Vehicle-mounted antenna device

Abstract

To provide an on vehicle antenna device that suppresses the generation of blurring of an antenna element.SOLUTION: An on vehicle antenna device has an interior case 2b, a substrate, and an antenna element portion provided in the housing space of the interior case 2b. The interior case 2b has a retaining portion (antenna gripping portion 2b1, anti-dislodgement recess 2b2, and positioning convex portion 2b5) that holds at least a portion of the antenna element portion. The antenna element portion is electrically connected to the substrate when held in the retaining portion.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an in-vehicle antenna device. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, an antenna device has been proposed that includes an antenna element having a metal leg attached to a substrate. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2018-191111 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, because the antenna element is supported only by the substrate, there is a risk that the portion of the antenna element separated from the substrate may move due to vibration or the like, causing abnormal noise.

[0005] It is therefore one object of the present invention to suppress the wobbling of an antenna element. Other objects of the present invention will become apparent from the description herein. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] One aspect of the present invention is an antenna device for use in a vehicle, comprising a case, a substrate, and an antenna element portion provided in an accommodation space of the case, the case having a holding portion that holds at least a part of the antenna element portion, and while held in the holding portion, the antenna element portion is electrically connected to the substrate. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, shaking of the antenna element can be suppressed. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an internal structure of an in-vehicle antenna device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 2] 1 is a perspective view showing a state before the interior case, the antenna element portion, and the substrate are assembled. FIG. [Diagram 3] 13 is a top view showing the state after the interior case, the antenna element portion, and the substrate are assembled. FIG. [Figure 4] 13 is a side view showing the state after the interior case, the antenna element portion, and the substrate are assembled. FIG. [Diagram 5] 4 is a perspective view showing a rear portion of the vehicle-mounted antenna device, taken along the line AA in FIG. 3. [Figure 6] 4 is a perspective view showing a rear and upper part of the vehicle-mounted antenna device, taken along the line BB in FIG. 3. [Figure 7] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a cross section CC of FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 5 is a front view showing the cross section CC of FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the antenna element portion. [Figure 10] 4 is a perspective view of the antenna element portion as seen from the rear. FIG. [Figure 11] 2 is a perspective view of an antenna element portion, a terminal portion, and a substrate. FIG. [Figure 12] 4 is a perspective view showing a terminal portion and a rear portion of a substrate before the terminal portion is attached; FIG. [Figure 13] 4 is a bottom view of the mounting portion of the terminal portion and the mounting hole of the board. FIG. [Figure 14] 13 is a bottom view of the mounting hole protruding toward the side where the insertion area faces the protruding portion, and the mounting portion of the terminal portion. FIG. [Figure 15] 13 is a bottom view of the mounting hole protruding on the side where the insertion area facing the protruding portion is located and on the opposite side, and the mounting portion of the terminal portion. FIG. [Figure 16] 13 is a bottom view of a mounting hole including an insertion region and having no protruding portion, and a mounting portion of a terminal portion. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] The present embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiment is not limited to the following embodiment. In principle, the contents described in one embodiment are also applicable to other embodiments. In addition, each embodiment and each modified example can be appropriately combined.

[0010] (In-vehicle antenna device 1) The vehicle-mounted antenna device 1 in this embodiment is attached to the upper surface of a vehicle, such as the roof 100, as shown in Fig. 1. The vehicle-mounted antenna device 1 includes an antenna case (exterior case 2a, interior case 2b), a pad 3, an antenna element section 4, a terminal section 5, a substrate 6, and an antenna base 8. Note that Fig. 1 shows a schematic xz cross-sectional configuration of the vehicle-mounted antenna device 1, and members for mounting to the roof 100 are omitted.

[0011] To explain the directions, the front-to-rear direction of the vehicle on which the vehicle-mounted antenna device 1 is mounted is defined as the x direction, the left-to-right direction perpendicular to the x direction is defined as the y direction, and the vertical direction perpendicular to the x and y directions is defined as the z direction. In Fig. 2, the directions indicated by the arrows on the x, y, and z axes are defined as the forward direction, rightward direction, and upward direction, respectively.

[0012] (Outer case 2a) The exterior case 2a is made of a synthetic resin having radio wave permeability. For example, the exterior case 2a is inclined so that the front in the x direction is lower than the rear in the x direction, and has a shark fin shape with both side surfaces curved inward. The bottom surface of the exterior case 2a is open. The exterior case 2a covers the pad 3 and the antenna base 8. As a result, the interior case 2b, the antenna element part 4, the terminal part 5, and the substrate 6 are housed in the storage space formed by the exterior case 2a, the pad 3, and the antenna base 8. Note that the interior case 2b and the like may be provided inside an area of ​​the roof 100 of the vehicle that is raised upward in the z direction. In this case, the exterior case 2a is omitted.

[0013] (Inner case 2b) As shown in Figs. 2 to 4, the interior case 2b is made of a radio wave permeable synthetic resin. The bottom surface of the interior case 2b is open. The interior case 2b covers the substrate 6. As a result, the antenna element section 4 and the terminal section 5 are housed in the storage space formed by the interior case 2b and the substrate 6. An antenna element other than the antenna element section 4 may be attached to the outer wall of the interior case 2b and the inside of the interior case 2b.

