Antenna device

Abstract

An antenna device includes a ground element having a shape with a length direction and a width direction, a first antenna element having a first feeding portion, a first vertically disposed portion formed to stand up from the first feeding portion, and a first arm portion extending from the first vertically disposed portion in the length direction, and a first un-fed element connected to a first end portion of the ground element in the width direction, the first end portion being located near the first feeding portion in a plan view, and extending in the length direction of the ground element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an antenna device. Background Technology

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an antenna device including an antenna and a substrate.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2009-267765. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] However, for example, when widening the corresponding frequency of the antenna, the size of the antenna device can sometimes increase.

[0008] One object of the present invention is to reduce the size of the antenna device while widening the corresponding frequency of the antenna. Other objects of the present invention will become apparent from the description herein.

[0009] Methods for solving problems

[0010] One aspect of the present invention is an antenna device comprising: a grounding element having a shape having a length direction and a width direction; a first antenna element having a first feed portion, a first upright mounting portion formed to rise from the first feed portion, and a first arm portion extending from the first upright mounting portion along the length direction; and a first unfeeded element connected to a first end portion of the grounding element in the width direction and extending along the length direction of the grounding element, the first end portion being located near the first feed portion when viewed from above.

[0011] According to the above aspects of the present invention, it is possible to reduce the size of the antenna device while widening the corresponding frequency of the antenna. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of antenna device 10.

[0013] Figure 2 This is an exploded 3D view of antenna element 22.

[0014] Figure 3 This is a top view of antenna element 22.

[0015] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the detailed structure of the ground plane 30, substrate 50, substrate 52, cable 51, and cable 53.

[0016] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the detailed structure of the ground plane 30, the first antenna element 70, and the second antenna element 71.

[0017] Figure 6 This is a diagram used to illustrate the inner side of the housing 20.

[0018] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 AA sectional view.

[0019] Figure 8A This is a diagram showing the VSWR frequency characteristics of the first antenna element 70 and the second antenna element 71.

[0020] Figure 8B This is a diagram showing the VSWR frequency characteristics of the first antenna element 70 and the second antenna element 71.

[0021] Figure 9 This is a graph showing the frequency characteristics of the correlation coefficients of the first antenna element 70 and the second antenna element 71. Detailed Implementation

[0022] Based on the description in this specification and the accompanying drawings, at least the following matters can be clarified.

[0023] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Identical or equivalent constituent elements, components, etc., shown in the drawings are labeled with the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions are omitted where appropriate.

[0024] ==Antenna Device 10==

[0025] <<Definition of direction, etc.>>

[0026] First, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 The direction and other parameters in the antenna device 10 are defined.

[0027] The directions parallel to and orthogonal to the ground plane 30 (described later) are defined as the "+X direction" and the "+Y direction". In this embodiment, as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the +X direction is from the first antenna element 70 (described later) toward the second antenna element 71 (described later). The +Y direction is the direction in which the arm of the first antenna element 70 extends. Furthermore, the +Z direction is the normal direction relative to the ground plane 30, and is the direction from the surface of the ground plane 30 on the cover 21 side (described later) toward the surface of the ground plane 30 on the housing 20 side. In addition, the surface of the ground plane 30 and other components in the +Z direction is defined as the "front side," and the surface in the -Z direction is defined as the "back side."

[0028] The opposite direction to the +X direction (here, the direction from the second antenna element 71 toward the first antenna element 70) is defined as the "-X direction". Additionally, when referring to both the +X and -X directions simultaneously, or when representing either the +X or -X direction, it is sometimes simply referred to as the "X direction". Furthermore, similar to defining the -X and X directions relative to the +X direction, "-Y direction" and "Y direction" are also defined relative to the +Y direction, and "-Z direction" and "Z direction" are defined relative to the +Z direction.

[0029] exist Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 In this diagram, to facilitate understanding of the directions in the antenna device 10, arrowed line segments represent the +X, +Y, and +Z directions. Furthermore, the intersection of these arrowed line segments does not represent the origin of the coordinate system.

[0030] In this embodiment, the antenna device 10 is configured with the +Z direction as the zenith direction. Therefore, in the following description, the +Z direction is sometimes referred to as the "zenith direction" or "above", and the -Z direction is sometimes referred to as the "below". In addition, the direction parallel to the XY plane (i.e., the direction parallel to the front) is sometimes referred to as the "plane direction", and the Z direction is sometimes referred to as the "vertical direction" or "height direction".

[0031] Furthermore, in the following description, "connection" is not limited to physical connection, but also includes "electrical connection". Therefore, "connection" is not limited to being connected by conductors, but also includes being connected via electronic circuits, electronic components, etc.

[0032] <<Overview of Antenna Device 10>>

[0033] Next refer to Figure 1 This section describes the outline of the antenna device 10 in this embodiment.

[0034] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of the antenna device 10. The antenna device 10 is, for example, a device used in a vehicle (not shown). The antenna device 10 is, for example, disposed inside the dashboard of a vehicle. However, the location of the antenna device 10 within the vehicle can be appropriately changed depending on the intended communication target and environmental conditions. The antenna device 10 can also be disposed in various locations, such as the vehicle roof, upper part of the dashboard, roof console, bumper, license plate mounting area, pillar, spoiler, etc. Furthermore, the antenna device 10 can also be an antenna device for purposes other than vehicle use.

