Antenna Module

Abstract

An antenna module (1) according to the present invention comprises: a circuit board (30) that is a conductive member; an antenna element (10) that is disposed on the circuit board (30); and a holder (20) that is disposed between the circuit board (30) and the antenna element (10). The antenna element (10) has a top plate (11), an electrostatic capacitance part (12) that forms electrostatic capacitance with the circuit board (30), and a connection part (13) that connects the top plate (11) and the electrostatic capacitance part (12). The holder (20) has a base part (21) that is disposed between the electrostatic capacitance part (12) and the circuit board (30). When the holder (20) is rotated, the circuit board (30) and the antenna element (10) are fixed with the base part (21) therebetween. Thus, the antenna module can suppress an increase in number of components and antenna performance deterioration caused by distortion of the antenna element, and can exhibit high assemblability during manufacturing of an antenna device.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an antenna module capable of receiving radio signals. [Background technology]

[0002] Antenna modules that receive various radio wave signals are miniaturized and installed in vehicles. Such antenna modules include an antenna element and a circuit board as a conductive member, and an air gap is provided between the antenna element and the conductive member to form capacitance (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] For example, in the antenna module described in Patent Document 1, two or more capacitors are provided in parallel on the legs of the antenna element to accurately set the added capacitance while electrically connecting the antenna element and the capacitor. Furthermore, in the antenna module described in Patent Document 2, the distance between the patch antenna element and the parasitic element on the circuit board is kept constant, and the parasitic element is fixed with a locking claw. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-191111 [Patent Document 2] Patent Publication No. 2021-057839 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, the antenna module described in Patent Document 1 requires two or more capacitors to be provided on the legs of the antenna element, which increases the number of parts and the labor required for soldering, resulting in increased costs. Furthermore, there are restrictions on the size and shape of the shielding case provided on the back surface of the circuit board. Meanwhile, if the antenna element is fixed using a structure that applies external force from above and below, as with the locking claws described in Patent Document 2, the antenna element may be distorted, potentially resulting in deterioration of antenna performance.

