Slot antenna

Abstract

To inhibit an antenna from protruding from a vehicle and improve the aesthetic quality of the vehicle.SOLUTION: In a slot antenna according to an embodiment, electric power is supplied to a slot, which is a slit-like opening, provided on a sheet metal forming an outer panel of a vehicle. The slot antenna includes a cover. The cover is provided so as to cover the outer surface side of the opening.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a slot antenna. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, for example, with respect to an antenna device mounted on a vehicle, a technique has been proposed in which an opening in the vehicle body functions as a slot antenna (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2020-100352 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The conventional technology can prevent the antenna from protruding outside the vehicle. However, in the conventional technology, when an opening is provided on the roof of the vehicle, the opening is noticeable from the outside, which may spoil the appearance of the vehicle.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above, and has an object to provide a slot antenna that improves the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle while preventing the antenna from protruding from the vehicle. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A slot antenna according to one aspect of an embodiment is a slot antenna in which power is supplied to a slot, which is a slit-shaped opening provided in a metal plate constituting an outer plate of a vehicle. The slot antenna includes a cover. The cover is provided to cover an outer surface side of the opening. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to improve the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle while preventing the antenna from protruding from the vehicle. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a mounting position of a slot antenna according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an outline of the slot antenna according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing an outline of a slot antenna according to a modified example. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing an outline of a slot antenna according to a modified example. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a plan view showing an outline of a slot antenna according to a modified example. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI of FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a plan view showing an outline of a slot antenna according to a modified example. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IX-IX of FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing an outline of a slot antenna according to a modified example. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a plan view showing an outline of the antenna device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XII-XII of FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a plan view showing an outline of an antenna device including a plurality of antenna units. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a plan view showing an outline of an antenna device including a plurality of antenna units. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a side view showing an outline of the cylindrical antenna unit. [Figure 16]FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing an outline of a slot antenna according to the third embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a plan view showing an outline of a slot antenna according to a modified example. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a plan view showing an outline of a slot antenna according to a modified example. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a plan view showing an outline of a slot antenna according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, a slot antenna according to an embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiment.

[0010] (First embodiment) Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a mounting position of a slot antenna 1 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the slot antenna 1 according to the embodiment is mounted on a vehicle C. The slot antenna 1 is mounted on a roof R of the vehicle C, for example.

[0011] The frequency band of radio waves received by the slot antenna 1 is, for example, the VHF band (30 to 300 MHz) or the UHF band (300 MHz to 3000 MHz), which is a frequency band including broadcast waves of FM (Frequency Modulation) radio broadcasting, AM (Amplitude Modulation) radio broadcasting, DAB (Digital Audio Broadcast), DTV (Digital TeleVision), etc. Furthermore, the slot antenna 1 may be an antenna used for communication such as V2X (Vehicle to Everything) and GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System).

[0012] In addition, in the following figures including Fig. 1, three orthogonal coordinate axes are shown. Specifically, the X-axis corresponds to the traveling direction (front-rear direction) of the vehicle C, with the positive side defined as the rear and the negative side defined as the front. The Y-axis corresponds to the width direction of the vehicle C, with the positive side defined as the right side of the vehicle and the negative side defined as the left side of the vehicle. The Z-axis corresponds to the height direction of the vehicle C, with the positive side defined as the upper side and the negative side defined as the lower side.

[0013] Next, a configuration example of the slot antenna 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. Fig. 2 is a plan view showing an outline of the slot antenna 1 according to the first embodiment. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in Fig. 2. The slot antenna 1 includes a slot portion 2, a feeding point 3, and a cover 4.

[0014] The slot portion 2 is formed by sheet metal 7. The sheet metal 7 constitutes the outer plate of the vehicle C. The sheet metal 7 constitutes the roof R. The slot portion 2 is formed by sheet metal 7 that constitutes the outer plate of the vehicle C. The sheet metal 7 has a recess 7a. The recess 7a is formed so as to be recessed toward the interior of the vehicle C. The recess 7a is formed so as to extend in the vehicle width direction (Y-axis direction) of the vehicle C. The slot portion 2 is formed in the recess 7a. Specifically, the slot portion 2 is formed in the bottom 7b of the recess 7a.