[0035] The antenna device 10 has a housing 20, a cover 21 and an antenna element 22.

[0036] The housing 20 and cover 21 are components that form a receiving space for accommodating the antenna element 22. Although described in detail below, the housing 20 and cover 21 are, for example, components molded from resin.

[0037] Antenna element 22 is an element that includes multiple antennas. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the antenna unit 22 has a ground plane 30, a first unfed element 40, a second unfed element 41, substrates 50 and 52, cables 51 and 53, a planar antenna 60, a first antenna element 70, a second antenna element 71, and tapes 80 and 81.

[0038] <Grounding>

[0039] like Figure 1 As shown, the ground plane 30 is disposed on the +Z direction side of the cover 21, i.e., the front side, and functions as a grounding element for the antenna element 22. Additionally, as... Figure 2 The ground plane 30 shown is formed by processing a metal plate (sheet metal). As long as it functions as a grounding component of the antenna element 22, the ground plane 30 can also be formed from a component other than a plate-shaped component.

[0040] Alternatively, the ground plane 30 can be constructed from any combination of metal components and non-metal components. For example, the ground plane 30 may include a metal plate and a resin insulator. Furthermore, the ground plane 30 can be formed from a single substrate on a printed circuit board (PCB) with conductor patterns formed thereon, or it can be formed from multiple substrates.

[0041] like Figure 3 As shown, the grounding plate 30 has a generally rectangular main body 300, and extensions 321, 322, a wall portion 323, a clamping portion 324, and protrusions 325a, 325b, and 325c located on the -X side of the central axis C (described later) of the main body 300. Additionally, the grounding plate 30 also has extensions 331, 332, a wall portion 333, a clamping portion 334, and protrusions 335a, 335b, and 335c located on the +X side of the central axis C of the main body 300. Here, the Y direction of the grounding plate 30 corresponds to the "length direction," and the X direction of the grounding plate 30 corresponds to the "width direction."

[0042] like Figure 3 As shown, the main body 300, when viewed from above in the +Z direction, is the main part of the base plate 30 that is approximately rectangular. The width direction of the main body 300 is parallel to the X direction. The length direction of the main body 300 is parallel to the Y direction. "Approximately rectangular" means, for example, a shape consisting of four sides, including squares and rectangles, where at least a portion of the corners may be obliquely cut off relative to the sides, or at least a portion of the corners may contain curves.

[0043] The main body 300 has an axisymmetric shape about a central axis C (not shown) that passes through the geometric center of the main body 300 and is parallel to the Y direction. Therefore, the extensions 321, 322, wall 323, clamping part 324 and protrusions 325a, 325b and 325c located on the -X side of the central axis C of the main body 300 will be described first.

[0044] The extension 321 is a portion that increases the electrical length of the ground plane 30 in the +Y direction. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the extension 321 is formed on the front side of the ground plane 30, extending from the end of the main body 300 in the +Y direction to the +Z direction. The extension 321 is formed at the end of the two ends of the ground plane 30 in the Y direction that is away from the first power supply part 701 (described later), thereby increasing the electrical length of the ground plane 30. In addition, the extension 321 may also be formed to extend in the -Z direction.

[0045] The extension 322 is a portion that increases the area of ​​the ground plane 30 to improve the characteristics of the planar antenna 60 (described later). The extension 322 is formed to extend from the end of the main body 300 in the -X direction direction towards the -X direction. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the extension 322 is formed in the Y direction between the end of the first arm 703 (described later) of the first antenna element 70 and the end of the arm 401 of the first unfed element 40.

[0046] like Figure 4 As shown, the wall portion 323, together with the clamping portion 324, defines the position of the cable 51. The wall portion 323 is formed to extend from the end of the main body portion 300 in the -X direction direction towards the +Z direction. The wall portion 323 is formed at the position where the extension portion 322 is formed at the end of the main body portion 300 in the -X direction direction direction.

[0047] like Figure 4 As shown, the clamping part 324 is the part that clamps the cable 51 together with the wall part 323. The clamping part 324 is formed on the main body part 300 in such a way that it is opposite to the wall part 323 in the +Z direction.

[0048] like Figure 4 As shown, the protrusion 325a is the portion that determines the position of the substrate 50 relative to the ground plane 30 by being inserted into the hole 520a of the substrate 50 (described later). The protrusion 325a is formed to extend from the front side of the ground plane 30 in the +Z direction. Furthermore, the protrusions 325b and 325c have the same features as the protrusion 325a, and detailed descriptions are omitted here.

[0049] Next, the extensions 331 and 332, the wall portion 333, the clamping portion 334, and the protrusions 335a, 335b, and 335c located on the +X side of the central axis C of the main body 300 will be described. Figure 3 As shown, the extensions 331, 332, wall portion 333, clamping portion 334, and protrusions 335a, 335b, 335c are formed to be axially symmetrical about the central axis C with respect to the extensions 321, 322, wall portion 323, clamping portion 324, and protrusions 325a, 325b, 325c.

[0050] In other words, for example, when comparing extension 331 and extension 321, extension 331 is the same as extension 321 except that extension 331 is located on the +X side relative to the central axis C. Extension 332, wall 333, clamping part 334, and protrusions 335a, 335b, and 335c are the same as extension 322, wall 323, clamping part 324, and protrusions 325a, 325b, and 325c, so detailed descriptions are omitted here.

