Wireless communication device

Abstract

We provide a compact wireless communication device that can communicate with base stations using multiple frequencies. [Solution] The wireless communication device includes a signal processing unit, a housing for the signal processing unit, a first antenna provided on the outside of the housing and connected to the signal processing unit via a transmission cable, which communicates with a base station using radio waves of a first frequency, a second antenna provided inside or on the outer surface of the housing and connected to the signal processing unit, which communicates with the base station using radio waves of a second frequency lower than the first frequency, and a third antenna connected to the signal processing unit, which communicates with a terminal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a wireless communication device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is a transceiver unit provided on a window glass of a building window. The transceiver unit has an antenna unit provided on the outer surface of the window glass and a power supply unit provided on the inner surface of the window glass on the indoor side. The power supply unit supplies power to the antenna unit through the window glass. The antenna unit includes a first antenna plate and a second antenna plate. The first antenna plate receives radio waves from the outside, and the second antenna plate radiates the signal received by the first antenna plate indoors (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, when the number of antennas communicating with an external base station increases, if a plurality of antennas are arranged in one housing, the device becomes large-sized. [[ID=z37]]

[0005] Therefore, an object is to provide a wireless communication device that can communicate with a base station at a plurality of frequencies and is downsized.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The wireless communication device of the embodiment of the present disclosure includes a signal processing unit, a housing for the signal processing unit, a first antenna provided on the outside of the housing and connected to the signal processing unit via a transmission cable, which communicates with a base station using radio waves of a first frequency, a second antenna provided inside or on the outer surface of the housing and connected to the signal processing unit, which communicates with the base station using radio waves of a second frequency lower than the first frequency, and a third antenna connected to the signal processing unit, which communicates with a terminal. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] We can provide a compact wireless communication device that can communicate with base stations using multiple frequencies. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a side view of an example of a building equipped with the wireless communication device of the embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of the configuration of a wireless communication device according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the configuration of the first antenna of the wireless communication device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of the circuit configuration of the signal processing unit of the wireless communication device according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of the configuration of the first antenna of a wireless communication device in a first modified embodiment. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of the configuration of a wireless communication device in a second modified embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] Embodiments applying the wireless communication device of this disclosure will be described below. In the following, the same elements may be denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions may be omitted.

[0010] The following explanation defines and describes the XYZ coordinate system. The directions parallel to the X-axis (X direction), the directions parallel to the Y-axis (Y direction), and the directions parallel to the Z-axis (Z direction) are mutually orthogonal. In addition, in the following explanation, the length, width, thickness, etc. of each part may be exaggerated to make the configuration easier to understand. Furthermore, the terms parallel, right angle, orthogonal, horizontal, vertical, up and down, etc., should be used with a degree of deviation that does not impair the effect of the embodiment.

[0011] Furthermore, in the following explanation, "radio waves" refer to a type of electromagnetic wave, and generally, electromagnetic waves below 3 THz are called radio waves. Below, electromagnetic waves radiated from outdoor base stations or relay stations will be referred to as "radio waves," and when referring to electromagnetic waves in general, the term "electromagnetic wave" will be used. Also, below, when referring to "millimeter waves" or "millimeter wave band," it will include the quasi-millimeter wave band of 24 GHz to 30 GHz in addition to the frequency band of 30 GHz to 300 GHz.

[0012] <Embodiment> The wireless communication device of the embodiment can function as a relay device that receives radio waves arriving from a base station or relay station, processes them such as by amplifying them without converting the frequency, and then radiates them. Alternatively, the wireless communication device of the embodiment can function as a relay device that receives radio waves arriving from a base station, processes them such as by converting the frequency and amplifying them, and then radiates them.

[0013] The wireless communication device of this embodiment is capable of transmitting and receiving radio waves of a first frequency and radio waves of a second frequency to and from a base station or relay station. The second frequency is lower than the first frequency.

[0014] The first frequency radio wave is a radio wave in a frequency band above a specified frequency. The specified frequency is approximately 1 GHz to 3 GHz. Examples of the first frequency radio wave include the millimeter wave band of fifth-generation mobile communication systems (5G), Sub-6, LTE (Long Term Evolution), LTE-A (LTE-Advanced), or UMB (Ultra Mobile Broadband) in a frequency band above a specified frequency.

[0015] The radio wave of the second frequency is a radio wave having a frequency lower than a predetermined frequency. The predetermined frequency is about 1 GHz to 3 GHz. As an example, the radio wave of the second frequency is a radio wave having a frequency lower than the predetermined frequency among Sub-6, LTE, LTE-A, or UMB of the fifth-generation mobile communication system (5G) or the like.

[0016] In addition, when the wireless communication device according to the embodiment radiates the radio wave received from the base station or the relay station as a repeater, it may perform processing such as amplification without performing frequency conversion on the radio wave of the first frequency and the radio wave of the second frequency described above and then radiate it.

[0017] In addition, when the wireless communication device according to the embodiment radiates the radio wave received from the base station or the relay station as a repeater, it performs processing such as frequency conversion and amplification on the radio wave of the first frequency or the radio wave of the second frequency described above, and then radiates it as a radio wave such as IEEE802.11 (Wi-Fi (registered trademark)), IEEE802.16 (WiMAX (registered trademark)), IEEE802.20, UWB (Ultra-Wideband), Bluetooth (registered trademark), or LPWA (Low Power Wide Area). Among these, Wi-Fi and WiMAX can be used as a wireless LAN (Local Area Network).

[0018] <Schematic of Wireless Communication Device 100> FIG. 1 is a view showing an example of a building 1 in which the wireless communication device 100 according to the embodiment is provided, as viewed from the side. In FIG. 1, in addition to the building 1 and the wireless communication device 100, the base stations BS1 and BS2, and the smartphone 50 are shown. The base stations BS1 and BS2 are examples of external devices. Although the base stations BS1 and BS2 are shown in FIG. 1, the external device of the wireless communication device 100 may be a relay station. Even if the external device of the wireless communication device 100 is a relay station, the wireless communication device 100 communicates with the base station via the relay station.

[0019] Hereinafter, the operation and configuration of the wireless communication device 100 may be described using the operation in which the wireless communication device 100 receives radio waves. Since the operation in which the wireless communication device 100 transmits radio waves is the opposite of the operation in which it receives radio waves, the description of the operation in which the wireless communication device 100 transmits radio waves may be omitted.

[0020] In addition to detached houses, buildings, or condominiums, etc., Building 1 may also be a commercial facility such as a shopping mall or department store, an airport, a factory, a power facility, a government building, a station (station building), or a bus stop building, etc. Window 10 is used for these Buildings 1. Window 10 includes window glass 11 and a window frame (the window frame on the side of Building 1). The wireless communication device 100 is provided, as an example, inside Building 1 and has a function as a relay that relays radio waves arriving from the outdoor side to the indoor side and also relays radio waves on the indoor side to the outdoor side. Here, as an example, the form in which the wireless communication device 100 is provided inside Building 1 will be described. However, if there are areas where radio waves of the first frequency described later cannot reach and areas where they can reach, the wireless communication device 100 may be arranged outdoors.

[0021] In FIG. 1, the XYZ coordinate system is defined, as an example, based on the main surface on the indoor side of window glass 11. The main surface on the indoor side of window glass 11 is the main surface parallel to the XY plane on the +Z direction side of window glass 11. Building 1 has a wall 1W parallel to the XY plane on the -Z direction side, and window 10 is provided on wall 1W.