[0015] A slit-shaped opening 10 (opening) is formed in the slot portion 2. A slot 11 is provided in the slot portion 2. Specifically, the slit-shaped opening 10 functions as the slot 11 for receiving radio waves from the outside. In other words, the slot 11 is a slit-shaped opening provided in the metal plate 7 constituting the outer plate of the vehicle C. The opening 10 is provided in the bottom 7b (bottom surface) of the recess 7a. The slot antenna 1 is fed with power to the slot 11.

[0016] The slot 11 (opening 10) is formed to extend in the vehicle width direction (Y-axis direction) of the vehicle C. The slot 11 includes two opposite end portions 11a and a central portion 11b.

[0017] The recess 7a may be formed so as to extend in the traveling direction (X-axis direction) of the vehicle C. The slot 11 may be formed so as to extend in the traveling direction of the vehicle C.

[0018] The two end portions 11a are provided at both ends in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the slot 11. Each of the two end portions 11a is formed in a rectangular shape.

[0019] The central portion 11b is provided between the two end portions 11a and connects the two end portions 11a. The central portion 11b is formed in a rectangular shape. The central portion 11b is connected to the vicinity of the center of the end portions 11a in the short direction (X-axis direction) of the slot 11. The length of the central portion 11b in the short direction of the slot 11 is shorter than the length of the end portions 11a in the short direction of the slot 11. That is, the slot 11 is formed in a substantially dumbbell shape in a plan view.

[0020] By making the slot 11 approximately dumbbell shaped, the slot antenna 1 can receive radio waves in a wide frequency band while shortening the length of the slot 11 in the vehicle width direction, thereby improving the antenna performance.

[0021] The feed points 3 are arranged on both sides of the slot 11 in the width direction (X-axis direction). Specifically, the feed points 3 are arranged on both sides of the central portion 11b in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the central portion 11b. The feed points 3 are connected to the metal plate 7 that forms the central portion 11b. One feed point 3 is connected to the central conductor of a coaxial cable, which is a feed line. The other feed point 3 is connected to the outer conductor of the coaxial cable. The outer conductor is provided so as to surround the central conductor. The slot antenna 1 feeds power to the slot 11 by the feed points 3.

[0022] The cover 4 is made of a dielectric material (typically an insulator). The cover 4 is made of, for example, resin. The cover 4 is a resin garnish. The cover 4 is provided so as to cover the outer surface side of the opening 10. That is, the cover 4 is provided so as to cover the outer surface side of the slot 11. The outer surface side of the opening 10 is the exterior side of the vehicle C. The cover 4 is provided so as to close the recess 7a. The cover 4 has a U-shaped cross section consisting of an upper surface portion 4a and a side wall portion 4b. The side wall portion 4b is inserted into the recess 7a. The side wall portion 4b of the cover 4 is fitted into the recess 7a to close the recess 7a. The cover 4 is fixed to the sheet metal 7.

[0023] Preferably, the gap between the metal plate 7 and the cover 4 is filled with an intermediate material such as rubber or caulking material to prevent the intrusion of water and the like and to make the step between the metal plate 7 and the cover 4 less noticeable.

[0024] The shape of the cover 4 is set to match the shape of the metal sheet 7 around the recess 7a. That is, the shape of the cover 4 is set to match the roof R. For example, the cover 4 is set so as not to protrude outside the vehicle C more than the metal sheet 7 around the recess 7a. Specifically, the upper surface portion 4a is flush with the outer plate of the vehicle C. Furthermore, the cover 4 is set so as not to be recessed further into the cabin of the vehicle C than the metal sheet 7 around the recess 7a. Furthermore, when the roof R has a curved shape and the metal sheet 7 around the recess 7a has a curved shape, the shape of the cover 4 is set so as to be curved to match the curved shape of the roof R.

[0025] The cover 4 may be plate-shaped as shown in Fig. 4. The plate-shaped cover 4 is fitted into a step 7c (step portion) formed in the metal sheet 7. The step 7c is provided on the edge of the recess 7a. The step 7c is provided so that the depth of the recess 7a increases in a stepped manner. The cover 4 is fitted into the step 7c to close the recess 7a. Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing an outline of a slot antenna 1 according to a modified example.

[0026] Thereby, the slot antenna 1 can prevent the cover 4 from being conspicuous in the external appearance of the vehicle C. Therefore, the slot antenna 1 can improve the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle C.

[0027] The slot antenna 1 is fed with power through a slot 11, which is a slit-shaped opening 10 provided in a metal plate 7 constituting the outer plate of the vehicle C. The slot antenna 1 includes a cover 4. The cover 4 is provided so as to cover the outer surface side of the opening 10.