[0006] Therefore, the present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems, and aims to provide an antenna module that suppresses deterioration of antenna performance due to an increase in the number of parts and distortion of the antenna element, and that is easy to assemble when manufacturing an antenna device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] (1) One aspect of the present invention is an antenna module comprising a conductive member, an antenna element arranged on the conductive member, and a holder arranged between the conductive member and the antenna element, wherein the antenna element has a top plate portion, a capacitance portion that forms capacitance between the conductive member and the antenna element, and a connection portion that connects the top plate portion and the capacitance portion, and the holder has a base portion that is arranged between the capacitance portion and the conductive member, and when the holder is rotated, the conductive member and the antenna element are fixed via the base portion. (2) In the above aspect (1), the holder may have a body portion disposed between the top plate portion and the capacitance portion. (3) In the above aspect (2), a rotation restriction mechanism may be provided that restricts rotation of the holder beyond the lock position. (4) In the above aspect (3), a reverse rotation restricting mechanism may be provided that restricts the holder from rotating in the reverse direction to the unlocked position. (5) In the above aspect (4), the reverse rotation restricting mechanism may have an engaging portion on the holder and a groove portion on the top plate portion of the antenna element that connects from the first end to the second end, and the shape of the groove portion on the second end side in the reverse rotation direction of the holder does not match the rotation trajectory of the engaging portion in the reverse rotation direction of the holder, and the engaging portion may be able to abut against the second end side of the groove portion so as to restrict the reverse rotation of the holder. (6) In the above aspect (4), the reverse rotation restricting mechanism may have an engaging recess in the holder and an engaging piece in the top plate portion of the antenna element, and the engaging recess and the engaging piece may engage with each other to restrict reverse rotation of the holder. (7) In any one of the above aspects (3) to (6), the rotation restriction mechanism may have an engaging portion on the holder and a groove portion on the top plate portion of the antenna element that connects from a first end to a second end, and the engaging portion may be capable of abutting against the first end side of the groove portion in the rotation direction of the holder so as to restrict the rotation of the holder. (8) In any one of the above aspects (3) to (7), the rotation restriction mechanism may have an abutting portion on the holder and an abutted portion on the capacitance portion of the antenna element, and the abutting portion may be capable of abutting against the abutted portion so as to restrict the rotation of the holder. (9) In any one of the above aspects (3) to (8), the rotation restriction mechanism may have a convex portion on the base portion of the holder and an opening on the capacitance portion of the antenna element, and the convex portion may be inserted into the opening so as to restrict rotation of the holder. (10) In any one of the above aspects (1) to (9), the holder may include a tip portion that protrudes beyond the top plate portion of the antenna element, and the tip portion may be fixed so as to urge the top plate portion toward the base portion. (11) In any one of the above aspects (1) to (10), the holder may have a body portion disposed between the top plate portion and the capacitance portion, the capacitance portion including a bent portion bent toward the top plate portion, and the bent portion may contact the body portion so as to urge the base portion toward the top plate portion. (12) In any one of the above aspects (1) to (11), the conductive member may be a flat circuit board on which a receiving circuit capable of receiving radio wave signals is formed. (13) In the above aspect (12), another antenna may be placed on the top plate portion of the antenna element. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an antenna module that suppresses deterioration of antenna performance due to an increase in the number of parts and distortion of the antenna element, and that also has good assembly properties during the manufacture of an antenna device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1A] 1 is a perspective view showing an antenna module according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 1B] 1 is a top view showing an antenna module according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 1C] 1 is a front view showing an antenna module according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 1D] 1 is a side view showing an antenna module according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1E] FIG. 2 is a bottom view showing the antenna module according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1F] FIG. 1D is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a cross section taken along line BB in FIG. 1C. [Figure 2] 1 is an exploded perspective view showing an antenna module according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 3A] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an antenna element. [Figure 3B]FIG. 2 is a top view showing the antenna element. [Figure 3C] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the antenna element. [Figure 3D] FIG. 2 is a side view showing the antenna element. [Figure 3E] FIG. 2 is a bottom view showing the antenna element. [Figure 4A] FIG. [Figure 4B] FIG. [Figure 4C] FIG. [Figure 4D] FIG. [Figure 4E] FIG. [Figure 5A] FIG. 10 is an enlarged top view showing a state in which the first rotation restricting mechanism is in an unlocked position. [Figure 5B] 10 is an enlarged top view showing a state in which the first rotation restricting mechanism is in a locked position. FIG. [Figure 6A] FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a state in which the second rotation restricting mechanism is in an unlocked position. [Figure 6B] FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a state in which the second rotation restricting mechanism is in a locked position. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a first biasing mechanism. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a second biasing mechanism. [Figure 9A] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a modified antenna module according to the present invention. [Figure 9B] FIG. 10 is a front view showing a modified antenna module according to the present invention. [Figure 10A] 10 is a partial perspective view showing an antenna module including a first rotation restricting mechanism and a reverse rotation restricting mechanism according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10 is a partial perspective view showing an antenna element in a second embodiment according to the present invention. [Figure 10C] FIG. 10 is a partial perspective view showing a holder in a second embodiment according to the present invention. [Figure 10D] FIG. 10 is a partial perspective view showing a state in which a first rotation restricting mechanism in a second embodiment according to the present invention is in an unlocked position. [Figure 10E] FIG. 10 is a partial perspective view showing a state in which a first rotation restricting mechanism in a second embodiment according to the present invention is in a locked position. [Figure 10F] FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a state of a first rotation restricting mechanism in a second embodiment according to the present invention at an assembly preparation stage. [Figure 10G] FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a state in the middle of rotation of a first rotation restricting mechanism in a second embodiment according to the present invention. [Figure 10H] FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a state in which a first rotation restricting mechanism in a second embodiment according to the present invention is in a locked position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments of this specification, the same components are designated by the same reference numerals throughout.