[0022] As an example, base station BS1 transmits and receives radio waves of the first frequency, and base station BS2 transmits and receives radio waves of the second frequency. As described above, the first frequency is a frequency of a predetermined frequency or higher, and the second frequency is a frequency of less than the predetermined frequency. The predetermined frequency is about 1 GHz to 3 GHz. Here, although base station BS1 and base station BS2 are described separately, one base station may transmit and receive radio waves of the first frequency and the second frequency.

[0023] The first frequency is the frequency of radio waves that do not penetrate wall 1W of building 1, and the second frequency is the frequency of radio waves that do penetrate wall 1W of building 1. The predetermined frequency that marks the boundary between the first and second frequencies is approximately 1GHz to 3GHz, depending on the material and structure of wall 1W. Note that "radio waves do not penetrate wall 1W of building 1" does not only mean that the radio waves do not penetrate wall 1W at all, but also includes cases where the radio waves that do penetrate wall 1W are so weak that a practically sufficient signal strength cannot be obtained for communication with terminals such as smartphones 50 or PCs (Personal Computers) inside wall 1W of building 1 (indoors).

[0024] The radio waves of the first frequency emitted from base station BS1 do not penetrate the wall 1W of building 1, but only penetrate the window glass 11 of window 10 and enter the building. Because the radio waves of the first frequency have high directivity, they only reach the line of sight (LOS) area of ​​window 10, making it easy for a dead zone to occur indoors. The window glass 11 of window 10 is the entry point for the radio waves of the first frequency in building 1.

[0025] Furthermore, the second frequency radio waves emitted from base station BS2 penetrate the window glass 11 of window 10 and the wall 1W of building 1, entering the building. Therefore, they reach not only the line-of-sight (LOS) area of ​​window 10 but the entire interior of building 1. For this reason, dead zones are unlikely to occur indoors with respect to the second frequency radio waves.

[0026] The wireless communication device 100 includes a first antenna 110 installed on the main indoor surface of the window glass 11 of the window 10 for transmitting and receiving radio waves of a first frequency to and from an outdoor base station BS1. The first antenna 110 is connected to the device body 101 via a transmission cable 115. The wireless communication device 100 includes, as an example, a plurality of first antennas 110. Figure 1 shows a plurality of first antennas 110 together, but one transmission cable 115 is connected to each first antenna 110. Figure 1 shows four transmission cables 115 as an example, and therefore shows a configuration with four first antennas 110 as an example. Details of the configuration of the first antennas 110 will be described later with reference to Figure 3. Note that the wireless communication device 100 may also have a configuration that includes one first antenna 110.

[0027] Furthermore, a matching layer 117 is provided between each first antenna 110 and the main indoor surface of the window glass 11. A liquid crystal phase shifter 118 is provided on the +Z direction side of each first antenna 110. That is, the first antenna 110 is provided between the matching layer 117 and the liquid crystal phase shifter 118. For example, the first antenna 110 is bonded to the window glass 11 by a fixing member such as a holder (not shown). The matching layer 117 is held between the window glass 11 and the first antenna 110 by a holder or the like (not shown). The liquid crystal phase shifter 118 is held on the +Z direction side of the first antenna 110 by a holder or the like (not shown), for example. Alternatively, the liquid crystal phase shifter 118 may be held by directly bonding it to the +Z direction side of the first antenna 110 with an adhesive layer or the like.

[0028] The liquid crystal phase shifter 118 is used when the wireless communication device 100 uses multiple first antennas 110 as a phased array antenna for beamforming. However, a phase shifter other than the liquid crystal phase shifter 118 may be used instead. However, the liquid crystal phase shifter 118 is preferable when installed in the window glass 11 because it consumes little power and generates little heat, thus suppressing thermal cracking. Furthermore, if the wireless communication device 100 does not perform beamforming with the first antennas 110, the wireless communication device 100 does not need to include the liquid crystal phase shifter 118. Also, if there is no particular problem with not including the matching layer 117, the wireless communication device 100 does not need to include the matching layer 117. The matching layer 117 and the liquid crystal phase shifter 118 will be described later.

[0029] Furthermore, the wireless communication device 100 includes a second antenna (not shown in Figure 1) installed inside the main unit 101, which is installed indoors, for transmitting and receiving radio waves of the second frequency to and from the outdoor base station BS2.

[0030] Then, for example, the wireless communication device 100 performs amplification processing, or amplification processing and frequency conversion processing, on the radio waves of the first frequency received by the first antenna 110 and the radio waves of the second frequency received by the second antenna 120, and outputs them indoors from a third antenna (not shown) or the like provided on the main body of the device 101.

[0031] By emitting radio waves from the wireless communication device 100 into the building, these signals can be easily received by devices such as smartphones 50 and PCs located indoors.

[0032] <Specific configuration of wireless communication device 100> The specific configuration of the wireless communication device 100 will be explained using Figures 1, 2, and 3. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the wireless communication device 100. In Figure 2, the configuration is simplified and one first antenna 110 and one transmission cable 115 are shown. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the first antenna 110. In Figure 3, four first antennas 110 are shown as an example.

[0033] The wireless communication device 100 includes a first antenna 110, a transmission cable 115, a matching layer 117, a liquid crystal phase shifter 118, a second antenna 120, third antennas 130A and 130B, connectors 135A to 135C, a housing 140, and a signal processing unit 150. Connectors 135A to 135C are examples of input / output terminals. As described above, here we describe an example in which the wireless communication device 100 includes four first antennas 110 and four transmission cables 115, but the wireless communication device 100 only needs to include at least one first antenna 110 and one transmission cable 115.

[0034] The second antenna 120, the third antennas 130A and 130B, the connectors 135A to 135C, and the signal processing unit 150 are housed inside the housing 140. Of these, connector 135C is provided inside the housing 140 with a portion exposed on the outer surface of the housing 140. Connector 135C is a connector that allows insertion and removal of a LAN cable located outside the housing 140, and therefore a portion of it is exposed on the outer surface of the housing 140. The wireless communication device 100 may also include, as an example of input / output terminals, terminals to which two third antennas 130A are connected, instead of connectors 135A and 135B. The terminals to which the two third antennas 130A are connected may be provided separately from the signal processing unit 150, or they may be provided in the signal processing unit 150. The terminals provided in the signal processing unit 150 may be terminals on the circuit board of the signal processing unit 150, or terminals on the MCU (Micro Controller Unit) of the wireless module described later, etc.

[0035] The second antenna 120, the third antennas 130A and 130B, the connectors 135A to 135C, the housing 140, and the signal processing unit 150 constitute the main body 101 of the device. The main body 101 is not transparent to visible light and does not transmit visible light.

[0036] <An example of operation of wireless communication device 100> Herein, as an example, the following configuration in which the wireless communication device 100 operates will be described. The wireless communication device 100 amplifies the radio waves of the first frequency received by the first antenna 110 in the signal processing unit 150 and radiates them indoors from the third antenna 130A. Also, as an example, the wireless communication device 100 converts and amplifies the radio waves of the second frequency received by the second antenna 120 into wireless LAN radio waves in the signal processing unit 150 and radiates them indoors from the third antenna 130B. Instead of wireless LAN, UWB, Bluetooth®, or LPWA may be used. Also, as an example, the wireless communication device 100 converts and amplifies the radio waves of the second frequency received by the second antenna 120 into a wired LAN signal in the signal processing unit 150 and transmits it to a terminal (not shown) such as a PC located indoors via a LAN cable (not shown) connected to connector 135C.