[0051] Furthermore, as with extension 331 described above, the portion located on the +X side of the central axis C of the main body 300 does not necessarily have to be axially symmetrical with the portion located on the -X side of the central axis C of the main body 300. For example, as long as extension 331 has the same function as extension 321, it may be located in a different position than extension 321. Additionally, as long as extension 331 has the same function as extension 321, it may have a different shape than extension 321.

[0052] <No power supply component>

[0053] like Figure 3 As shown, the first unfed element 40 is an element that widens the frequency band corresponding to the first antenna element 70 by connecting to the ground plane 30. The first unfed element 40 is connected to the first end 302 of the ground plane 30 in the -X direction, which is located near the first feed section 701 (described later).

[0054] Here, "the first end 302 located near the first power supply section 701 (described later)" refers, for example, to the part of the power supply section 701 located near the first power supply section 701 (described later). Figure 3 The top view shown includes the portion including the intersection between the outer edge of the ground plane 30 on the -X side and the axis (not shown) in the X direction passing through the first feed section 701 (here, the hole 501 of the substrate 50 into which the first feed section 701 is inserted (described later)). Thus, the first unfeeded element 40 connected to the first end 302 essentially functions as a grounding element extending from the first feed section 701 of the first antenna element 70.

[0055] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first end 302 is the portion of the end of the ground plane 30 on the -X side that includes the aforementioned point, but it is not limited thereto. Specifically, the first unfed element 40 can be connected to a position in the end of the ground plane 30 on the -X side that can substantially function as a grounding member extending from the first feed portion 701 of the first antenna element 70. The first unfed element 40 has a connecting portion 400 and an arm portion 401.

[0056] The connecting portion 400 is the part of the first unpowered element 40 that connects to the main body portion 300. The connecting portion 400 is formed to extend from the first end portion 302 in the -X direction.

[0057] The arm portion 401 extends from the connecting portion 400 in the +Y direction. Details will be explained later. In this embodiment, the length from the first feed portion 701 to the front end of the ground plane 30 in the Y direction, i.e., the end of the extension portion 321 in the Z direction, is different from the length from the first feed portion 701 to the front end of the first unfeeded element 40, i.e., the end of the arm portion 401 in the Y direction. Therefore, in this embodiment, the corresponding bandwidth of the first antenna element 70 can be widened.

[0058] like Figure 3 As shown, the second unpowered element 41 is a component that widens the frequency band corresponding to the second antenna element 71 by connecting to the ground plane 30. The second unpowered element 41 is connected to the second end 303 of the +X direction end of the ground plane 30, located near the second power supply section 711 (described later). The second unpowered element 41 has a connecting portion 410 and an arm portion 411.

[0059] Next, the connecting portion 410 and the arm portion 411 located on the +X side of the central axis C of the main body portion 300 will be described. The connecting portion 410 and the arm portion 411 are formed to be axially symmetrical with respect to the connecting portion 400 and the arm portion 401 about the central axis C, respectively.

[0060] In other words, when comparing connecting portion 410 and connecting portion 400, for example, connecting portion 410 is the same as connecting portion 400 except that connecting portion 410 is located on the +X side relative to the central axis C and is connected to the +X direction end of the grounding plate 30, i.e., the second end 303. In addition, arm portion 411 has the same features as arm portion 401, so detailed description is omitted here.

[0061] Furthermore, the connecting portion 410 and arm portion 411 located on the +X side of the central axis C of the main body portion 300 do not necessarily have to be axially symmetrical with the connecting portion 400 and arm portion 401 located on the -X side of the central axis C of the main body portion 300. For example, as long as the connecting portion 410 has the same function as the connecting portion 400, it may be located in a different position than the connecting portion 400. In addition, as long as the connecting portion 410 has the same function as the connecting portion 400, it may have a different shape than the connecting portion 400.

[0062] <Substrate>

[0063] Substrate 50 is an electronic component having a conductive pattern (not shown) formed on it and on which circuit elements are mounted. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the substrate 50 of this embodiment has a conductive pattern for connecting the cable 51 to the first antenna element 70. The substrate 50 has holes 500a, 500b, and 500c for inserting the protrusions 325a, 325b, and 325c formed on the ground plane 30, respectively, and a hole 501 for inserting the first feed portion 701 (described later) of the first antenna element 70.

[0064] When viewed from the +Z direction, the substrate 50 is configured such that three holes 500a, 500b, and 500c are respectively inserted through the corresponding protrusions 325a, 325b, and 325c. Subsequently, in order to fix the substrate 50 to the ground plane 30, the protrusions 325a, 325b, and 325c are fixed relative to the substrate 50 by solder or the like.

[0065] Next, the substrate 52 disposed on the +X side of the central axis C of the main body 300 will be described. The substrate 52 is formed to be axially symmetrical with respect to the central axis C with respect to the substrate 50. In addition, the substrate 52 has holes 520a, 520b, 520c and hole 521. When comparing the substrate 52 with the substrate 50, the substrate 52 has the same features as the substrate 50 except that the substrate 52 is located on the +X side with respect to the central axis C, so detailed description is omitted here.

[0066] Furthermore, the substrate 52 located on the +X side of the central axis C of the main body 300 does not necessarily have to be axially symmetrical with the substrate 50 located on the -X side of the central axis C of the main body 300. For example, as long as the substrate 52 has the same function as the substrate 50, it may be located at a different position than the substrate 50. In addition, as long as the substrate 52 has the same function as the substrate 50, it may have a different shape than the substrate 50.

