Antenna Device

Abstract

An antenna device comprising: a first antenna (10) for radiating first polarization; a second antenna (20) for radiating second polarization; parasitic elements (11, 12, 21, 22); a ground plate (30); and a switch group comprising switches (111, 121, 211, 212, 221, 222) connected to the parasitic elements and switches (301 to 308) connected to the ground plate.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an antenna device. [Background technology]

[0002] Various methods have been proposed for switching the directivity and polarization (radiation pattern) of an antenna (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 to 3). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2011 / 080903 [Patent Document 2] JP 2012-120150 A [Patent Document 3] JP 2010-199859 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] There is still room for improvement in terms of increasing the degree of freedom in controlling the radiation pattern of the antenna.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an antenna device, an electronic device, and a method for controlling an antenna device that enable highly flexible control of a radiation pattern. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An antenna device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a first antenna that radiates a first polarized wave, a second antenna that radiates a second polarized wave, a parasitic element, a ground plane, and a switch group including a switch connected to the parasitic element and a switch connected to the ground plane. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1]1 is a perspective view showing an example of a schematic configuration of an antenna device according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] 1 is a plan view showing an example of a schematic configuration of an antenna device; [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of an SPST. [Figure 4A] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a power supply method. [Figure 4B] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a power supply method. [Figure 4C] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a power supply method. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a SPDT. [Figure 6] 1 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of an antenna device and an electronic device equipped with the antenna device; [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a state. [Figure 8A] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 8B] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 8C] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 9A] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 9B] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 9C] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 11] 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a switching control process. [Figure 12] 13 is a plan view showing an example of a schematic configuration of an antenna device according to a modified example. FIG. [Figure 13] 13 is a plan view showing an example of a schematic configuration of an antenna device according to a modified example. FIG. [Figure 14] 13 is a plan view showing an example of a schematic configuration of an antenna device according to a modified example. FIG. [Figure 15] 13 is a plan view showing an example of a schematic configuration of an antenna device according to a modified example. FIG. [Figure 16]13 is a plan view showing an example of a schematic configuration of an antenna device according to a modified example. FIG. [Figure 17] 13 is a plan view showing an example of a schematic configuration of an antenna device according to a modified example. FIG. [Figure 18] 11 is a plan view showing an example of a schematic configuration of an antenna device according to a second embodiment. FIG. [Figure 19] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a state. [Figure 20A] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 20B] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 20C] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 20D] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 20E] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 21A] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 21B] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 21C] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 21D] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 21E] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 22A] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 22B] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 22C] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 22D] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 22E] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 23A] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 23B] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 23C] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 23D]FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 23E] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 24A] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 24B] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 24C] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 24D] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 24E] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 25A] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 25B] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 25C] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 25D] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 25E] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 26A] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 26B] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 26C] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 26D] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 26E] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 27A] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 27B] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 27C] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 27D] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 27E] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 28] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a simulation result. [Figure 29] FIG. [Figure 30A] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing experimental results. [Figure 30B] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing experimental results. [Figure 30C] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing experimental results. [Diagram 31] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing experimental results. [Diagram 32] 13 is a plan view showing an example of a schematic configuration of an antenna device according to a modified example. FIG. [Diagram 33] 13 is a plan view showing an example of a schematic configuration of an antenna device according to a modified example. FIG. [Diagram 34] 13 is a plan view showing an example of a schematic configuration of an antenna device according to a modified example. FIG. [Diagram 35] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a state. [Figure 36A] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of information regarding frequency characteristics. [Figure 36B] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of information regarding frequency characteristics. [Figure 36C] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of information regarding frequency characteristics. [Figure 37] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of information regarding a time axis waveform. [Figure 38] 1 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of an antenna device and an electronic device equipped with the antenna device; [Figure 39] 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a switching control process. [Diagram 40] 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a switching control process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, the same components are designated by the same reference numerals, and duplicated descriptions will be omitted.

[0009] The present disclosure will be described in the following order. 1. First embodiment 1.1 Example of schematic configuration of antenna device 1.2 Examples of power supply methods 1.3 Example of control system configuration 1.4 State Example 1.5 Simulation results 1.6 Variations 2. Second embodiment 2.1 Example of schematic configuration of antenna device 2.2 State Example 2.3 Simulation results 2.4 Experimental results 2.5 Variations 3. Further examples of control systems 4. Effects

[0010] 1. First embodiment 1.1 Example of schematic configuration of antenna device Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a schematic configuration of an antenna device according to an embodiment. The antenna device 1 shown in Fig. 1 includes a substrate 2, an antenna 10, a parasitic element 11, a parasitic element 12, an antenna 20, a parasitic element 21, a parasitic element 22, and a ground plane 30. In the figure, the ground plane 30 is indicated by hatching. Also, in the figure, XYZ coordinates are shown. The Z-axis direction corresponds to the vertical direction, and the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction correspond to the horizontal direction.

[0011] The substrate 2 is a planar substrate. The substrate 2 has a thickness in the X-axis direction, and has a front surface (the surface on the negative X-axis direction side) and a back surface (the surface on the positive X-axis direction side) that extend in the Y-axis direction and the Z direction. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, "on the substrate 2" means "on the front surface of the substrate 2." The substrate 2 is, for example, a dielectric substrate having insulating properties.

[0012] The antenna 10 is a first antenna provided on the substrate 2 so as to radiate a first polarized wave. The first polarized wave is either a vertically polarized wave or a horizontally polarized wave. The vertically polarized wave is an electromagnetic wave in which the electric field component in the vertical direction is dominant. The horizontally polarized wave is an electromagnetic wave in which the electric field component in the horizontal direction is dominant. The antenna 10 illustrated in FIG. 1 is a linear (rod-shaped) conductive member (e.g., a metal pattern) provided on the substrate 2 so as to extend in the positive direction of the Z axis from the base end (the part on the split base plate 31 side) to the tip end. The antenna 10 may be a rod-shaped monopole antenna that radiates a vertically polarized wave. When the wavelength of a specific frequency (e.g., a center frequency) in the transmission / reception band of the antenna 10 is set to wavelength λ1, the length of the antenna 10 (length in the Z axis direction) is set to, for example, 0.25λ1.

[0013] The parasitic element 11 and the parasitic element 12 are a pair of parasitic elements provided to affect the directivity of the antenna 10. In this example, the parasitic element 11 and the parasitic element 12 are rod-shaped conductive members provided on the substrate 2 so as to extend in the positive direction of the Z axis from the base end (the part on the split ground plate 31 side) to the tip end. In the Y axis direction, the parasitic element 11 and the parasitic element 12 are provided on both sides of the antenna 10 so as to face the antenna 10. The parasitic element 11 and the parasitic element 12 are arranged, for example, at a distance of 0.25λ1 from the antenna 10.

[0014] The antenna 20 is a second antenna provided on the substrate 2 so as to radiate a second polarized wave. The second polarized wave may be polarized in the same direction as the first polarized wave radiated by the antenna 10, or may be polarized in a different direction from the first polarized wave. The antenna 20 illustrated in FIG. 1 is a rod-shaped slot line provided on the substrate 2 so as to extend in the negative direction of the Z axis from the base end (the portion near the boundary between the split ground plate 31 side and the split ground plate 32) to the tip end. The antenna 20 is a slot antenna that radiates a horizontally polarized wave. The antenna 20 is provided so as to be located on the opposite side of the antenna 10 in the Z axis direction, sandwiching the split ground plate 31 therebetween. When the wavelength of a specific frequency (e.g., center frequency) in the transmission / reception band of the antenna 20 is wavelength λ2, the length of the antenna 20 (length in the Z axis direction) is set to, for example, 0.5λ2.

[0015] The parasitic element 21 and the parasitic element 22 are a pair of parasitic elements provided to affect the directivity of the antenna 20. In this example, the parasitic element 21 and the parasitic element 22 are rod-shaped slot lines provided on the substrate 2 so as to extend in the negative direction of the Z axis from the base end (the part on the split ground plate 31 side) to the tip end. In the Y axis direction, the parasitic element 21 and the parasitic element 22 are provided on both sides of the antenna 20 so as to face the antenna 20. The parasitic element 21 and the parasitic element 22 are arranged, for example, at a distance of 0.25λ2 from the antenna 20.

[0016] The ground plane 30 is a ground plane that affects the directivity of the antenna 10 and the antenna 20. In this example, the ground plane 30 includes a divided ground plane 31 and a divided ground plane 32.

[0017] The split ground plane 31 is a conductive member provided on the substrate 2 so as to affect the directivity of the antenna 10 and / or the antenna 20. In this example, the split ground plane 31 has a substantially rectangular shape except for the portions where the antenna 20, the parasitic elements 21 and the parasitic elements 22 are provided. The split ground plane 31 is provided so as to face the antenna 10, the parasitic elements 11 and the parasitic elements 12 in the Z-axis direction. In the example shown in Fig. 2, the split ground plane 31 has a length (length in the Z-axis direction) that can form parts of the antenna 20 and the parasitic elements 21 and 22 (portions other than the portions formed by the split ground plane 32 described below).

[0018] The split ground plane 32 is a conductive member provided on the substrate 2 so as to affect the directivity of the antenna 10 and / or the antenna 20. In this example, the split ground plane 32 has a substantially rectangular shape except for the portion where the antenna 20, the parasitic element 21, and the parasitic element 22 are provided. The split ground plane 32 is provided opposite the split ground plane 31 so as to be located on the opposite side of the split ground plane 31 in the Z-axis direction from the antenna 10, the parasitic element 11, and the parasitic element 12. The split ground plane 32 may have the same width (length in the Y-axis direction) as the split ground plane 31. In addition, the split ground plane 32 has a length (length in the Z-axis direction) that allows the antenna 20, the parasitic element 21, and the parasitic element 22 to be formed.

[0019] Furthermore, a switch group consisting of a plurality of switches is provided in the antenna device 1. This will be described next with reference to FIG.

[0020] Fig. 2 is a plan view showing a schematic configuration of antenna device 1. Fig. 2 shows feed points FP1 and FP2 and a group of switches in addition to the components of antenna device 1 previously described with reference to Fig. 1. In this example, the group of switches includes switch 111, switch 121, switch 211, switch 212, switch 221, switch 222, and switches 301 to 308.

[0021] The feed point FP1 is provided on the substrate portion of the antenna 10 and on the divided ground plate 31. The feed point FP2 is provided on the base end portion of the antenna 20. Alternatively, the feed point FP2 may be provided at any position along the Z axis of the antenna 20.