[0014] (Holding portion of interior case 2b) A holding portion (antenna holding element) that holds the antenna element portion 4 from above in the z direction is provided on the inner wall of the interior case 2b. As shown in Fig. 5, the holding portion includes an antenna clamping portion 2b1, a fall-off prevention recess 2b2, and a wall portion 2b3.

[0015] (Antenna clamping portion 2b1) As shown in FIG. 6, the antenna clamping portion 2b1 is a region recessed upward in the z direction on the upper surface of the inner wall of the interior case 2b. The upper end 4a1 of the antenna element portion 4 is fitted into the antenna clamping portion 2b1 by press-fitting from below in the z direction. The width in the x direction of the region recessed upward in the z direction of the antenna clamping portion 2b1 is approximately equal to the width in the x direction of the upper end 4a1 of the antenna element portion 4. After press-fitting, the antenna clamping portion 2b1 clamps the upper end 4a1 of the antenna element portion 4. In the region below the antenna clamping portion 2b1 in the z direction of the interior case 2b, it is preferable to provide an inclined surface S whose width in the x direction narrows toward the upper side in the z direction, that is, whose width in the direction in which the antenna element portion 4 is clamped (x direction) narrows as it approaches the antenna clamping portion 2b1. As shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, the antenna clamping portion 2b1 is provided at a position above the z direction of the interior case 2b when viewed from the front in the x direction and shifted leftward from the center in the y direction. Antenna clamping portion 2b1 may be provided at a position above interior case 2b in the z direction and shifted rightward from the center in the y direction when viewed from the front in the x direction.

[0016] (Recess 2b2 to prevent slipping out) The fall-prevention recess 2b2 is an area recessed backward in the x direction on the rear surface of the inner wall of the interior case 2b. In the claims, the fall-prevention recess 2b2 corresponds to the first recess. The fall-prevention protrusion 4b of the antenna element unit 4 is hooked to the fall-prevention recess 2b2 (see FIG. 5). In the claims, the fall-prevention protrusion 4b corresponds to the second protrusion. The fall-prevention recess 2b2 is provided below the antenna clamping unit 2b1 in the z direction and at the center of the interior case 2b in the y direction when viewed from the x direction. That is, the area where the antenna clamping unit 2b1 is provided and the area where the fall-prevention recess 2b2 is provided are misaligned in the horizontal direction (x direction) perpendicular to the surface constituting the antenna element of the main body unit 4a of the antenna element unit 4, the up-down direction (z direction), and the direction perpendicular to the z direction (y direction).

[0017] (Wall part 2b3) The wall portion 2b3 extends downward in the z direction from the upper surface of the inner wall of the interior case 2b, and is a wall including a surface that is approximately perpendicular to the x direction. The wall portion 2b3 faces in the x direction a surface that constitutes the antenna element of the main body portion 4a of the antenna element portion 4. The rear surface of the wall portion 2b3 in the x direction contacts the pressing protrusion 4c of the antenna element portion 4. In the claims, the pressing protrusion 4c corresponds to the third protrusion.

[0018] (Positional relationship of holding parts) When viewed from the y direction, the wall portion 2b3 is located forward of the antenna clamping portion 2b1 in the x direction, and the slip-out prevention recess 2b2 is located rearward of the antenna clamping portion 2b1 in the x direction. The rear surface of the inner wall of the interior case 2b and the wall portion 2b3 are in a positional relationship in which they sandwich the main body 4a of the antenna element portion 4 in the x direction.

[0019] (Peripheral portion 2b4, positioning protrusion 2b5) The yz cross section of the inner wall of the interior case 2b, in the region where the main body 4a of the antenna element portion 4 is located, has a peripheral portion 2b4 of approximately the same shape as the main body 4a of the antenna element portion 4 (see Figs. 7 and 8). The peripheral portion 2b4 covers the side and upper portion of the edge (outer shape) of the antenna element portion 4 when viewed from the x direction. A positioning protrusion 2b5 is provided above the peripheral portion 2b4 in the z direction. In the claims, the positioning protrusion 2b5 corresponds to the first protrusion. The positioning protrusion 2b5 protrudes inward of the peripheral portion 2b4 in the y direction (in the direction approaching the main body 4a of the antenna element portion 4). The shapes and dimensions of the interior case 2b and the antenna element unit 4 are determined so that the gap between the region of the peripheral unit 2b4 where the positioning protrusion 2b5 is located and the main body unit 4a of the antenna element unit 4 is narrower than the gap between the region above the peripheral unit 2b4 in the z direction other than the region where the positioning protrusion 2b5 is located and the main body unit 4a of the antenna element unit 4. In other words, a gap is provided between the peripheral unit 2b4 and the edge of the main body unit 4a of the antenna element unit 4 such that the gap is narrow in the region where the positioning protrusion 2b5 is located and is wide in the region other than the region where the positioning protrusion 2b5 is located.