[0067] <Cable>

[0068] like Figure 3As shown, cable 51 is connected to a first antenna element 70 disposed on substrate 50. In this embodiment, the inner conductor of cable 51 is connected to a first feed section 701, and the outer conductor of cable 51 is connected to a grounding member (not shown) formed on substrate 50.

[0069] like Figure 3 As shown, cable 53 is connected to a second antenna element 71 disposed on substrate 52. In this embodiment, the inner conductor of cable 53 is connected to a second feed section 711, and the outer conductor of cable 53 is connected to a grounding member (not shown) formed on substrate 50.

[0070] <Planar Antenna>

[0071] The planar antenna 60 corresponds, for example, to radio waves in the frequency band used by the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). Furthermore, the communication standard and frequency band of the radio waves corresponding to the planar antenna 60 are not limited to GNSS; they can also be other communication standards and frequency bands. For example, the planar antenna 60 may also correspond to radio waves in the frequency band used by the Satellite Digital Audio Radio Service (SDARS) or the frequency band used by V2X.

[0072] Furthermore, the planar antenna 60 can correspond to the desired circularly polarized wave, or to the desired linearly polarized wave, such as a vertically polarized wave or a horizontally polarized wave. For example... Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, the planar antenna 60 has a substrate 601, a radiating element 602, a dielectric 603, and a shielding shell 604.

[0073] The substrate 601 is a component used to configure the dielectric 603. A conductive pattern functioning as a grounding element is formed on the front side of the +Z side of the substrate 601. A conductive pattern for connecting circuit elements (not shown) of the cable 55 is formed on the back side of the substrate 601. Alternatively, the substrate 601 can also be constructed using molded interconnect device (MID) technology, by forming conductive patterns in a resin material.

[0074] The radiating element 602 is a conductive component disposed on the front side of the dielectric 603. For example... Figure 4 As shown, when viewed from above in the +Z direction, the outer diameter of the radiating element 602 is quadrilateral. In this embodiment, the outer diameter of the radiating element 602 is a square with equal longitudinal and transverse lengths, but it can also be a rectangle, circle, ellipse, polygon, etc. Furthermore, a notch (recess) or a protrusion (convexity) can also be formed on the outer diameter of the radiating element 602.

[0075] The radiating element 602 has two feed sections 605 and 606. The planar antenna 60 of this embodiment employs a dual-feed method. The inner conductors (not shown) of two cables 55 are connected to the two feed sections 605 and 606 via a circuit (not shown). This circuit can be a distribution circuit, an amplification circuit, a combining circuit, a phase adjustment circuit, etc. Without the circuit, the inner conductor of one cable 55 can also be connected to both feed sections 605 and 606.

[0076] Furthermore, the feeding method of the planar antenna 60 is not limited to a dual-feed method. For example, the planar antenna 60 can also be quad-feeded. In a quad-feeded planar antenna 60, four feed sections are formed in the radiating element 602. Alternatively, the planar antenna 60 can also be single-feeded. In a single-feeded planar antenna 60, only one feed section is formed in the radiating element 602.

[0077] The dielectric 603 is a component formed of a dielectric material such as ceramic. When viewed from above in the +Z direction, the outer diameter of the dielectric 603 is quadrilateral. However, the outer diameter of the dielectric 603 is not limited to quadrilateral; for example, it can also be circular, elliptical, polygonal, etc. A radiating element 602 is disposed on the upper side of the dielectric 603. A conductor pattern, functioning as a grounding conductor film (or grounding conductor plate) (not shown), is formed on the back side of the dielectric 33.

[0078] The shielding shell 604 is a metal component used to protect the conductive patterns formed on the back side of the substrate 601 and the electronic components mounted on the back side of the substrate 601 from physical interference from other components, or to provide electrical shielding against external noise and other influences. The shielding shell 604 is mounted on the back side of the substrate 601. Figure 2 and Figure 6 As shown, the shielding shell 604 is located between the substrate 601 and the ground plane 30.

[0079] <Antenna Components>

[0080] like Figures 1-5 As shown, the first antenna element 70 is a broadband antenna based on a monopole antenna. For ease of explanation, Figure 5 Only the ground plane 30, the first unpowered element 40, the second unpowered element 41, the first antenna element 70, and the second antenna element 71 are shown. In this embodiment, the first antenna element 70 corresponds, for example, to radio waves in the 699MHz to 5000MHz frequency band used in GSM, UMTS, LTE, and 5G. Figure 5 The first antenna element 70 shown has a first feed section 701, a first upright mounting section 702, a first arm section 703, and a first extension section 704.

[0081] like Figure 5As shown, the first feed section 701 is a conductive portion including a feed point. The feed point is the portion that feeds power to the first antenna element 70. The first feed section 701 is inserted into a hole 501 in the substrate 50 and connected to a conductive pattern formed on the substrate 50 by soldering or the like.

[0082] The first vertical mounting portion 702 is a portion corresponding to at least the high-frequency band of the radio wave corresponding to the first antenna element 70. In this embodiment, the first vertical mounting portion 702 is formed to improve the characteristics of the first antenna element 70 in the high-frequency band, especially in the higher-frequency band (e.g., 2500MHz to 5000MHz). Therefore, the first vertical mounting portion 702 is formed to have a length and width corresponding to the operating wavelength of the high-frequency band, especially the higher-frequency band.