[0022] The switch 111 is connected to the parasitic element 11. In this example, the switch 111 is connected between the base end of the parasitic element 11 and the split ground plane 31. When the switch 111 is SHORT (ON: short circuit), the parasitic element 11 is connected to the split ground plane 31. When the switch 111 is OPEN (OFF: open), the parasitic element 11 is separated from the split ground plane 31.

[0023] The switch 121 is connected to the parasitic element 12. In this example, the switch 121 is connected between the base end of the parasitic element 12 and the split ground plane 31. When the switch 121 is SHORT, the parasitic element 12 is connected to the split ground plane 31. When the switch 121 is OPEN, the parasitic element 12 is separated from the split ground plane 31.

[0024] The switch 211 and the switch 212 are connected to the parasitic element 21. In this example, the switch 211 is connected between the split ground planes 32 on both sides at the base end of the parasitic element 21. When the switch 211 is short, the parasitic element 21 becomes a slot line having a length from the base end to the switch 211. The switch 212 is connected between the split ground planes 32 on both sides at a portion between the base end and the tip end of the parasitic element 21. When the switch 211 is open and the switch 212 is short, the parasitic element 21 becomes a slot line having a length from the base end to the switch 212. In other words, the slot line from the switch 212 to the tip end is disabled.

[0025] The switch 221 and the switch 222 are connected to the parasitic element 22. In this example, the switch 221 is connected between the split ground planes 32 on both sides at the base end of the parasitic element 22. When the switch 221 is SHORT, the parasitic element 21 becomes a slot line having a length from the base end to the switch 221. The switch 222 is connected between the split ground planes 32 on both sides at a portion between the base end and the tip end of the parasitic element 22. When the switch 221 is OPEN and the switch 222 is SHORT, the parasitic element 22 becomes a slot line having a length from the base end to the switch 222. In other words, the slot line from the switch 222 to the tip is disabled.

[0026] The switches 301 to 308 are connected to the ground plate 30. In this example, the switches 301 to 308 are connected between the divided ground plate 31 and the divided ground plate 32 in order in the Y-axis direction.

[0027] The switch 301 is connected between the split ground plane 31 and the split ground plane 32 at the ends of the split ground plane 31 and the split ground plane 32 on the positive side of the Y axis. The switch 302 is connected between the split ground plane 31 and the split ground plane 32 at the portion of the base end of the parasitic element 22 on the positive side of the Y axis. The switch 303 is connected between the split ground plane 31 and the split ground plane 32 at the portion of the base end of the parasitic element 22 on the negative side of the Y axis. The switch 304 is connected between the split ground plane 31 and the split ground plane 32 at the portion of the base end of the antenna 20 on the positive side of the Y axis. The switch 305 is connected between the split ground plane 31 and the split ground plane 32 at the portion of the base end of the antenna 20 on the negative side of the Y axis. The switch 306 is connected between the split ground plane 31 and the split ground plane 32 at the portion of the base end of the parasitic element 21 on the positive side of the Y axis. Switch 307 is connected between split ground plane 31 and split ground plane 32 at the portion of the base end of parasitic element 21 on the negative Y-axis side. Switch 308 is connected between split ground plane 31 and split ground plane 32 at the ends of split ground plane 31 and split ground plane 32 on the negative Y-axis side.

[0028] As described above, a part of antenna 20 may be formed by split ground plane 31, in which case switches 304 and 305 connect the part of antenna 20 formed by split ground plane 31 and the part formed by split ground plane 32. A part of parasitic element 21 may be formed by split ground plane 31, in which case switches 306 and 307 connect the part of parasitic element 21 formed by split ground plane 31 and the part formed by split ground plane 32. A part of parasitic element 22 may be formed by split ground plane 31, in which case switches 302 and 303 connect the part of parasitic element 22 formed by split ground plane 31 and the part formed by split ground plane 32.

[0029] The switches 111, 121, 211, 212, 221, 222, and 301 to 308 are, for example, SPSTs (Single Pole Single Through). Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of an SPST. The SPST shown in Fig. 3 switches between OPEN and SHORT between terminals RF1 and RF2. The switching is controlled by a control signal CTRL. It is also possible to switch so that terminal RF2 is connected to ground.

[0030] 1.2 Examples of power supply methods An example of a power feeding method using the power feeding points FP1 and FP2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 4A to 4C.

[0031] The power supply method shown in FIG. 4A is an example of switching diversity. A signal source 40 generates a transmission RF signal. The transmission RF signal generated by the signal source 40 is selectively supplied to either a power supply point FP1 or a power supply point FP2 via a switch 50. This switches between radiation by the antenna 10 and radiation by the antenna 20. Here, for example, an SPDT (Single Pole Double Through) may be used as the switch 50. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of an SPDT. In the SPDT illustrated in FIG. 5, the DRIVER switches between OPEN and SHORT between the terminal RFC and the terminal RF1 and between OPEN and SHORT between the terminal RFC and the terminal RF2 in response to a control signal CTRL. The DRIVER operates by a power supply voltage VSS and a power supply voltage VDD. Similarly, switching diversity can also be used in reception.

[0032] The feeding method shown in Fig. 4B is an example of a composite diversity. The transmission RF signal generated by the signal source 40 is phase-shifted by a phase φ1 by a phase shifter 61 and then fed to a feed point FP1, and is phase-shifted by a phase φ2 by a phase shifter 62 and then fed to a feed point FP2. For example, when the antenna 10 and the antenna 20 radiate polarized waves that are orthogonal to each other, a radiation pattern that combines polarization and directivity can be formed. Similarly, a composite diversity can be used in reception.

[0033] The power supply method shown in Fig. 4C is an example of MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output). Signal source 41 and signal source 42 generate different transmission RF signals. The transmission RF signal generated by signal source 41 is supplied to a power supply point FP1. The transmission RF signal generated by signal source 42 is supplied to a power supply point FP2. When antenna 10 and antenna 20 radiate polarized waves orthogonal to each other, MIMO with low correlation and high S / N is realized. Similarly, MIMO can also be used for reception.

[0034] 1.3 Example of control system configuration The antenna device 1 can constitute a control system that performs switching of the above-mentioned switch 111, etc. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of an antenna device and an electronic device that constitute such a control system.

[0035] In addition to the configuration described above, the antenna device 1 includes an RF signal processing block 400, a switching control block 500, and a modulation / demodulation signal processing block 600. The antenna device 1 is mounted on an electronic device 5, and portions of the electronic device 5 other than the antenna device 1 are illustrated as another block 700. In this example, the power supply method is switching diversity (FIG. 4A). The other block 700 is configured to supply transmission data to the modulation / demodulation signal processing block 600 of the antenna device 1, and to receive reception data from the modulation / demodulation signal processing block 600.

[0036] An overview of the basic operation of transmission will be described. The modulation / demodulation signal processing block 600 generates a modulated signal based on transmission data. The RF signal processing block 400 generates a transmission RF signal based on the modulated signal. The generated transmission RF signal is supplied to the feed point FP1 or the feed point FP2 (FIG. 2) of the antenna device 1 via the switch 50.

[0037] An overview of the basic operation of reception will now be described. A received RF signal is supplied from the antenna device 1 via the switch 50 to the RF signal processing block 400. The RF signal processing block 400 processes (amplifies, filters, converts frequency, etc.) the received RF signal. The modulation / demodulation signal processing block 600 demodulates the processed received RF signal to obtain received data.

[0038] Here, indicators related to transmission and reception are sent to the switching control block 500. Examples of the indicators include, but are not limited to, reception level information (Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI)), transmission level information, reception Quality of Service (QoS) information (signal-to-interference ratio (SIR), Bit Error Rate (BER)) and transmission QoS information.

[0039] The switching control block 500 generates switching signals for controlling each of the switch 50, the switch 111, the switch 121, the switch 211, the switch 212, the switch 221, the switch 222, the switches 301 to 308 (FIG. 2), and the switch 50. The switching signals are generated based on the above-mentioned indicators sent from the modulation / demodulation signal processing block 600. For example, the switching control block 500 generates the switching signal so that at least one of the above-mentioned indicators is maximized.

[0040] Due to switching control by the switching control block 500, the antenna device 1 has various states as described below.

[0041] 1.4 State Example Fig. 7 is a diagram showing examples of states. Fig. 7 shows 24 different states, State 00 to State 23. "ON" means that power is fed to the antenna from the corresponding feeding point, and "OFF" means that power is not fed. "OPEN" means that the corresponding switch is in a non-conductive state (open), and "SHORT" means that it is in a conductive state (short circuit).

[0042] States 00 to 05 are examples in which power is supplied (excited) only to antenna 10, and the switches connected to parasitic element 11, parasitic element 12, split ground plane 31, and split ground plane 32 are switched. States 06 to 08 are examples in which power is supplied only to antenna 20, and the switches connected to parasitic element 21 and parasitic element 22 are switched. States 09 and 10 are examples in which power is supplied only to antenna 10, and the switches connected to parasitic element 21, parasitic element 22, split ground plane 31, and split ground plane 32 are switched. States 11 to 23 are examples in which power is supplied only to antenna 20, and the switches connected to parasitic element 11, parasitic element 12, parasitic element 21, and parasitic element 22 are switched.

[0043] In addition to the above-mentioned States 00 to 23, various other states can be obtained, such as a state in which power is supplied only to antenna 10 and the switches connected to parasitic elements 11, 12, 21, and 22 are switched, and a state in which each of the switches connected between split ground plane 31 and split ground plane 32 is switched independently.

[0044] 1.5 Simulation results A directivity simulation was performed for the antenna device 1 (FIGS. 1 and 2, etc.) described above. The main simulation conditions are as follows. Frequency: 815MHz~890MHz The lengths of the substrate 2 in the X, Y and Z axis directions are: 0.1 mm, 250 mm and 330 mm, respectively. Dielectric constant of substrate 2: 1.0. Thickness and conductivity of the conductive member (metal pattern) provided on the substrate 2: 0.1 mm and 5.8 × 10 7 S / m. The lengths of antenna 10 in the Y and Z axis directions are 10 mm and 75 mm, respectively. The lengths of the parasitic element 11 in the Y and Z axis directions are 10 mm and 80 mm, respectively. The lengths of the parasitic element 12 in the Y and Z axis directions are 10 mm and 80 mm, respectively. Distance between antenna 10 and parasitic element 11 in the Y-axis direction: 75 mm. Distance between antenna 10 and parasitic element 12 in the Y-axis direction: 75 mm. The lengths of the antenna 20 (slot) in the Y and Z axis directions are 10 mm and 170 m, respectively. The lengths of the parasitic element 21 in the Y and Z axis directions are 10 mm and 190 m, respectively. Distance between switch 211 and switch 212 in the Z-axis direction: 5 mm. The lengths of the parasitic element 22 in the Y and Z axis directions are 10 mm and 190 m, respectively. Distance between switches 222 in the Z-axis direction: 5 mm. Distance between antenna 20 and parasitic element 21 in the Y-axis direction: 75 mm. Distance between antenna 20 and parasitic element 22 in the Y-axis direction: 75 mm. The lengths of the split base plate 31 in the Y and Z axis directions are 250 mm and 45 mm, respectively. The lengths of the split base plate 32 in the Y and Z axis directions are 250 mm and 200 mm, respectively. Distance between split ground plates 31 and 32 in the Z-axis direction: 5 mm.