[0011] Fig. 1 shows an antenna module 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, with Fig. 1A being a perspective view, Fig. 1B being a top view, Fig. 1C being a front view, Fig. 1D being a side view, Fig. 1E being a bottom view, and Fig. 1F being a cross-sectional perspective view showing a cross section cut along line BB in Fig. 1C. Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the antenna module 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] The antenna module 1 is an in-vehicle antenna device that receives various radio signals, such as GNSS signals of a satellite positioning system, GSM signals of a mobile communication system, DSRC signals used in ETC services, AM waves, and FM waves.

[0013] As shown in FIGS. 1A and 2, the antenna module 1 includes an antenna element 10, a holder 20, and a circuit board 30. As shown in FIG.

[0014] First, the circuit board 30, which will be described in detail later, forms a capacitance as a dielectric between it and the antenna element 10, and is formed with, for example, a receiving circuit capable of receiving radio signals, a signal processing circuit, an amplifier circuit, a power supply circuit, etc. The radio signals extracted from the antenna element 10 are used by various external devices connected to the circuits formed on the circuit board 30 via wiring cables.

[0015] The circuit board 30 is a rigid board made of, for example, a glass epoxy board, a paper phenol board, a paper epoxy board, etc., and is formed in a flat plate shape. The circuit board 30 has the above-mentioned circuits formed on one or both sides, or in multiple layers, and may transmit and receive radio signals from the antenna element 10 via a transmission circuit.

[0016] Next, the antenna element 10 has a top plate portion 11, a capacitance portion 12, a connection portion 13, and a power supply portion . 3A shows the antenna element 10, with FIG. 3A being a perspective view, FIG. 3B being a top view, FIG. 3C being a front view, FIG. 3D being a side view, and FIG. 3E being a bottom view.

[0017] The antenna element 10 is formed from a metal (or alloy) material with excellent conductivity, such as copper (Cu) or aluminum (Al), and its surface may be plated with tin (Zn), nickel (Ni), or the like.

[0018] The top panel 11 is a portion of the antenna element 10 that receives radio signals, and has a generally rectangular shape when viewed from above (see FIG. 3B). The top panel 11 may be, for example, approximately 25 mm×25 mm.

[0019] The top plate 11 also has a through hole 11c formed in the center.

[0020] The capacitance unit 12 is disposed at a distance from the circuit board 30, thereby forming a capacitance (capacitor) as a dielectric therebetween. The capacitance unit 12 has a substantially rectangular shape in bottom view, and is disposed parallel to and facing the top panel 11 at a certain distance (gap) (see FIGS. 3C and 3D).

[0021] The capacitance section 12 is divided into four regions 12A, 12B, 12C, and 12D, with cross-shaped openings 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d formed between them (see FIG. 3E). Note that the regions 12A, 12B, 12C, and 12D may be partially connected to each other, or the regions 12A and 12B or the regions 12C and 12D may be partially connected to each other, and the number of regions dividing the capacitance section 12 is not limited to four, but may be two, three, five, or more.

[0022] Areas 12A, 12B, 12C, and 12D are all located on the same plane parallel to top plate portion 11. Furthermore, corners of areas 12A, 12B, 12C, and 12D on the center side are formed as bent portions 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D, respectively.

[0023] Bent portions 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D are generally triangular in top view, excluding the base ends connecting to regions 12A, 12B, 12C, and 12D, and have an overall arrow-like shape. The base ends connecting to regions 12A, 12B, 12C, and 12D are arranged so that regions 12A, 12B, 12C, and 12D are not affected by the strong electric field formed at the tips of bent portions 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D.