[0028] As a result, by covering the outer surface side of the opening 10 with the cover 4, the slot antenna 1 can be prevented from protruding from the vehicle C. The slot antenna 1 can prevent the appearance of the vehicle C from being impaired and improve the aesthetics of the vehicle C.

[0029] Further, the metal plate 7 has a recess 7a. The recess 7a is formed so as to be recessed toward the interior of the vehicle C. The opening 10 is provided at a bottom 7b of the recess 7a. The cover 4 is provided so as to close the recess 7a.

[0030] Thereby, the slot antenna 1 can prevent the recess 7a from being conspicuous in the external appearance of the vehicle C. Therefore, the slot antenna 1 can improve the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle C.

[0031] Moreover, the cover 4 has a U-shaped cross section composed of an upper surface portion 4a and a side wall portion 4b, and the side wall portion 4b is fitted into the recess 7a to close the recess 7a.

[0032] As a result, the side wall portion 4b of the slot antenna 1 can prevent the cover 4 from coming off the recess 7a.

[0033] Further, the upper surface 4a of the cover 4 is flush with the outer panel of the vehicle C.

[0034] Thereby, the slot antenna 1 can prevent the cover 4 from being conspicuous in the external appearance of the vehicle C. Therefore, the slot antenna 1 can improve the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle C.

[0035] The opening 10 is provided in a metal plate 7 that constitutes the roof R of the vehicle C.

[0036] This allows the slot antenna 1 to reduce the number of parts.

[0037] Although an example of the slot antenna 1 in which the recess 7a is provided in the metal sheet 7 and the slot 11 is provided in the bottom 7b of the recess 7a has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. The slot 11 of the slot antenna 1 may be provided in a metal sheet 13 that does not have a recess, as shown in Fig. 5. The cover 4 is provided so as to protrude from the metal sheet 13 to the outside of the vehicle C. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing an outline of the slot antenna 1 according to a modified example.

[0038] Also, an example of the slot antenna 1 in which the opening 10 is provided in the recess 7a of the metal sheet 7 and the opening 10 functions as the slot 11 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. As shown in Figs. 6 and 7, the slot antenna 1 may have an opening 20c formed in the bottom 20b of the recess 20a of the metal sheet 20, and a conductive plate 21 having a slot 22 provided in the opening 20c. Fig. 6 is a plan view showing an outline of the slot antenna 1 according to a modified example. Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line VI-VI of Fig. 6.

[0039] The opening 20c has a rectangular shape and is provided so as to extend in the vehicle width direction of the vehicle C (the Y-axis direction).

[0040] The conductive plate 21 is, for example, a plate-shaped metal member. The conductive plate 21 is provided so as to be flush with the opening 20c. The conductive plate 21 is provided so as to be flush with the bottom 20b of the metal plate 20 that forms the opening 20c. Note that "same surface" does not only mean a completely flush surface, but also includes a surface with an error of up to about several centimeters (for example, 5 cm).

[0041] The conductor plate 21 is connected to the metal sheet 20 by metal brackets 24. The conductor plate 21 is connected to the metal sheet 20 by a plurality of brackets 24. The conductor plate 21 is electrically connected to the metal sheet 20 by the brackets 24. A slot 22 is formed in the conductor plate 21. The slot 22 is provided so as to extend in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the opening 20c. The slot 22 is dumbbell-shaped. The conductor plate 21 functions as a slot portion.

[0042] The slot antenna 1 includes a conductive plate 21. The conductive plate 21 is electrically connected to the metal plate 20, and is provided in the opening 20c so as to be flush with the opening 20c. The conductive plate 21 is formed with a slot 22 extending in the longitudinal direction of the opening 20c.

[0043] As a result, in the slot antenna 1, a rectangular opening 20c is provided in the metal sheet 20, and the slot 22 can be formed by providing the conductive plate 21 in the opening 20c. This makes it easy to process the metal sheet for providing the slot antenna 1. Also, since the slot antenna 1 is configured by attaching the conductive plate 21 in which the slot 22 is formed to the opening 20c, the assembly work of the slot antenna 1 becomes easy. Also, by making the conductive plate 21 flush with the opening 20c, the slot antenna 1 can prevent the conductive plate 21 from protruding from the vehicle C. Therefore, the slot antenna 1 can prevent the appearance of the vehicle C from being impaired and improve the aesthetics of the vehicle C.