[0045] 8A to 8C show the simulation results of States 00 to 02. The solid line indicates the gain of vertical polarization (dBi), the dashed line indicates the gain of horizontal polarization, and the thick solid line indicates the total gain (dBi). In States 00 to 02, radiation of vertical polarization in the Y-axis direction is dominant. This is because antenna 10, parasitic element 11, and parasitic element 12, which are conductive members, are arranged side by side in the Y-axis direction.

[0046] In State 00 (FIG. 8A), a directivity that is nearly symmetrical in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction is obtained. This is because parasitic elements 11 and 12 are both separated from divided ground plane 31 by switches 111 and 121, and the effect of parasitic elements 11 and 12 on antenna 10 is small.

[0047] In State 01 (FIG. 8B), the gain in the negative Y-axis direction is larger than in State 00 (FIG. 8A). This is because, of parasitic elements 11 and 12, only parasitic element 11 is connected to split ground plane 31 by switch 111, and thus parasitic element 11 operates as a reflecting element.

[0048] State 02 (FIG. 8C) has a larger gain in the positive Y-axis direction than State 00 (FIG. 8A). This is because, of parasitic elements 11 and 12, only parasitic element 12 is connected to split ground plane 31 by switch 121, and thus parasitic element 12 operates as a reflecting element.

[0049] 9A to 9C show the simulation results for States 06 to 08. The solid line indicates the gain of vertical polarization (dBi), the dashed line indicates the gain of horizontal polarization, and the thick solid line indicates the total gain (dBi). In States 06 to 08, radiation of horizontal polarization in the X-axis direction is dominant. This is because antenna 20, which is a slot line, and parasitic elements 21 and 22 are arranged side by side in the Y-axis direction.

[0050] In State 06 (FIG. 9A), directivities that are approximately symmetric in the X-axis and Y-axis directions are obtained. This is because the line lengths of parasitic elements 21 and 22 are not changed by switches 211, 212, 221, and 222, and the effect of parasitic elements 21 and 22 on antenna 20 is small.

[0051] In State 07 (FIG. 9B), the gain in the negative Y-axis direction is large. This is because, among the line lengths of the parasitic elements 21 and 22, only the line length of the parasitic element 21 is shortened by the switches 211 and 212, and the parasitic element 22 operates as a reflecting element.

[0052] In State 08 (FIG. 9C), the gain in the positive direction of the Y axis is large. This is because, of the line lengths of the parasitic elements 21 and 22, only the line length of the parasitic element 22 is shortened by the switches 221 and 222, and the parasitic element 21 operates as a reflecting element.

[0053] The above-described States 00 to 02 and States 06 to 08 are examples of switching the polarization by switching between antennas 10 and 20, and controlling directivity by switching switches 111, 121, 211, 212, 221, and 222. A person skilled in the art would understand that directivity can also be controlled by switching switches 301 to 308.

[0054] Fig. 10 shows a comparison between State 01 and State 03. The solid line indicates the total gain (dBi) in State 1, and the dashed line indicates the total gain (dBi) in State 03. State 03 achieves a directivity different from that of State 01. This is because in State 03, split ground planes 31 and 32 are connected by switches 301 to 308, changing the pattern of ground plane 30, and thus changing the current flowing through ground plane 30 and split ground plane 31.

[0055] As described above, the antenna device 1 can be in various states with different polarizations and directivities. The state of the antenna device 1 is controlled by the switching control block 500 described above with reference to FIG.

[0056] 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a switching control process (a control method for the antenna device 1). This process is repeatedly executed by the switching control block 500, for example, while the antenna device 1 is transmitting / receiving data (using the electronic device 5).

[0057] In step S1, the switching control block 500 acquires indicators related to transmission and reception. For example, as described above with reference to Fig. 6, indicators such as reception level information (RSSI), transmission level information, reception QoS information (SIR, BER), and transmission QoS information are acquired.

[0058] In step S2, the switching control block 500 judges whether or not a predetermined condition is satisfied. For example, when searching for a State that provides the best index, if the index acquired in the previous step S1 is better than the index acquired in step S1 of the previous loop, it may be judged that the predetermined condition is satisfied. Alternatively, if a State that satisfies a certain level of index is sufficient, it may be judged that the predetermined condition is satisfied if the index acquired in the previous step S1 exceeds a threshold value. In addition to the above, various conditions may be used as the predetermined condition. If the predetermined condition is satisfied (Yes in step S2), the processing of the flowchart ends. If the predetermined condition is not satisfied (No in step S2), the processing returns to step S1 again via step S3.

[0059] In step S3, the switching control block 500 switches the switches. Which switches are switched may be determined appropriately. For example, each switch may be switched so that the previously described States 00 to 23 are realized in order each time steps S1 to S3 are looped.

[0060] For example, in the manner described above, the antenna device 1 can be switched to a state in which a desired directivity can be obtained.

[0061] 1.6 Variations Several modified examples of the antenna device 1 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0062] For example, the feed points may be provided at a plurality of positions on the antenna. FIG. 12 is a plan view showing a schematic configuration of an antenna device according to such a modified example. The antenna device 1A shown in FIG. 12 is different from the antenna device 1 (FIG. 2) in that the positions of the feed points of the antenna 20 are different. In this example, two feed points FP2A1 and FP2A2 are provided at arbitrary positions on the antenna 20. Note that the number and positions of the feed points FP2A1 and FP2A2 are merely examples, and various other numbers of feed points may be provided at various positions. By changing the feed position of the antenna 20, different directivities can be obtained according to changes in the length of the antenna 20, etc.

[0063] Also, for example, the ground plane may be further divided. Fig. 13 is a plan view showing a schematic configuration of an antenna device according to such a modified example. Antenna device 1B shown in Fig. 13 differs from antenna device 1 (Fig. 2) in that it includes divided ground plane 32B instead of divided ground plane 32, and in that it includes switches 309 to 316. Split ground plane 32B is divided into five parts: first portion 321, second portion 322, third portion 323, fourth portion 324, and fifth portion 325. The parts are connected by switches 309 to 316.

[0064] The first portion 321 and the second portion 322 are provided between the antenna 20 and the parasitic element 21 in that order in a direction from the base end to the tip end of the antenna 20 (in the negative direction of the Z axis). In this example, the first portion 321 and the second portion 322 have a substantially rectangular shape. The switch 309 is connected between the first portion 321 and the second portion 322 in the vicinity of the parasitic element 21. The switch 310 is connected between the first portion 321 and the second portion 322 in the vicinity of the antenna 20.

[0065] The third portion 323 and the fourth portion 324 are provided between the antenna 20 and the parasitic element 22 in that order in a direction from the base end to the tip end of the antenna 20. In this example, the third portion 323 and the fourth portion 324 have a substantially rectangular shape. The switch 311 is connected between the third portion 323 and the fourth portion 324 in the vicinity of the antenna 20. The switch 312 is connected between the third portion 323 and the fourth portion 324 in the vicinity of the parasitic element 22.

[0066] The fifth portion 325 is a portion of the divided ground plane 32 other than the first portion 321 to the fourth portion 324. Of the fifth portion 325, a portion provided between the antenna 20 and the parasitic element 21 is connected to the second portion 322 via the switch 313 and the switch 314. The switch 313 is connected between the second portion 322 and the fifth portion 325 in the vicinity of the parasitic element 21. The switch 314 is connected between the second portion 322 and the fifth portion 325 in the vicinity of the antenna 20. Of the fifth portion 325, a portion provided between the antenna 20 and the parasitic element 22 is connected to the fourth portion 324 via the switch 315 and the switch 316. The switch 315 is connected between the fourth portion 324 and the fifth portion 325 in the vicinity of the parasitic element 22. The switch 316 is connected between the fourth portion 324 and the fifth portion 325 in the vicinity of the parasitic element 22 .

[0067] The switches 309 to 316 are switched by a switching control block 500 (FIG. 6). By switching the switches 309 to 316, the pattern of the divided ground plate 32B is changed, and a different directivity is obtained. Note that the division pattern and connection relationship of the divided ground plate 32B are not limited to the example shown in FIG.

[0068] Also, for example, the roles of the antenna and the parasitic element may be switched, and further, a feeding point may be provided at any position of the antenna. Fig. 14 is a plan view showing a schematic configuration of an antenna device according to such a modified example. The antenna device 1C shown in Fig. 14 is different from the antenna device 1 (Fig. 2) in that it includes an antenna 10C, a parasitic element 11C, a parasitic element 12C, an antenna 20C, a parasitic element 21C, a parasitic element 22C, a switch 201C, a switch 212C, and a switch 222C, instead of the antenna 10, the parasitic element 11, the parasitic element 12, the antenna 20, the parasitic element 21, the parasitic element 22, the switch 212, and the switch 222.

[0069] The antenna 10C differs from the antenna 10 (FIG. 2) in that a switch 101 and a feed point FP1C0 are provided at the base end. The switch 101 is provided in parallel with the feed point FP1C0. The switch 101 is switched by a switching control block 500 (FIG. 6). By setting the switch 101 to SHORT, the antenna 10C can be used as a parasitic element instead of exciting the antenna 10C via the feed point FP1C0.

[0070] Parasitic element 11C differs from parasitic element 11 (FIG. 2) in that a feed point FP1C1 is provided at the base end. In this case, switch 111 is provided in parallel with feed point FP1C1. By opening switch 111, parasitic element 11C is excited via feed point FP1C1, and parasitic element 11C can be used as an antenna.

[0071] Parasitic element 12C differs from parasitic element 12 (FIG. 2) in that a feed point FP1C2 is provided at the base end. In this case, switch 121 is provided in parallel with feed point FP1C2. By opening switch 121, parasitic element 12C is excited via feed point FP1C2, and parasitic element 12C can be used as an antenna.

