Apparatus having a dielectric waveguide interface for coupling between an antenna system and a dielectric waveguide

Abstract

This invention discloses an apparatus having a dielectric waveguide interface for coupling between an antenna system and a dielectric waveguide. In one example, an apparatus includes a housing forming an enclosed space, an antenna system within the enclosed space, and a dielectric waveguide interface configured to couple a dielectric waveguide to the housing without impairing the housing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an apparatus having a dielectric waveguide interface for coupling between an antenna system and a dielectric waveguide. Background Technology

[0002] Distributed radar systems are used for automotive sensing to detect objects within the vehicle's field of view. In such radar systems, an RF front-end assembly, including a radio frequency (RF) antenna, can be enclosed in a sealed housing including an radome. Additionally, it may be desirable to be able to calibrate the radar system using a known target. Calibration of the radar system may involve coupling signals to and from the RF front-end assembly to another sensor via a dielectric waveguide (e.g., polymer optical fiber (PMF)) connected to the radar system in close proximity to the antenna of the RF front-end. While the ability to calibrate the radar system is important, maintaining the integrity of the housing enclosing the RF antenna is also crucial. Summary of the Invention

[0003] A device having a dielectric waveguide interface for coupling between an antenna system and a dielectric waveguide is disclosed. In one example, the device includes a housing forming an enclosed space, an antenna system within the enclosed space, and a dielectric waveguide interface configured to couple a dielectric waveguide to the housing without impairing the housing.

[0004] In the example, the dielectric waveguide interface includes a receiver in the housing, wherein the receiver is configured to house the dielectric waveguide.

[0005] In the example, the dielectric waveguide interface includes a receiver in the housing that is shaped similarly to the dielectric waveguide.

[0006] In the example, the housing includes a base coupled to the radome, and the dielectric waveguide interface includes a receiver in the radome, wherein the receiver is configured to house the dielectric waveguide.

[0007] In the example, the device further includes a coupling structure configured to enhance electromagnetic energy coupling between the dielectric waveguide interface and the antenna system.

[0008] In the example, the device further includes a plurality of structural elements positioned symmetrically relative to the antenna system within the housing.

[0009] Another example of a device includes: a housing comprising a base and an radome coupled to the base, wherein the base and the radome form an enclosed space; an antenna system within the enclosed space; and a dielectric waveguide interface integrated with the housing and configured to accommodate a dielectric waveguide without impairing the housing.

[0010] In this example, the dielectric waveguide interface includes a receiver within the housing.

[0011] In the example, the dielectric waveguide interface includes a receiver in the housing whose shape and size are configured to house a dielectric waveguide.

[0012] In this example, the dielectric waveguide interface includes a receiver mount within the radome.

[0013] In the example, the dielectric waveguide interface includes a receiver in the radome whose shape and size are configured to accommodate the end of the dielectric waveguide.

[0014] In this example, the device further includes an electromagnetic energy coupling structure integrated with the housing.

[0015] In this example, the device further includes an electromagnetic energy coupling structure integrated with the radome.

[0016] In this example, the electromagnetic energy coupling structure includes a plurality of structural elements symmetrically positioned relative to the antenna system within the housing.

[0017] Another example of a device includes: a base; an antenna system coupled to the base; and an radome coupled to the base, wherein the base and the radome form a housing surrounding the antenna system; wherein the radome includes a dielectric waveguide interface configured to receive a dielectric waveguide without impairing the radome.

[0018] In this example, the dielectric waveguide interface includes a receiver mount within the radome.

[0019] In the example, the receiver includes a cavity within the radome, the cavity being configured to house the end portion of a dielectric waveguide.

[0020] In this example, the radome further includes an electromagnetic energy coupling structure configured to enhance the electromagnetic energy coupling between the antenna system and the dielectric waveguide interface.

[0021] In the example, the radome includes at least one additional structural element that is symmetrically positioned relative to the electromagnetic energy coupling structure and the antenna system.

[0022] Other aspects of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are shown as examples of the principles of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1AIt is a side view of the device including the base, the dome-shaped radome, the antenna system, and the dielectric waveguide interface.

[0024] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A A top view of the device.