[0024] Furthermore, the bent portions 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D are bent toward the top panel 11 (see FIG. 7). When an external force acts on the top panel 11, they react by returning to their original position with their own elastic (restoring) force. This allows the top panel 11 to be pressed against the holder 20 (described later), absorbing any gaps due to assembly tolerances or wobble caused by variations in processing tolerances. It is preferable that the area occupied by the bent portions 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D relative to the areas 12A, 12B, 12C, and 12D be approximately 20% or less. Providing the bent portions 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D at such positions and sizes in the capacitance section 12 reduces the effect on the antenna's resonant frequency.

[0025] The connection portion 13 connects (communicates) the top plate portion 11 and the capacitance portion 12, and is formed as four pillars extending from the top plate portion 11 toward the capacitance portion 12 (see Figures 3C and 3D).

[0026] The power supply section 14 electrically connects the antenna element 10 and the circuit board 30, and is formed as rod-shaped terminals 14a, 14b extending from the top panel section 11 toward the capacitance section 12 (see Figures 3C and 3D).

[0027] The terminals 14a, 14b are formed to a length that extends from the bottom of each of the cutouts 11a, 11b of the top panel 11 toward the circuit board 30 and exceeds the capacitance unit 12. The power supply unit 14 is inserted into through holes 30a, 30b formed in the circuit board 30. The cutouts 11a, 11b and the terminals 14a, 14b may be arranged not only on two adjacent sides as shown in FIG. 3A but also on two opposing sides.

[0028] Here, the above-mentioned top plate 11, capacitance portion 12, connection portion 13, power supply portion 14, and bent portions 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D are formed by bending the same (single) metal plate having a thickness of about 0.5 mm to 1.0 mm. That is, power supply portion 14 is formed by bending a rod-shaped portion provided so as to protrude from the bottom of cutout portions 11a and 11b of top plate 11 by 90 degrees.

[0029] On the other hand, the capacitance portion 12 and the connection portion 13 are formed by bending the portions extending from the outer edges of two opposing sides of the top plate portion 11 at a 90-degree angle at the boundary with the top plate portion 11, and further bending them at a 90-degree angle at the boundary between the capacitance portion 12 and the connection portion 13. To facilitate this bending process, a plurality of notches 12n are formed near the bending boundaries.

[0030] The connection portions 13 may be arranged not only two on each of the opposing sides as shown in FIG. 3A but also one on each of the four sides, and the positions thereof are not limited to the four corners of the capacitance portion 12 but may be any position on each side.

[0031] The holder 20 has a base portion 21, a body portion 22, and blade portions 23. 4A shows the holder 20, with FIG. 4A being a perspective view, FIG. 4B being a top view, FIG. 4C being a front view, FIG. 4D being a side view, and FIG. 4E being a bottom view.

[0032] The base portion 21 is a plate-like (e.g., disc-shaped or rectangular) portion sandwiched between the capacitance portion 12 of the antenna element 10 and the circuit board 30, and maintains a constant distance between the capacitance portion 12 and the circuit board 30 to form capacitance as a capacitor (see FIGS. 1C and 1D). Therefore, the base portion 21 is formed with a uniform thickness to form a predetermined capacitance. In the present embodiment, the base portion 21 will be described below as being disc-shaped. The disc-shaped base portion 21 does not come into contact with the four corners of the capacitance portion 12, and an air layer is formed between the antenna element 10 and the circuit board 30, making it a preferable shape in that it can suppress the influence of variations in the dielectric constant.

[0033] Furthermore, base portion 21 has a large number of hollowed-out portions 21a formed therethrough to prevent the wavelength shortening effect that occurs when radio waves pass through from affecting the received frequency (see FIGS. 4B and 4E). These hollowed-out portions 21a are formed as four L-shaped or claw-shaped through-openings, each consisting of a trapezoidal portion extending radially from the center and an arc-shaped portion extending at an angle of 45 degrees circumferentially.

[0034] Next, the body portion 22 is a columnar portion erected on the base portion 21, and extends between the top plate portion 11 and the capacitance portion 12 of the antenna element 10 (see FIGS. 1F, 4C, and 4D).