[0072] The antenna 20C differs from the antenna 20 (FIG. 2) in that a feed point FP2C0 is provided instead of the feed point FP2. The feed point FP2C0 may be provided at any position of the antenna 20, not limited to the base end of the antenna 20. The switch 201C is connected in parallel to the feed point FP2C0. That is, the switch 201C is connected between the divided ground plates 32 at both ends of the antenna 20C. The switch 201C is switched by the switching control block 500 (FIG. 6). By setting the switch 201C to SHORT, the antenna 20C can be used as a parasitic element, rather than exciting the antenna 20C via the feed point FP2C1.

[0073] The parasitic element 21C differs from the parasitic element 21 (FIG. 2) in that a feed point FP2C1 is provided and that a switch 212C is provided instead of the switch 212. The feed point FP2C1 is provided at an arbitrary position of the parasitic element 21C. The switch 212C is connected in parallel to the feed point FP2C1. That is, the switch 212C is connected between the divided ground plates 32 at both ends of the parasitic element 21. The switch 212C is switched by a switching control block 500 (FIG. 6). When the switch 212C is in an OPEN state, the parasitic element 21C is excited via the feed point FP2C1, and the parasitic element 21C can be used as an antenna.

[0074] The parasitic element 22C differs from the parasitic element 22 (FIG. 2) in that a feed point FP2C2 is provided and that a switch 222C is provided instead of the switch 222. The feed point FP2C2 is provided at an arbitrary position of the parasitic element 22C. The switch 222C is connected in parallel to the feed point FP2C2. That is, the switch 222C is connected between the divided ground planes 32 at both ends of the parasitic element 22C. The switch 222C is switched by a switching control block 500 (FIG. 6). When the switch 222C is in an OPEN state, the parasitic element 22C is excited via the feed point FP2C2, and the parasitic element 22C can be used as an antenna.

[0075] Different directivities can be obtained by switching the roles of the antenna and parasitic element of antenna 10C, parasitic element 11C, and parasitic element 12, and further by switching the roles of the antenna and parasitic element of antenna 20C, parasitic element 21C, and parasitic element 22C or by changing the position of the feed point.

[0076] Also, for example, the antenna may have various shapes other than a linear shape. Fig. 15 is a plan view showing a schematic configuration of an antenna device according to such a modified example. The antenna device 1D shown in Fig. 15 differs from the antenna device 1 (Fig. 2) in that it includes an antenna 10D, a parasitic element 11D, and a parasitic element 12D instead of the antenna 10, the parasitic element 11, and the parasitic element 12.

[0077] The antenna 10D is different from the antenna 10 (FIG. 2) in that it is a bent-type antenna having a bent portion. In the example shown in FIG. 14, the antenna 10D has a portion extending from the base end in the positive direction of the Z axis, two portions bending therefrom and extending in the positive and negative directions of the Y axis, and a portion bending therefrom and extending in the negative direction of the Z axis. The parasitic element 11D has a portion extending from the base end in the positive direction of the Z axis, a portion bending therefrom and extending in the positive direction of the Y axis, and a portion bending therefrom and extending in the negative direction of the Z axis. The parasitic element 12D has a portion extending from the base end in the positive direction of the Z axis, a portion bending therefrom and extending in the negative direction of the Y axis, and a portion bending therefrom and extending in the negative direction of the Z axis.

[0078] Different directivities can be obtained depending on the bending shapes of the antenna 10D, the parasitic element 11D, and the parasitic element 12D. Furthermore, by adopting a bending shape, the antenna device 1D can be made more compact than the antenna device 1. The shapes of the antenna 10D, the parasitic element 11D, and the parasitic element 12D may be any shape that can shorten the length in the Z-axis direction, and are not limited to the example shown in FIG. 15. For example, the antenna 10D may have a curved portion instead of a bending portion, or may have both a bending portion and a curved portion.

[0079] Also, for example, a variable reactance element may be provided for the parasitic element. Fig. 16 is a plan view showing a schematic configuration of an antenna device according to such a modified example. Antenna device 1E shown in Fig. 16 differs from antenna device 1 (Fig. 2) in that it includes variable reactance element 111E and variable reactance element 121E instead of switch 111 and switch 121. Variable reactance element 111E and variable reactance element 121E are one form of switches constituting a switch group.

[0080] The variable reactance element 111E and the variable reactance element 121E illustrated are capacitors whose capacitances can be changed, such as varicaps. The capacitances of the variable reactance element 111E and the variable reactance element 121E are controlled by a switching control block 500 (FIG. 6).

[0081] Different directivities can also be obtained by changing the reactance values ​​of variable reactance element 111E and variable reactance element 121E to switch the connection state between parasitic element 11 and divided ground plane 31.

[0082] Also, for example, the length of the parasitic element may be more finely changed by a switch. Fig. 17 is a plan view showing a schematic configuration of an antenna device according to such a modified example. The antenna device 1F shown in Fig. 17 differs from the antenna device 1 (Fig. 2) in that it includes parasitic elements 21F and 22F instead of parasitic elements 21 and 22, and in that it includes switches 213F and 223F.

[0083] Switch 213F is provided at an arbitrary position between switch 211 and switch 212 in parasitic element 21F. Switch 213F is connected between split ground planes 32 on both sides of parasitic element 21F. When switch 211 is OPEN and switch 213F is SHORT, parasitic element 21F has a line length from the base end to switch 214.

[0084] Switch 223F is provided at an arbitrary position between switch 221 and switch 222 in parasitic element 22F. Switch 223F is connected between split ground planes 32 on both sides of parasitic element 22. When switch 221 is OPEN and switch 223F is SHORT, parasitic element 22 has a line length from the base end to switch 224.

[0085] Different directivities can also be obtained by switching the lengths of parasitic elements 21F and 22F more finely with switches 213F and 223F. Note that in addition to switches 213F and 223F, further switches may be added.

[0086] In addition, the radiation pattern can be freely changed by various combinations other than those described above, such as a combination of vertically polarized excitation and a horizontally polarized parasitic element, to further optimize communication performance. It is also possible to make each element multiband. It is also possible to implement an antenna tuning element to achieve a broadband.

[0087] 2. Second embodiment 2.1 Example of schematic configuration of antenna device Fig. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of an antenna device according to the second embodiment. The antenna device 1G shown in Fig. 18 differs from the antenna device 1 (Fig. 2) in that it includes an antenna 20G and a ground plate 33 instead of the antenna 20 and the ground plate 30. Note that the antenna device 1G is illustrated in a form that does not include the parasitic elements 21 and 22 as in the antenna device 1 (Fig. 2), but may include a configuration equivalent to such parasitic elements 21 and 22.

[0088] The antenna 20G is a second antenna provided on the substrate 2 so as to radiate a second polarized wave. The second polarized wave radiated by the antenna 20G is polarized in the same direction as the first polarized wave radiated by the antenna 10. The antenna 20G illustrated in FIG. 18 is a slot antenna provided on the substrate 2 so as to extend in the horizontal direction, and radiates a vertically polarized wave. The feed point FP2G of the antenna 20G may be provided at any position of the antenna 20G. The ground plate 33 is provided on the substrate 2 so as to have an area (pattern length and pattern width) that can affect the radiation characteristics of the antennas 10 and / or 20G. In this example, the ground plate 33 has a substantially rectangular shape except for the portion where the antenna 20G is provided. The ground plate 33 has a length (length in the Y-axis direction) that can form the antenna 20G. The antenna 20G is excited via the feed point FP2G.

[0089] The antenna device 1G also has various states as described below, depending on the switching control block 500 (FIG. 6).

[0090] 2.2 State Example FIG. 19 is a diagram showing examples of states. "Beam direction" indicates the direction of directivity. "Y-" corresponds to the negative direction of the Y axis. "Y+" corresponds to the positive direction of the Y axis. "X±" corresponds to the positive direction and negative direction of the X axis. With the antenna device 1G, eight different states, State 200 to State 207, are obtained.

[0091] 2.3 Simulation results A directivity simulation was performed on the above-described antenna device 1G (FIG. 18). The main simulation conditions were as follows: Frequency: 700MHz~1GHz The lengths of the substrate 2 in the X, Y and Z axis directions are 0.36 mm, 210 mm and 218 mm, respectively. Dielectric constant of substrate 2: 4.6. The thickness and conductivity of the conductive member (metal pattern) provided on the substrate 2: 0.02 mm and 5.8 x 10 7 S / m. The lengths of the antenna 10 in the Y and Z axis directions are 2 mm and 67 mm, respectively. The lengths of the parasitic element 11 in the Y and Z axis directions are 2 mm and 67 mm, respectively. The lengths of the parasitic element 12 in the Y and Z axis directions are 2 mm and 67 mm, respectively. Distance between antenna 10 and parasitic element 11 in the Y-axis direction: 88 mm. Distance between antenna 10 and parasitic element 12 in the Y-axis direction: 88 mm. The lengths of the antenna 20 (slot) in the Y and Z axis directions are 200 and 4 mm, respectively. Distance from one end of antenna 20 to feed point FP2G in the Y-axis direction: 60 mm. The lengths of the base plate 33 in the Y and Z axis directions are 209 mm and 150 mm, respectively.

[0092] 20A to 20E show the simulation results of State 200. FIG. 20A to FIG. 20C show the directivity when viewed on the XY plane, the XZ plane, and the YZ plane. In State 200, directivity is obtained especially in the Y-axis direction. This is because the antenna 10, the parasitic element 11, and the parasitic element 12, which are conductive members, are arranged in the Y-axis direction. In addition, directivity that is almost symmetrical in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction is obtained. This is because the parasitic element 11 and the parasitic element 12 are both in a state where they are separated from the ground plane 33 by the switch 111 and the switch 121, and the influence of the parasitic element 11 and the parasitic element 12 on the antenna 10 is small. FIG. 20D shows the radiation efficiency (dB), and FIG. 20E shows the VSWR. The markers M01, M02, and M03 correspond to frequencies of 0.83 GHz, 0.86 GHz, and 0.89 GHz, respectively. As shown by markers M01 to M03, good radiation efficiency and VSWR are obtained in the frequency range of 0.83 GHz to 0.89 GHz.

[0093] 21A to 21E show the simulation results of State 201. As shown in Figs. 21A to 21C, in State 201, the gain in the negative Y-axis direction is larger than in State 200 (Figs. 20A to 20C). This is because, of parasitic elements 11 and 12, only parasitic element 11 is connected to ground plane 33 by switch 111, and thus parasitic element 11 operates as a reflecting element. Even in this case, as shown by markers M11 to M13 in Figs. 21D and 21E, good radiation efficiency and VSWR are still obtained at frequencies from 0.83 GHz to 0.89 GHz.

