitude of less than 5 ohms (e.g., less than 2.5 ohms). Open circuit 326 and short circuit 328 provide high reflection impedance.

[0025] Also refer to Figure 4 Filter 400, as an example of filter 324, includes an acoustic resonator 410 and an inductor 420 connected in series with the acoustic resonator 410. Inductor 420 is optional and can be omitted from filter 400. Acoustic resonator 410 may be a bulk acoustic wave (BAW) resonator or a surface acoustic wave (SAW) resonator. Conventional SAW / BAW filters (i.e., filters using SAW or BAW resonators) typically use a stepped arrangement (typically four resonators arranged in off, series, parallel, or series configurations). However, filter 400 consists of a single acoustic filter. While other filter configurations (e.g., LC circuits) may be used, the use of acoustic resonator 410 provides better performance. For example, acoustic resonator 410 may have a quality factor of approximately 1000, which provides a better quality factor than other types of (e.g., LC) circuits that typically have a quality factor of approximately 50. Inductor 420 may be configured to provide the desired inductance to filter 400 to provide a short circuit 328 within the desired frequency range. Inductor 420 can be configured to provide a small inductance, such as 2nH, with very low losses.

[0026] Also refer to Figure 5 Filter 500, as an example of filter 324, includes an acoustic resonator 510, an inductor bank 520, and a switch 530. Inductor bank 520 includes multiple inductors, here inductors 521, 522, and 523. Inductors 521 to 523 can be configured to provide different inductances, and switch 530 is configured to selectively connect one of the inductors 521 to 523 to resonator 510, such that filter 500 provides a short circuit 328 within a desired frequency range. Switch 530 can be controlled (e.g., by means of...) Figure 6 The processor control discussed here selectively connects one of the inductors 521 to 523 in series with the acoustic resonator 510.

[0027] Also refer to Figure 6Device 600 includes antenna systems 610, 620, frame 630, transceiver 640, and processor 650. Device 600 may be an example of device 300. This is an example, and other types of devices may be used and / or other numbers of antennas may be provided in device 600. For example, some current smartphones include eight (8) or more antennas, such as 11 or more antennas. Antenna systems 610 and 620 include antenna elements 612 and 622, front-end circuitry (FEC) 616 and 626, power couplers (EC) 617 and 627, and grounding connectors 618 and 628, respectively. Antenna system 610 also includes a filter 624, which is an example of filter 324 (e.g., filter 400 or filter 500). Antenna system 610 is configured to operate in a lower frequency range, and antenna system 620 is configured to operate in a higher frequency range. In the example shown, the FEC 616, EC 617, and filter 624 of antenna system 610 are positioned along or near the upper edge of device 600, and the ground connector 618 is positioned along or near the right edge of device 600. Similarly, in the example shown, the FEC 626, EC 627, and ground connector 628 of antenna system 620 are positioned along or near the top edge of device 600. One or both of antenna systems 610 and 620 may be positioned elsewhere relative to device 600.

[0028] Front-end circuits 616 and 626 may be configured to provide one or more signals to be radiated by antenna elements 612 and 622 of antenna systems 610 and 620, and / or receive and process one or more signals received by front-end circuits 616 and 626 and provided from antenna elements 612 and 622 to front-end circuits 616 and 626 via energy couplers 617 and 627. Energy couplers 617 and 627 are configured to transfer energy to and / or from the antenna elements of antenna systems 610 and 620, respectively. One or more front-end circuits in front-end circuits 616 and 626 may include corresponding matching circuits to facilitate signal transmission from FEC 616 and 626 to EC 617 and 627 and from EC 617 and 627 to FEC 616 and 626. Front-end circuits 616, 626 may be configured to process (e.g., amplify, route, filter, etc.) RF (radio frequency) signals received from transceiver 640 or antenna elements 612, 622, for example without significantly adjusting their frequency. Transceiver 640 may be configured to convert the frequency of the signal between baseband and RF (e.g., the frequency used for wireless transmission or reception) in a direct conversion or heterodyne architecture.