[0083] The first upright mounting portion 702 is formed to stand upright relative to the front of the base plate 30. In this embodiment, as... Figure 5 As shown, the first vertical mounting portion 702 is formed to stand upright (in the +Z direction) from the front of the first power supply portion 701 relative to the ground plane 30. That is, the first vertical mounting portion 702 is formed to stand upright along the normal direction relative to the front surface 301. Furthermore, the first vertical mounting portion 702 is not limited to standing upright relative to the front surface 301, but may also be tilted at a predetermined angle relative to the normal direction of the front surface 301.

[0084] The first vertical mounting section 702 has a self-similar shape. Here, a self-similar shape means a shape that remains similar even when the scale (size ratio) is changed. Therefore, in the frequency band of the radio wave corresponding to the first antenna element 70, various lengths and widths can be set according to the wavelength used, enabling broadband operation. Alternatively, the first vertical mounting section 702 may not have a self-similar shape.

[0085] The first arm portion 703, together with the first unfed element 40, corresponds to at least the low-frequency band of the radio wave corresponding to the first antenna element 70. In this embodiment, the first arm portion 703 is formed to improve the characteristics of the first antenna element 70 in the low-frequency band, especially the lower frequency band (e.g., 700MHz to 900MHz). Therefore, the first arm portion 703 is formed to have a length and width corresponding to the operating wavelength of the low-frequency band, especially the lower frequency band.

[0086] The first arm portion 703 is formed to extend in the +Y direction from the upper end of the first upright portion 702. In this embodiment, as... Figure 5As shown, the first arm portion 703 is formed to extend in the +Y direction from the end portion on the -Y direction side of the first upright mounting portion 702. Furthermore, the first arm portion 703 is connected to the upper end portion of the first upright mounting portion 702 on the -X direction side. Therefore, when viewed from above in the +Z direction, the first arm portion 703 is located on the -X direction side closer to the main body portion 300.

[0087] The first extension 704 is formed to increase the bandwidth of the first antenna element 70 in the low frequency band, especially in the lower frequency band (e.g., 700MHz to 900MHz).

[0088] The first extension 704 is formed to extend in the -Z direction from the entire region of the end of the first arm 703 extending in the Y direction on the -X direction side. Alternatively, the first extension 704 may also be formed to extend in the +Z direction. Furthermore, the first extension 704 may only be formed in a portion of the entire region of the end of the first arm 703 extending in the Y direction on the -X direction side. Even in this case, the first extension 704 can improve the bandwidth of the first antenna element 70 in lower frequency bands.

[0089] The second antenna element 71 has a second feed section 711, a second vertical mounting section 712, a second arm section 713, and a second extension section 714.

[0090] In this embodiment, the second antenna element 71 has the same features as the first antenna element 70. Furthermore, when viewed from above in the +Z direction, the second antenna element 71 is axially symmetrical with respect to the first antenna element 70 about an axis parallel to the X direction. Therefore, the second feed portion 711, the second upright mounting portion 712, the second arm portion 713, and the second extension portion 714 of the second antenna element 71 have the same features as the corresponding first feed portion 701, first upright mounting portion 702, first arm portion 703, and first extension portion 704 in the first antenna element 70, and therefore their descriptions are omitted.

[0091] <Shell>

[0092] Figure 6 The housing 20 shown has a main body 200, retaining portions 201a to 201d, and first protrusions 202a and 202b.

[0093] The main body 200 is a box-shaped component with an opening on the -Z direction side and a recessed area formed on the inside to accommodate the antenna element 22.

[0094] The holding portions 201a to 201d are the parts that hold the planar antenna 60. The holding portion 201a is formed to extend from the inner surface, i.e., the back surface, of the main body portion 200 in the -Z direction. In addition, the holding portion 201a has a support portion 203a and a claw portion 204a.

[0095] The support portion 203a is a portion of the substrate 601 that supports the planar antenna 60. The support portion 203a is formed to extend from the back side of the main body portion 200 in the -Z direction.

[0096] The claw portion 204a is a part of the substrate 601 that, together with the support portion 203a, holds the planar antenna 60. The claw portion 204a is formed of resin or the like and is capable of elastic deformation. The claw portion 204a is formed to extend in the -Z direction from the back of the main body portion 200 in a manner longer than the support portion 203a. When viewed from above in the -Z direction, the front end of the claw portion 204a protrudes in a manner that overlaps with the support portion 203a.

[0097] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the retaining portions 201b to 201d each have the same features as the retaining portion 201a. Therefore, the supporting portions 203b to 203d have the same features as the supporting portion 203a, and the claw portions 204b to 204d have the same features as the claw portion 204a, so their description is omitted.

[0098] like Figure 6 As shown, the planar antenna 60 is positioned near the holding portions 201a-201d, with the surface where the dielectric 603 is disposed facing the back surface of the main body 200. Then, the planar antenna 60 is pressed in the +Z direction until the substrate 601 contacts the support portions 203a-203d of the holding portions 201a-201d. At this time, since the claw portions 204a-204d can elastically deform, the substrate 601 passes over the claw portions 204a-204d and contacts the support portions 203a-203d, and is held by the support portions 203a-203d and the claw portions 204a-204d respectively. Thus, the holding portions 201a-201d hold the planar antenna 60. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the planar antenna 60 is also fixed to the housing 20 by a threaded connection.