[0094] 22A to 22E show the simulation results of State 202. As shown in Figs. 22A to 22C, in State 202, the gain in the positive Y-axis direction is larger than in State 200 (Figs. 20A to 20C). This is because, of parasitic elements 11 and 12, only parasitic element 12 is connected to ground plane 33 by switch 121, and thus parasitic element 12 operates as a reflecting element. Even in this case, as shown by markers M21 to M23 in Figs. 22D and 22E, good radiation efficiency and VSWR are still obtained at frequencies from 0.83 GHz to 0.89 GHz.

[0095] 23A to 23E show the simulation results of State 203. As shown in Fig. 23A to 23C, in State 203, the gain in the X-axis direction and the positive Y-axis direction changes compared to State 200 (Fig. 20A to 20C). This is considered to be because the influence of parasitic elements 11 and 12 on antenna 10 changes as a result of parasitic elements 11 and 12 being connected to ground plane 33 by switches 111 and 121. As shown by markers M31 to M33 in Fig. 23D and Fig. 23E, the radiation efficiency and VSWR also change at frequencies from 0.83 GHz to 0.89 GHz.

[0096] 24A to 24E show the simulation results of State 204. As shown in FIG. 24A to FIG. 24C, in State 204, directivity is obtained especially in the X-axis direction. This is because the antenna 20G, which is a slot line, is provided in the Y-axis direction. In addition, directivity that is approximately symmetrical in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction is obtained. This is because the ground plane 33 is in a state where the parasitic elements 11 and 12 are separated from each other by the switches 111 and 121, and the influence of the parasitic elements 11 and 12 on the antenna 20G is small. As shown by the markers M41 to M43, good radiation efficiency and VSWR are still obtained at frequencies from 0.83 GHz to 0.89 GHz.

[0097] 25A to 25E show the simulation results for State 205. As shown in Figs. 25A to 25C, in State 205, the gain in the positive Y-axis direction is greater than in State 204 (Figs. 24A to 24C). This is believed to be because ground plane 33 is connected to parasitic element 11 by switch 111, and the effect of parasitic element 11 on antenna 20G has changed. As shown by markers M51 to M53, good radiation efficiency and VSWR are still obtained at frequencies between 0.83 GHz and 0.89 GHz.

[0098] 26A to 26E show the simulation results for State 206. As shown in Figs. 26A to 26C, in State 206, the gain in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction changes compared to State 204 (Figs. 24A to 24C). This is believed to be because the ground plane 33 is connected to the parasitic element 12 by the switch 121, and the effect of the parasitic element 12 on the antenna 20G has changed. As shown by markers M61 to M63, good radiation efficiency and VSWR are still obtained at frequencies from 0.83 GHz to 0.89 GHz.

[0099] 27A to 27E show the simulation results of State 207. As shown in Figs. 27A to 27C, in State 207, the gain in the positive Y-axis direction is larger than in State 204 (Figs. 24A to 24C). This is believed to be because the influence of parasitic elements 11 and 12 on antenna 20G has changed due to ground plane 33 being connected to parasitic elements 11 and 12 by switches 111 and 121. As shown by markers M71 to M73, good radiation efficiency and VSWR are still obtained at frequencies from 0.83 GHz to 0.89 GHz.

[0100] Figure 28 shows a comparison between States 200 to 207. Curves C0 to C7 show the gains of States 200 to 207. As shown in Figure 28, for example, when viewed on the XY plane, a gain of about 5 dBi can be obtained in all directions of 360 degrees by switching between States 200 to 207.

[0101] 2.4 Experimental results Fig. 29 is a diagram showing a prototype. As shown in Fig. 29, in the prototype, the antenna 10 was excited from the port PORT1 via the transmission line LINE1 (and the feeding point FP1). The antenna 20G was excited from the port PORT2 via the transmission line LINE2 (feeding point FP2). In this example, the transmission line LINE1 and the transmission line LINE2 are microstrip lines. However, other than the microstrip line, a coplanar line, a strip line, or the like may be used. The substrate 2, the antenna 10, the antenna 20G, and the ground plate 33 are similar to the previous simulation conditions, and therefore the description will not be repeated here.

[0102] 30A to 30C and 31 show experimental results of the prototype shown in FIG.

[0103] Fig. 30A shows the experimental results of State 201. The solid line shows the directivity at a frequency of 830 MHz. The thick solid line shows the directivity at a frequency of 860 MHz. The dashed line shows the directivity at a frequency of 890 MHz. The experimental results were close to the simulation results previously described with reference to Fig. 21A etc.

[0104] Fig. 30B shows the experimental results for State 202. The experimental results obtained were close to the simulation results previously described with reference to Fig. 22A and the like.

[0105] Fig. 30C shows the experimental results for State 204. The experimental results obtained were close to the simulation results described above with reference to Fig. 24A and the like.

[0106] Fig. 31 shows the experimental results for State 201, State 202, State 206, and State 207. Curves C1, C2, C6, and C7 show the directivities of State 201, State 202, State 206, and State 207. Curve CREF shows the directivity of a commercially available sleeve dipole antenna (an almost omnidirectional antenna). For example, when viewed on the XY plane, it was confirmed that a gain of about 5 dBi can be obtained in all directions of 360 degrees by switching between State 201, State 202, State 206, and State 207.

[0107] 2.5 Variations Some modified examples of the antenna device 1G will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0108] For example, in one of the antennas, the directivity may be controlled by using a pair of antennas, instead of using a parasitic element. FIG. 32 is a plan view showing a schematic configuration of an antenna device according to such a modified example. The antenna device 1H shown in FIG. 32 is different from the antenna device 1G (FIG. 18) in that it includes antennas 10H1 and 10H2 instead of the antenna 10, and includes a hybrid element 90. The antennas 10H1 and 10H2 are both monopole antennas extending in the positive direction of the Z axis. The hybrid element 90 is a 90-degree hybrid element that distributes a signal from a feed point FP1H and supplies signals with a phase difference of 90 degrees to the antennas 10H1 and 10H2, respectively. The antenna 10 may be excited in a first frequency band (e.g., 800 MHz band), and the antenna 20 may be excited in a second frequency band (e.g., 2 GHz band). The signal in the first frequency band is radiated by the antenna 10 with directivity in the Y axis direction. The signal of the second frequency band is radiated by the antenna 20 with directivity in the X-axis direction. Therefore, the antenna device 1H functions as an orthogonal beam antenna in which the directivities of different frequency bands constituting the multiband are orthogonal to each other. In addition, by using a pair of antennas, the antenna device 1H can be made smaller than a configuration having two elements, parasitic element 11 and parasitic element 12.

[0109] Also, for example, between the pair of antennas described above, the roles of the antenna and the parasitic element may be switched as in the example of Fig. 14. Fig. 33 is a plan view showing a schematic configuration of an antenna device according to such a modified example. The antenna device 1J shown in Fig. 33 differs from the antenna device 1H (Fig. 32) in that it includes antennas 10J1 and 10J2 instead of antennas 10H1 and 10H2, that it includes switches 101J1 and 101J2, and that it does not include a hybrid element 90.

[0110] The switch 101J1 is a SPDT switch connected between the antenna 10J1, the ground plate 33, and the switch 101J3. The switch 101J1 switches between a state in which the antenna 10J1 is connected to the ground plate 33 and a state in which the antenna 10J1 is connected to the switch 101J3. The switch 101J1 is switched by a switching control block 500 (FIG. 6).

[0111] The switch 101J2 is a SPDT switch connected between the antenna 10J2, the ground plate 33, and the switch 101J3. The switch 101J2 switches between a state in which the antenna 10J2 is connected to the ground plate 33 and a state in which the antenna 10J2 is connected to the switch 101J3. The switch 101J2 is switched by a switching control block 500 (FIG. 6).

[0112] The switch 101J3 is a SPDT switch connected between the switch 101J2 and the signal source 40 (see FIG. 4A, etc.). The switch 101J3 switches between a state in which the switch 101J1 is connected to the signal source 40 (excited state) and a state in which the switch 101J2 is connected to the signal source 40 (excited state).

[0113] By switching the switches 101J1, 101J2, and 101J3, the usage of the antennas 10J1 and 10J2 can be switched between an antenna and a parasitic element. By using a pair of antennas, the antenna device 1J can be made smaller than a configuration having two elements, the parasitic element 11 and the parasitic element 12.

[0114] The antenna device 1G according to the second embodiment can also be modified in the same manner as the antenna device 1 according to the first embodiment. For example, the parasitic elements 21 and 22 for the antenna 20 as described above with reference to Fig. 2 may be provided for the antenna 20G of the antenna device 1G. These parasitic elements may be provided so as to extend along the extension direction (Y-axis direction) of the antenna 20G. In addition, the modifications described above with reference to Figs. 11 to 17 may also be applied to the substrate 2G.

[0115] For example, a slot antenna extending in the Z-axis direction like antenna 20 and a slot antenna extending in the Y-axis direction like antenna 20G may coexist. Fig. 34 is a plan view showing an example of a schematic configuration of an antenna device according to such a modified example. Antenna device 1K shown in Fig. 34 includes antenna 20K, parasitic element 21K, parasitic element 22K, antenna 23K, parasitic element 24K, and parasitic element 25K as a slot line formed by a ground plate 34.

[0116] The antenna 20K is a slot antenna extending in the Z-axis direction and is excited via a feed point FP2. The parasitic elements 21K and 22K are provided on both sides of the antenna 20K. The antenna 23K is a slot antenna extending in the Y-axis direction and is excited via a feed point FP3K. The parasitic elements 24K and 25K are provided on both sides of the antenna 23K. The feed point FP2K is located at an arbitrary position along the antenna 20K, and the feed point FP3K is located at an arbitrary position along the antenna 23K. However, it is preferable to avoid the inside of the parasitic slot.

[0117] The antenna device 1K includes switches 251 to 262 as switches for switching the lengths of the antenna 20K, the parasitic element 21K, the parasitic element 22K, the antenna 23K, the parasitic element 24K, and the parasitic element 25K. In the example shown in Fig. 34, the switches 251 to 262 are provided so as to surround the intersection of the slot lines. However, the arrangement of the switches is not limited to the example in Fig. 34.