[0037] In this case, the wireless communication device 100 may, for example, be configured to perform one of the following operations with respect to the radio waves of the second frequency received by the second antenna 120: converting and amplifying them into wireless LAN radio waves and radiating them indoors from the third antenna 130B, or converting and amplifying them into wired LAN signals and outputting them from the connector 135C. In this case, if the operation of outputting wired LAN signals from the connector 135C is not performed, the wireless communication device 100 does not need to include the wired LAN connector 135C.

[0038] <Variations in the operation of wireless communication device 100 (Part 1)> Alternatively, the wireless communication device 100 may be configured to perform the following operations as an example, instead of the configuration described above. For example, the wireless communication device 100 may convert the radio waves of the first frequency received by the first antenna 110 into wireless LAN radio waves in the signal processing unit 150, amplify them, and radiate them indoors from the third antenna 130A. In this case, for example, the wireless communication device 100 may convert the radio waves of the second frequency received by the second antenna 120 into wireless LAN radio waves in the signal processing unit 150, amplify them, and radiate them indoors from the third antenna 130B. That is, both the radio waves of the first frequency received by the first antenna 110 and the radio waves of the second frequency received by the second antenna 120 may be converted into wireless LAN radio waves, amplify them, and radiate them indoors from the third antennas 130A and 130B. Furthermore, the wireless communication device 100 may, as an example, convert the radio waves of a first frequency received by the first antenna 110 into a signal for wired LAN and amplify it in the signal processing unit 150, and transmit it to a terminal (not shown) such as a PC located indoors via a LAN cable (not shown) connected to the connector 135C. Alternatively, the wireless communication device 100 may, as an example, amplify the radio waves of a second frequency received by the second antenna 120 in the signal processing unit 150 and radiate them indoors from the third antenna 130B.

[0039] In this case, the wireless communication device 100 may, for example, be configured to perform one of the following operations with respect to the radio waves of the first frequency received by the first antenna 110: converting and amplifying them into wireless LAN radio waves and radiating them indoors from the third antenna 130A, or converting and amplifying them into wired LAN signals and outputting them from the connector 135C. In this case, if the operation of outputting wired LAN signals from the connector 135C is not performed, the wireless communication device 100 does not need to include the wired LAN connector 135C.

[0040] <Variations in the operation of wireless communication device 100 (Part 2)> Alternatively, the wireless communication device 100 may be configured to perform the following operations as an example, instead of the configuration described above. For example, the wireless communication device 100 may be configured to amplify the radio waves of the first and second frequencies received by the first antenna 110 and the second antenna 120 in the signal processing unit 150 and radiate them indoors from the third antenna 130A and the third antenna 130B. In this case, the wireless communication device 100 does not need to include the connector 135C for the wired LAN.

[0041] <First Antenna 110> The first antenna 110 is located on the outside of the housing 140 of the main unit 101 of the device, connected to the signal processing unit 150 via a transmission cable 115, and is an antenna that communicates with the base station BS1 using radio waves of the first frequency. The first antenna 110 has a visible transmittance of 50% or more. Details of this will be described later.

[0042] The main body of the device 101 does not transmit visible light, and if placed in the window 10, it would obstruct the view. Therefore, it will be placed on a flat surface such as the wall 1W near the window 10 on the indoor side, the frame of the bay window, or the floor. In this case, the main body of the device 101 may simply be placed on a flat surface such as the floor.

[0043] The radio waves of the first frequency radiated from base station BS1 penetrate only through the window glass 11 of window 10 and enter the building. Therefore, in order for the first antenna 110 to receive the radio waves of the first frequency, it is preferable to place the first antenna 110 within the line of sight (LOS) area of ​​window 10. For this reason, the first antenna 110 is provided on the outside of the housing 140. Because the first antenna 110 is not provided inside the housing 140, the main unit 101 and the housing 140 can be made smaller.

[0044] More specifically, the first antenna 110 is provided on the main indoor surface of the window glass 11 of the window 10, as shown in Figure 1. The first antenna 110 is connected to a connector 145 on the housing 140 of the device body 101 via a transmission cable 115, as shown in Figure 2. The transmission cable 115 is, for example, a coaxial cable. Figure 2 shows one connector 145, but for example, since the wireless communication device 100 includes four first antennas 110 and four transmission cables 115, the housing 140 is provided with four connectors 145.

[0045] Each first antenna 110 has a substrate 110A, an antenna element 111, a feed line 112, and branch lines 113 and 114. As an example, the substrates 110A of four first antennas 110 are integrated.

[0046] The antenna element 111, the feed line 112, and the branch lines 113 and 114 are provided on the -Z-direction surface of the substrate 110A. The first antenna 110 has a ground layer that covers the entire +Z-direction surface of the substrate 110A, but this is omitted from the illustration in Figure 3. The ground layer is connected to a ground potential point that is not shown.

[0047] Figure 3 shows the four antenna elements 111 of the four first antennas 110. The configuration of the four antenna elements 111 is, for example, equal to each other. The pitch between adjacent antenna elements 111 is, for example, approximately λ / 2, where λ is the wavelength at the communication frequency of the first antenna 110. The pitch between adjacent antenna elements 111 is the distance in the X direction between the centers of adjacent antenna elements 111.

[0048] The wireless communication device 100 can, for example, use four antenna elements 111 (first antenna 110) to perform MIMO (Multiple-Input and Multiple-Output) communication. Alternatively, the wireless communication device 100 may use the four antenna elements 111 (first antenna 110) as a phased array antenna to perform beamforming. Alternatively, the wireless communication device 100 may be configured not to perform MIMO communication or beamforming with the four antenna elements 111 (first antenna 110).

[0049] Each antenna element 111 is provided with one feed line 112 and one branch line 113 and 114. Branch line 113 is an example of a first branch line, and branch line 114 is an example of a second branch line.

[0050] <Substrate 110A> The substrate 110A is made of any material that is transparent to radio waves radiated from base stations BS1 and BS2 and can support the antenna element 111, the feed line 112, and the branch lines 113 and 114. Transparent to radiated radio waves means, for example, that the transmission loss is 10 dB or less. The substrate 110A being transparent to radiated radio waves means that the transmission loss of the substrate 110A is 10 dB or less, preferably 6 dB or less, more preferably 3 dB or less, and even more preferably 1 dB or less.

[0051] Furthermore, the substrate 110A may be transparent to visible light. "Transparent" to visible light means that the luminous transmittance is at least 40%, preferably 60%, more preferably 70%, and even more preferably 80%.

[0052] As an example, a resin substrate (resin film) may be used as the substrate 110A. Resin materials that satisfy the above conditions include acrylic resins such as polymethyl methacrylate, cycloolefin resins, polycarbonate resins, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), etc. Alternatively, a glass plate may be used as the substrate 110A. Glass plates that satisfy the above conditions include soda-lime glass, alkali-free glass, Pyrex® glass, quartz glass, etc. Here, as an example, a configuration in which the substrate 110A is a resin substrate will be described.

[0053] <Overall configuration of antenna element 111, feed line 112, and branch lines 113 and 114> The antenna element 111, the feed line 112, and the branch lines 113 and 114 can be formed from, for example, a thin metal film such as copper, nickel, or gold. When the substrate 110A is transparent to visible light, it is preferable from the viewpoint of visibility that the antenna element 111, the feed line 112, and the branch lines 113 and 114 are formed from, for example, a mesh-like thin metal film such as copper, nickel, or gold.

[0054] Furthermore, the antenna element 111, the feed line 112, and the branch lines 113 and 114 may be formed of a transparent conductive film such as zinc oxide (ZnO), tin oxide (SnO2), tin-doped indium oxide (ITO), indium oxide-tin oxide (IZO), a metal nitride such as titanium nitride (TiN) or chromium nitride (CrN), or a Low-e film for Low-e (low emissivity) glass.