[0035] The wing portions 23 are provided to protrude outward (above the base portion 21) from the body portion 22, and are formed to a height that allows them to fit into the space formed between the top plate portion 11 and the capacitance portion 12 of the antenna element 10 (see FIGS. 4C and 4D). That is, the bottom end surfaces of the wing portions 23 are offset from the top surface of the base portion 21 toward the top plate portion 11 by the thickness of the capacitance portion 12, and when the holder 20 is attached to the antenna element 10, the top end surfaces support the bottom surface (inner surface) of the top plate portion 11.

[0036] Four blades 23 are provided in a cross shape at equal 90-degree angles. As will be described in detail later, these blades 23 maintain a constant distance between the top plate 11 and the capacitance section 12 and act like pillars, so at least one blade, and preferably two blades, are sufficient if the dimensional accuracy and strength of the antenna element 10 are sufficient. The blades 23 and the diameter-direction portions of the lightening section 21a are arranged to overlap when viewed from the bottom.

[0037] A cylindrical tip portion 24 is formed at the tip of the body portion 22 (see FIGS. 4C and 4D), and is inserted into or fitted into the through-hole 11c of the top plate portion 11 (see FIG. 1F). After being attached to the antenna element 10, the tip portion 24 is welded by heat welding, ultrasonic welding, or the like. The welding process for this tip portion 24 will be described later together with the rear end portion 25.

[0038] A cylindrical rear end portion 25 is formed on the back surface of the base portion 21 (see FIGS. 4C and 4D), and is inserted into or fitted into a through-hole 30c formed in the circuit board 30 (see FIG. 1E). After being attached to the antenna element 10, the rear end portion 25 is also welded by heat welding, ultrasonic welding, or the like.

[0039] The holder 20 described above is preferably molded as an insulating member from a resin material such as polypropylene (PP) or polyoxymethylene (POM).

[0040] Next, the procedure for assembling the antenna module 1 will be explained, along with a description of the fixing structure for fixing the antenna element 10 and the holder 20 to each other.

[0041] First, the cross-shaped wing portion 23 of the holder 20 is maintained in a position such that it fits perfectly with the cross-shaped openings 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d of the antenna element 10, and the tip portion 24 is inserted (or fitted in some cases) into the through-hole 11c (this initial position is called the unlocked position; see Figure 6A).

[0042] At this time, power supply portion 14 is inserted near the corner of L-shaped cutout portion 21a.

[0043] Next, holder 20 is rotated clockwise around the axis of front end 24 (or rear end 25) when viewed from the side of base portion 21. At this point, the postures (angles) of cross-shaped vanes 23 and cross-shaped openings 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d do not match, and vanes 23 cannot pass through openings 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d, so antenna element 10 and holder 20 are connected to each other to such an extent that they will not easily come off.

[0044] The holder 20 is further rotated clockwise, for example, by 45 degrees from the unlocked position before rotation (this rotation position is called the locked position; see FIG. 6B). At this time, a rotation restriction mechanism (to be described later) restricts further rotation of the holder 20, and a reverse rotation restriction mechanism (to be described later) also restricts counterclockwise rotation of the holder 20 to the unlocked position, resulting in a locked state in which the antenna element 10 and the holder 20 are fixed together.

[0045] Meanwhile, power supply unit 14 is inserted into the arc-shaped portion of L-shaped cutout 21a. Therefore, the arc-shaped portion of cutout 21a is formed to include a rotation trajectory along which power supply unit 14 rotates relative to base unit 21.

[0046] The rotation direction from the unlocked position to the locked position is clockwise, but it can also be made counterclockwise by changing the shape of the hollowed-out portion 21a of the base portion 21 to be symmetrical about the diameter.