[0044] 8 and 9, the slot antenna 1 may have a rectangular opening 20c, and a conductor plate 30 may be disposed in the opening 20c to form a slot 31 in the opening 20c. Fig. 8 is a plan view showing an outline of the slot antenna 1 according to a modified example. Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IX-IX in Fig. 8.

[0045] The conductive plate 30 is provided at the center of the opening 20c in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction). The conductive plate 30 is provided so that a space 32 is formed between the opening 20c and both ends of the conductive plate 30 in the longitudinal direction of the opening 20c. The space 32 is, for example, rectangular in plan view.

[0046] The conductive plate 30 is formed, for example, by laminating a conductive pattern 34 on a substrate 33. The substrate 33 is, for example, a substrate made of an insulating material such as glass epoxy or ceramic. The conductive pattern 34 is, for example, printed on the substrate 33. The conductive plate 30 can be formed by utilizing the structure of a general printed wiring board. The conductive pattern 34 is connected to the metal plate 7 by a metal bracket. The conductive pattern 34 includes a first conductive pattern 34a and a second conductive pattern 34b.

[0047] The first conductor pattern 34a is formed, for example, in a rectangular shape, and is electrically connected to the metal plate 20 by a metal bracket 24a.

[0048] The second conductor pattern 34b is formed, for example, in a rectangular shape. The second conductor pattern 34b is electrically connected to the metal plate 20 by a metal bracket 24b.

[0049] The conductive plate 30 has a slit 35 between the first conductive pattern 34a and the second conductive pattern 34b. The slit 35 is a non-laminated portion where the conductive pattern 34 is not laminated on the substrate 33. The slit 35 is provided so as to extend in the longitudinal direction of the opening 20c. The slit 35 is provided linearly along the longitudinal direction of the opening 20c. The slit 35 is provided in the center of the conductive plate 30 in the short-side direction of the opening 20c. The slit 35 is formed so as to connect to the spaces 32 provided on both sides of the longitudinal direction of the opening 20c.

[0050] The metal sheet 20 forming the opening 20c and the conductor pattern 34 of the conductor plate 30 form a slot 31 having a dumbbell shape in a plan view. The slot 31 includes a space 32 and a slit 35. That is, a part of the slot 31 is formed in the conductor plate 30. The metal sheet 20 and the conductor plate 30 function as a slot portion.

[0051] This makes it easy to perform sheet metal processing for providing the slot antenna 1. Also, since the slot antenna 1 is configured by attaching the conductive plate 30 in which the slits 35 are formed to the opening 20c, the assembly work of the slot antenna 1 becomes easy. Also, since the space 32 between the opening 20c and the conductive plate 30 functions as a part of the slot 31, the length of the slot 31 can be increased in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the opening 20c and in the lateral direction (X-axis direction) of the opening 20c. Therefore, the slot antenna 1 can efficiently receive radio waves in a low frequency band. That is, the slot antenna 1 can widen the receivable frequency band.

[0052] Conductive pattern 41 of conductive plate 40 may be formed so that slit 42 is bent in an L-shape as shown in Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a plan view showing an outline of slot antenna 1 according to a modified example. For example, first conductor pattern 41a is formed in an L-shape. Second conductor pattern 41b is formed in a rectangular shape.

[0053] The first conductor pattern 41a is connected to the metal sheet 20 by a metal bracket 24a at one end side in the short side direction (X-axis direction) of the opening 20c. The first conductor pattern 41a is not connected to the metal sheet 20 at the other end side in the short side direction of the opening 20c. The first conductor pattern 41a may be connected to the metal sheet 20 via an insulator at the other end side in the short side direction of the opening 20c. The first conductor pattern 41a may be connected to the metal sheet 20 by an insulator bracket at the other end side in the short side direction of the opening 20c.

[0054] The slits 42 include a first slit 42a and a second slit 42b. That is, the conductive plate 40 includes the first slit 42a and the second slit 42b. The first slit 42a is a non-laminated portion where the conductive pattern 41 is not laminated on the substrate 33. The second slit 42b is a non-laminated portion where the conductive pattern 41 is not laminated on the substrate 33.