[0029] Front-end circuitry 616, 626 (also referred to as radio frequency (RF) circuitry) is coupled to transceiver 640, which is coupled to processor 650, including memory 652. Memory 652 may be a non-transitory processor-readable storage medium comprising software with processor-readable instructions configured to cause processor 650 to perform functions (e.g., possibly after compilation of the instructions). Processor 650 may be implemented as a modem or part thereof. One or more of antenna systems 610, 620 may include a linear inverted-F antenna (WIFA). Processor 650 (e.g., in conjunction with instructions stored in memory 652) may control filter 624 (e.g., filter 500) such that switch 530 selectively couples one of inductors 521 to 523 to acoustic resonator 510, for example, to adjust the frequency range of short circuit 328 to a desired frequency range (or at least cover the desired frequency).

[0030] refer to Figure 7 And further reference Figures 1 to 6 The flowchart of signal transmission method 700 includes the stages shown. However, method 700 is an example and not a limitation. Method 700 can be modified, for example, by adding, removing, rearranging, combining, performing one or more stages concurrently, and / or splitting a single stage into multiple stages.

[0031] In stage 710, method 700 includes using a first antenna element of the device configured to resonate in a higher frequency range to transpose a first signal. For example, antenna element 312 can be used to transpose a wireless signal and a guided (e.g., wired) signal in a first frequency range on which antenna element 312 is configured to resonate.

[0032] In stage 720, method 700 includes using a second antenna element of the device configured to resonate in a lower frequency range that spans one or more frequencies below those in the higher frequency range to transpose a second signal. For example, antenna element 322 can be used to transpose a wireless signal in a second frequency range on which antenna element 322 is configured to resonate with a guided (e.g., wired) signal.

[0033] In stage 730, method 700 includes providing an approximate open circuit to the transmit line connected to the second antenna element in a lower frequency range. For example, filter 324 (e.g., filter 400 or filter 500) may provide an open circuit 326 to the transmit line 370 connected to the antenna element 322 in a first frequency range (FR1). Filter 324 (e.g., filter 400 (e.g., resonator 410, or resonator 410 and inductor 420) or filter 500 (e.g., resonator 510, or resonator 510 and one of inductors 521 to 523, combined with switch 530, possibly combined with processor 650)) may include components for providing an approximate open circuit.

[0034] In stage 740, method 700 includes providing an approximate short circuit to the transmit line in a higher frequency range to suppress parasitic effects of the second antenna element on the first antenna element. For example, filter 324 (e.g., filter 400 or filter 500) may provide a short circuit 328 to the transmit line 370 connected to antenna element 322 in a second frequency range (FR2). Filter 324 (e.g., filter 400 (e.g., resonator 410, or resonator 410 and inductor 420) or filter 500 (e.g., resonator 510, or resonator 510 and one of inductors 521 to 523, combined with switch 530, possibly combined with processor 650)) may include components for providing an approximate short circuit.

[0035] Specific implementations of method 700 may include one or more of the following features. In an example implementation, providing an approximate short circuit includes a short-circuit frequency range for tuning the approximate short circuit. For example, inductor 420 or inductor group 520 may be used to tune filter 324 to provide a frequency range for short circuit 328. Inductor 420 may include components for tuning the short-circuit frequency range. Inductor group 520, combined with switch 530 and possibly processor 650, may include components for tuning the short-circuit frequency range.

[0036] Specific implementation examples

[0037] Specific implementation examples are provided in the following numbered clauses.

[0038] Clause 1. An apparatus comprising:

[0039] A first antenna element, the first antenna element being configured to resonate in a higher frequency range;

[0040] A second antenna element, configured to resonate in a lower frequency range, said lower frequency range spanning one or more frequencies below those in the higher frequency range; and

[0041] A filter connected to the second antenna element, the filter being configured to have a frequency-dependent impedance that is approximately open at the lower frequency range and approximately short at the higher frequency range, the filter being positioned to the second antenna element to suppress parasitic effects of the second antenna element on the first antenna element.

[0042] Clause 2. The apparatus according to Clause 1, wherein the first antenna element includes a first elongated radiator, the second antenna element includes a second elongated radiator, a first end of the first elongated radiator is positioned near a second end of the second elongated radiator, and the filter is connected near the second end of the second elongated radiator.