[0020] (Guidance of antenna element portion 4 to a predetermined position) When the antenna element part 4 is press-fitted into the interior case 2b, the inclined surface S on the lower side in the z direction of the antenna clamping part 2b1 regulates the position in the x direction where the antenna element part 4 is press-fitted. That is, the inclined surface S guides the antenna element part 4 to be press-fitted into a predetermined position in the x direction of the interior case 2b. When the antenna element part 4 is press-fitted into the interior case 2b, the positioning protrusion 2b5 regulates the position in the y direction where the antenna element part 4 is press-fitted. That is, the positioning protrusion 2b5 guides the antenna element part 4 to be press-fitted into a predetermined position in the y direction of the interior case 2b. When the antenna element part 4 is press-fitted into the interior case 2b, the inclined surface S on the lower side in the z direction of the antenna clamping part 2b1 of the interior case 2b comes into contact with the upper end of the groove part 4a2 and regulates the position in the z direction where the antenna element part 4 is press-fitted. That is, the inclined surface S stops the press-fitting of the antenna element part 4 into the internal case 2b at a predetermined position in the z direction.

[0021] (Pad 3) The pad 3 is a ring-shaped elastic member made of elastomer, rubber, or the like (see FIG. 1). The pad 3 is sandwiched between the lower edge of the exterior case 2a and the antenna base 8, and covers the gap between the lower edge of the exterior case 2a and the vehicle, and prevents water from entering the exterior case 2a. The pad 3 may be provided between the interior case 2b and the substrate 6, instead of between the exterior case 2a and the antenna base 8. The pad 3 may also be provided between the exterior case 2a and the antenna base 8, and between the interior case 2b and the substrate 6.

[0022] (Antenna element part 4) The antenna element unit 4 constitutes an antenna element. An upper portion of the antenna element unit 4 in the z direction is held by the interior case 2b. A lower portion of the antenna element unit 4 in the z direction is held by the substrate 6 via the terminal unit 5. In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the antenna element unit 4 includes an antenna element that receives a signal in a telematics frequency band, but the type of signal received by the antenna element is not limited thereto.

[0023] (Configuration of antenna element section 4) 9 and 10, the antenna element portion 4 has a main body portion 4a, a fall-prevention protrusion 4b, a pressing protrusion 4c, and a bottom end portion 4d. The main body portion 4a, the fall-prevention protrusion 4b, the pressing protrusion 4c, and the bottom end portion 4d are formed by bending or cutting a single metal plate.

[0024] (Main body portion 4a) The main body 4a has a surface perpendicular to the x direction. The surface perpendicular to the x direction of the main body 4a has an inverted U shape when viewed from the x direction. Specifically, the mountain shape of the main body 4a when viewed from the x direction has an approximately isosceles trapezoidal shape at the top in the z direction and an approximately rectangular shape at the bottom in the z direction. The peripheral portion 2b4 of the interior case 2b has a shape that follows the outer shape of the main body 4a when viewed from the x direction. The upper end portion 4a1 of the main body 4a is clamped by the antenna clamping portion 2b1 of the interior case 2b.

[0025] The body 4a is provided with a groove 4a2 extending in the y and z directions. The groove 4a2 protrudes forward in the x direction. The groove 4a2 extends in the y direction between the upper and lower z directions, and in the z direction between the upper and lower z directions, and is formed to have a substantially C- or U-shape when viewed from the x direction. The groove 4a2 extending in the y direction communicates with the groove 4a2 extending in the z direction. Of the grooves 4a2, the groove extending in the z direction is the first groove, and the groove extending in the y direction above the z direction is the second groove. The groove 4a2 prevents the antenna element 4 from being plastically deformed when the antenna element 4 is press-fitted, that is, the groove 4a2 functions as a reinforcing member for the antenna element 4. In the claims, the groove 4a2 extending in the z direction (first groove) corresponds to the first reinforcing part, and the groove 4a2 extending in the y direction above the z direction (second groove) corresponds to the second reinforcing part. The portion of the groove 4a2 extending in the y direction above the z direction contacts the inclined surface S below the z direction of the antenna clamping part 2b1 of the interior case 2b. Therefore, the portion of the groove 4a2 extending in the y direction above the z direction is used for positioning in the z direction when the antenna element part 4 is press-fitted.

[0026] (Prevention protrusion 4b) In the center of the main body 4a in the y direction, two vertical slits (first vertical slit SV1, second vertical slit SV2) extending in the z direction and a horizontal slit SH1 communicating with the two slits and extending in the y direction at the lower ends of the two slits are provided. In a substantially U-shaped area surrounded by the first vertical slit SV1, the second vertical slit SV2, and the horizontal slit SH1, a first tongue piece ST1 extending from above in the z direction to below in the z direction is formed. The lower end of the first tongue piece ST1 in the z direction is bent at one point so as to protrude backward in the x direction, forming a slip-out prevention protrusion 4b. The slip-out prevention protrusion 4b is fitted into the slip-out prevention recess 2b2. After being fitted into the slip-out prevention recess 2b2, the slip-out prevention protrusion 4b abuts against the lower end of the slip-out prevention recess 2b2, preventing the antenna element unit 4 from falling out downward in the z direction. The lengths of the first longitudinal slit SV1 and the second longitudinal slit SV2 are set so that the first tongue piece ST1 does not undergo plastic deformation when a force is applied to the antenna element portion 4 due to vibration or the like.