[0055] The first slit 42a is formed along the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the opening 20c. The second slit 42b is formed along the lateral direction (X-axis direction) of the opening 20c. One end of the second slit 42b is connected to the first slit 42a. The other end of the second slit 42b is connected to the third slit 43. The third slit 43 is a gap formed between the conductive plate 40 and the metal sheet 20. Specifically, the third slit 43 is a gap formed between the end of the first conductive pattern 41a that is not electrically conducted to the metal sheet 20 and the metal sheet 20 in the lateral direction of the opening 20c.

[0056] The slot 45 includes a space 32 , a first slit 42 a , a second slit 42 b , and a third slit 43 .

[0057] The conductive plate 30 includes a first slit 42a and a second slit 42b. The first slit 42a is formed along the longitudinal direction of the opening 20c. The second slit 42b is formed along the lateral direction of the opening 20c. One end of the second slit 42b is connected to the first slit 42a. The other end of the second slit 42b is connected to a third slit 43 formed between the conductive plate 40 and the metal plate 20.

[0058] This allows the slot 45 of the slot antenna 1 to be longer. Therefore, the slot antenna 1 can efficiently receive radio waves in a low frequency band. In other words, the slot antenna 1 can widen the receivable frequency band.

[0059] Second embodiment Next, a configuration example of an antenna device 60 according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 11 and Fig. 12. The antenna device 60 is mounted on the roof R of a vehicle C, similar to the slot antenna 1. Fig. 11 is a plan view showing an outline of the antenna device 60 according to the second embodiment. Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XII-XII in Fig. 11. The antenna device 60 according to the second embodiment will be described focusing on the points different from the first embodiment. The same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment.

[0060] The antenna device 60 includes an antenna unit 61 and a cover 4. The antenna unit 61 is provided in an opening 20c formed in a recess 20a of a metal plate 20.

[0061] The antenna unit 61 is housed in a case 62. The case 62 is made of a dielectric material. The case 62 is made of, for example, resin. The antenna unit 61 is housed in the case 62 and provided in the opening 20c.

[0062] The antenna unit 61 has a slot antenna element 63 and an antenna amplifier. The slot antenna element 63 includes a conductor plate 30 forming a slot 31, and a power feed point 3. The antenna amplifier includes a receiving circuit that converts the radio waves acquired by the power feed point 3 into an electric signal.

[0063] The antenna unit 61 is supported on the metal sheet 20 by a bracket 64. The bracket 64 includes a metal bracket. The conductor pattern 34 of the conductor plate 30 is electrically connected to the metal sheet 20 by the metal bracket 64. The conductor plate 30 is electrically connected to the metal sheet 20, and is provided in the opening 20c so as to be on the same plane as the opening 20c.

[0064] At least a part of a slot 31 extending in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the opening 20c is formed in the conductive plate 30. The slot 31 formed in the conductive plate 30 is a slit 35 formed linearly along the longitudinal direction of the opening 20c, as shown in FIG.

[0065] The slot 31 formed in the conductive plate 30 may be an L-shaped slit 42 as shown in Fig. 10. The slot 31 in the antenna unit 61 may be a substantially dumbbell-shaped slot 22 formed in the conductive plate 21 as shown in Fig. 6.

[0066] The antenna device 60 includes an antenna unit 61 and a cover 4. The antenna unit 61 is provided in an opening 20c of a metal plate 20 constituting an outer plate of the vehicle C, and has a slot antenna element 63. The cover 4 is made of a dielectric material, and is provided so as to cover the outer surface side of the opening 20c.

[0067] This enables the antenna device 60 to prevent the antenna unit 61 from protruding from the vehicle C. The antenna device 60 prevents the appearance of the vehicle C from being impaired and improves the aesthetics of the vehicle C. The antenna device 60 can be assembled by attaching the antenna unit 61 to the opening 20c, which makes it easier to assemble the antenna device 60.

[0068] The slot antenna element 63 includes a conductor plate 30 that is electrically connected to the metal plate 20 and is provided so as to be flush with the opening 20c. The conductor plate 30 is formed with at least a part of a slot 31 that extends in the longitudinal direction of the opening 20c.

[0069] A slot antenna is configured by attaching the antenna unit 61 having the conductor plate 30 in which the slot 31 is formed to the opening 20c, which facilitates the assembly work of the antenna device 60. Furthermore, by making the conductor plate 30 flush with the opening 20c, the antenna device 60 can prevent the antenna unit 61 from protruding from the vehicle C. Therefore, the antenna device 60 can prevent the appearance of the vehicle C from being impaired and improve the aesthetics of the vehicle C.