[0025] Figure 1C yes Figure 1A A side view of the device.

[0026] Figure 1D Is with Figure 1A-1C A side view of a device similar to the one with at least one coupling structure.

[0027] Figure 1E yes Figure 1D A top view of the device.

[0028] Figure 2A It is a side view of the device including the base, the planar radome, the antenna system, and the dielectric waveguide interface.

[0029] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A A top view of the device.

[0030] Figure 2C yes Figure 2A A side view of the device.

[0031] Figure 2D Is with Figure 2A-2C A side view of a device similar to the one with at least one coupling structure.

[0032] Figure 2E yes Figure 2D A top view of the device.

[0033] Figure 2F Is with Figure 2D and 2E A perspective view of the coupling structure is shown for a device similar to the one described above.

[0034] Figure 3A It is a side view of an apparatus including a base, a planar radome, an antenna system, and a dielectric waveguide interface on the side wall of the radome.

[0035] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A top view of the device.

[0036] Figure 3C yes Figure 3A A side view of the device.

[0037] Figure 4AIt is a side view of an apparatus including a base, a planar radome, an antenna system, and a dielectric waveguide interface on the side wall of the radome.

[0038] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A A top view of the device.

[0039] Figure 4C yes Figure 4A A side view of the device.

[0040] Figure 5A It is a side view of an apparatus including a base, a planar radome, an antenna system, and a dielectric waveguide interface on the top planar surface of the radome.

[0041] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A A top view of the device.

[0042] Figure 6 As per reference Figure 1A-5B A functional block diagram may be included as an example of a component in the device.

[0043] Figure 7A A perspective view depicting the base and antenna system without the radome attached to the base.

[0044] Figure 7B This is a perspective view of the device, in which the radome is attached. Figure 7A The base shown.

[0045] Throughout the description, similar reference numerals can be used to identify similar elements. Detailed Implementation

[0046] It is readily understood that the components of the embodiments generally described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings can be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Therefore, the following more detailed description of various embodiments as illustrated in the figures is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure, but merely to illustrate various embodiments. Although various aspects of the embodiments are presented in the drawings, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale unless specifically indicated.

[0047] The invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. The described embodiments should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects. Therefore, the scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims rather than by a detailed description thereof. All modifications falling within the equivalent meaning and scope of the claims should be included within their scope.

[0048] References to features, advantages, or similar language throughout this specification do not imply that all features and advantages achievable with this invention should be included in or in any single embodiment of the invention. Rather, language relating to features and advantages should be understood to mean that a specific feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. Therefore, discussions of features and advantages throughout this specification, as well as similar language, may (but are not necessarily) refer to the same embodiment.

[0049] Furthermore, the features, advantages, and characteristics described in this invention can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that, in view of the description herein, this invention can be practiced without one or more specific features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other instances, additional features and advantages that may not be present in all embodiments of the invention may be recognized in certain embodiments.

[0050] References to “an embodiment,” “embodiment,” or similar language throughout this specification mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the indicated embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. Therefore, the phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” and similar language throughout this specification may (but not necessarily) all refer to the same embodiment.

[0051] The descriptions provided herein refer to elements, nodes, or features being "connected" or "coupled" together. As used herein, unless otherwise expressly stated, "connected" means that one element is directly engaged to (or directly communicates with) another element, and not necessarily mechanically engaged. Similarly, unless otherwise expressly stated, "coupled" means that one element is directly or indirectly engaged to (or directly or indirectly communicates with) another element electrically or otherwise, and not necessarily mechanically engaged. Therefore, although the schematic diagrams shown depict an exemplary arrangement of elements, additional intervening elements, means, features, or components may be present in embodiments of the depicted subject matter.