[0118] The antenna device 1K also has various states as described below, depending on the switching control block 500 (FIG. 6). FIG. 35 is a diagram showing examples of states. "V" indicates vertical polarization and "H" indicates horizontal polarization. As shown in FIG. 35, states 300 to 308 are obtained in which the polarization and directivity are switched. Various states can be obtained by switching each feed point and switch individually, not limited to the example shown in FIG. 35.

[0119] In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which components of the antenna device 1, such as the antenna, the parasitic element, the ground plane, and the switch group, are provided on the front surface of the substrate 2. However, some or all of the components of the antenna device 1 may be provided on the back surface of the substrate 2.

[0120] As can be understood by those skilled in the art from the scope of the above description, the frequency band of the antenna device according to the embodiment is not limited to 800 MHz and 2 GHz bands. Examples of other frequency bands include the 2.4 GHz band, the 5 GHz band, and even higher frequency bands such as the millimeter wave band. The antenna device according to the embodiment may be applied to radio waves of any frequency band including these. The antenna device may be applied to any wireless system that uses these frequency bands. Examples of wireless systems include LTE (Long Term Evolution), UWB (Ultra Wide Band), WiFi (registered trademark), and the like. The antenna device is applicable to any application that uses these frequency bands or wireless systems. Examples of applications include calls, data communications, ranging, positioning, motion sensing, and the like.

[0121] 3. Further examples of control systems In the above embodiment, a control system that generates a switching signal for controlling each switch, etc., based on indices such as reception level information (RSSI), transmission level information, reception QoS information (SIR, BER), and transmission QoS information has been described with reference to Fig. 6. To further explain the indices, the transmission level information may include transmission power, etc. The reception QoS information may include indicators included in packets, in addition to SIR and BER. The same is true for the transmission QoS information. These indices are sent, for example, from the modulation / demodulation signal processing block 600 to the switching control block 500.

[0122] We will now discuss indicators included in packets. Many wireless transmission and reception signals include indicators in the packets that indicate the quality of the signal. Examples of indicators are numerical values ​​determined corresponding to the level of quality. Examples of numerical values ​​include the numerical value 1, which indicates good quality, the numerical value 2, which indicates low quality, the numerical value 3, which indicates unreliable (for any reason like Signal Lost, etc.), and the numerical value 4, which indicates unknown quality.

[0123] Yet another example of the index is information on frequency characteristics. The information on frequency characteristics includes information on frequency characteristics of the received signal and frequency characteristics of the transmitted signal. An example of the information on frequency characteristics of the received signal is the frequency characteristics of the phase or amplitude of the received signal and information based thereon (slope value, moving average value, etc.). An example of the information on frequency characteristics of the transmitted signal is the frequency characteristics of the phase or amplitude of the transmitted signal and information based thereon (slope value, moving average value, etc.). The phase or amplitude may be a relative value when the phase or amplitude at a certain frequency is used as a reference. Such an index will be described with reference to Figs. 36A to 36C.

[0124] 36A to 36C are diagrams showing examples of information related to frequency characteristics. Among these diagrams, FIG. 36A and FIG. 36B show examples of frequency characteristics of phase or amplitude in different states. The horizontal axis of the graph indicates frequency, and the vertical axis indicates phase or amplitude. The frequency range is the transmission and reception frequency band of the antenna (for example, 2.4 GHz to 2.48 GHz, etc.). In a certain state, as shown in FIG. 36A, as the frequency increases, the phase or amplitude changes so as to decrease at a substantially constant rate. In another state, as shown in FIG. 36B, as the frequency increases, the phase or amplitude changes irregularly, repeatedly increasing and decreasing. In this way, since the frequency characteristics differ depending on the state, the frequency characteristics of the phase or amplitude of the transmission signal or the reception signal can also be used as an index. For example, control may be performed such as selecting a state in which the frequency characteristics satisfy a predetermined condition, selecting a state in which the frequency characteristics are optimal, or selecting a state in which the variation in the frequency characteristics is minimal.

[0125] FIG. 36C shows an example of the slope value of the frequency characteristic of the phase or amplitude in each of different states. Graph line A shows the slope value of the frequency characteristic shown in FIG. 36A described above. Graph line B shows the slope of the frequency characteristic shown in FIG. 36C described above. Since the slope of the frequency characteristic of the phase or amplitude differs depending on the state, the slope of the frequency characteristic of the phase or amplitude can also be used as an index. For example, control may be performed such as selecting a state in which the fluctuation of the slope value of the frequency characteristic satisfies a predetermined condition (initial value, for example, -30 dB / Hz or less) or selecting a state in which the fluctuation of the slope value of the frequency characteristic is minimum.

[0126] Yet another example of the index is information about the time axis waveform. The information about the time axis waveform includes information about the time axis waveform of the received signal and information about the time axis waveform of the transmitted signal. An example of the information about the time axis waveform of the received signal is the time axis waveform of the received signal and information based thereon (such as the width of the initial peak, the amplitude of the initial peak, and the detection time of the initial peak). An example of the information about the time axis waveform of the transmitted signal is the time axis waveform of the transmitted signal and information based thereon (such as the width of the initial peak, the amplitude of the initial peak, and the detection time of the initial peak). The information about the time axis waveform is useful, for example, when the antenna device 1 is used as a distance measuring and positioning device or the like. The information about the time axis waveform will be described with reference to FIG. 37.

[0127] FIG. 37 is a diagram showing a schematic example of information related to a time-axis waveform. The horizontal axis of the graph indicates time, and the vertical axis indicates amplitude values ​​(detection values). The amplitude values ​​are normalized by the value of the first wave peak. The time from detection of the signal to the first wave peak is referred to as time T1 and illustrated. The first wave peak is referred to as width W1 and illustrated. Time T1 begins when the amplitude value of the detection signal first exceeds a predetermined level (about 0.05 in this example). Note that in this example, the detection amplitude reaches 0.5 when half of time T1 has elapsed since the start of detection.

[0128] As described above, the antenna radiation pattern changes depending on the state, and the time axis waveform as shown in FIG. 37 may also differ depending on the state. Therefore, the time axis waveform can also be used as an index. For example, control may be performed to select a state in which the time axis waveform (time T1, width W1, etc.) satisfies a predetermined condition. When time T1 is used, an initial value of the predetermined condition may be set to, for example, 15 ns or less, 10 ns or less, and a state that satisfies this may be selected. Control may be performed to select a state in which the time axis waveform (time T1, width W1, etc.) is optimal. For example, a state in which time T1 is shortest may be selected. Or, a state in which width W1 is narrowest may be selected.

[0129] The above-mentioned indexes for positioning and ranging may be checked in each State. In this case, if a predetermined condition is satisfied in multiple States, post-processing may be performed, such as adopting an average, adopting a better value, or deciding on an index with reference to other indexes.

[0130] A control system that generates a switching signal for controlling each switch, etc., based on indexes including the above-mentioned frequency characteristics, etc., and time-axis waveform, etc., will be described with reference to Fig. 38. Fig. 38 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of an antenna device and an electronic device equipped with the antenna device. The following will particularly describe differences from Fig. 6.

[0131] The modulation / demodulation signal processing block 600A includes a detection unit 601 and a ranging / positioning unit 602. The detection unit 601 detects the above-mentioned information on frequency characteristics and information on time axis waveform to obtain these indices. The detection unit 601 includes, for example, a detector and an error counter. The obtained indices are sent from the modulation / demodulation signal processing block 600A to the switching control block 500A. The switching control block 500A generates switching signals for controlling each switch based on the indices sent from the modulation / demodulation signal processing block 600. As a result, the antenna device 1 is switched to a state in which a desired directivity is obtained, as described above.

[0132] The ranging and positioning unit 602 performs ranging and / or positioning (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as "ranging and positioning"). The ranging and positioning are performed, for example, by using at least one of the antenna 10 and the antenna 20 (FIG. 1) as an antenna for ranging and positioning. The principle of ranging and positioning is well known and will not be described in detail. Each of the antenna 10 and the antenna 20 may be used as a separate antenna for ranging and positioning, in which case two ranging and positioning results are obtained: a ranging and positioning result by the antenna 10 and a ranging and positioning result by the antenna 20.

[0133] An example of using two ranging and positioning results, that is, a result of ranging and positioning by antenna 10 and a result of ranging and positioning by antenna 20, will be described. An index for antenna 10 and an index for antenna 20 may also be used, and in that case, the two ranging and positioning results may be adopted depending on the confirmation result of the index. In the example of ranging, the confirmation result may be a comparison result of the indexes of the two antennas (for example, the difference between the indexes). Priority may be given to the indexes, and in that case, the comparison may be performed in order from the index with the highest priority, and the confirmation process may be completed when a difference of a certain level or more is confirmed. As an example, when the priority of the indicator is set higher among the two indexes, the indicator and the width W1, the ranging distance by the antenna with the better indicator value (quality) may be used. When the indicator values ​​are the same (no difference), it is confirmed whether the width W1 is within a certain range, and the ranging distance by the antenna with the index that satisfies the condition may be used. If no significant difference is observed in either the indicator or the width W1, for example, the shorter ranging distance of the two antennas may be used.

[0134] Instead of checking the indicators in the order of priority as described above, if the difference between the distance measurement results by the two antennas is equal to or less than a predetermined value (e.g., a distance corresponding to 1.5 ns), the average value of the two distance measurements may be used. Averaging is expected to improve accuracy. If the difference is greater than the predetermined value, the distance measurement to be used may be selected based on reliability information calculated from indicators and other indicators.

[0135] The above-mentioned indexes for positioning and ranging may be checked in each State. In this case, if a predetermined condition is satisfied in multiple States, post-processing may be performed, such as adopting an average, adopting a better value, or deciding on an index with reference to other indexes.

[0136] In consideration of the above, various switching control processes may be performed in addition to the switching control process (the control method of the antenna device) described above with reference to Fig. 11. Some examples will be described with reference to Figs. 39 and 40.

[0137] For example, in a process of searching for a State whose index satisfies a predetermined condition, if no State whose index satisfies the predetermined condition is found, the predetermined condition may be relaxed. This will be described with reference to FIG.

[0138] 39 is a flowchart showing an example of a switching control process (a control method for an antenna device). This process is repeatedly executed by the switching control block 500A, for example, while the antenna device 1 is transmitting / receiving (the electronic device 5 is being used).

[0139] In step S11, the type of the index is set under a predetermined condition. For example, the time T1 to the first wave peak of 10 ns or less as described above is set as the predetermined condition and the type of the index. Predetermined conditions are also set for the other indexes.