[0070] Furthermore, the antenna device 60 may include a plurality of antenna units. The plurality of antenna units are provided in the opening 20c. The plurality of antenna units include antenna units capable of receiving broadcast waves of different frequency bands. For example, one antenna unit is an antenna unit that receives broadcast waves such as FM radio broadcasts, and another antenna unit is an antenna unit that receives radio waves such as V2X.

[0071] 13, the multiple antenna units include an antenna unit 61 having the above-mentioned slot antenna element 63, and a flat antenna unit 66. FIG. 13 is a plan view showing an outline of an antenna device 60 including multiple antenna units 61, 66.

[0072] The flat plate antenna unit 66 is provided, for example, above the conductive plate 30 of the antenna unit 61. The flat plate antenna unit 66 receives radio waves, for example, by an antenna section 67 shaped like a home plate. In the flat plate antenna unit 66, a power feed point is provided at an apex 68 of the triangle of the home plate shape. The antenna device 60 can prevent the flat plate antenna unit 66 from adversely affecting the antenna performance of the conductive plate 30 by providing a predetermined distance (for example, 5 mm) or more between the flat plate antenna unit 66 and the conductive plate 30 of the antenna unit 61 in the Z-axis direction.

[0073] The conductor plate of the antenna unit 61 may be the conductor plate 21 shown in FIG. 6 or the conductor plate 40 shown in FIG.

[0074] 14, the multiple antenna units may include an antenna unit 61 having the above-mentioned slot antenna element 63, and a cylindrical antenna unit 70. FIG. 14 is a plan view showing an outline of an antenna device 60 including multiple antenna units 61, 70.

[0075] The cylindrical antenna unit 70 is provided, for example, above the conductor plate 30 of the antenna unit 61. The cylindrical antenna unit 70 is formed, for example, in a rectangular shape in a plan view. As shown in Fig. 15, the cylindrical antenna unit 70 includes a cylindrical conductor 71 and flat conductors 72a and 72b. Fig. 15 is a side view showing an outline of the cylindrical antenna unit 70.

[0076] The cylindrical conductor 71 extends in the Z-axis direction. The flat conductors 72a and 72b extend in the X-axis and Y-axis directions from the ends of the cylindrical conductor 71. The flat conductors 72a and 72b are spaced apart in the Z-axis direction. In the cylindrical antenna unit 70, a slot 73 is formed along the circumferential direction of the cylindrical conductor 71.

[0077] The part 71a of the tubular conductor 71 passes through a through hole formed in the flat conductor 72b without contacting the flat conductor 72b. The part 71a of the tubular conductor 71 functions as a power feed point. The power feed point is also connected to the flat conductor 72b in which the through hole is formed. The power feed points may be located on both sides of the slot 73 in the width direction (Z-axis direction).

[0078] In the antenna device 60, by providing a predetermined distance (for example, 5 mm) or more between the cylindrical antenna unit 70 and the conductive plate 30 in the Z-axis direction, it is possible to prevent the cylindrical antenna unit 70 from adversely affecting the antenna performance of the conductive plate 30.

[0079] The flat antenna unit 66 or the cylindrical antenna unit 70 may be provided in the space 32 in the antenna unit 61 having the slot antenna element 63 .

[0080] The antenna device 60 includes a plurality of antenna units. The plurality of antenna units are provided in an opening 20c of a metal plate 20 constituting an outer plate of a vehicle C. The plurality of antenna units include at least one of a flat antenna unit 66 and a cylindrical antenna unit 70.

[0081] This allows the antenna device 60 to receive radio waves in different frequency bands using the multiple antenna units. Furthermore, the antenna device 60 allows the multiple antenna units to be provided together in the opening 20c.

[0082] Furthermore, the antenna device 60 may have a plurality of antenna units covered by a single cover 4 .

[0083] As a result, the opening 20c provided in the metal plate 20, which is the outer plate of the antenna device 60, can be minimized. Also, the antenna device 60 can reduce the number of members such as the cover 4. Therefore, the antenna device 60 is advantageous in terms of ease of processing and cost reduction.

[0084] Third embodiment Next, a configuration example of the slot antenna 1 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 16. Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing an outline of the slot antenna 1 according to the third embodiment. The slot antenna 1 according to the third embodiment will be described focusing on the points different from the first embodiment. The same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment.