[0055] As described above, if the substrate 110A of the first antenna 110 is transparent to visible light, and the antenna element 111, the feed line 112, and the branch lines 113 and 114 are composed of transparent conductors such as a mesh-like metal thin film, then a visible transmittance of 50% or more is sufficient.

[0056] <Antenna element 111> The antenna element 111 is rectangular in XY plane view (plan view of the first antenna 110) and, together with the ground layer on the +Z side surface of the substrate 110A, forms a patch antenna. The antenna element 111 has a feed point 111A at the center of its width in the X direction at the -Y side end.

[0057] <Power supply line 112> The power supply line 112 is connected to the power supply point 111A and extends from the power supply point 111A in the -Y direction. Since the power supply line 112 overlaps with the ground layer on the opposite side of the substrate 110A, it constitutes a microstrip line. The -Y end of the power supply line 112 is connected to the signal line of the transmission cable 115 and is connected to the signal processing unit 150 via the connector 145. The signal line of the transmission cable 115 is the core wire of the coaxial cable if the transmission cable 115 is a coaxial cable. In this case, the shield wire of the transmission cable 115 is connected to the ground layer provided on the surface of the substrate 110A in the +Z direction. Note that instead of a coaxial cable, a waveguide, or a transmission line such as a microstrip line or coplanar waveguide formed on a flexible substrate may be used as the transmission cable 115.

[0058] <Branching track 113> The branch line 113 branches off from the feed line 112 midway and extends, for example, in the -X direction. The length of the branch line 113 is λe / 2, where λe is the electrical length of the wavelength at the communication frequency of the first antenna 110. The length of the branch line 113 is the length in the direction of extension between the end of the branch line 113 on the +X direction side where it is connected to the feed line 112 and the end on the -X direction side (open end).

[0059] Branch line 114 is connected to the midpoint 113A of branch line 113 in its extending direction. The length of the section of branch line 113 on the +X side of midpoint 113A is λe / 4, and the length of the section of branch line 113 on the -X side of midpoint 113A is λe / 4. Midpoint 113A is a node in the AC voltage when antenna element 111 transmits and receives radio waves, because the distance to the -X end of branch line 113 and the distance to the +X end are both λe / 4. That is, the voltage at midpoint 113A is always 0V.

[0060] <Branching track 114> The branch line 114 branches off from the midpoint 113A of the branch line 113's length in the direction of extension, and extends, for example, in the -Y direction. This is because extending the branch line 114 in the -Y direction rather than the +Y direction has less impact on the radiation characteristics of the antenna element 111.

[0061] The branch line 114 branches off from the midpoint 113A of the branch line 113 in its extending direction, and the voltage at the midpoint 113A is always 0V. Therefore, the connection of branch line 114 to the midpoint 113A of branch line 113 is equivalent to the state where nothing is connected to the midpoint 113A of branch line 113. In other words, the impedance of branch line 114 theoretically does not affect the radiation characteristics of antenna element 111. Such branch lines 113 and 114 constitute a choke structure.

[0062] Furthermore, the four branch lines 114 of the four first antennas 110 have different resistance values. This is to make the four first antennas 110 distinguishable. Branch lines 113 and 114 are examples of choke structures and examples of identification parts.

[0063] The resistance values ​​of each branch line 114 are examples of predetermined DC resistance values. For example, the resistance values ​​of the four branch lines 114 can be set to four different resistance values ​​within the range of 0Ω to 500Ω.

[0064] A pad 114A is provided at the -Y direction end of the branch line 114. For example, the pad 114A has a through-hole via that penetrates the substrate 110A in the thickness direction (Z direction). The +Z direction end of the through-hole via is connected to a ground layer provided on the +Z direction surface of the substrate 110A.

[0065] For example, if the four branch lines 114 are composed of a mesh-like thin metal film, they may have different resistance values ​​due to differences in mesh density, etc. Alternatively, if the four branch lines 114 are composed of a thin metal film, they may have different resistance values ​​due to differences in thickness, length, or material, etc. Furthermore, if the four branch lines 114 have resistors inserted in series, they may have different resistance values ​​due to differences in the resistance values ​​of the resistors. Here, we will describe a configuration having a mesh structure composed of thin metal wires.

[0066] Since the resistance values ​​of the four branch lines 114 are different from each other, for example, when the wireless communication device 100 performs MIMO communication or beamforming with four antenna elements 111 (first antenna 110), the signal processing unit 150 can identify the four antenna elements 111 (first antenna 110). This is because the signal processing unit 150 is connected to the antenna elements 111 and the ground layer on the surface of the substrate 110A in the +Z direction via the transmission cable 115. As an example, if the wireless communication device 100 does not perform MIMO communication or beamforming with four antenna elements 111 (first antenna 110), the resistance values ​​of the four branch lines 114 may be equal to each other.

[0067] Furthermore, whether the resistance values ​​of the four branch lines 114 are different from each other, or whether the resistance values ​​of the four branch lines 114 are equal, the signal processing unit 150 can identify the attachment / detachment status of the four first antennas 110 to the four connectors 145. The branch lines 114 function as identification units.

[0068] Since the resistance value differs depending on whether the first antenna 110 is connected to the signal processing unit 150 or not, the signal processing unit 150 can identify the connection / disconnection status of the first antenna 110. Note that the identification unit is not limited to one that utilizes resistance values; for example, it may be an identification unit capable of outputting identification information such as an ID (Identifier).

[0069] <Transmission Cable 115> The transmission cable 115 is, for example, detachable from the connector 145. That is, the transmission cable 115 is detachable from the housing 140. As an example, a coaxial cable can be used as the transmission cable 115.

[0070] <Matching layer 117> As described above, the matching layer 117 (see Figure 1) is provided between each first antenna 110 and the main indoor surface of the window glass 11. The wireless communication device 100 includes, for example, four first antennas 110 and therefore four matching layers 117, but they are shown as a single unit in Figure 1.

[0071] When a radio wave of the first frequency passes through the window glass 11, the radio wave is attenuated. To suppress the attenuation (loss) of the radio wave, it is preferable to provide a matching layer 117. By using a matching layer 117, when the first antenna 110 transmits and receives radio waves, the loss can be reduced by adjusting the electrical length of the radio wave that passes through the window glass 11 to match the impedance.

[0072] <Liquid crystal phase shifter 118> The liquid crystal phase shifter 118 is provided on the +Z direction side of each first antenna 110. The liquid crystal phase shifter 118 and the signal processing unit 150 are connected via signal lines (not shown), and the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal layer of the liquid crystal phase shifter 118 is controlled by the signal processing unit 150 via signal lines (not shown). By changing the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal layer of the liquid crystal phase shifter 118, the electrical length of the wavelength of the radio waves transmitted and received by the first antenna 110 changes, thereby changing the phase of the radio waves transmitted and received by the first antenna 110. By changing the phase of the radio waves transmitted and received by the four first antennas 110, beamforming can be performed by using the four first antennas 110 as a phased array antenna.

[0073] As mentioned above, the liquid crystal phase shifter 118 is used when the wireless communication device 100 performs beamforming with the first antenna 110. If the wireless communication device 100 does not perform beamforming with the first antenna 110, the wireless communication device 100 does not need to include the liquid crystal phase shifter 118.

[0074] <Second Antenna 120> The second antenna 120 is located inside or on the outer surface of the housing 140, is connected to the signal processing unit 150, and communicates with base station BS2 using radio waves of a second frequency lower than the first frequency.