[0140] In step S12, it is determined whether the condition is satisfied. Specifically, it is determined whether the acquired index satisfies the predetermined condition set in the previous step S11. If the condition is satisfied (step S12: Yes), the process of the flowchart ends. If not (step S12: No), the process proceeds to step S13.

[0141] In step S13, it is determined whether all States have been checked. Specifically, it is determined that all States have been checked if all States have been the subject of the processing in step S12 so far. If all States have been checked (step S13: Yes), the process proceeds to step S14. If not (step S13: No), the process proceeds to step S15.

[0142] In step S14, the switch is changed, and the process returns to step S12. The change of the switch here is to a State that has not been the target of the process in step S12.

[0143] In step S15, it is determined whether all indexes have been checked. Specifically, it is determined that all indexes have been checked if all indexes have been subject to the processing in step S12 so far. If all indexes have been checked (step S15: Yes), processing proceeds to step S16. If not (step S15: No), processing returns to step S11. In step S11, the type of indexes that have not been subject to the processing in step S12 is set.

[0144] In step S16, the predetermined condition is relaxed, and the process returns to step S11. For example, the above-mentioned condition of 10 nm or less is relaxed to 15 nm or less. The predetermined conditions for the other indices are also relaxed.

[0145] According to the above process, if a state that satisfies the initial predetermined condition (initial condition) is not found, the predetermined condition is relaxed. Therefore, the antenna device 1 can be reliably switched to a state that provides a desired directivity or a directivity close to the desired directivity (second best).

[0146] On the other hand, an optimal State may be selected after checking all the indices in all the States (all combinations of States and indices). This will be described with reference to Fig. 40. Fig. 40 is a flowchart showing an example of a switching control process (a method of controlling an antenna device).

[0147] In step S21, the type of index is set. For example, the time T1 until the first wave peak is set.

[0148] In step S22, the characteristic value is stored. Specifically, the index set in step S21 is acquired, and the acquired result is stored in a storage unit (not shown) accessible to the switching control block 500. In the case of a positioning and ranging device, positioning and ranging results by each antenna may also be stored.

[0149] In step S23, it is determined whether all States have been checked. Specifically, it is determined that all States have been checked if all States have been the subject of the processing in step S22 so far. If all States have been checked (step S23: Yes), the process proceeds to step S25. If not (step S23: No), the process proceeds to step S24.

[0150] In step S24, the switch is changed, and the process returns to step S22. The change of the switch here is to a State that has not been the target of the process in step S22.

[0151] In step S25, it is determined whether all indexes have been checked. Specifically, it is determined that all indexes have been checked if all indexes have been subjected to the processing in step S22 so far. If all indexes have been checked (step S25: Yes), the processing proceeds to step S26. If not (step S25: No), the processing returns to step S21.

[0152] In step S26, the state in which the characteristic value is optimal is selected. Specifically, the antenna device 1 is switched to the state corresponding to the optimal characteristic value among the characteristic values ​​stored in the previous step S22.

[0153] According to the above process, the antenna device 1 can be switched to an optimal state based on the check results of all states and indices. In the case of a positioning and ranging device, in the state switched in this way, as described above, two positioning and ranging results may be adopted according to the check results of each index.

[0154] 4. Effects The antenna device described above is specified, for example, as follows. As illustrated in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 etc., the antenna device 1 includes an antenna 10, an antenna 20, a parasitic element 11, a parasitic element 12, a parasitic element 21 and a parasitic element 22, a ground plate 30 and a group of switches. The antenna 10 radiates a first polarized wave. The antenna 20 radiates a second polarized wave. The group of switches includes switches 111, 121, 211, 212, 221 and 222 connected to the parasitic elements 11, 12, 21 and 22, and switches 301 to 308 (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as "switches 111, etc.") connected to the ground plate 30.

[0155] According to the antenna device 1 described above, the directivities of the antenna 10 radiating a first polarized wave and the antenna 20 radiating a second polarized wave can be changed by switching the parasitic elements 11, 12, 21, 22, and the switch 111 connected to the ground plane 30. In this way, the directivities of the two antennas 10 and 20 can be changed in various ways according to the switching combination of the switches 111, etc., thereby making it possible to flexibly control the radiation pattern (directivity and polarization). This allows for highly flexible control of the radiation pattern.

[0156] 2 and the like, the parasitic element 11 and the parasitic element 12 may face the antenna 10. For example, the directivity of the antenna 10 can be controlled by such parasitic element 11 and parasitic element 12.

[0157] 2 and the like, the antenna 10 may be a monopole antenna formed of a conductive material. The parasitic elements 11 and 12 may be formed of a conductive material. The switches 111 and 121 may be connected between the parasitic elements 11 and 12 and the ground plane 30. This makes it possible to control the directivity of the monopole antenna according to the connection state between the parasitic elements 11 and 12 and the ground plane 30.

[0158] 2 and other figures, the parasitic element 11 and the parasitic element 12 may be a pair of parasitic elements located on both sides of the antenna 10. For example, by arranging the antenna 10, the parasitic element 11, and the parasitic element 12 side by side in one direction (the Y-axis direction) in this manner, the directivity of the antenna 10 can be controlled.

[0159] As illustrated in FIG. 14 and other figures, the antenna device 1C may further include a feed point FP1C0 provided on the antenna 10C, and feed points FP1C1 and FP1C2 provided on the parasitic elements 11C and 12C. By setting the switch 101 to SHORT, the antenna 10C can be used as a parasitic element, rather than exciting the antenna 10C via the feed point FP1C0. By setting the switch 111 and / or the switch 121 to OPEN, the parasitic elements 11C and / or 12C can be excited via the feed points FP1C1 and / or FP1C2, and used as antennas.

[0160] 16 and other examples, the antenna device 1E may include a variable reactance element 111E and a variable reactance element 121E connected between the parasitic element 11 and the ground plane 30. Different directivities can also be obtained by changing the reactance values ​​of the variable reactance element 111E and the variable reactance element 121E to switch the connection state between the parasitic element 11 and the ground plane 30.

[0161] As illustrated in Fig. 15 etc., the antenna 10D may have a bent portion (or a curved portion). Different directivities can be obtained depending on the bent shape (or curved shape) of the antenna 10D. In addition, the antenna device 1D can be made compact.

[0162] 32, etc., the antenna 10H1 and the antenna 10H2 may be a pair of antennas. The antenna device 1H may further include a hybrid element 90 provided between the antenna 10H1 and the antenna 10H2. By providing a pair of antennas, the antenna device 1H can be made smaller.

[0163] 2 and the like, the parasitic element 21 and the parasitic element 22 may face the antenna 20. For example, the directivity of the antenna 20 can be controlled by such parasitic element 21 and parasitic element 22.

[0164] As illustrated in FIG. 2 and other figures, the antenna 20 may be a slot antenna formed by the ground plane 30. The parasitic elements 21 and 22 may be slot lines formed by the ground plane 30. The switches 211, 212, 221, and 222 may be connected between the ground planes 30 on both sides of the parasitic elements 21 and 22. As illustrated in FIG. 17 and other figures, the switch group may include a switch 213F and a switch 223F connected between the ground planes 30 on both sides of the parasitic elements 21F and 22F. This makes it possible to control the directivity of the slot antenna according to the connection state between the parasitic elements 21 and 22 and the ground plane 30.

[0165] 2 and other figures, the parasitic element 21 and the parasitic element 22 may be a pair of parasitic elements located on both sides of the antenna 20. For example, by arranging the antenna 20, the parasitic element 21, and the parasitic element 22 side by side in one direction (the Y-axis direction) in this manner, the directivity of the antenna 20 can be controlled.

[0166] As illustrated in FIG. 14 and the like, the antenna device 1C may further include a feed point FP2C0 provided on the antenna 20C, and a feed point FP2C1 and a feed point FP2C2 provided on the parasitic element 21C and the parasitic element 22C. The switch group may include a switch 201C connected in parallel to the feed point FP2C0, a switch 212C connected in parallel to the feed point FP2C1, and a switch 222C connected in parallel to the feed point FP2C2. By setting the switch 201C to SHORT, the antenna 20C can be used as a parasitic element instead of exciting the antenna 20C via the feed point FP2C0. By setting the switch 212C and / or the switch 222C to OPEN, the parasitic element 21C and / or the parasitic element 22C can be excited via the feed point FP2C1 and / or the feed point FP2C2, and they can be used as antennas.

[0167] As illustrated in Fig. 2, Fig. 13, etc., the ground plane 30 may include a split ground plane 31 and a split ground plane 32. The switches 301 to 308 may be connected between the split ground plane 31 and the split ground plane 32. Furthermore, the split ground plane 32 may include a plurality of split ground planes of a first portion 321 to a fifth portion 325. The switch group may include switches 309 to 316 connected between the first portion 321 to the fifth portion 325. This makes it possible to control the directivity by changing the pattern of the ground plane 30 in various ways.

[0168] 2, 34, etc., the antenna 20 may include an antenna 20K extending in the same direction as the antenna 10. Alternatively, as illustrated in Figures 18, 34, etc., the antenna 20G may include an antenna 23K extending in a direction intersecting (for example, perpendicular to) the extension direction of the antenna 10. By varying the extension direction of the second antenna in this way, it is possible to change the polarization direction and control the directivity.

[0169] 6 and other examples, the antenna device 1 may further include a switching control block 500. The switching control block 500 may switch each switch of the switch group based on an index related to transmission and reception. This makes it possible to control directivity according to the index related to transmission and reception.

[0170] As exemplified in Fig. 6 and Fig. 38, the index may include at least one of reception level information, transmission level information, reception QoS information, transmission QoS information, information on the phase and frequency characteristics of the amplitude of the reception signal, information on the phase and frequency characteristics of the amplitude of the transmission signal, information on the time axis waveform of the reception signal, and information on the time axis waveform of the transmission signal. For example, the directivity can be controlled according to such an index.

[0171] 38 and the like, the antenna device 1 may further include a ranging and positioning unit 602. The ranging and positioning unit 602 may perform ranging or positioning using at least one of the antenna 10 and the antenna 20. This allows the antenna device 1 to be used as a positioning and ranging device.

[0172] The ranging and positioning unit 602 may perform ranging or positioning based on the index for antenna 10, the index for antenna 20, the ranging and positioning result by antenna 10, and the ranging and positioning result by antenna 20. This allows appropriate ranging or positioning to be performed based on the index and ranging and positioning result of each antenna.

[0173] 1 and 2, the antenna 10, the antenna 20, the parasitic element 11, the parasitic element 12, the parasitic element 21, the parasitic element 22, and the ground plane 30 may be provided on a substrate 2. This makes it possible to obtain a compact antenna device 1 having a planar shape.