[0085] In the slot antenna 1, a conductor pattern 90 is formed on the interior side of the cover 4 of the vehicle C. The conductor pattern 90 is laminated on the cover 4 made of a dielectric material. The conductor pattern 90 forms a slot 91. That is, in the slot antenna 1, the slot 91 is formed on the surface of the cover 4 facing the interior of the vehicle. The conductor pattern 90 is conductively connected to the metal sheet 20 by wiring 92. That is, the conductor pattern 90 is electrically connected to the metal sheet 20. The cover 4 is provided so as to cover the opening 20c of the metal sheet 20.

[0086] The conductor pattern 90 is formed, for example, by applying a conductive paint to the surface (surface facing the interior of the vehicle) of the cover 4. The conductor pattern 90 may also be formed, for example, by attaching a metal foil such as copper or aluminum to the surface of the cover 4. The conductor pattern 90 may also be formed, for example, by attaching a metal plate such as copper or aluminum to the surface of the cover 4. The conductor pattern 90 may also be formed, for example, by a deposition film formed by vacuum-depositing copper, aluminum, or the like on the surface of the cover 4.

[0087] The conductor pattern 90 may be, for example, a flexible plastic film having a pattern formed by conductive paint on the surface thereof, and then attached to the surface of the cover 4. The conductor pattern 90 may be, for example, a flexible plastic film having a pattern formed by vapor deposition on the surface thereof, and then attached to the surface of the cover 4.

[0088] Note that if the conductor pattern 90 is made of a thin material such as a conductive paint or a vapor deposition film, it may be formed on the cover 4 on the exterior side of the vehicle C. In this case, the durability of the conductor pattern 90 can be increased by further applying a coating or the like on the conductor pattern 90.

[0089] The slot antenna 1 includes a cover 4 and a conductor pattern 90. The cover 4 is provided so as to cover an opening 20c provided in a metal plate 20 constituting an outer plate of a vehicle C, and is made of a dielectric material. The conductor pattern 90 is formed on the cover 4. The conductor pattern 90 forms a slot 91.

[0090] As a result, the slot antenna 1 has a slot 91 provided in the cover 4 itself. Therefore, the slot antenna 1 can be configured without disposing a separate conductive plate 21 or the like in the opening 20c. The slot antenna 1 has a simplified structure, and is easy to process and assemble. In addition, the slot antenna 1 has a reduced number of parts, which is advantageous in terms of reducing costs.

[0091] As another example, as shown in FIG. 17, the conductor pattern 90 is arranged so as to be located at the middle part of the longitudinal direction of the opening 20c of the metal plate 20, and a gap 94 is provided between the conductor pattern 90 and the edge of the opening 20c. Then, the longitudinal end parts of the opening 20c where the conductor pattern 90 is not arranged are connected by the gap 94 between the conductor pattern 90 and the opening 20c, and as a whole, a slot 95 is formed which is narrow in the central part and wide at both ends. That is, the slot 95 is formed by the opening 20c and the conductor pattern 90. At least a part of the slot 95 is formed by the gap 94 between the edge of the opening 20c and the conductor pattern 90. The slot antenna 1 is an antenna in which the slot 95 functions as an antenna element. FIG. 17 is a plan view showing an outline of the slot antenna 1 according to the modified example.

[0092] As a result, in the slot antenna 1, the conductor pattern 90 provided on the cover 4 and the opening 20c of the metal plate 20 form a slot 95 as a whole. Therefore, the slot antenna 1 can be configured without disposing a separate conductor plate 21 or the like in the opening 20c. The slot antenna 1 has a simplified structure, and is easy to process and assemble. In addition, the slot antenna 1 has a reduced number of parts, which is advantageous in terms of reducing costs.

[0093] As another example, as shown in Fig. 18, a conductor pattern 90 is arranged so as to be located at a middle portion in the longitudinal direction of an opening 20c of a metal plate 20, and a groove (slit) 90a is provided in the conductor pattern 90. Then, both end portions in the longitudinal direction of the opening 20c where the conductor pattern 90 is not arranged are connected by the groove 90a provided in the conductor pattern 90, and as a whole, a slot 96 is formed which is narrow in the central portion and wide at both end portions. That is, at least a part of the slot 96 is formed by the groove 90a provided in the conductor pattern 90. The slot antenna 1 is an antenna in which this slot 96 functions as an antenna element. Fig. 18 is a plan view showing an outline of a slot antenna 1 according to a modified example.