[0052] Some techniques for coupling a dielectric waveguide to an RF system may involve the dielectric waveguide passing entirely through a radome of the RF system, bringing the dielectric waveguide very close to the antenna of the RF system. However, allowing the dielectric waveguide to pass entirely through the radome may compromise the integrity of the housing. It has been recognized that a dielectric waveguide can be coupled to the housing of an RF system without compromising the housing to, for example, achieve RF system calibration. In one example, an apparatus includes a base, an antenna system coupled to the base, and a radome coupled to the base, wherein the base and the radome form a housing surrounding the RF antenna system, and the radome includes a dielectric waveguide interface configured to receive the dielectric waveguide without compromising the radome. In another example, the dielectric waveguide interface includes a receiver in the radome that does not compromise the housing surrounding the RF antenna system. In addition to coupling the dielectric waveguide to the radome, it may be desirable to include at least one feature in the radome that enhances the electromagnetic energy coupling between the antenna system and the dielectric waveguide.

[0053] Figure 1A-1C An example of device 100 is depicted, comprising a housing (e.g., formed by a base 102 and a radome 104), an antenna system (e.g., including an antenna 108) within an enclosed space 110 formed by the housing, and a dielectric waveguide interface 114 integrated with the housing to couple electromagnetic energy between the antenna system and a dielectric waveguide 116, which couples to the dielectric waveguide interface without damaging the housing. Specifically, the dielectric waveguide interface does not damage the housing because it does not form an opening that completely penetrates the housing (e.g., completely penetrates the radome), which would allow contaminants (e.g., gases (e.g., air), dust particles, liquids (e.g., water)) from the surrounding environment into the enclosed space. For example, the dielectric waveguide interface is configured such that the dielectric waveguide does not penetrate into the enclosed space when fastened to the interface. In this way, the dielectric waveguide fastened to the interface is outside the enclosed space formed by the base and the radome. The dielectric waveguide interface physically secures the dielectric waveguide to the antenna radome of the housing and enables electromagnetic coupling between the dielectric waveguide and the antenna system through the dielectric waveguide interface 114. Figure 1A This is a side view of the device from its long side. Figure 1B It is a top view of the device, and Figure 1C This is a side view of the device from its short side. In this example, a dielectric waveguide is coupled to a transceiver configured to receive analog signals coupled to the dielectric waveguide via a dielectric waveguide interface. The transceiver may be connected to one or more processors that process analog signals in the analog and / or digital domains. In this example, the analog signal corresponds to the radar signal of a radar system.

[0054] refer to Figure 1AThe housing of device 100 is formed by a base 102 and an radome 104 coupled to the base. In this example, the base includes a main structure (e.g., a metal or plastic main structure) and one or more circuit boards including various electrical components (e.g., RF front-end components, communication components, and power management components). The one or more circuit boards may be fastened to or within the main structure of the base. An antenna system is coupled to the base, and the antenna system may include an array of multiple antennas 108, such as patch or microstrip antennas. Figure 1A Electromagnetic energy 118 emitted from the antenna of the antenna system is also shown to emphasize that the structure is an antenna. Figure 1B The top view shows an array of four transmit antennas (e.g., TX1, TX2, TX3, TX4) and four receive antennas (e.g., RX1, RX2, RX3, RX4). Although the antenna system includes four transmit antennas and four receive antennas, other numbers and configurations of antennas are also possible.

[0055] The radome 104 is a protective enclosure element designed to shield the antenna system from environmental factors such as water, dust, dirt, and mud without interfering with signal transmission. Radomes are typically dome-shaped, providing a circular, weather-resistant cover, reducing drag, and protecting sensitive radar equipment from physical damage and factors such as rain and icing. Radomes can be made of materials such as plastic, fiberglass, or composite materials (e.g., PTFE-coated fabric). In another example, planar radomes have a flat, panel-like design and are typically used where space or shape constraints exist. Figure 1A-1C The radome shown is coupled to the base 102 to form an enclosed space 110. The radome can be coupled to the base via, for example, a mechanical connector (e.g., screws and / or complementary attachment features on the base and radome), an adhesive, or a combination thereof. The coupling between the base and the radome may include additional elements such as gaskets to help form a waterproof seal between the base and the radome. In this example, the base is coupled to the radome in a manner that creates a waterproof, sealed enclosure, preventing water and / or other particles from entering the enclosed space. In sensing systems such as automotive radar, it is important to keep the enclosed space free from external elements such as water and dirt to ensure consistent sensing. Therefore, the enclosed space formed between the radome and the base helps maintain a controlled environment for the antenna system, protecting it from physical damage while allowing electromagnetic wave transmission, which is crucial for effective radar functionality.