[0047] Next, the circuit board 30 is attached to the back surface of the base portion 21 of the holder 20. At this time, the rear end portion 25 of the holder 20 is inserted into the through hole 30c of the circuit board 30, and the power supply portions 14 (14a, 14b) of the antenna element 10 are inserted into the through holes 30a, 30b of the circuit board 30, respectively.

[0048] Thereafter, the front end 24 and rear end 25 protruding from the antenna element 10 and the circuit board 30 are welded to integrally fix the antenna element 10, holder 20, and circuit board 30. Finally, the power supply part 14 is soldered to allow current to flow from the circuit board 30 to the antenna element 10, completing the assembly process.

[0049] Here, a description will be given of a rotation restriction mechanism and a reverse rotation restriction mechanism that respectively restrict rotation and reverse rotation of the holder 20. The antenna module 1 is provided with a plurality of rotation restriction mechanisms and reverse rotation restriction mechanisms that have different structures.

[0050] The first rotation restriction mechanism has an engagement portion 221 on the blade portion 23 (or body portion 22) of the holder 20, and also has a groove portion 111 on the top plate portion 11 of the antenna element . 5A and 5B show the first rotation restriction mechanism, with FIG. 5A being an enlarged top view showing the mechanism in the unlocked position, and FIG. 5B being an enlarged top view showing the mechanism in the locked position.

[0051] Engagement portion 221 is provided to protrude from the upper surface (top panel 11 side) of blade portion 23, and is formed in a tapered shape that becomes lower on the front side in the rotation direction (counterclockwise when viewed from above) when viewed in cross section from the normal direction of the rotation trajectory (see FIG. 4A). Note that the height of engagement portion 221 is preferably equal to or greater than the thickness of top panel 11.

[0052] Meanwhile, groove portion 111 is provided as a groove that connects from first end portion 111a to second end portion 111b so as to surround through-hole 11c of top plate portion 11, and four bridge portions 112 are formed between each groove portion 111 (see FIG. 3B). In other words, the periphery of central through-hole 11c is formed as an island portion 113 surrounded by groove portions 111 and supported by the four bridge portions 112. Note that groove portion 111 does not have to be provided so as to penetrate top plate portion 11.

[0053] When the holder 20 is attached to the antenna element 10, the engaging portion 221 is inserted into the second end 111b of the groove 111 at the unlocked position (see FIGS. 1F and 5A). When the holder 20 is subsequently rotated from the unlocked position to the locked position, the engaging portion 221, whose front side is lower, moves toward the first end 111a while sinking below the edge of the island portion 113. When the holder 20 reaches the locked position rotated 45 degrees from the unlocked position, the front end of the engaging portion 221 abuts against the first end 111a, and rotation of the holder 20 is restricted (see FIG. 5B).

[0054] Although the first rotation restriction mechanism of this embodiment has four sets of combinations of the engaging portion 221 and the groove portion 111, at least one set is sufficient to provide the rotation restriction function, and increasing the number of sets can further enhance the effect and improve the strength and durability of each part. Furthermore, by having at least one set of combinations of the engaging portion 221 and the groove portion 111, the assembly orientation of the holder 20 relative to the antenna element 10 can be uniquely determined, preventing incorrect attachment. Furthermore, by providing the island portion 113 as described above on the top panel portion 11, the effect on the resonant frequency of the antenna can be reduced.

[0055] However, even if an attempt is made to rotate the holder 20 in the reverse rotation direction from a state in which the engaging portion 221 is engaged with the groove portion 111 and abuts against the first end portion 111a, the engaging portion 221 cannot move toward the second end portion 111b of the groove portion 111, and therefore the holder 20 cannot be rotated in the reverse direction to the unlocked position.