[0174] For example, an electronic device 5 shown in Fig. 6 etc. is also an embodiment of the present disclosure. Since the electronic device 5 is equipped with the antenna device 1, as described above, it is possible to control the radiation pattern with a high degree of freedom.

[0175] For example, the control method shown in Fig. 11 is also an embodiment of the present disclosure. This control method is a control method for the antenna device 1, and includes acquiring an index related to transmission / reception of at least one of the antennas 10 and 20 (step S1), and switching each switch of the switch group based on the index acquired in the acquiring step (steps S2 and S3). This makes it possible to control the directivity according to the index related to transmission / reception.

[0176] Note that the effects described in this disclosure are merely examples and are not limited to the disclosed contents. Other effects may also be obtained.

[0177] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible without departing from the gist of the present disclosure. In addition, components of different embodiments and modifications may be appropriately combined.

[0178] Furthermore, the effects of each embodiment described in this specification are merely examples and are not limiting, and other effects may also be provided.

[0179] The present technology can also be configured as follows. (1) a first antenna that radiates a first polarized wave; a second antenna radiating a second polarized wave; A parasitic element; The base plate and A switch group including a switch connected to the parasitic element and a switch connected to the ground plane; An antenna device comprising: (2) the parasitic elements include a first parasitic element facing the first antenna; An antenna device as described in (1). (3) the first antenna is a monopole antenna formed of a conductive member, the first parasitic element is formed of a conductive member; the switch group includes a switch connected between the first parasitic element and the ground plane, An antenna device as described in (2). (4) the first parasitic element includes a pair of first parasitic elements each located on either side of the first antenna; An antenna device as described in (2) or (3). (5) a first feed point provided on the first antenna; a first additional feeding point provided on the first parasitic element; Further equipped with The switch group includes a switch connected in parallel to the first power supply point and a switch connected in parallel to the first additional power supply point. An antenna device according to any one of (2) to (4). (6) the switch group includes a variable reactance element connected between the first parasitic element and the ground plane; An antenna device as described in (3) or (4). (7) The first antenna has at least one of a bent portion and a curved portion. An antenna device according to any one of (1) to (4). (8) the first antenna is a pair of antennas; Further comprising a 90° hybrid element disposed between a first antenna of the pair of antennas, An antenna device according to any one of (1) to (5). (9) the parasitic element includes a second parasitic element facing the second antenna; An antenna device according to any one of (1) to (8). (10) the second antenna is a slot antenna formed by the ground plane, the second parasitic element is a slot line formed by the ground plane, the switch group includes a switch connected between ground planes on both sides of the second parasitic element, The antenna device according to (9). (11) the second parasitic element includes a pair of second parasitic elements each located on either side of the second antenna; An antenna device as described in (9) or (10). (12) a second feed point provided on the second antenna; a second additional feed point provided on the second parasitic element; Further equipped with The group of switches includes a switch connected in parallel to the second feed point and a switch connected in parallel to the second additional feed point. An antenna device according to any one of (9) to (11). (13) The base plate includes a plurality of divided base plates, The switch group includes a switch connected between the plurality of divided ground plates. An antenna device according to any one of (1) to (12). (14) the second antenna includes an antenna extending in the same direction as the first antenna; An antenna device according to any one of (1) to (13). (15) The second antenna includes an antenna extending in a direction intersecting an extension direction of the first antenna. An antenna device according to any one of (1) to (14). (16) A switching unit that switches each switch of the switch group is further provided, The switching unit switches each switch of the switch group based on an index related to transmission and reception. An antenna device according to any one of (1) to (15). (17) The indicator includes at least one of reception level information, transmission level information, reception QoS (Quality of Service) information, transmission QoS information, information on the phase and frequency characteristics of the amplitude of the reception signal, information on the phase and frequency characteristics of the amplitude of the transmission signal, information on the time axis waveform of the reception signal, and information on the time axis waveform of the transmission signal. The antenna device according to (16). (18) Further comprising a distance and positioning unit that performs distance measurement or positioning using at least one of the first antenna and the second antenna. An antenna device according to any one of (1) to (17). (19) the ranging and positioning unit performs ranging or positioning based on the index for the first antenna, the index for the second antenna, a ranging and positioning result by the first antenna, and a ranging and positioning result by the second antenna; The antenna device according to (17). (20) the first antenna, the second antenna, the parasitic element, and the ground plane are provided on a substrate; An antenna device according to any one of (1) to (19). (twenty one) An electronic device equipped with an antenna device, The antenna device comprises: a first antenna that radiates a first polarized wave; a second antenna radiating a second polarized wave; A parasitic element; The base plate and A switch group including at least a switch connected to the parasitic element and a switch connected to the ground plane; Equipped with electronic equipment. (twenty two) A method for controlling an antenna device, comprising: The antenna device comprises: a first antenna that radiates a first polarized wave; a second antenna radiating a second polarized wave; A parasitic element; The base plate and A switch group including at least a switch connected to the parasitic element and a switch connected to the ground plane; Equipped with The control method includes: acquiring an index relating to transmission and reception of at least one of the first antenna and the second antenna; switching each switch of the group of switches based on the index acquired in the acquiring step; Including, A method for controlling an antenna device. [Explanation of symbols]

[0180] 1 Antenna device 2. Board 5 Electronic equipment 10 Antennas 20 Antenna 30 Main plate 31 First base plate 32 Second base plate 40 signal source 50 Switch 111 Switch 121 Switch 211 Switch 212 Switch 221 Switch 222 Switch 301 Switch 302 Switch 303 Switch 304 Switch 305 Switch 306 Switch 307 Switch 308 Switch 400 RF signal processing blocks 500 Switching Control Block 600 Modulation and demodulation signal processing block 601 Detection unit 602 Distance and positioning unit 700 other blocks

Claims

1. A first antenna that radiates a first polarized wave; a second antenna radiating a second polarized wave; A parasitic element; The base plate and A switch group including a switch connected to the parasitic element and a switch connected to the ground plane; An antenna device comprising: the parasitic elements include a first parasitic element facing the first antenna, The antenna device comprises: a first feed point provided on the first antenna; a first additional feeding point provided on the first parasitic element; Further equipped with The group of switches includes a switch connected in parallel to the first power supply point and a switch connected in parallel to the first additional power supply point. Antenna device.

2. A first antenna that radiates a first polarized wave; a second antenna radiating a second polarized wave; A parasitic element; The base plate and A switch group including a switch connected to the parasitic element and a switch connected to the ground plane; An antenna device comprising: the parasitic element includes a second parasitic element facing the second antenna, the second antenna is a slot antenna formed by the ground plane, the second parasitic element is a slot line formed by the ground plane, the group of switches includes a switch connected between ground planes on both sides of the second parasitic element, Antenna device.

3. A first antenna that radiates a first polarized wave; a second antenna radiating a second polarized wave; A parasitic element; The base plate and A switch group including a switch connected to the parasitic element and a switch connected to the ground plane; An antenna device comprising: the parasitic element includes a second parasitic element facing the second antenna, The antenna device comprises: a second feed point provided on the second antenna; a second additional feed point provided on the second parasitic element; Further equipped with The group of switches includes a switch connected in parallel to the second power supply point and a switch connected in parallel to the second additional power supply point. Antenna device.

4. A first antenna that radiates a first polarized wave; a second antenna radiating a second polarized wave; A parasitic element; The base plate and A switch group including a switch connected to the parasitic element and a switch connected to the ground plane; An antenna device comprising: The second antenna includes an antenna extending in a direction intersecting an extension direction of the first antenna. Antenna device.

5. A first antenna that radiates a first polarized wave; a second antenna radiating a second polarized wave; A parasitic element; The base plate and A switch group including a switch connected to the parasitic element and a switch connected to the ground plane; An antenna device comprising: The antenna device further includes a switching unit that switches each switch of the group of switches, The switching unit switches each switch of the switch group based on an index related to transmission and reception; The index includes at least one of reception level information, transmission level information, reception QoS (Quality of Service) information, transmission QoS information, information on the phase and frequency characteristics of the amplitude of the reception signal, information on the phase and frequency characteristics of the amplitude of the transmission signal, information on the time axis waveform of the reception signal, and information on the time axis waveform of the transmission signal, the antenna device further includes a ranging and positioning unit configured to perform ranging or positioning using the indicator for the first antenna and the indicator for the second antenna, and a ranging and positioning result by the first antenna and a ranging and positioning result by the second antenna; Antenna device.

6. the parasitic elements include a first parasitic element facing the first antenna; The antenna device according to any one of claims 2 to 5.

7. the first antenna is a monopole antenna formed of a conductive member, the first parasitic element is formed of a conductive member; the group of switches includes a switch connected between the first parasitic element and the ground plane, 7. The antenna device according to claim 6.

8. the first parasitic element includes a pair of first parasitic elements each located on either side of the first antenna; 7. The antenna device according to claim 6.

9. the switch group includes a variable reactance element connected between the first parasitic element and the ground plane; 8. The antenna device according to claim 7.

10. the first antenna having at least one of a bent portion and a curved portion; The antenna device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

11. the first antenna is a pair of antennas, Further comprising a 90° hybrid element provided between a first antenna of the pair of antennas. The antenna device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

12. the parasitic element includes a second parasitic element facing the second antenna; 6. An antenna device according to claim 1, 4 or 5.

13. the second parasitic element includes a pair of second parasitic elements each located on either side of the second antenna; 13. An antenna device according to claim 12.

14. The base plate includes a plurality of divided base plates, The switch group includes a switch connected between the plurality of divided ground plates. The antenna device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

15. the second antenna includes an antenna extending in the same direction as the first antenna; 6. An antenna device according to claim 1, 2, 3 or 5.

16. A switching unit that switches each switch of the switch group is further provided, The switching unit switches each switch of the switch group based on an index related to transmission and reception. The antenna device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

17. The index includes at least one of reception level information, transmission level information, reception QoS (Quality of Service) information, transmission QoS information, information on the phase and frequency characteristics of the amplitude of the reception signal, information on the phase and frequency characteristics of the amplitude of the transmission signal, information on the time axis waveform of the reception signal, and information on the time axis waveform of the transmission signal.

17. An antenna arrangement as claimed in claim 16.

18. The device further includes a distance and positioning unit that performs distance measurement or positioning using at least one of the first antenna and the second antenna. The antenna device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

19. the first antenna, the second antenna, the parasitic element, and the ground plane are provided on a substrate; The antenna device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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