[0075] The second frequency radio waves penetrate the wall 1W of building 1, and unlike the first frequency radio waves which only reach within the line of sight (LOS) area of ​​the window 10, they reach the entire interior of building 1. Therefore, the second frequency radio waves reach the housing 140 which is placed on the floor, wall 1W, etc., inside building 1. For this reason, as an example, the second antenna 120 is installed inside the housing 140 or on the outer surface of the housing 140.

[0076] "Inside the enclosure 140" refers to the space enclosed by the outer wall of the enclosure 140, and "installing the second antenna 120 inside the enclosure 140" means that the second antenna 120 is located inside the enclosure 140. In this case, even if a part of the second antenna 120 is exposed on the outer surface of the enclosure 140, the second antenna 120 is considered to be located inside the enclosure 140. Furthermore, "outer surface of the enclosure 140" refers to the surface of the outer wall of the enclosure 140, and "installing the second antenna 120 on the outer surface of the enclosure 140" means that at least a part of the second antenna 120 may be located outside the outer surface of the enclosure 140.

[0077] Here, as an example, we assume that the second antenna 120 is located directly behind the outer wall of the housing 140. The area directly behind the outer wall of the housing 140 is inside the housing 140 (the interior of the housing 140).

[0078] The first antenna 110 is installed on window 10, and if the number of antennas installed on window 10 is further increased, the view obtained through window 10 may be impaired. From this perspective, by not installing the second antenna 120 on window 10, a good view through window 10 can be ensured.

[0079] The second antenna 120 is preferably installed directly behind the outer wall on the top side of the housing 140 in order to receive radio waves of the second frequency more efficiently. The second antenna 120 can be any type of antenna that can receive radio waves of the second frequency, but an inverted F antenna is preferred because it can provide a wider bandwidth. The wireless communication device 100 may also have a configuration that includes multiple second antennas 120. In this case, the wireless communication device 100 may, for example, be configured to perform MIMO communication using multiple second antennas 120.

[0080] <Third antenna 130A and 130B> The third antennas 130A and 130B are connected to the signal processing unit 150 via connectors 135A and 135B, respectively, as an example. The third antennas 130A and 130B can be any type of antenna appropriate for the frequency of the radio waves to be transmitted and received.

[0081] The third antenna 130A, for example, radiates the first frequency radio waves received by the first antenna 110 and processed by the signal processing unit 150 (such as amplified) into the interior of building 1. In this case, the third antenna 130A can be any antenna capable of transmitting and receiving the first frequency radio waves, such as a patch antenna or a monopole antenna.

[0082] The third antenna 130B, for example, radiates the wireless LAN radio waves received by the second antenna 120 and whose frequency has been converted and amplified by the signal processing unit 150 into the room. In this case, the third antenna 130B can be any antenna designed for wireless LAN.

[0083] Thus, as an example, by having the third antenna 130A radiate radio waves of the first frequency into the interior of building 1, and the third antenna 130B radiate Wi-Fi radio waves into the interior, a smartphone 50 can receive both radio waves of the first frequency and Wi-Fi radio waves inside building 1.

[0084] <Connectors 135A~135C> Connectors 135A to 135C are located inside or on the outer surface of the housing 140, are connected to the signal processing unit 150, and are connectors that input and output communication data transmitted and received by the second antenna 120. Note that, as described above, instead of connectors 135A and 135B, terminals to which two third antennas 130A are connected may be used.

[0085] "Inside the housing 140" refers to the space enclosed by the outer wall of the housing 140, and "providing the connector 135A inside the housing 140" means that the connector 135A is located inside the housing 140. In this case, even if a part of the connector 135A is exposed on the outer surface of the housing 140, the connector 135A is treated as being located inside the housing 140. Furthermore, "outer surface of the housing 140" refers to the surface of the outer wall of the housing 140, and "providing the connector 135A on the outer surface of the housing 140" means that at least a part of the connector 135A may be located outside the outer surface of the housing 140.

[0086] Connectors 135A and 135B are the connectors to which the third antennas 130A and 130B are connected, respectively. Connector 135C is a connector to which a LAN cable can be connected.

[0087] For example, connectors 135A and 135B are located inside the housing 140. This is because the third antennas 130A and 130B are pre-connected to connectors 135A and 135B, respectively. For example, connector 135C is located on the outer surface of the housing 140. This is to allow the LAN cable connector to be attached to and detached from connector 135C as needed. Note that multiple LAN cable connectors 135C may be provided.

[0088] For example, by connecting connector 135C and a PC with a LAN cable, the PC can acquire the communication data received by the second antenna 120, and the data on the PC can be radiated from the second antenna 120 via the LAN cable and connector 135C.

[0089] <Casing 140> The housing 140 houses the second antenna 120, the third antennas 130A and 130B, the connectors 135A to 135C, and the signal processing unit 150. The housing 140 is the case for the main body of the device 101, and is, for example, a box-shaped component. For example, a portion of the connector 135C is exposed on the outer surface of the housing 140.

[0090] Furthermore, the housing 140 has a connector 145. Since the connector 145 is a connector that allows the transmission cable 115 connected to the first antenna 110 to be attached and detached, a part of the connector 145 is exposed on the outer surface of the housing 140.

[0091] <Signal processing unit 150> The signal processing unit 150 is connected to the first antenna 110, the second antenna 120, the third antennas 130A and 130B, and the connector 135C. Of these, the signal processing unit 150 is connected to the first antenna 110 and the third antennas 130A and 130B via connector 145 and connectors 135A and 135B, respectively.

[0092] The signal processing unit 150 amplifies the radio waves of the first frequency received by the first antenna 110 and outputs them to connector 135A. The radio waves of the first frequency output to connector 135A are radiated into the interior of building 1 from the third antenna 130A. The signal processing unit 150 converts the frequency of the radio waves of the second frequency received by the second antenna 120 to the wireless LAN frequency, amplifies it, and outputs it to connector 135B. The wireless LAN radio waves output to connector 135B are radiated into the interior of building 1 from the third antenna 130B. The signal processing unit 150 also converts the frequency of the radio waves of the second frequency received by the second antenna 120 to the wired LAN frequency, amplifies it, and outputs it to connector 135C.

[0093] In the case of parts 1 and 2 of the modified operation of the wireless communication device 100 described above, the signal processing unit 150 performs the operation described in parts 1 and 2.

[0094] <Circuit configuration of signal processing unit 150> Figure 4 shows an example of the circuit configuration of the signal processing unit 150 of the wireless communication device 100. In addition to the signal processing unit 150, Figure 4 shows the first antenna 110, the transmission cable 115, the second antenna 120, the third antennas 130A and 130B, the connectors 135A to 135C, the housing 140, and the connector 145.

[0095] The signal processing unit 150 includes a wireless module 151, switches 152A and 152B, LNAs (Low Noise Amplifiers) 153A and 153B, ADCs (Analog to Digital Converters) 154A and 154B, DACs (Digital to Analog Converters) 155A and 155B, and PAs (Power Amplifiers) 156A and 156B.

[0096] A switch 152A is connected to the first antenna 110 via a transmission cable 115 and a connector 145. An ADC 154A and a DAC 155A are connected to the switch 152A via an LNA 153A and a PA 156A, respectively. The ADC 154A and DAC 155A are connected to the wireless module 151. The first antenna 110, transmission cable 115, connector 145, switch 152A, LNA 153A, ADC 154A, DAC 155A, and PA 156A constitute the wireless communication unit 102A. When the wireless communication device 100 performs MIMO communication using multiple first antennas 110, the same number of wireless communication units 102A as the number of MIMO communication channels will be connected to the wireless module 151.