[0043] Clause 3. The apparatus according to Clause 2, wherein the filter is connected to the second end of the second elongated radiator within one-tenth of the wavelength of the highest frequency in the higher frequency range.

[0044] Clause 4. The apparatus according to Clause 2 or Clause 3, wherein the first elongated radiator is a first metal frame conductor and the second elongated radiator is a second metal frame conductor, and the first end of the first elongated radiator is separated from the second end of the second elongated radiator by less than one-tenth of the wavelength of the highest frequency in the higher frequency range.

[0045] Clause 5. The apparatus according to any one of Clauses 1 to 4, wherein the filter comprises an acoustic resonator.

[0046] Clause 6. The apparatus according to Clause 5, wherein the filter includes an inductor connected in series with the acoustic resonator.

[0047] Clause 7. The apparatus of Clause 5, wherein the filter comprises a plurality of inductors and a switch configured to selectively connect one of the plurality of inductors in series with the acoustic resonator at a time.

[0048] Clause 8. The apparatus according to any one of Clauses 5 to 7, wherein the acoustic resonator comprises a single acoustic resonator.

[0049] Clause 9. The apparatus according to any one of Clauses 5 to 7, wherein the acoustic resonator comprises a surface acoustic wave resonator or a bulk acoustic wave resonator.

[0050] Clause 10. The apparatus according to any one of Clauses 1 to 9, wherein the frequency-dependent impedance has a normalized impedance magnitude of less than 0.05 in the higher frequency range and a normalized impedance magnitude of at least 10 in the lower frequency range.

[0051] Clause 11. The apparatus according to any one of Clauses 1 to 9, wherein the lower frequency range has a fractional bandwidth of less than 10%.

[0052] Clause 12. A signal transmission method, the signal transmission method comprising:

[0053] The first signal is transduced using a first antenna element configured to resonate in a higher frequency range.

[0054] The second signal is transduced using a second antenna element configured to resonate in a lower frequency range, the lower frequency range spanning one or more frequencies below the higher frequency range;

[0055] Providing an approximately open circuit to the transmission line connected to the second antenna element in the lower frequency range; and

[0056] An approximate short circuit is provided to the transmit line at the higher frequency range to suppress the parasitic effects of the second antenna element on the first antenna element.

[0057] Clause 13. The signal transmission method according to Clause 12, wherein providing the approximate short circuit includes tuning the short-circuit frequency range of the approximate short circuit.

[0058] Clause 14. An apparatus comprising:

[0059] A first antenna element, the first antenna element being configured to resonate in a higher frequency range;

[0060] A second antenna element is configured to resonate in a lower frequency range, the lower frequency range spanning one or more frequencies below the frequencies in the higher frequency range;

[0061] Components for providing an approximately open circuit to the transmission line connected to the second antenna element in the lower frequency range; and

[0062] A component for providing an approximate short circuit to the transmit line in the higher frequency range to suppress the parasitic effects of the second antenna element on the first antenna element.

[0063] Clause 15. The apparatus according to Clause 14, wherein the component for providing the approximate short circuit includes a component for tuning the short-circuit frequency range of the approximate short circuit.

[0064] Clause 16. An apparatus comprising:

[0065] A first antenna element, configured to resonate in a higher frequency range, includes a first elongated conductor positioned at least near the periphery of the device;

[0066] A second antenna element, configured to resonate in a lower frequency range spanning one or more frequencies below those in the higher frequency range, includes a second elongated conductor positioned at least near the periphery of the device, a first end of the first elongated conductor being separated from a second end of the second elongated conductor by less than one-tenth the wavelength of the highest frequency in the higher frequency range; and

[0067] A filter is connected near the second end of the second elongated conductor, and the filter is configured to provide an approximate open circuit in the lower frequency range and an approximate short circuit in the higher frequency range.

[0068] Clause 17. The apparatus according to Clause 16, wherein the filter is connected to the second end of the second elongated conductor via a transmission line within one-tenth of the wavelength of the highest frequency in the higher frequency range.

[0069] Clause 18. The apparatus according to Clause 16 or 17, wherein the filter includes an acoustic resonator.