[0056] As described above, the dielectric waveguide interface 114 is integrated with the housing without damaging it, ensuring that the dielectric waveguide fastened to the interface does not penetrate the housing surrounding the antenna system. Figure 1A-1CIn this example, the dielectric waveguide interface is integrated into the sidewall of the radome 104, and the dielectric waveguide interface includes a receiver pedestal sized and shaped to accommodate the end portion of the dielectric waveguide 116. The receiver pedestal includes an opening extending from the outer surface of the radome toward (but not quite) the inner surface of the radome. In this example, the receiver pedestal is a cavity in the outer surface of the radome that does not completely penetrate the radome and is configured to accommodate the end portion of the dielectric waveguide. In this example, the depth of the cavity is approximately 2-3 times the diameter of the dielectric waveguide. For example, for a dielectric waveguide with a diameter of 1 millimeter (mm), the cavity would have a diameter slightly greater than 1 mm (e.g., 1.05 mm) and a depth of 2-3 mm. When the dielectric waveguide is a PMF with a circular cross-section, the receiver pedestal is sized and shaped to accommodate the PMF such that the PMF fits snugly within the receiver pedestal. Similarly, when the dielectric waveguide is a PMF with a rectangular (e.g., square) cross-section, the receiver pedestal is sized and shaped to accommodate the PMF such that the PMF fits snugly within the receiver pedestal. Dielectric waveguides with other cross-sectional shapes are possible, and receiver mounts configured to accommodate dielectric waveguides of different shapes will be formed accordingly. In this example, the receiver mount has a depth dimension approximately 2-3 times the diameter of the dielectric waveguide, although receiver mounts can be configured with different depth dimensions. The portion of the dielectric waveguide housed in the receiver mount may be secured within the receiver mount using, for example, adhesives or attachment mechanisms (e.g., clamps). Regardless of the number of dielectric waveguides fitted within the receiver mount, the receiver mount does not form an opening that completely penetrates the radome, through which contaminants (e.g., air, dust, water) could be transmitted from the external environment into the enclosed space. Therefore, the dielectric waveguide interface does not impair the radome, for example, it does not compromise the integrity of the radome. That is, the dielectric waveguide interface is integrated with the radome such that the dielectric waveguide interface protects the enclosed space from the influence of the dielectric waveguide, and the dielectric waveguide does not penetrate into the enclosed space formed by the base and the radome, penetration that could allow contaminants (e.g., air, dust, water) from the external environment to enter the enclosed space.

[0057] In the examples, the diameter or cross-section of the dielectric waveguide 116 depends on the operating frequency of the system and / or the properties of the dielectric waveguide material. In an example of a radar system operating at 77 GHz, the dielectric waveguide may have a diameter of approximately 1 mm. For example, the dielectric waveguide of a PMF may be coated with an insulating material, which would increase the total diameter to, for example, approximately 1 cm. Although examples of dielectric waveguides have been provided, dielectric waveguides with other cross-sectional shapes and sizes are possible.

[0058] The dielectric waveguide interface 114 physically secures the dielectric waveguide 116 to the housing (e.g., formed by the base 102 and radome 104) and enables electromagnetic energy to be coupled between the antenna system and the dielectric waveguide, for example, from the antenna system to the dielectric waveguide and / or from the dielectric waveguide to the antenna system. Electromagnetic energy coupling between the antenna system and the dielectric waveguide is important for enabling signal transmission between the antenna system and the dielectric waveguide for system calibration. In some examples, one or more additional features may be integrated with the housing to enhance electromagnetic energy coupling between the antenna system and the dielectric waveguide. In examples, features include structures integrated into the housing and designed to enhance electromagnetic energy coupling between the antenna system and the dielectric waveguide. Examples of structures integrated into the housing and designed to enhance electromagnetic energy coupling between the antenna system and the dielectric waveguide include thicker portions of the radome, design features of the base (e.g., features designed into a circuit board of the base), and / or components mounted on the base or radome.