[0099] The first protrusion 202a is the part that, together with the second protrusion 211a (described later) of the cover 21, clamps the first unpowered element 40. The first protrusion 202a is formed to protrude from the side of the main body 200 extending in the Y direction from the -X side to the +X direction inside the main body 200.

[0100] The first protrusion 202b is the part that, together with the second protrusion 211b (described later) of the cover 21, clamps the second unpowered element 41. The first protrusion 202b is formed to protrude from the side of the main body 200 extending in the Y direction from the +X side of the main body 200 towards the -X direction.

[0101] <cover>

[0102] Figure 1The cover 21 shown is a component that closes the opening of the main body 200 of the housing 20. By being installed on the housing 20, the cover 21 forms a receiving space inside the housing 20 for accommodating the antenna element 22. The cover 21 has a main body 210 and second protrusions 211a and 211b.

[0103] The main body 210 is a plate-shaped component that is larger than the opening of the main body 200 of the housing 20.

[0104] The second protrusion 211a is the portion that, together with the first protrusion 202a, clamps the first unpowered element 40. The second protrusion 211a is formed on the front side of the main body 210 facing the +Z direction. The second protrusion 211a is formed to protrude from the front side of the main body 210 in the +Z direction.

[0105] The second protrusion 211b is the part that, together with the first protrusion 202b, clamps the second unpowered element 41. The second protrusion 211b has the same features as the second protrusion 211a, so its description is omitted.

[0106] like Figure 7 As shown, the first protrusion 202a and the second protrusion 211a clamp the first unpowered element 40 from above and below. In addition, the first protrusion 202b and the second protrusion 211b clamp the second unpowered element 41 from above and below. Figure 7 The enlarged view shows the second unpowered element 41 being held between the first protrusion 202b and the second protrusion 211b. The first protrusion 202b presses down on the arm 411 of the second unpowered element 41 from above, while the second protrusion 211b supports the arm 411 from below. Similarly, like the first protrusion 202b and the second protrusion 211b, the first protrusion 202a and the second protrusion 211a hold the arm 401 between them. Thus, the first unpowered element 40 and the second unpowered element 41 are fixed within the receiving space, thereby maintaining a stable state.

[0107] <Tape>

[0108] like Figure 1 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the tape 80 is a component used to fix the first antenna element 70 to the back of the main body 200 of the housing 20. The tape 80 is disposed between the front side of the +Z side of the first arm 703 of the first antenna element 70 and the back of the main body 200 of the housing 20. The tape 80 is, for example, a double-sided tape with adhesive surfaces on both sides.

[0109] Adhesive tape 81 is a component used to secure the second antenna element 71 to the back of the main body 200 of the housing 20. The characteristics of adhesive tape 81 are the same as those of adhesive tape 80, so description is omitted. In this embodiment, adhesive tapes 80 and 81 are used to secure the first antenna element 70, the second antenna element 71, and the housing 20, but adhesives, for example, may also be used.

[0110] <Length of antenna elements and unfed elements>

[0111] like Figure 5 As shown, in the first antenna element 70, the length La1 from the first feed section 701 to the +Y end of the first arm section 703 has a length corresponding to the wavelength of the low-frequency band (700MHz to 900MHz) of the first antenna element 70. The length of the ground plane 30 corresponding to the length La1 is the sum of the length from near the first feed section 701 of the main body section 300 to the +Y end of the main body section 300 and the length of the extension section 321 in the Z direction, i.e., the length La2.

[0112] Here, the length from near the first feed section 701 of the main body 300 to the +Y direction end of the main body 300 is shorter than La1. Furthermore, due to limitations imposed on the antenna device 10 as a product, the length of the main body 300 in the +Y direction cannot be increased. Therefore, by extending the extension 321 from the +Y direction end of the main body 300 towards the +Z direction, the length La2 is made close to the length La1. Details will be explained later, but this improves the characteristics of the radio waves of the first antenna element 70 in lower frequency bands.

[0113] Furthermore, since the antenna device 10 of this embodiment has a first unfeeded element 40 connected to the ground plane 30, the first unfeeded element 40 functions as part of the ground plane 30. Here, the length La3 from the first feed section 701 to the end of the arm 401 of the first unfeeded element 40 in the +Y direction is shorter than the lengths La1 and La2. As a result, the characteristics of the first antenna element 70 for radio waves corresponding to the length La3 are improved. Details will be explained later, but since the first antenna element 70 of this embodiment has a first unfeeded element 40, the frequency band above the low frequency band, i.e., the mid-frequency band (1700MHz to 2000MHz), can be widened.

[0114] Furthermore, as described above, the second antenna element 71, the extension 331, and the second unfed element 41 have an axisymmetric shape about a central axis C that passes through the geometric center of the main body 300 and is parallel to the Y direction. Therefore, the second antenna element 71, the extension 331, and the second unfed element 41 have the same features as the first antenna element 70, the extension 321, and the first unfed element 40.

[0115] <Cables are held in place by the wall and clamping parts>

[0116] like Figure 4 As shown, cable 51 is held by wall portion 323 and clamping portion 324. This fixes the position of cable 51 on the front side of ground plane 30. Therefore, when removing cable 51 from ground plane 30, cable 51 is pulled out along wall portion 323. As a result, cable 51 is easily removed from ground plane 30. Furthermore, cable 53 held by wall portion 333 and clamping portion 334 has the same characteristics as cable 51, so its description is omitted.