[0027] (Pressing protrusion 4c) A vertical slit (third vertical slit SV3) for forming the pressing protrusion 4c is provided at the lower z-direction and right end in the y-direction of the main body 4a. The third vertical slit SV3 forms a second tongue ST2 extending downward in the z-direction at the lower z-direction and right end in the y-direction of the main body 4a. The lower end of the second tongue ST2 in the z-direction is bent at two points so as to protrude forward in the x-direction, forming the pressing protrusion 4c. The parts of the pressing protrusion 4c protruding forward in the x-direction are pressed against the wall 2b3. The length of the third vertical slit SV3 is set so that the second tongue ST2 does not plastically deform when a force is applied to the antenna element portion 4 due to vibration or the like.

[0028] Similarly, a vertical slit (fourth vertical slit SV4) for forming the pressing protrusion 4c is provided at the lower z-direction and left end in the y-direction of the main body 4a. The fourth vertical slit SV4 forms a third tongue ST3 extending downward in the z-direction at the lower z-direction and left end in the y-direction of the main body 4a. The lower end of the third tongue ST3 in the z-direction is bent at two points so as to protrude forward in the x-direction, forming the pressing protrusion 4c. The parts of the pressing protrusion 4c protruding forward in the x-direction are pressed against the wall 2b3. The length of the fourth vertical slit SV4 is set so that the third tongue ST3 does not plastically deform when a force is applied to the antenna element portion 4 due to vibration or the like.

[0029] (Lower end 4d) A bottom end 4d is provided below the main body 4a in the z direction. The bottom end 4d protrudes forward in the x direction and has a surface perpendicular to the y direction. The bottom end 4d is fitted into the antenna connection portion 5a.

[0030] (Terminal section 5) As shown in Fig. 11, the terminal portion 5 is a female terminal used for electrically connecting the antenna element portion 4 to the conductive path 6b of the substrate 6 and for holding the antenna element portion 4. In Fig. 11, the interior case 2b is omitted in order to explain the positional relationship between the antenna element portion 4, the terminal portion 5, and the substrate 6. As shown in Fig. 12, the terminal portion 5 has an antenna connection portion 5a and an attachment portion 5b. The antenna connection portion 5a and the attachment portion 5b are formed by bending and cutting a single metal plate.

[0031] (Antenna connection part 5a) The antenna connection portion 5a has a shape that sandwiches in the y direction the lower end portion 4d of the antenna element portion 4. For example, the antenna connection portion 5a is formed of an M-shaped spring that has a substantially M-shape when viewed from the x direction.

[0032] (Mounting part 5b) The mounting portion 5b extends downward in the z direction from the lower end of the antenna connection portion 5a in the z direction. As shown in FIG. 13, the mounting portion 5b is configured in a linear shape extending in the x direction when viewed from below in the z direction. The mounting portion 5b is inserted into the mounting hole 6a of the substrate 6. When the mounting portion 5b is inserted into the mounting hole 6a of the substrate 6, the lower end of the mounting portion 5b protrudes downward in the z direction from the mounting hole 6a of the substrate 6. The part of the lower end of the mounting portion 5b protruding downward in the z direction from the substrate 6 is temporarily fixed by clinching, and after being temporarily fixed, is fixed to the back surface of the substrate 6 by soldering. In addition, the terminal portion 5 and the conductive path 6b of the substrate 6 are electrically connected by the soldering.

[0033] (Substrate 6) Electronic components related to the antenna element unit 4 are mounted on the substrate (holding portion) 6. The substrate 6 is attached to the upper part of the antenna base 8 by means of screws or the like (see FIG. 1). A cable (not shown) electrically connected to the conductive path 6b of the substrate 6 extends to the roof 100 of the vehicle through a cable hole (not shown) provided in the antenna base 8. The substrate 6 holds the antenna element unit 4 attached to the interior case 2b through the terminal portion 5.

[0034] (Mounting hole 6a) The mounting hole 6a is provided in the area of ​​the substrate 6 where the terminal portion 5 is attached (see FIG. 12). The mounting hole 6a has an insertion area 6a1 and a protruding portion 6a2. Two mounting holes 6a are provided. That is, a pair of insertion areas 6a1 are provided. The insertion area 6a1 extends in the x direction when viewed from the z direction, and has a length approximately equal to the length of the attachment portion 5b in the x direction. The protruding portion 6a2 protrudes from the end of the insertion area 6a1 in the x direction in a direction perpendicular to the insertion area 6a1 (y direction). Specifically, the protruding portion 6a2 protrudes from both ends of one of the two insertion areas 6a1 to the side opposite to the side where the other of the two insertion areas 6a1 is located. The insertion area 6a1 and the protruding portions 6a2 provided at both ends of the insertion area 6a1 in the x direction are integrally configured. The mounting hole 6a has a substantially U-shaped, substantially C-shaped, or substantially groove-shaped shape when viewed from the z direction. The amount of protrusion of the protruding portion 6a2 in the y direction is shorter than the length of the inserted region 6a1 in the x direction.