[0097] A switch 152B is connected to the second antenna 120, and the ADC 154B and DAC 155B are connected to the switch 152B via the LNA 153B and PA 156B, respectively. The ADC 154B and DAC 155B are connected to the wireless module 151. The second antenna 120, switch 152B, LNA 153B, ADC 154B, DAC 155B, and PA 156B constitute the wireless communication unit 102B. When the wireless communication device 100 performs MIMO communication using multiple second antennas 120, the number of wireless communication units 102B equal to the number of MIMO communication channels will be connected to the wireless module 151.

[0098] The wireless module 151 is composed of an MCU (Micro Controller Unit) as an example, and performs switching operations for switches 152A and 152B, setting operations for the amplification ratios of LNAs 153A and 153B, PAs 156A and 156B, and relay operations. Relay operations include converting the radio wave frequency from the first or second frequency to the frequency of the wireless LAN or wired LAN.

[0099] When the wireless module 151 receives radio waves with the first antenna 110 of the wireless communication unit 102A, it switches the three-terminal switch 152A to connect the first antenna 110 to the LNA 153A. When the wireless module 151 transmits radio waves with the first antenna 110, it switches the three-terminal switch 152A to connect the first antenna 110 to the PA 156A. Similarly, when the wireless module 151 receives or is receiving radio waves with the second antenna 120, it switches the three-terminal switch 152B.

[0100] The LNA153A is installed between the switch 152A and the ADC154A, amplifying the radio waves received by the first antenna 110 and outputting them while preventing degradation of the signal-to-noise ratio. If necessary, a mixer may be placed between the LNA153A and the ADC154A to mix the radio waves output from the LNA153A with the local signal, demodulate them, and convert them into an IF (Intermediate Frequency) signal.

[0101] The ADC154A digitally converts the signal output from the LNA153A and outputs it to the wireless module 151.

[0102] The DAC155A converts the signal output by the wireless module 151 to an analog signal and outputs it to the PA156A when the wireless communication device 100 transmits a signal from the first antenna 110. If necessary, a mixer may be provided between the DAC155A and the PA156A to mix and modulate the signal with the local signal.

[0103] PA156A amplifies the signal output from DAC155A and outputs it to the first antenna 110 via switch 152A.

[0104] Furthermore, when the wireless module 151 transmits or receives radio waves with the second antenna 120 of the wireless communication unit 102B, it controls the PA 156B from the switch 152B of the wireless communication unit 102B and performs the same processing as that performed for the wireless communication unit 102A.

[0105] <First modified example of the embodiment> Figure 5 shows an example of the configuration of the first antenna 110M of the first modified embodiment. The first antenna 110M of the first modified embodiment has a substrate 110MA, an antenna element 111M, a feed line 112, and branch lines 113 and 114M. The first antenna 110M differs from the first antenna 110 shown in Figure 3 in that it has a substrate 110MA made of a glass plate, an antenna element 111M made of a monopole antenna, and a branch line 114M. The differences from the first antenna 110 shown in Figure 3 will be explained below.

[0106] <Substrate 110MA> The substrate 110MA is a glass plate, and examples include soda-lime glass, alkali-free glass, Pyrex® glass, quartz glass, etc. A ground layer 110MG is provided on approximately half of the surface of the substrate 110MA on the +Z side, on the -Y side. The ground layer 110MG is formed of a mesh-like metal thin film such as copper, nickel, or gold, for example.

[0107] <Overall configuration of antenna element 111M, feed line 112, and branch lines 113 and 114M> The antenna element 111M, the feed line 112, and the branch lines 113 and 114M are formed, for example, from a thin metal film such as copper, nickel, or gold, similar to the ground layer 110MG. The branch line 114M, like the branch line 114 of the first antenna 110 shown in Figure 3, is set to a predetermined resistance value, and therefore may be formed from a transparent conductive film such as ITO, which has a higher resistance value than a mesh-like metal.

[0108] The first antenna 110M has a visible light transmittance of 50% or more because the substrate 110MA is transparent to visible light, and the antenna element 111M, feed line 112, and branch lines 113 and 114M are composed of transparent conductors such as mesh-like metal thin films.

[0109] <Antenna Element 111M> Antenna element 111M is a linear monopole antenna that extends along the Y direction, for example, in an XY plane view (plan view of the first antenna 110M), and extends in the +Y direction beyond the ground layer 110MG provided on the +Z direction surface of the substrate 110MA. Antenna element 111M has a feed point 111A at its -Y direction end. The position of the feed point 111A in the Y direction is approximately equal to the position of the end edge of the ground layer 110MG that extends in the X direction on the +Y direction side in a plan view.

[0110] <Branch track 114M> The branch line 114M branches off from the midpoint 113A of the branch line 113 in its length in the direction of extension, and extends, for example, toward the -Y direction to the pad 114MA located on the -Y direction end edge of the substrate 110MA. Figure 5 shows that the branch line 114M is bent between the midpoint 113A and the pad 114MA in order to increase its length. The branch lines 113 and 114M constitute a choke structure.

[0111] Furthermore, the four branch lines 114M of the four first antennas 110M have different resistance values. This is to make the four first antennas 110M distinguishable. Branch lines 113 and 114M are examples of choke structures and examples of identification parts.

[0112] The resistance values ​​of each branch line 114M are examples of predetermined DC resistance values. For example, the resistance values ​​of the four branch lines 114M can be set to four different resistance values ​​within the range of 0Ω to 500Ω.

[0113] A pad 114MA is provided at the -Y direction end of the branch line 114M. Since the substrate 110MA is a glass plate, it is not as easy to manufacture through-hole vias as with a resin substrate, and the cost is higher. Therefore, when using a substrate 110MA made of glass, a connector (not shown) can be connected between the pad 114MA and the ground layer 110MG, and the connector can be connected to the shield wire of the coaxial cable used as the transmission cable 115.

[0114] For example, if the four branch lines 114M are composed of a mesh-like metal thin film, they may have different resistance values ​​due to differences in mesh density, etc.

[0115] Since the resistance values ​​of the four branch lines 114M are different from each other, for example, when the wireless communication device 100 performs MIMO communication or beamforming with four antenna elements 111M (first antenna 110M), the signal processing unit 150 can identify the four antenna elements 111M (first antenna 110M). This is because the signal processing unit 150 is connected to the antenna elements 111M and the ground layer 110MG of the substrate 110MA via the transmission cable 115. As an example, if the wireless communication device 100 does not perform MIMO communication or beamforming with four antenna elements 111M (first antenna 110M), the resistance values ​​of the four branch lines 114M may be equal to each other.

[0116] Furthermore, whether the resistance values ​​of the four branch lines 114M are different from each other, or whether the resistance values ​​of the four branch lines 114M are equal, the signal processing unit 150 can identify the attachment / detachment status of the four first antennas 110M to the four connectors 145. The branch lines 114M function as identification units.

[0117] <Second Modification of Embodiment> Figure 6 shows an example of the configuration of a wireless communication device 100M of a second modified embodiment. The wireless communication device 100M shown in Figure 6 includes two sets of the first antenna 110, transmission cable 115, matching layer 117, and liquid crystal phase shifter 118 shown in Figure 1. Each set includes four first antennas 110, as explained using Figures 1 to 4. Therefore, the wireless communication device 100M shown in Figure 6 includes two sets of four first antennas 110. In other words, the wireless communication device 100M includes two sets of eight first antennas 110. Note that the wireless communication device 100M may include three or more sets of the first antenna 110, transmission cable 115, matching layer 117, and liquid crystal phase shifter 118.