[0094] As another example, as shown in FIG. 19, the conductor pattern 90 is arranged so as to be located at the middle part of the longitudinal direction of the opening 20c of the metal plate 20, and a gap 97 is provided between the conductor pattern 90 and the edge of the opening 20c. Furthermore, a groove (slit) 98 is provided in the conductor pattern 90. Then, both end parts in the longitudinal direction of the opening 20c where the conductor pattern 90 is not arranged are connected by the gap 97 between the conductor pattern 90 and the opening 20c and the groove 98 provided in the conductor pattern 90. As a result, a slot 99 is formed which is narrow in the central part and wide at both end parts as a whole. The slot antenna 1 is an antenna in which this slot 99 functions as an antenna element. FIG. 19 is a plan view showing an outline of the slot antenna 1 according to the modification.

[0095] In the slot antenna 1, the conductor pattern 90 provided on the cover 4 and the opening 20c of the metal plate 20 form slots 96, 99 as a whole. This allows the slot antenna 1 to be configured without disposing a separate conductor plate 21 or the like in the opening 20c. The slot antenna 1 has a simplified structure, and is easy to process and assemble. In addition, the slot antenna 1 has a reduced number of parts, which is advantageous in terms of reducing costs.

[0096] The above-described slot antenna 1 and antenna device 60 may have the following configuration.

[0097] A metal plate may be provided on the vehicle interior side of the opening 20c of the metal plate 20 constituting the outer plate of the vehicle C so as to face the opening 20c.

[0098] This allows, for example, the slot antenna 1 to suppress reception of noise inside the vehicle cabin.

[0099] Furthermore, the slot antenna 1 and the antenna device 60 may be provided on the body of the vehicle C, such as on a back door or a pillar.

[0100] Further advantages and modifications may readily occur to those skilled in the art. Thus, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described above. Accordingly, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and equivalents thereof. [Explanation of symbols]

[0101] 1 Slot Antenna 2 Slot section 3 Power supply point 4 Cover 7, 13, 20 Sheet metal 7a, 20a Recess 10, 20c opening 11, 22, 31, 91, 95, 96, 99 Slots 21, 30, 40 Conductor plate 34, 41, 90 Conductor pattern 35, 42 Slit 42a First slit 42b 2nd slit 43 3rd Slit 60 Antenna Equipment 61 Antenna unit 62 cases 63 Slot Antenna Element 66 Flat plate antenna unit 70 Cylindrical antenna unit 94, 97 Gap 90a, 98 groove C Vehicle

Claims

1. A slot antenna that is fed to a slot, which is a slit-shaped opening provided in a metal plate constituting an outer plate of a vehicle, A cover is provided to cover an outer surface side of the opening, The sheet metal has a recess recessed into a passenger compartment of the vehicle, The opening is provided in the bottom surface of the recess.

2. A slot antenna as described in claim 1, wherein the cover is arranged to block the recess.

3. 3. The slot antenna according to claim 2, wherein the cover has a U-shaped cross section consisting of an upper surface portion and a side wall portion, the side wall portion being fitted into the recess to close the recess.

4. 4. The slot antenna according to claim 3, wherein the top surface of the cover is flush with an outer skin of the vehicle.

5. The recess has a step portion at an edge of the recess, whereby the depth of the recess increases stepwise, The slot antenna according to claim 3 , wherein the cover is fitted into the step portion to close the recess.

6. The slot antenna according to claim 1 , wherein the opening is provided in a metal plate constituting a roof of a vehicle.

7. A plurality of antenna elements are provided in the opening; The slot antenna according to claim 1 , wherein the plurality of antenna elements are covered by a single cover.

8. a cover made of a dielectric material and provided to cover an opening in a metal plate constituting an outer panel of a vehicle; A conductor pattern formed on the cover; Equipped with A slot antenna, wherein the conductor pattern forms a slot.

9. the cover includes a conductor pattern electrically connected to the metal plate, The slot antenna according to claim 1 , wherein the slot is formed by the opening and the conductor pattern.

10. The slot antenna of claim 9 , wherein the slot is at least partially defined by a gap between an edge of the opening and the conductor pattern.

11. The slot antenna according to claim 9 , wherein the slot is at least partially formed by a slit provided in the conductor pattern.

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