[0035] When the terminal portion 5 is attached to the board 6, the outer surface of the attachment portion 5b (the surface opposite to the side facing the other attachment portions 5b) contacts the side of the insertion area 6a1 where the protruding portion 6a2 is located (see FIG. 13).

[0036] (Positional relationship of each part) The positional relationship of each part is determined so that when the interior case 2b is attached to the substrate 6, the lower end 4d of the antenna element part 4 attached to the interior case 2b is sandwiched between the antenna connection part 5a of the terminal part 5 attached to the substrate 6.

[0037] (Example 1 of different shapes of mounting hole 6a) In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the protruding portion 6a2 protrudes toward the side opposite to the side where the other inserted region 6a1 is located. However, the protruding direction of the protruding portion 6a2 is not limited to this. For example, as shown in FIG. 14, the protruding portion 6a2 may protrude toward the side where the other inserted region 6a1 is located. In this case, when the terminal portion 5 is attached to the board 6, the inner surface of the attachment portion 5b (the surface facing the other attachment portion 5b) contacts the side where the protruding portion 6a2 of the inserted region 6a1 is located.

[0038] (Example 2 of different shapes of mounting hole 6a) 15, the protruding portion 6a2 may protrude both to the side where the other inserted region 6a1 is present and to the opposite side. In this case, when the terminal portion 5 is attached to the board 6, the outer surface of the attachment portion 5b contacts the inserted region 6a1, or the inner surface of the attachment portion 5b contacts the inserted region 6a1.

[0039] (Conducting path 6b) The substrate 6 has a conductive path 6b formed thereon for electrical connection between the terminal portion 5 and electronic components mounted on the substrate 6. In order to explain the connection with the terminal portion 5, the conductive path 6b is illustrated only in the portion connected to the mounting hole 6a in Figures 2, 11, and 12, and the conductive path 6b is omitted in other portions. The conductive path 6b may be formed on the upper surface of the substrate 6, on the lower surface, or on both the upper and lower surfaces.

[0040] The antenna base 8 holds the substrate 6 (see FIG. 1). The antenna base 8 may be only a metal base, or may be a metal base and a resin base, a metal base and a metal plate, or a metal base, a metal plate, and a resin base. A sealing member (not shown) which is a surrounding elastic member formed of elastomer, rubber, urethane foam, or the like is provided on the underside of the antenna base 8. The sealing member provides a watertight seal around the area between the antenna base 8 and the roof 100 of the vehicle where the mounting hole is provided. Note that a resin base for holding the antenna base 8 may be further provided, and the pad 3 may be sandwiched between the resin base and the exterior case 2a.

[0041] (Assembly Instructions) Next, a procedure for attaching the antenna element portion 4 to the substrate 6 will be described. The terminal portion 5 is attached to the substrate 6 (terminal portion attachment process). Specifically, the attachment portion 5b of the terminal portion 5 is inserted into the attachment hole 6a of the substrate 6. After the insertion, the terminal portion 5 is fixed to the substrate 6 by clinching and soldering. In addition, the conductive path 6b of the substrate 6 and the terminal portion 5 are electrically connected.

[0042] The antenna element part 4 is attached to the interior case 2b (antenna element part attachment process). Specifically, the antenna element part 4 is press-fitted into the inner wall of the interior case 2b so that the upper end part 4a1 of the antenna element part 4 is fitted into the antenna clamping part 2b1 of the interior case 2b. During the press-fitting, the upper end part 4a1 of the antenna element part 4 is guided to pass between the positioning protrusions 2b5 of the peripheral part 2b4 of the interior case 2b and between the inclined surface S of the interior case 2b. Furthermore, when the press-fitting is completed, the part of the antenna element part 4 that extends in the y direction above the z direction of the groove part 4a2 comes into contact with the inclined surface S of the interior case 2b. Furthermore, the slip-out prevention protrusion 4b of the antenna element part 4 is fitted into the slip-out prevention recess 2b2 of the interior case 2b. Furthermore, the pressing protrusion 4c of the antenna element part 4 comes into contact with the wall part 2b3 of the interior case 2b. This completes the attachment of the antenna element part 4 to the interior case 2b.

[0043] The interior case 2b to which the antenna element section 4 is attached is attached to the board 6 by screws or the like (interior case attachment step). When the interior case 2b is attached to the board 6, the lower end section 4d of the antenna element section 4 is sandwiched between the antenna connection section 5a of the terminal section 5. Therefore, when the attachment of the interior case 2b to the board 6 is complete, the fitting of the lower end section 4d of the antenna element section 4 into the antenna connection section 5a of the terminal section 5, i.e., the electrical connection between the antenna element section 4 and the board 6, is also complete. Therefore, while being held by a holding section such as the antenna clamping section 2b1, the antenna element section 4 is connected to the board 6 via the terminal section 5.