[0117] <Frequency Characteristics>

[0118] Figure 8A This is a diagram showing the frequency characteristics of the VSWR of the first antenna element 70 and the second antenna element 71. Figure 8B This is a graph specifically showing the VSWR frequency characteristics of the first antenna element 70 and the second antenna element 71 in the range of 600MHz to 1000MHz. Figure 8A and Figure 8B In the diagram, the horizontal axis represents frequency, and the vertical axis represents voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR). Furthermore, the values ​​for the first antenna element 70 are represented by solid lines, while the values ​​for the second antenna element 71 are represented by dashed lines.

[0119] like Figure 8A As shown, the VSWR values ​​of both the first antenna element 70 and the second antenna element 71 are less than 4 in the range of 1700MHz to 2000MHz. This indicates that the aforementioned first unfed element 40 and second unfed element 41 widen the bandwidth within the mid-frequency band.

[0120] Figure 9 This is a graph showing the frequency characteristics of the correlation coefficient between the first antenna element 70 and the second antenna element 71. (Example) Figure 9 As shown, in the range of 600MHz to 5000MHz, the correlation coefficient between the first antenna element 70 and the second antenna element 71 is less than 0.5. That is to say, it can be seen that the isolation between the first antenna element 70 and the second antenna element 71 in the antenna device 10 is relatively good.

[0121] ==Summary==

[0122] According to this specification, an antenna device is provided for the following purposes.

[0123] (Aspect 1)

[0124] Aspect 1 includes: a ground plane 30 having a shape having a length direction and a width direction; a first antenna element 70 having a first feed section 701, a first upright mounting section 702 formed to rise from the first feed section 701, and a first arm section 703 extending from the first upright mounting section 702 in the length direction; and a first unfeeded element 40 connected to a first end 302 in the width direction of the ground plane 30 and extending in the length direction of the ground plane 30, wherein the first end 302 is located near the first feed section 701 when viewed from above.

[0125] Based on the above aspects, it is possible to widen the corresponding frequency of the antenna while reducing the size of the antenna device. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the Y direction corresponds to the "length direction," and the X direction corresponds to the "width direction." Additionally, the ground plane 30 corresponds to a "grounding element."

[0126] (Aspect 2)

[0127] In aspect 2, the first antenna element 70 has a first extension 704 that extends from an end in the width direction toward the ground plane 30 at a first arm 703.

[0128] According to the above aspects, by extending the first extension 704 from the first arm 703, the low-frequency band of the first antenna element 70 can be widened without increasing the width of the first arm 703.

[0129] (Aspect 3)

[0130] Aspect 3 includes: a second antenna element 71 having a second power supply section 711, a second vertical mounting section 712 formed to rise from the second power supply section 711, and a second arm section 713 extending from the second vertical mounting section 712 in the length direction; and a second unpowered element 41 connected to a second end 303 in the width direction of a ground plane 30 and extending in the length direction of the ground plane 30, wherein the second end 303 is located near the second power supply section 711 when viewed from above.

[0131] Based on the above aspects, it is possible to reduce the size of the antenna device 10 while widening the corresponding frequencies of the two antenna elements 70 and 71.

[0132] (Aspect 4)

[0133] In aspect 4, the second antenna element 71 has a second extension 714 that extends from the end in the width direction toward the ground plane 30 at the second arm portion 713.

[0134] According to the above aspects, by extending the second extension 714 from the second arm 713, the low-frequency band of the second antenna element 71 can be widened without increasing the width of the second arm 713.

[0135] (Aspect 5)

[0136] In aspect 5, the grounding plate 30 has: a main body 300 having a shape having a length direction and a width direction; and an extension 321 extending from the end of the main body 300 on the front end side of the first arm 703 in a direction intersecting the main body 300.

[0137] Based on the above aspects, the electrical length of the grounding plate 30 can be increased without increasing the size of the grounding plate 30 when viewed from above. Furthermore, the extensions 321 and 331 in this embodiment correspond to "third extensions," respectively.

[0138] (Aspect 6)

[0139] Aspect 6 has a planar antenna 60 located on the front side of the ground plane 30. The ground plane 30 has an extension 322 extending in the width direction. When viewed from above, the extension 322 is located between the front end of the first arm 703 and the front end of the first unfed element 40.

[0140] Based on the above aspects, the area of ​​the ground plane 30 can be increased when viewed from above, thereby improving the characteristics of the planar antenna 60. Furthermore, the extensions 322 and 332 in this embodiment correspond to the "fourth extension."

[0141] (Aspect 7)

[0142] Aspect 7 includes a housing 20, and the housing 20 has a holding part 201 for holding the planar antenna 60 inside the housing 20.

[0143] According to the above aspects, since the housing 20 has a holding part 201, the planar antenna 60 can be easily held in the housing 20.

[0144] (Aspect 8)

[0145] Aspect 8 includes: tape 80, which is located between the front side of the first antenna element 70 and the inner side of the housing 20, and fixes the first antenna element 70 and the housing 20.