[0118] Such a wireless communication device 100M can, for example, perform 8-channel MIMO communication using two different first frequencies, or beamforming to form two beams using two different first frequencies. If the wireless communication device 100M includes three or more sets of a first antenna 110, a transmission cable 115, a matching layer 117, and a liquid crystal phase shifter 118, the number of MIMO communication channels and beams can be further increased.

[0119] Furthermore, some of the first antennas 110 in some of the sets of multiple sets may constitute an array antenna that communicates at a first frequency of 10 GHz or less, while the first antennas 110 in other sets of multiple sets may constitute a phased array antenna that communicates at a first frequency of 25 GHz or more. In this case, beamforming can be performed by using the multiple antenna elements 111 included in the other sets of multiple first antennas 110 as a phased array antenna.

[0120] <Effects> The wireless communication device 100 includes a signal processing unit 150, a housing 140 housing the signal processing unit 150, a first antenna 110 provided on the outside of the housing 140 and connected to the signal processing unit 150 via a transmission cable 115, which communicates with base station BS1 using radio waves of a first frequency, a second antenna 120 provided inside or on the outer surface of the housing 140 and connected to the signal processing unit 150, which communicates with base station BS2 using radio waves of a second frequency lower than the first frequency, and connectors (135A~135C) provided inside or on the outer surface of the housing 140 and connected to the signal processing unit 150, which input and output data for communication transmitted and received by the first antenna 110 or the second antenna 120. Since the first antenna 110 is not provided inside the housing 140, the main body of the device 101 and the housing 140 can be made smaller.

[0121] Therefore, we can provide a compact wireless communication device 100 that can communicate with a base station on multiple frequencies.

[0122] The system may also include a third antenna 130A or 130B connected to the connector (135A or 135B). This allows communication data transmitted and received by the first antenna 110 or the second antenna 120 to be radiated from the third antenna 130A or 130B connected to the connector (135A or 135B). The radio waves radiated by the third antenna 130A or 130B can be relayed to terminals such as smartphones 50 or PCs that can receive the radio waves, using either the first or second frequency.

[0123] Furthermore, the first antenna 110 may be installed within the line-of-sight area of ​​the window 10 near the indoor window 10. When the radio waves of the first frequency pass through the window glass 11 without passing through the wall 1W of the building 1, installing the first antenna 110 within the line-of-sight area of ​​the window 10 ensures reliable communication using radio waves of the first frequency between the outdoor base station (BS1 or BS2) and the first antenna 110. The second antenna 120 may be placed in a location outside the line-of-sight area of ​​the window 10. Therefore, there is a high degree of flexibility in the location where the housing 140 is placed.

[0124] Furthermore, the first antenna 110 may have a visible light transmittance of 50% or more. When the first antenna 110 is installed on a windowpane 11, it is possible to suppress the obstruction of the view and to bring more visible light into the room through the windowpane 11.

[0125] Furthermore, the transmission cable 115 may be detachable from the housing 140. Since the transmission cable 115 can be removed from the housing 140, the first antenna 110 can be easily attached to the window glass 11, and the housing 140 can be easily installed. In addition, the first antenna 110 can be easily replaced.

[0126] Furthermore, the first antenna 110 may have identification units (113, 114) that allow the signal processing unit 150 to identify whether it is attached to or detached from the housing 140. Based on the identification units, the signal processing unit 150 can distinguish between a state in which the first antenna 110 is connected to the signal processing unit 150 and a state in which it is not connected.

[0127] Furthermore, the system may include multiple first antennas 110, and the identification sections (113, 114) of the multiple first antennas 110 may be different from each other. For example, when performing MIMO communication or beamforming, the signal processing unit 150 can easily identify the multiple first antennas 110.

[0128] Furthermore, the first antenna 110 has an antenna element 111 and a choke structure (113, 114) connected to the antenna element 111, and the identification part (113, 114) may be the choke structure (113, 114). Since the choke structure is not visible from an AC perspective, the first antenna 110 can be identified without affecting the antenna characteristics of the first antenna 110.

[0129] Furthermore, the first antenna 110 further has a feed line 112 connected to the antenna element 111, and if the electrical length of the wavelength at the communication frequency of the first antenna 110 is λe, the choke structure (113, 114) may have a branch line 113 that branches off from the feed line 112 and has a length of λe / 2, and a branch line 114 that branches off from the midpoint of the length of the branch line 113 and has a predetermined DC resistance value. The choke structure including the branch lines 113 and 114 is AC-invisible from the feed line 112 and the ground, so the first antenna 110 can be identified without affecting the antenna characteristics of the first antenna 110.

[0130] Furthermore, the predetermined DC resistance value may be between 0Ω and 500Ω. A DC resistance value between 0Ω and 500Ω allows for reliable identification of the first antenna 110. Additionally, it is easy to determine whether the first antenna 110 is connected.

[0131] Furthermore, the device may include multiple first antennas 110 or second antennas 120. This allows for the provision of a wireless communication device 100 capable of MIMO communication, beamforming, and the like.

[0132] Furthermore, a matching layer 117 provided between the first antenna 110 and the window 10 may be included. When the first antenna 110 transmits and receives radio waves, the loss can be reduced by adjusting the electrical length of the radio waves passing through the window glass 11 to match the impedance.

[0133] Furthermore, the multiple first antennas 110 may be phased array antennas. This allows for the provision of a wireless communication device 100 capable of beamforming and the like.

[0134] Furthermore, the phased array antenna may also be a phased array antenna having a liquid crystal phase shifter. This allows for the provision of a wireless communication device 100 that can perform beamforming and the like by adjusting the phase with the liquid crystal phase shifter.

[0135] Furthermore, the first frequency is above a predetermined frequency, and the second frequency is below a predetermined frequency, and the predetermined frequency may be between 1 GHz and 3 GHz. By setting an appropriate predetermined frequency according to the structure of the wall 1W of building 1, a wireless communication device 100 can be provided that can transmit and receive radio waves of the first frequency that penetrate the window glass 11 with the first antenna 110, and transmit and receive radio waves of the second frequency that penetrate the wall 1W with the second antenna 120.

[0136] Furthermore, the second antenna 120 may be an inverted F antenna. By making the second antenna 120 a wideband inverted F antenna, it is possible to transmit and receive radio waves of the second frequency over a wide bandwidth, even if the second antenna 120 is installed inside the housing 140 or on the outer surface of the housing 140.

[0137] Alternatively, the first antenna 110 may be attached to the window glass 11 of the window 10. By attaching the first antenna 110 to the window glass 11, the first antenna 110 can be stably installed in the line-of-sight area of ​​the window 10, and radio waves of the first frequency can be stably transmitted and received.

[0138] Furthermore, the wireless communication device 100 may include multiple sets of first antennas 110 and transmission cables 115, where some sets of first antennas 110 constitute an array antenna that communicates at a first frequency of 10 GHz or less, and other sets of first antennas 110 constitute a phased array antenna that communicates at a first frequency of 25 GHz or more. This provides a wireless communication device 100 that can transmit and receive relatively low first frequency radio waves with an array antenna, and beamform relatively high first frequency radio waves with a phased array antenna. By beamforming relatively high first frequency radio waves, the gain can be improved, and the performance of the wireless communication device 100 can be improved. Depending on the frequency levels of the multiple first frequencies and the characteristics of each first frequency radio wave, such as its directivity, it becomes possible to transmit and receive radio waves under optimal conditions.