[0044] (Effect of the interior case 2b holding the antenna element portion 4) In this embodiment, the antenna element unit 4 is attached not only to the substrate 6 but also to the interior case 2b. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the antenna element unit 4 is attached only to the substrate 6, the antenna element of the antenna element unit 4 is less likely to shake even if there is vibration during driving. Also, since the interior case 2b and the antenna element unit 4 are fixed, a wavelength shortening effect of the antenna element unit 4 can be obtained compared to a configuration in which the antenna element unit 4 is attached only to the substrate 6.

[0045] It should be noted that the antenna element section 4 is not limited to be attached to the inner case 2b, but may be attached to the inside of the outer case 2a, for example. In this case, the inner case 2b may be omitted.

[0046] Also, in this embodiment, an example has been described in which the inner case 2b holds the antenna element unit 4 by clamping with the antenna clamping portion 2b1, fitting the fall-off prevention recess 2b2 with the fall-off prevention protrusion 4b, pressing the pressing protrusion 4c against the wall portion 2b3, etc. However, the holding of the antenna element unit 4 by the inner case 2b is not limited to these, and for example, the antenna element unit 4 may be held in the inner case 2b by screwing.

[0047] (Effect of the antenna clamping portion 2b1 clamping the antenna element portion 4) By the antenna clamping portion 2b1 clamping the upper end portion 4a1 of the main body portion 4a of the antenna element portion 4, the upper region of the antenna element portion 4 in the z direction can be made less likely to shake even if there is vibration during driving.

[0048] (Effect of Providing Positioning Protrusion 2b5 and Inclined Surface S) The x direction is guided to pass between the inclined surfaces S, and the y direction is guided to pass between the positioning protrusions 2b5, making it easy to correctly press-fit the antenna element portion 4 into the predetermined position of the antenna clamping portion 2b1.

[0049] (Effect of Providing Groove 4a2) By providing the groove 4a2 functioning as a reinforcing member, the antenna element portion 4 is less likely to deform than in a configuration in which no groove is provided. In addition, by bringing the groove portion (second groove portion) of the groove portion 4a2 that is above the z direction and extends in the y direction into contact with the inclined surface S, the groove portion 4a2 can also be used for positioning in the z direction when the antenna element portion 4 is press-fitted.

[0050] (Effect of providing the slip-out prevention recess 2b2 and the slip-out prevention protrusion 4b) The recessed portion 2b2 of the interior case 2b fits into the recessed portion 4b of the antenna element unit 4, making it difficult for the antenna element unit 4 to fall out of the interior case 2b even if there is vibration during driving.

[0051] Alternatively, the fall-prevention protrusion 4b may be provided on the interior case 2b, and the fall-prevention recess 2b2 may be provided on the antenna element portion 4. The fall-prevention protrusion 4b is not limited to protruding backward in the x direction, and may protrude forward in the x direction, for example. In this case, the fall-prevention recess 2b2 is provided forward in the x direction relative to the antenna element portion 4.

[0052] (Effect of displacing the antenna clamping portion 2b1 and the fall-off prevention recess 2b2) When viewed from the x direction, this configuration makes it easier to form the interior case 2b using a mold than a configuration in which the antenna clamping portion 2b1 is located directly above the anti-slip recess 2b2, i.e., a configuration in which the area in which the antenna clamping portion 2b1 is provided is located on a straight line extending upward in the z direction from the area in which the anti-slip recess 2b2 is provided.

[0053] Alternatively, the fall-out prevention recess 2b2 may be provided at a position offset from the center in the y direction of the interior case 2b when viewed from the front in the x direction, and the antenna clamping portion 2b1 may be provided at the center in the y direction of the interior case 2b when viewed from the x direction.

[0054] (Effect of providing the wall portion 2b3) The wall portion 2b3 of the interior case 2b and the pressing protrusion 4c of the antenna element portion 4 press against each other in the x direction, making it easier for the interior case 2b to maintain the state in which it holds the antenna element portion 4.

[0055] The pressing protrusion 4c is not limited to protruding forward in the x direction, but may protrude backward in the x direction, for example. In this case, the wall 2b3 is provided rearward of the antenna element portion 4 in the x direction.

[0056] (Effect of providing antenna connection portion 5a) The antenna element portion 4 is sandwiched by the antenna connection portion 5a from below in the z-direction, so that the antenna element portion 4 attached to the interior case 2b can be easily connected to the board 6 via the terminal portion 5.

[0057] The structure is not limited to one in which the antenna element portion 4 is sandwiched between the antenna connection portion 5a, but may be one in which the antenna element portion 4 sandwiches the antenna connection portion 5a.