[0059] Figure 1D and 1E They are similar to Figure 1A-1C Side and top views of the device 101, wherein the radome 104 further includes at least one coupling structure 120 integrated into the radome. (Reference) Figure 1D The coupling structure may include a section of the radome that is thicker than the rest of the radome and is designed to enhance electromagnetic energy coupling between the antenna system and the dielectric waveguide. In addition to the coupling structure enhancing electromagnetic energy coupling between the antenna system and the dielectric waveguide, the radome may also include at least one additional coupling structure 122 that can be configured, for example, to promote signal symmetry within the device.

[0060] refer to Figure 1E The top view also shows the location and extent of the two coupling structures 120 and 122. Figure 1D and 1E In this example, the two coupling structures are formed by the thicker portion of the material of the radome 104. In this example, the radome 104, the dielectric waveguide interface 114, and the coupling structures 120 and 122 are "integrally formed together" by being embodied in a single sheet of plastic formed through injection molding. Figure 1D and 1E In one example, the coupling structure is integrated with the radome in a configuration symmetrical with respect to the antenna system, because the symmetry of the coupling structure facilitates signal sensing. In another example, coupling structures 120 and 122 are symmetrical with respect to the x-axis and y-axis of the radome, which each pass through the geometric center of the radome. Although references Figure 1D and 1EExamples of coupling structures have been described, but other configurations of one or more coupling structures are possible. For instance, other coupling structures can be integrated into the housing to enhance electromagnetic energy coupling between the antenna system and the dielectric waveguide and / or promote symmetry with respect to the antenna system.

[0061] In another example, the coupling structure may include a coating that acts as a mirror reflecting electromagnetic energy. For instance, the coupling structure may include a coating (e.g., a metallic reflective coating) on ​​the surface of a radome (e.g., on the inner surface of the radome) to facilitate the reflection of electromagnetic energy.

[0062] Figure 1A-1E Examples of devices 100 and 101 are depicted, wherein the antenna radome 104 of the housing has a dome shape. Figures 2A-2E Examples of devices 200 and 201 are depicted, wherein the radome 204 has a planar shape. Figure 2A This is a side view of device 200 on its long side. Figure 2B It is a top view of the device, and Figure 2C This is a side view of the device from the shorter side of the device.

[0063] exist Figure 2A-2C In this example, the dielectric waveguide interface 214 of device 200 is integrated into the sidewall of radome 204 in the form of a receiver base, the size and shape of which are configured to accommodate the end portion of dielectric waveguide 216. The receiver base includes an opening extending from the outer surface of the radome toward (but not to) the inner surface of the radome, and is configured to accommodate the end portion of the dielectric waveguide. When the dielectric waveguide is a PMF with a circular cross-section, the size and shape of the receiver base are configured to accommodate the PMF such that the PMF fits snugly within the receiver base. Similarly, when the dielectric waveguide is a PMF with a rectangular (e.g., square) cross-section, the size and shape of the receiver base are configured to accommodate the PMF such that the PMF fits snugly within the receiver base. Figure 2B The top view depicts the configuration of antenna 208 of the antenna system, and Figure 2C The side view depicts the shape of the receiver mount and the cross-sectional shape of the corresponding dielectric waveguide coupled within the receiver mount. The dielectric waveguide interface physically secures the dielectric waveguide to the radome of the housing without damaging the radome, ensuring that the dielectric waveguide does not penetrate the enclosed space, while simultaneously achieving electromagnetic coupling between the dielectric waveguide and the antenna system. Figure 2A Electromagnetic energy 218 emitted from the antenna of the antenna system is also shown to emphasize that the structure is an antenna.

[0064] refer to Figure 2A-2C The described dielectric waveguide interface 214 physically secures the dielectric waveguide to the radome 204 and enables electromagnetic energy to be coupled between at least one antenna 208 of the antenna system and the dielectric waveguide 216. Figure 2Dand 2E They are respectively with Figure 2A-2C The device 200 is similar to the device 201 in the side and top views, wherein the radome also includes at least one coupling structure 220 integrated into the radome.