[0056] Specifically, the shape of groove 111 on the side of second end 111b in the reverse rotation direction of holder 20 does not match the rotation trajectory of engaging portion 221 that accompanies the reverse rotation direction of holder 20, thereby restricting the reverse rotation of holder 20. That is, since the rotation trajectory of engaging portion 221 is arc-shaped, the shape of groove 111 that does not match the rotation trajectory of engaging portion 221 may be, for example, an arc-shaped shape having a radius that does not match the radius of the rotation trajectory or a shape that includes a non-arc-shaped portion. Alternatively, the groove may have a shape in which the width is constant and extends linearly, or a shape in which the width of the groove narrows toward second end 111b and extends linearly or curvedly.

[0057] Even if an attempt is made to rotate the engagement portion 221 in the reverse direction to the unlocked position relative to a groove portion 111 having such a shape, the engagement portion 221 will come into contact with and become caught on the side wall on the second end side 11b of the groove portion 111, thereby restricting further reverse rotation.

[0058] In this way, the first rotation restriction mechanism also functions as a first reverse rotation restriction mechanism, and therefore, in other words, the first reverse rotation restriction mechanism has an engagement portion 221 on the blade portion 23 (or body portion 22) and also has a groove portion 111 on the top plate portion 11.

[0059] Next, the second rotation restricting mechanism has a contact portion 232 on the blade portion 23 (or the body portion 22), and also has a contacted portion 152 on the capacitance portion 12. 6A and 6B show the second rotation restricting mechanism, with FIG. 6A being an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the mechanism in the unlocked position, and FIG. 6B being an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the mechanism in the locked position.

[0060] Abutment portion 232 is provided so as to protrude from the lower surface (toward base portion 21) of blade portion 23 (see FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 7). Abutment portion 232 is formed as an inclined surface that is inclined at 45 degrees with respect to the thickness of blade portion 23.

[0061] On the other hand, the contact portions 152 are formed on the end surfaces of the bent portions 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D of the capacitance portion 12 (see FIGS. 6A and 6B). The contact portions 152 are formed to coincide with the end surfaces of the openings 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d.

[0062] When the holder 20 is attached to the antenna element 10, the abutting portions 232 are positioned in the openings 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d at the unlocked position (see FIG. 6A). Thereafter, when the holder 20 is rotated from the unlocked position to the locked position, the abutting portions 232 also rotate. When the holder 20 reaches the locked position rotated 45 degrees from the unlocked position, the abutting portions 232 abut against the abutted portions 152 of the bent portions 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D, and the rotation of the holder 20 is restricted (see FIG. 6B).

[0063] In addition, the second rotation restriction mechanism of this embodiment has four sets of combinations consisting of abutting portions 232 and abutted portions 152, but having at least one set is sufficient to perform the rotation restriction function, and by increasing the number, the effect can be further enhanced and the strength and durability of each part can be improved.

[0064] Next, the third rotation restriction mechanism has a convex portion 213 on the surface of the base portion 21 facing the antenna element 10 (see Figure 4A), and also has openings 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d in the capacitance portion 12 (see Figure 3E).

[0065] As described above, the openings 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d are formed as gaps (for example, about 3 mm) between the regions 12A, 12B, 12C, and 12D, and opposing sides are provided parallel to each other.

[0066] On the other hand, the convex portion 213 is formed with an outer shape (outer diameter) equal to or slightly smaller than the width of the openings 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d. The convex portion 213 has a dome-like shape like a part of a sphere cut away by a plane, and has a circular outer edge when viewed from above. However, the convex portion 213 may have the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped or a hexagonal prism with a rectangular or hexagonal outer edge when viewed from above. In the case of a polygonal prism, it is advisable to adjust the angle of the opposite side so that it coincides with the opposing sides of the openings 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d when rotated 45 degrees.

[0067] Furthermore, it is preferable that the protrusions 213 are provided at positions that are out of phase with the four blades 23 by 45 degrees.