[0058] (Effect of Providing the Protruding Part 6a2 in the Mounting Hole 6a) 16, if the mounting hole 6a is formed only by the insertion area 6a1 that is linear when viewed from the z direction without providing the overhanging portion 6a2, the tool used to form the mounting hole 6a will cause rounding at the longitudinal end of the insertion area 6a1. If this rounding occurs, the longitudinal length (x direction) of the insertion area 6a1 will be longer than necessary, and the gap in the x direction between the insertion area 6a1 and the mounting portion 5b of the terminal portion 5 will be large.

[0059] In this embodiment, a protruding portion 6a2 is provided that protrudes from the end of the longitudinal direction of the inserted region 6a1 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (x direction) of the inserted region 6a1. Therefore, the roundness caused by the tool used to form the mounting hole 6a is formed at the end of the protruding portion 6a2 opposite to the side where the inserted region 6a1 is located. Therefore, the length of the longitudinal direction (x direction) of the inserted region 6a1 does not become longer than necessary, and the gap in the x direction between the mounting portion 5b of the terminal portion 5 can be reduced. Since the gap can be reduced, the mounting position of the terminal portion 5 relative to the mounting hole 6a is less likely to vary. In addition, since the terminal portion 5 serving as a base is firmly attached to the substrate 6 at the correct position, the terminal portion 5 can support the antenna element portion 4 above in the z direction at the correct position.

[0060] (Effect of protruding portion 6a2 protruding only inward) 14, by making the overhanging portion 6a2 protrude only toward the side where the other inserted region 6a1 is located, the hole that constitutes the mounting hole 6a does not protrude to the outside of the inserted region 6a1 (the side opposite to the side where the other inserted region 6a1 is located). Therefore, compared to a form in which the overhanging portion 6a2 protrudes toward the side opposite to the side where the other inserted region 6a1 is located, the outer shape of the mounting hole 6a as viewed from the z direction can be made smaller, making it easier to mount electronic components around the mounting hole 6a.

[0061] (Example of application of the shape of the exterior case 2a) In the present embodiment, the vehicle-mounted antenna device 1 has been described as having an exterior case 2a with a shark fin shape, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. Each of the above-described embodiments is also applicable to, for example, a roof antenna or a micro antenna.

[0062] (Application example of the orientation of the antenna element part 4) In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the surface constituting the antenna element of the main body 4a of the antenna element portion 4 is perpendicular to the x direction, but the orientation of the antenna element portion 4 is not limited to this. For example, the surface constituting the antenna element of the main body 4a of the antenna element portion 4 may be perpendicular to the y direction.

[0063] (Example of application of the position of the antenna element part 4) In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the antenna element section 4 is provided at the rear of the in-vehicle antenna device 1 in the x direction, but the position of the antenna element section 4 is not limited thereto. For example, the antenna element section 4 may be provided at the front of the in-vehicle antenna device in the x direction.

[0064] (Application example of the configuration of the antenna element section 4) In this embodiment, an example in which the antenna element section 4 is configured with one metal plate has been described, but the configuration of the antenna element section 4 is not limited to this. For example, the antenna element section 4 may be configured with a standing board perpendicular to the x direction or y direction and an antenna element mounted on the standing board. In this case, the lower end region of the standing board is attached to the antenna connection section 5a as the lower end section 4d.

[0065] (Example of application of the number of legs of terminal part 5) In this embodiment, an example in which the terminal portion 5 has two legs (mounting portions 5b) has been described, but one leg or three or more legs may be provided.

[0066] (Example of application of the shape of the mounting hole 6a) In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the protruding portions 6a2 are provided on both ends of the insertion area 6a1. However, the protruding portion 6a2 may be provided only on one end of the insertion region 6a1. Even in this case, it is possible to reduce the gap between the end of the insertion region 6a1 on the side where the protruding portion 6a2 is provided and the attachment portion 5b.

[0067] Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims, as well as in the scope and spirit of the invention.

[0068] According to the present specification, the following aspects are provided. (Aspect 1) The vehicle-mounted antenna device includes a case, a substrate, and an antenna element portion provided in a storage space of the case. The case has a holding portion that holds at least a part of the antenna element portion. When held by the holding portion, the antenna element portion is electrically connected to the substrate.

[0069] According to the first aspect, the antenna element portion is held in the case. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the antenna element portion is not held in the case, the antenna element of the antenna element portion is less likely to shake even if there are vibrations during driving.

[0070] (Aspect 2) Preferably, the holding portion includes a clamping portion configured to clamp at least a part of the antenna element portion.

[0071] According to the second aspect, the clamping portion clamps at least a part of the antenna element portion, so that the area of ​​the antenna element portion close to the clamping portion is less likely to shake even if vibrations occur during driving.

[0072] (Aspect 3) More preferably, the case has a peripheral portion covering at least a part of an edge of the antenna element portion, the peripheral portion including a first protrusion, and a gap between the peripheral portion and the antenna element portion is narrowed in an area where the first protrusion is located.

[0073] According to the third aspect, the antenna element portion can be easily guided by the first convex portion and correctly clamped in a predetermined position in the clamping portion.