[0070] Clause 19. The apparatus of Clause 18, wherein the filter includes an inductor connected in series with the acoustic resonator.

[0071] Clause 20. The apparatus of Clause 18, wherein the filter comprises a plurality of inductors and a switch configured to selectively connect one of the plurality of inductors in series with the acoustic resonator at a time.

[0072] Clause 21. The apparatus according to any one of Clauses 18 to 20, wherein the acoustic resonator comprises a single acoustic resonator.

[0073] Clause 22. The apparatus according to any one of Clauses 18 to 20, wherein the acoustic resonator comprises a surface acoustic wave resonator or a bulk acoustic wave resonator.

[0074] Clause 23. The apparatus according to any one of Clauses 16 to 22, wherein the approximate short circuit has a first normalized impedance magnitude of less than 0.05 in the higher frequency range, and the approximate open circuit has a second normalized impedance magnitude of at least 10 in the lower frequency range.

[0075] Other considerations

[0076] Other examples and specific implementations are within the scope of this disclosure and the appended claims. For example, due to the nature of software and computers, the functions described above can be implemented using software, hardware, firmware, hardwiring, or any combination thereof executed by a processor. Features implementing the functions can also be physically located in various locations, including portions distributed such that the functions are implemented in different physical locations.

[0077] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” also include the plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Thus, references to a device in the singular form included in the claims (e.g., “device,” “the / said device”) include at least one of such devices (i.e., one or more) (e.g., “processor” includes at least one processor (e.g., one processor, two processors, etc.), “the / said processor” includes at least one processor, “memory” includes at least one memory, “the / said memory” includes at least one memory, etc.). The phrases “at least one” and “one or more” are used interchangeably, and such that the object referred to by “at least one” and the object referred to by “one or more” include embodiments having one referred object and embodiments having multiple referred objects. For example, “at least one processor” and “one or more processors” each include embodiments having one processor and embodiments having multiple processors.

[0078] As used herein, the term "comprising" indicates the presence of the described features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0079] Furthermore, as used herein, the "or" (possibly followed by "at least one of" or "one or more of") used in the item enumeration indicates a disjunctive enumeration such that an enumeration of, for example, "at least one of A, B, or C," or an enumeration of "one or more of A, B, or C," or an enumeration of "A or B or C" represents A or B or C or AB (A and B) or AC (A and C) or BC (B and C) or ABC (i.e., A and B and C), or a combination having more than one feature (e.g., AA, AAB, ABBC, etc.). Therefore, a statement that an item (e.g., a processor) is configured to perform a function relating to at least one of A or B, or a statement that an item is configured to perform function A or function B, indicates that the item can be configured to perform a function relating to A, or can be configured to perform a function relating to B, or can be configured to perform a function relating to both A and B. For example, the phrase "a processor configured to measure at least one of A or B" or "a processor configured to measure A or measure B" means that the processor can be configured to measure A (and may or may not be configured to measure B), or can be configured to measure B (and may or may not be configured to measure A), or can be configured to measure both A and B (and can be configured to select which of A and B or measure both). Similarly, a description of a component for measuring at least one of A or B includes: a component for measuring A (which may or may not be able to measure B), or a component for measuring B (which may or may not be configured to measure A), or a component for measuring A and B (which may be able to select which of A and B or measure both). As another example, a description of an item (e.g., a processor) being configured to perform at least one of function X or function Y means that the item can be configured to perform function X, or can be configured to perform function Y, or can be configured to perform both functions X and Y. For example, the phrase "processor configured to measure at least one of X or Y" means that the processor can be configured to measure X (and may or may not be configured to measure Y), or can be configured to measure Y (and may or may not be configured to measure X), or can be configured to measure both X and Y (and can be configured to select which of X and Y or measure both).

[0080] As used herein, unless otherwise stated, a description of a function or operation as “based on” an item or condition means that the function or operation is based on the described item or condition and may be based on one or more items and / or conditions other than the described item or condition.