[0065] refer to Figure 2D The coupling structure 220 may include at least one segment of the radome 204, said segment being thicker than the remainder of the radome and designed to enhance electromagnetic coupling between the antenna system and the dielectric waveguide. The radome may also include additional coupling structures 222 configured to promote signal symmetry within the device. Figure 2D and 2E In one example, coupling structures 220 and 222 are integrated with the radome in a configuration symmetrical with respect to the antenna system, because the symmetry of the coupling structures facilitates signal sensing. In another example, coupling structures 220 and 222 are symmetrical with respect to the x-axis and y-axis of the radome, which each pass through the geometric center of the radome.

[0066] refer to Figure 2E The top view of device 201 also shows the location and extent of two coupling structures 220 and 222. Figure 2D and Figure 2E In this example, the two coupling structures are formed by the thicker portion of the material of the radome 204. In this example, the radome, the dielectric waveguide interface 214, and the coupling structures 220, 222 are "integrally formed together" by being embodied in a single sheet of plastic formed through injection molding. Although references... Figure 2D and 2E Examples of coupling structures have been described, but other configurations of one or more coupling structures are possible. For instance, other coupling structures can be integrated into the housing to enhance electromagnetic energy coupling between the antenna system and the dielectric waveguide.

[0067] Figure 2F Is with Figure 2D and 2E A perspective view of the coupling structure 220 is shown for a device similar to the one described above. Figure 2F As shown, the coupling structure is a structure that protrudes from the inner surface of the radome 204 into the enclosed space 210 formed between the radome and the base. In this example, the coupling structure 220 is formed of the same material as the radome and can be formed in a single process, such as injection molding. Although Figure 2F Not shown in the image, but Figure 2F The device shown may include another coupling structure opposite to coupling structure 220, similar to Figure 2D and 2E The coupling structure shown.

[0068] Figures 3A-3CAn example of device 300 is depicted, wherein a dielectric waveguide interface 314 is integrated into the sidewall of radome 304, and wherein at least one antenna 308 (e.g., an end-fire antenna) is configured to radiate in the plane of base 302. Figure 3A This is a side view of the device from its long side. Figure 3B It is a top view of the device, and Figure 3C This is a side view of the device from its shorter side. Figures 3A-3C In this example, the dielectric waveguide interface includes a bulk portion of a radome, the bulk portion including a receiver cradle configured to receive the end portion of a dielectric waveguide 316. The receiver cradle includes an opening extending from the outer surface of the radome toward (but not to) the inner surface of the radome, and the receiver cradle is configured to receive the end portion of the dielectric waveguide. Additionally, the dielectric waveguide interface is configured such that when the dielectric waveguide is inserted into the dielectric waveguide interface 314, the dielectric waveguide is parallel to the plane of the antenna system and the base 302, similar to the reference... Figure 1A-1E Examples described in 2A-2E. Figure 3B The top view depicts the configuration of antenna 308 of the antenna array, and Figure 3C The side view depicts the shape of the receiver base and the corresponding cross-sectional shape of the dielectric waveguide coupled within the receiver base. The dielectric waveguide interface physically secures the dielectric waveguide to the radome of the housing without damaging the radome, ensuring that the dielectric waveguide does not penetrate into the enclosed space 310 formed by the base and the radome, and achieving electromagnetic coupling between the dielectric waveguide and the antenna system.

[0069] Figures 4A-4C Another example of the depicted device 400 is shown in which the dielectric waveguide interface 414 is integrated into the sidewall of the radome 404. Figure 4A This is a side view of the device from its long side. Figure 4B It is a top view of the device, and Figure 4C This is a side view of the device from its shorter side. Figures 4A-4C In the example, the dielectric waveguide interface includes a bulk portion of a radome that completely covers nearby antennas 408 (e.g., TX1 and RX1) (e.g., formed directly on top of them) and includes a receiver 430 having an opening extending from the outer surface of the radome toward (but not quite) the inner surface of the radome, and the receiver 430 is configured to house the end portion of the dielectric waveguide. Additionally, similar to the reference... Figure 1A-1E As described in examples 2A-2E, the dielectric waveguide interface is configured such that the dielectric waveguide is parallel to the plane of the antenna system and the base. Figure 4B The top view depicts the antenna configuration of the antenna system, and Figure 4CThe side view depicts the shape of the receiver base and the cross-sectional shape of the corresponding dielectric waveguide coupled within the receiver base 430. In this case, the dielectric waveguide has a rectangular cross-section, although other shapes are also possible. The dielectric waveguide interface physically secures the dielectric waveguide to the radome of the housing without damaging it, ensuring that the dielectric waveguide does not penetrate into the enclosed space 410 formed by the base and the radome, while simultaneously achieving electromagnetic coupling between the dielectric waveguide and the antenna system.