[0146] According to the above aspects, the first antenna element 70 is fixed to the housing 20 by tape 80. Therefore, when fixing the first antenna element 70 to the housing 20, there is no need for fixation based on heat fusion or threaded parts, thus making it easy to fix the first antenna element 70 to the housing 20. In this embodiment, tapes 80 and 81 correspond to "fixing parts".

[0147] (Aspect 9)

[0148] In aspect 9, the ground plane 30 has: a wall portion 323, which is formed to stand upright from the ground plane 30 at a position where the extension portion 322 extends from the ground plane 30; and a clamping portion 324, which together with the wall portion 323 clamps the cable 51 connected to the first antenna element 70.

[0149] According to the above, since the cable 51 is clamped by the wall portion 323 and the clamping portion 324, the cable 51 can be easily removed.

[0150] (Aspect 10)

[0151] Aspect 10 includes: a cover 21, which together with the housing 20 forms a receiving space for accommodating the ground plane 30, the first antenna element 70 and the first unfed element 40, the housing 20 having a first protrusion 202 extending toward the cover 21 on the inner side of the housing 20, and the cover 21 having a second protrusion 211 that together with the first protrusion 202 clamps the first unfed element 40.

[0152] According to the above aspects, since the first unpowered element 40 is held by the first protrusion 202 and the second protrusion 211, the first unpowered element 40 can be fixed in the receiving space.

[0153] (Aspect 11)

[0154] Aspect 11 includes a substrate 50 on which a first antenna element 70 is disposed. The substrate 50 has holes 500a, 500b, and 500c, and the ground plane 30 has protrusions 325a, 325b, and 325c in the holes 500a, 500b, and 500c.

[0155] Based on the above aspects, by inserting the protrusions 325a, 325b, and 325c into their respective holes 500a, 500b, and 500c, the position of the substrate 50 is determined, thereby facilitating the positioning of the substrate 50. Furthermore, when the substrate 50 is correctly positioned, the protrusions 325a, 325b, and 325c are protruding from the holes 500a, 500b, and 500c, thus facilitating visual confirmation.

[0156] The above embodiments are intended to facilitate understanding of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Furthermore, it is self-evident that changes or modifications can be made to the present invention without departing from its spirit, and the present invention includes its equivalents.

[0157] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0158] 10…antenna assembly, 20…housing, 21…cover, 30…grounding plate (grounding element)

[0159] 40…First unfed element, 41…Second unfed element, 50…Substrate, 60…Planar antenna,

[0160] 70…First antenna element, 71…Second antenna element, 80…Tape (fixing component),

[0161] 201…Retaining part, 202a, 202b…First protrusion, 211a, 211b…Second protrusion,

[0162] 300…Main body, 321, 331…Extension (third extension),

[0163] 322, 332… Extension (Fourth Extension), 323, 333… Wall Section,

[0164] 324, 334… clamping parts, 325a, 325b, 325c… protrusions,

[0165] 500a, 500b, 500c…holes, 701…first power supply section, 702…first vertical mounting section,

[0166] 703…First arm section, 704…First extension section, 711…Second power supply section, 712…Second vertical mounting section,

[0167] 713…Second arm, 714…Second extension.

Claims

1. An antenna device, characterized in that, have: Grounding element, which has a shape having both a length direction and a width direction; The first antenna element has a first feed section, a first vertical mounting section formed to stand upright from the first feed section, and a first arm extending from the first vertical mounting section along the length direction; as well as A first unfed element is connected to a first end of the grounding element in the width direction and extends along the length direction of the grounding element. The first end is located near the first power supply section when viewed from above.

2. The antenna device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first antenna element has: A first extension extends from the end in the width direction toward the grounding element at the first arm portion.

3. The antenna device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, have: The second antenna element has a second feed section, a second vertical mounting section formed to stand upright from the second feed section, and a second arm extending from the second vertical mounting section along the length direction; as well as A second unfed element is connected to the second end of the grounding element in the width direction and extends along the length direction of the grounding element. The second end is located near the second power supply section when viewed from above.

4. The antenna device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second antenna element has: The second extension extends from the end in the width direction toward the grounding element side at the second arm portion.

5. The antenna device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The grounding element has: The main body has a shape having the length direction and the width direction; as well as The third extension extends from the end of the main body portion on the front end side of the first arm portion in a direction intersecting the main body portion.

6. The antenna device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, It has a planar antenna located on the front side of the grounding element. The grounding element has a fourth extension extending along the width direction. The fourth extension is located between the front end of the first arm and the front end of the first unpowered element when viewed from above.

7. The antenna device according to claim 6, characterized in that, Equipped with a shell, The housing has a holding portion on its inner side for holding the planar antenna.

8. The antenna device according to claim 7, characterized in that, have: A fixing component is located between the front surface of the first antenna element and the inner surface of the housing, and fixes the first antenna element and the housing.

9. The antenna device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The grounding element has: The wall portion, which is formed to stand upright from the grounding element at the location where the fourth extension extends from the grounding element; and The clamping part, together with the wall part, clamps the cable connected to the first antenna element.

10. The antenna device according to claim 7, characterized in that, have: The cover, together with the housing, forms a receiving space for accommodating the grounding element, the first antenna element, and the first unfed element. The housing has a first protrusion extending toward the cover side on its inner side. The cover has a second protrusion that, together with the first protrusion, clamps the first unpowered element.

11. The antenna device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, A substrate having the first antenna element configured thereon The substrate is formed with holes, The grounding element has a protrusion that is inserted into the hole.

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