[0081] Substantial changes can be made depending on specific requirements. For example, custom hardware may be used, and / or specific elements may be implemented in the hardware, in software executed by the processor (including portable software such as applets), or both. Furthermore, connections to other computing devices, such as network input / output devices, may be employed. Unless otherwise specified, components shown in the figures and / or discussed herein that are connected or communicate with each other (functionally or otherwise) are communicatively coupled. That is, these components may be connected directly or indirectly to enable communication between them.

[0082] The systems and devices discussed above are examples. Various configurations may appropriately omit, substitute, or add various processes or components. For example, features described with respect to certain configurations may be combined in various other configurations. Different aspects and elements of configurations may be combined in a similar manner. Furthermore, technology is constantly evolving, and therefore many elements are examples and do not limit the scope of this disclosure or the claims.

[0083] A wireless communication system is a system in which communication is transmitted wirelessly between wireless communication devices, that is, through the propagation of electromagnetic waves and / or sound waves through the atmosphere rather than through wires or other physical connections. A wireless communication system (also called a wireless communication system or wireless communication network) may not transmit all communication wirelessly, but is configured to transmit at least some communication wirelessly. Furthermore, the term "wireless communication device" or similar terms do not require the device to be functionally exclusive or even primarily used for communication, do not require that communication using the wireless communication device be exclusive or even primarily wireless, and do not require that the device be a mobile device, but rather indicate that the device includes wireless communication capabilities (one-way or two-way), for example, including at least one radio component (each radio component being part of a transmitter, receiver, or transceiver) for wireless communication.

[0084] Specific details are provided in this description to offer a thorough understanding of the example configurations, including specific implementations. However, the configurations can be practiced without these specific details. For example, well-known circuits, processes, algorithms, structures, and techniques have been shown without unnecessary detail to avoid obscuring these configurations. The description herein provides example configurations and does not limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the claims. Rather, the preceding description of the configurations provides a description for implementing the described techniques. Various changes can be made to the function and arrangement of the elements.

[0085] As used herein, the terms “processor-readable medium,” “machine-readable medium,” and “computer-readable medium” refer to any medium that participates in providing data that enables a machine to operate in a particular manner. Using a computing platform, various processor-readable media may involve providing instructions / code to a processor for execution, and / or may be used to store and / or carry such instructions / code (e.g., as signals). In many specific implementations, processor-readable media are physical and / or tangible storage media. Such media can take many forms, including but not limited to non-volatile and volatile media. Non-volatile media include, for example, optical discs and / or magnetic disks. Volatile media include, but are not limited to, dynamic memory.

[0086] Having described several example configurations, various modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents can be used. For example, the above elements can be components of a larger system, where other rules may take precedence over or otherwise modify the application of this disclosure. Furthermore, several operations may be performed before, during, or after considering the above elements. Accordingly, the above description does not limit the scope of the claims.

[0087] Unless otherwise indicated, the terms "about" and / or "approximately" as used herein when referring to measurable values ​​(such as quantities, durations of time, etc.) cover variations of ±20%, ±10%, ±5%, or ±0.1% from the specified value, as appropriate in the context of the systems, devices, circuits, methods, and other specific embodiments described herein. Similarly, unless otherwise indicated, the term "substantially" as used herein when referring to measurable values ​​(such as quantities, durations of time, physical properties (such as frequencies), etc.) also covers variations of ±20%, ±10%, ±5%, or ±0.1% from the specified value, as appropriate in the context of the systems, devices, circuits, methods, and other specific embodiments described herein.

[0088] A statement that a value exceeds (or is greater than or higher than) a first threshold is equivalent to a statement that a value meets or exceeds a second threshold slightly greater than the first threshold. For example, in the resolution of the computing system, the second threshold is one value higher than the first threshold. A statement that a value is less than the first threshold (or within or below the first threshold) is equivalent to a statement that a value is less than or equal to a second threshold slightly lower than the first threshold. For example, in the resolution of the computing system, the second threshold is one value lower than the first threshold.