[0070] Figure 5A and 5B An example of device 500 is depicted, wherein the dielectric waveguide interface 514 is integrated into the top planar surface of the radome 504. Figure 5A This is a side view of the device from its long side, and Figure 5B This is a top view of the device. Figure 5A and 5B In the example, the dielectric waveguide interface includes a bulk portion of a radome that completely covers nearby antennas 508 (e.g., TX1 and RX1) (e.g., formed directly on top of them) and includes a receiver 530 configured to house the end portion of a dielectric waveguide 516. The receiver includes an opening extending from the outer surface of the radome toward (but not quite) the inner surface of the radome, and the receiver is configured to house the end portion of the dielectric waveguide. Additionally, compared with reference... Figure 1A-1E Compared to the examples described in 2A-2E, 3A-3C, and 4A-4C, the dielectric waveguide interface is configured such that the dielectric waveguide is perpendicular to the plane of the antenna system and the base 502. Figure 5B The top view depicts the configuration of the antenna of the antenna system relative to the dielectric waveguide interface. The dielectric waveguide interface physically secures the dielectric waveguide to the radome of the housing without damaging the radome, preventing the dielectric waveguide from penetrating into the enclosed space 510 formed by the base and the radome, while simultaneously achieving electromagnetic coupling between the dielectric waveguide and the antenna system.

[0071] Figure 6 This is a functional block diagram of examples of components that can be included in the device 600 described above. For example, device 600 may correspond to any of the previously described devices 100, 101, 200, 201, 300, 400, and 500. Figure 6 In this example, the components in the device include a power management integrated circuit (PMIC) 640, a memory 642, a physical layer (PHY) integrated circuit (IC) 644 (e.g., for communication), an RF front-end IC 646 (RFIC), and an antenna system 648 including an antenna 608. In this example, the components are attached to a circuit board, which is attached to a main body structure, and together they form a base.

[0072] Figure 7A and 7BA perspective view depicting an example of a device as described in this article. Figure 7A A perspective view depicting a base 702 and antenna system 748 without the radome attached to the base. Figure 7A In this example, the base includes a main structure 750 (e.g., a metal or plastic main structure) and a circuit board 752 comprising various electronic components. For example, the circuit board includes electronic components, such as those described in the reference... Figure 6 The electronic components described. The main structure of the base also includes attachment feature 754, in this case a screw-in receiver, allowing the radome to be attached to the base. Connector 756 is also integrated with the base. The connector provides power and / or communication interfaces to and from the electrical components of the device. Figure 7A In this example, the antenna system is implemented as an array of patch or microstrip antennas, which are distributed in a planar manner on the top of the circuit board.

[0073] Figure 7B This is a perspective view of device 700, in which radome 704 is attached to Figure 7A The base 702 is shown in the figure. In this example, the radome has a planar shape and is attached to the body of the base via a screw 758 that passes through the radome and engages with a corresponding screw-in receiver 754 of the body structure 750. Figure 7B A dielectric waveguide 716 coupled to the radome via a dielectric waveguide interface 714 is also depicted. For example, the dielectric waveguide interface may be similar to a reference... Figure 1A-1E The dielectric waveguide interfaces described are 2A-2E, 3A-3C, 4A, and 4B. Figure 7B In this example, the dielectric waveguide interface is integrated into the radome at a sidewall. As described herein, the dielectric waveguide interface does not impair the radome and is configured such that the dielectric waveguide can couple to the radome without completely piercing it, which could compromise the integrity of the housing surrounding the antenna system 748. Although the dielectric waveguide is shown as physically attached to the radome via a dielectric waveguide interface at a side surface of the radome, the dielectric waveguide can be attached to the housing (e.g., a base or radome) at dielectric waveguide interfaces integrated at different locations on the device (e.g., the top planar surface of the radome).