[0074] (Aspect 4) More preferably, the antenna element portion has a first reinforcing portion extending in a direction in which at least a part of the antenna element portion is clamped by the clamping portion, and a second reinforcing portion extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the clamping portion clamps at least a part of the antenna element portion and the clamping direction. The first reinforcing portion and the second reinforcing portion are in communication with each other.

[0075] According to the fourth aspect, by providing the reinforcing portions (the first reinforcing portion and the second reinforcing portion), the antenna element portion can be made less susceptible to deformation compared to a configuration in which no reinforcing portion is provided.

[0076] (Aspect 5) More preferably, one of the antenna element portion and the holding portion includes a second protrusion.

[0077] According to the fifth aspect, the second protrusion makes it difficult for the antenna element portion to fall off the interior case even if vibrations or the like occur while driving.

[0078] (Aspect 6) Also, preferably, the antenna element portion includes a second protrusion. The holding portion includes a clamping portion that clamps at least a portion of the antenna element portion, and a first recess into which the second protrusion is fitted. The first recess is located below the clamping portion. An area where the clamping portion is provided and an area where the first recess is provided are misaligned in a direction perpendicular to the up-down direction and a direction in which the clamping portion clamps at least a portion of the antenna element portion.

[0079] According to aspect 6, the case can be easily formed using a mold compared to a configuration in which the area in which the clamping portion is provided and the area in which the first recess is provided are not misaligned in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the clamping portion clamps at least a portion of the antenna element portion, the up-down direction, and the like.

[0080] (Aspect 7) More preferably, the holding portion includes a wall portion facing the antenna element portion. One of the antenna element portion and the wall portion is provided with a third protrusion portion for pressing the other of the antenna element portion and the wall portion.

[0081] According to the seventh aspect, the wall of the case and the antenna element portion press against each other, making it easier for the case to maintain a state in which it holds the antenna element portion.

[0082] (Aspect 8) More preferably, for connection to the substrate via the terminal portion of the antenna element portion, one of the antenna element portion and the antenna connection portion of the antenna terminal portion has a shape that sandwiches the other of the antenna element portion and the antenna connection portion.

[0083] According to aspect 8, by sandwiching the antenna element portion with the antenna connection portion or by the antenna element portion sandwiching the antenna connection portion, the antenna element portion attached to the case can be easily connected to the substrate via the terminal portion. [Explanation of symbols]

[0084] 1 Vehicle-mounted antenna device, 2a exterior case, 2b interior case, 2b1 antenna clamping portion, 2b2 fall-prevention recess, 2b3 wall portion, 2b4 peripheral portion, 2b5 positioning protrusion, 3 pad, 4 antenna element portion, 4a main body portion, 4a1 upper end portion, 4a2 groove portion, 4b fall-prevention protrusion, 4c pressing protrusion, 4d lower end portion, 5 terminal portion, 5a antenna connection portion, 5b mounting portion, 6 substrate, 6a mounting hole, 6a1 insertion area, 6a2 extension portion, 6b conductive path, 8 antenna base, 100 roof, S inclined surface, SH1 horizontal slit, ST1 first tongue, ST2 second tongue, ST3 third tongue, SV1 first vertical slit, SV2 second vertical slit, SV3 third vertical slit, SV4 fourth vertical slit

Claims

1. Case and A substrate; an antenna element portion provided in the housing space of the case, the case has a holding portion that holds at least a part of the antenna element portion, the antenna element portion includes a portion that stands on the substrate, The antenna element portion and the substrate are electrically connected to each other.

2. The holding portion includes a clamping portion, The vehicle-mounted antenna device according to claim 1 , wherein the clamping portion clamps at least a portion of the antenna element portion.

3. the case has a peripheral portion covering at least a part of an edge of the antenna element portion, The peripheral portion includes a first protrusion, 3. The vehicle-mounted antenna device according to claim 1, wherein a gap between the peripheral edge portion and the antenna element portion is narrowed in a region where the first protrusion is present.

4. the antenna element portion has a first reinforcing portion extending in a direction in which at least a portion of the antenna element portion is clamped by the clamping portion, and a second reinforcing portion extending in a direction perpendicular to the clamping direction and a direction in which the clamping portion clamps at least a portion of the antenna element portion, The vehicle-mounted antenna device according to claim 2 , wherein the first reinforcing portion and the second reinforcing portion communicate with each other.

5. The vehicle-mounted antenna device according to claim 1 , wherein one of the antenna element portion and the holding portion includes a second protrusion.

6. The antenna element portion includes a second protrusion, the holding portion includes a clamping portion that clamps at least a part of the antenna element portion, and a first recess into which the second protrusion is fitted, The first recess is located below the clamping portion, 2. The vehicle-mounted antenna device according to claim 1, wherein an area in which the clamping portion is provided is offset from an area in which the first recess is provided in a direction perpendicular to a direction in which the clamping portion clamps at least a portion of the antenna element portion and to an up-down direction.

7. the holding portion includes a wall portion facing the antenna element portion, 7. The vehicle-mounted antenna device according to claim 1, further comprising a third protrusion provided on one of the antenna element portion and the wall portion for pressing the other of the antenna element portion and the wall portion.

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