Claims

1. An apparatus, the apparatus comprising: A first antenna element, the first antenna element being configured to resonate in a higher frequency range; A second antenna element is configured to resonate in a lower frequency range, the lower frequency range spanning one or more frequencies below the frequencies in the higher frequency range; and A filter connected to the second antenna element, the filter being configured to have a frequency-dependent impedance that is approximately open-circuited in the lower frequency range and approximately short-circuited in the higher frequency range, the filter being positioned to the second antenna element to suppress parasitic effects of the second antenna element on the first antenna element.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first antenna element includes a first elongated radiator, the second antenna element includes a second elongated radiator, a first end of the first elongated radiator is positioned near a second end of the second elongated radiator, and the filter is connected near the second end of the second elongated radiator.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the filter is connected to the second end of the second elongated radiator within one-tenth of the wavelength of the highest frequency in the higher frequency range.

4. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the first elongated radiator is a first metal frame conductor, and the second elongated radiator is a second metal frame conductor, and the first end of the first elongated radiator is separated from the second end of the second elongated radiator by less than one-tenth of the wavelength of the highest frequency in the higher frequency range.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the filter comprises an acoustic resonator.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the filter comprises an inductor connected in series with the acoustic resonator.

7. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the filter comprises a plurality of inductors and a switch, the switch being configured to selectively connect one of the plurality of inductors in series with the acoustic resonator at a time.

8. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the acoustic resonator comprises a single acoustic resonator.

9. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the acoustic resonator comprises a surface acoustic wave resonator or a bulk acoustic wave resonator.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the frequency-dependent impedance has a normalized impedance magnitude of less than 0.05 in the higher frequency range and a normalized impedance magnitude of at least 10 in the lower frequency range.

11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the lower frequency range has a fractional bandwidth of less than 10%.

12. A signal transmission method, the signal transmission method comprising: The first signal is transduced using a first antenna element configured to resonate in a higher frequency range. The second signal is transduced using a second antenna element configured to resonate in a lower frequency range, the lower frequency range spanning one or more frequencies below the higher frequency range; An approximate open circuit is provided to the transmission line connected to the second antenna element in the lower frequency range; as well as An approximate short circuit is provided to the transmit line at the higher frequency range to suppress the parasitic effects of the second antenna element on the first antenna element.

13. The signal transmission method of claim 12, wherein providing the approximate short circuit includes tuning the short-circuit frequency range of the approximate short circuit.

14. An apparatus comprising: A first antenna element, the first antenna element being configured to resonate in a higher frequency range; A second antenna element is configured to resonate in a lower frequency range, the lower frequency range spanning one or more frequencies below the frequencies in the higher frequency range; Components for providing an approximately open circuit to the transmission line connected to the second antenna element in the lower frequency range; and A component for providing an approximate short circuit to the transmit line in the higher frequency range to suppress the parasitic effects of the second antenna element on the first antenna element.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the component for providing the approximate short circuit includes a component for tuning the short-circuit frequency range of the approximate short circuit.

16. An apparatus comprising: A first antenna element, configured to resonate in a higher frequency range, includes a first elongated conductor positioned at least near the periphery of the device; A second antenna element configured to resonate in a lower frequency range, the lower frequency range spanning one or more frequencies below the frequencies in the higher frequency range, the second antenna element including a second elongated conductor positioned at least near the periphery of the device, a first end of the first elongated conductor being separated from a second end of the second elongated conductor by less than one-tenth the wavelength of the highest frequency in the higher frequency range; and A filter is connected near the second end of the second elongated conductor, and the filter is configured to provide an approximate open circuit in the lower frequency range and an approximate short circuit in the higher frequency range.

17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the filter is connected to the second end of the second elongated conductor via a transmission line within one-tenth of the wavelength of the highest frequency in the higher frequency range.

18. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the filter comprises an acoustic resonator.

19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the filter comprises an inductor connected in series with the acoustic resonator.

20. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the filter comprises a plurality of inductors and a switch, the switch being configured to selectively connect one of the plurality of inductors in series with the acoustic resonator at a time.

21. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the acoustic resonator comprises a single acoustic resonator.

22. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the acoustic resonator comprises a surface acoustic wave resonator or a bulk acoustic wave resonator.

23. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the approximate short circuit has a first normalized impedance magnitude of less than 0.05 in the higher frequency range, and the approximate open circuit has a second normalized impedance magnitude of at least 10 in the lower frequency range.

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