[0074] In this example, the electromagnetic energy is in the radio frequency (RF) range, the gigahertz (GHz) range, and / or the millimeter wave (mmWave) range. Other frequency ranges are also possible.

[0075] In automotive radar systems, radar is integrated into the vehicle to provide real-time detection of objects in the vehicle's surrounding environment. This helps provide various driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, collision avoidance, and parking assistance. The radome is a protective cover placed above the radar antenna. It acts as a barrier against environmental elements such as rain, dirt, and debris, while allowing radar waves to pass through with minimal attenuation.

[0076] Radomes are typically made of materials transparent to radar frequencies, such as certain plastics or composites, and are designed to prevent reflections and signal interference. However, a poorly designed radome can cause signal distortion or attenuation, which may reduce the accuracy or effective range of the radar system, thus affecting the performance of automotive safety systems.

[0077] The foregoing detailed description is illustrative in nature only and is not intended to limit the embodiments of the subject matter or the application and use of such embodiments. As used herein, the word “exemplary” means “serving as an example, instance, illustration, or description.” Any embodiment described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. Furthermore, one is not to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the foregoing technical field, background art, or specific embodiments.

[0078] The connections discussed herein can be any type of connection suitable for transmitting signals or power to and from corresponding nodes, units, or devices, including via intermediate devices. Connections can be shown or described as a single connection, multiple connections, unidirectional connections, or bidirectional connections. However, different embodiments may vary the implementation of the connection. For example, a single unidirectional connection may be used instead of a bidirectional connection, and vice versa. Furthermore, a single connection that transmits multiple signals in a continuous or time-multiplexed manner may be used instead of multiple connections. Similarly, a single connection carrying multiple signals may be divided into various different connections carrying subsets of those signals. The term "coupled" or similar language can include direct physical connections or connections via other intermediate components, even if these intermediate components change the form of coupling from source to destination.

[0079] The connecting lines shown in the figures contained herein are intended to illustrate exemplary functional relationships and / or physical couplings between various elements. It should be noted that many alternative or additional functional relationships or physical connections may exist in embodiments of the subject matter. Furthermore, certain terms may be used herein for reference only and therefore are not intended to be limiting, and unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the terms “first,” “second,” and other such numerical terms referring to structures do not imply order or sequence.

[0080] Although specific embodiments of the invention have been described and illustrated, the invention is not limited to the specific form or arrangement of the components so described and illustrated. The scope of the invention will be defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An apparatus, characterized in that, The device includes: A housing that forms an enclosed space; Antenna system, the antenna system being located within the enclosed space; and A dielectric waveguide interface configured to couple a dielectric waveguide to the housing without damaging the housing.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The dielectric waveguide interface includes a receiver in the housing, wherein the receiver is configured to house the dielectric waveguide.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing includes a base coupled to the radome, and the dielectric waveguide interface includes a receiver in the radome, wherein the receiver is configured to house the dielectric waveguide.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The device further includes a plurality of structural elements symmetrically positioned relative to the antenna system within the housing.

5. An apparatus, characterized in that, The device includes: A housing, the housing including a base and an antenna radome coupled to the base, wherein the base and the antenna radome form an enclosed space; Antenna system, the antenna system being located within the enclosed space; and A dielectric waveguide interface, which is integrated with the housing and configured to house the dielectric waveguide without damaging the housing.

6. The apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The dielectric waveguide interface includes a receiver socket within the housing.

7. The apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The dielectric waveguide interface includes a receiver base within the radome.

8. The apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The dielectric waveguide interface includes a receiver in the radome whose shape and size are configured to house the end of the dielectric waveguide.

9. An apparatus, characterized in that, The device includes: Base; Antenna system, said antenna system coupled to said base; and An antenna radome coupled to the base, wherein the base and the antenna radome form a housing surrounding the antenna system; The radome includes a dielectric waveguide interface configured to accommodate a dielectric waveguide without damaging the radome.

10. The apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, The dielectric waveguide interface includes a receiver base within the radome.

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