[0139] While exemplary wireless communication devices of this disclosure have been described above, this disclosure is not limited to the specifically disclosed embodiments, and various modifications and changes are possible without departing from the scope of the claims.

[0140] The following additional information is disclosed regarding the embodiments described above. (Note 1) Signal processing unit, A housing for the signal processing unit, A first antenna is provided on the outside of the housing, connected to the signal processing unit via a transmission cable, and communicates with the base station using radio waves of a first frequency. A second antenna is provided inside or on the outer surface of the housing, connected to the signal processing unit, and communicates with the base station using radio waves of a second frequency lower than the first frequency. An input / output terminal provided inside or on the outer surface of the housing, connected to the signal processing unit, and for inputting and outputting communication data transmitted and received by the first antenna or the second antenna, Wireless communication devices, including those mentioned above. (Note 2) The wireless communication device as described in Appendix 1, further including a third antenna connected to the aforementioned input / output terminal. (Note 3) The wireless communication device according to Appendix 1 or 2, wherein the first antenna is installed within the line of sight of the window near the window on the indoor side. (Note 4) The first antenna is a wireless communication device as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 3, wherein the visible transmittance is 50% or more. (Note 5) The transmission cable is detachable from the housing and is a wireless communication device as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 4. (Note 6) The wireless communication device according to any one of Appendix 1 to 5, wherein the first antenna has an identification unit that allows the signal processing unit to identify the state in which it is attached to or detached from the housing. (Note 7) The system includes multiple of the aforementioned first antennas, The identification units of the plurality of first antennas are different from each other, as described in Appendix 6 of the wireless communication device. (Note 8) The aforementioned first antenna is, Antenna element and The antenna element has a close choke configuration and It has, The wireless communication device described in Appendix 7, wherein the identification unit is the choke structure. (Note 9) The first antenna further includes a feed line connected to the antenna element, If the electrical length of the wavelength of the first antenna at the communication frequency is λe, The aforementioned choke structure is A first branch line branching off from the aforementioned power supply line and having a length of λe / 2, A second branch line having a predetermined DC resistance value branches off from the midpoint of the length of the first branch line. A wireless communication device as described in Appendix 8, having the following features. (Note 10) The wireless communication device as described in Appendix 9, wherein the predetermined DC resistance value is between 0Ω and 500Ω. (Note 11) A wireless communication device according to any one of the appendices 1 to 10, including the first antenna or a plurality of the second antennas. (Note 12) The wireless communication apparatus according to Appendix 3, further comprising a matching layer provided between the first antenna and the window. (Note 13) The wireless communication device according to Appendix 11, wherein the plurality of first antennas are phased array antennas. (Note 14) The wireless communication device as described in Appendix 13, wherein the phased array antenna is a phased array antenna having a liquid crystal phase shifter. (Note 15) The first frequency is greater than or equal to a predetermined frequency, and the second frequency is less than the predetermined frequency. The wireless communication device described in any one of the appendices 1 to 14, wherein the predetermined frequency is 1 GHz or higher and 3 GHz or lower. (Note 16) The wireless communication device described in any one of the appendices 1 to 15, wherein the second antenna is an inverted F antenna. (Note 17) The first antenna is attached to the windowpane of the window, and is a wireless communication device as described in Appendix 3. (Note 18) The system includes multiple sets of the first antenna and the transmission cable, Some of the sets of the aforementioned sets of first antennas constitute an array antenna that communicates at the first frequency of 10 GHz or less. The wireless communication device according to any one of the appendices 1 to 17, wherein the first antennas of some of the other sets of the aforementioned sets constitute a phased array antenna that communicates at the first frequency of 25 GHz or higher. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0141] 1. Building 1W Wall 10 windows 11 Windowpanes 50 Smartphones 100, 100M wireless communication equipment 101 Main unit of the device 102A, 102B Wireless communication section 110, 110M First Antenna 110A, 110MA circuit board 110MG Ground Layer 111, 111M antenna element 111A power supply point 112 Power supply line 113, 114, Branching track Branching track (Identification section, example of choke structure) 113A midpoint 114A, 114MA pads 115 Transmission Cable 117 Matching layer 118 Liquid crystal phase shifter 120 Second Antenna 130A, 130B Third Antenna 135A~135C Connector (Example of Input / Output Terminals) 140 cabinets 145 Connector 150 Signal Processing Unit 151 Wireless Module 152A, 152B switches 153A, 153B LNA 154A, 154B ADC 155A, 155B DAC 156A, 156B PA

Claims

1. Signal processing unit, A housing for the signal processing unit, A first antenna is provided on the outside of the housing, connected to the signal processing unit via a transmission cable, and communicates with the base station using radio waves of a first frequency. A second antenna is provided inside or on the outer surface of the housing, connected to the signal processing unit, and communicates with the base station using radio waves of a second frequency lower than the first frequency. An input / output terminal provided inside or on the outer surface of the housing, connected to the signal processing unit, and for inputting and outputting communication data transmitted and received by the first antenna or the second antenna, Wireless communication devices, including those mentioned above.

2. The wireless communication device according to claim 1, further comprising a third antenna connected to the input / output terminal.

3. The wireless communication device according to claim 1, wherein the first antenna is installed within the line of sight of the window near the window on the indoor side.

4. The wireless communication device according to claim 1, wherein the first antenna has a visible transmittance of 50% or more.

5. The wireless communication device according to claim 1, wherein the transmission cable is detachable from the housing.

6. The wireless communication device according to claim 1, wherein the first antenna has an identification unit that allows the signal processing unit to identify whether it is attached to or detached from the housing.

7. The system includes multiple of the aforementioned first antennas, The wireless communication device according to claim 6, wherein the identification units of the plurality of first antennas are different from each other.

8. The first antenna is, Antenna element and The antenna element has a close choke configuration and It has, The wireless communication device according to claim 7, wherein the identification unit is the choke structure.

9. The first antenna further includes a feed line connected to the antenna element, If the electrical length of the wavelength of the first antenna at the communication frequency is λe, The aforementioned choke structure is A first branch line branching off from the aforementioned power supply line and having a length of λe / 2, A second branch line having a predetermined DC resistance value branches off from the midpoint of the length of the first branch line. A wireless communication device according to claim 8, having the following features.

10. The wireless communication device according to claim 9, wherein the predetermined DC resistance value is from 0 Ω to 500 Ω.

11. The wireless communication device according to claim 1, comprising the first antenna or a plurality of the second antennas.

12. The wireless communication device according to claim 3, further comprising a matching layer provided between the first antenna and the window.

13. The wireless communication device according to claim 11, wherein the plurality of first antennas are phased array antennas.

14. The wireless communication device according to claim 13, wherein the phased array antenna is a phased array antenna having a liquid crystal phase shifter.

15. The first frequency is greater than or equal to a predetermined frequency, and the second frequency is less than the predetermined frequency. The wireless communication device according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined frequency is 1 GHz or higher and 3 GHz or lower.

16. The wireless communication device according to claim 1, wherein the second antenna is an inverted F antenna.

17. The wireless communication device according to claim 3, wherein the first antenna is adhered to the window glass of the window.

18. The system includes multiple sets of the first antenna and the transmission cable, Some of the sets of the aforementioned sets of first antennas constitute an array antenna that communicates at the first frequency of 10 GHz or less. The wireless communication device according to claim 1, wherein the first antennas of some of the other sets of the set constitute a phased array antenna that communicates at the first frequency of 25 GHz or higher.

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