[0068] When the holder 20 is attached to the antenna element 10, the protrusions 213 are in contact with the rear surfaces of the regions 12A, 12B, 12C, and 12D of the capacitance portion 12 at the unlocked position. When the holder 20 is subsequently rotated from the unlocked position to the locked position, the protrusions 213 rotate toward the openings 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d while remaining in contact with the rear surface of the capacitance portion 12. When the holder 20 reaches the locked position, rotated 45 degrees from the unlocked position, the protrusions 213 are fitted into the openings 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d, and rotation of the holder 20 is restricted (see FIGS. 1A and 1F).

[0069] At this time, since the protrusions 213 are fitted into the openings 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d, the third rotation restriction mechanism is unable to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise. In other words, the third rotation restriction mechanism also functions as a reverse rotation restriction mechanism.

[0070] In this embodiment, there are four protrusions 213, but having at least one is sufficient to provide the rotation restriction function and reverse rotation restriction function, and by increasing the number, the effect can be further enhanced, and the strength and durability of each part can be improved.

[0071] Incidentally, in consideration of ease of assembly, it is preferable that the antenna module 1 be provided with first to third rotation restriction mechanisms and first and third reverse rotation restriction mechanisms as locking means. However, if the power supply section 14 of the antenna element 10 is soldered to the circuit board 30 with the base section 21 of the holder 20 sandwiched between the capacitance section 12 of the antenna element 10 and the circuit board 30, power can be supplied to the antenna element 10, and the holder 20 will not rotate naturally due to frictional forces acting between the respective members, so a sufficient effect can be expected by providing at least one of the rotation restriction mechanism or reverse rotation restriction mechanism described above.

[0072] Therefore, the rotation restriction mechanism should be provided in at least one of the following locations: between the top plate portion 11 of the antenna element 10 and the blade portion 23 of the holder 20; between the capacitance portion 12 of the antenna element 10 and the blade portion 23 of the holder 20; and between the capacitance portion 12 of the antenna element 10 and the base portion 21 of the holder 20.

[0073] The rotation restriction mechanism restricts further rotation of the holder 20 when the holder 20 is rotated clockwise from the unlocked position to the locked position, so the rotation angle from the unlocked position to the locked position may be within a range of, for example, 15 to 45 degrees. However, because the blades 23 are sandwiched between the top panel 11 and the capacitance part 12, 45 degrees is preferable in order to distribute the load evenly.

[0074] Furthermore, the reverse rotation restricting mechanism restricts reverse rotation of the holder 20 from the locked position to the unlocked position, and the holder 20 does not need to remain immobile in the locked position. For example, when the holder 20 is rotated 45 degrees clockwise from the unlocked position to the locked position, even if it is rotated counterclockwise (reversely) within a range of 20 to 30 degrees, the holder 20 will not fall off the antenna element 10 because it has rotated 15 degrees or more from the unlocked position to the locked position. Therefore, in the first and third reverse rotation restricting mechanisms, the dimensions and shape of the engaging portion 221 or the dimensions and shape of the second end 111b side of the groove 111, and the dimensions and shape of the protrusion 213 or the dimensions and shapes of the openings 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d may be appropriately changed so as to allow slight reverse rotation.

[0075] Furthermore, as described above, the rotation direction of holder 20 during assembly is clockwise when viewed from the mounting direction of holder 20 (direction from base portion 21 toward tip portion 24), but it may also be counterclockwise. In that case, the reverse rotation direction is clockwise.

[0076] Finally, a biasing mechanism for biasing the antenna element 10 and the holder 20 to come into close contact with each other will be described.

[0077] The biasing mechanism suppresses rattles caused by tolerances and temperature deformation of each component (especially the antenna element 10, which is formed by sheet metal (bending) processing) in order to properly maintain the distance between the top panel portion 11 and the capacitance portion 12, and the distance between the capacitance portion 12 and the circuit board 30. Figure 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the first biasing mechanism, and Figure 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the second biasing mechanism.

[0078] First, the first biasing mechanism biases the holder 20 toward the top plate 11, and is provided in the capacitance portion 12 of the antenna element 10. Specifically, the bending portions 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D provided in the capacitance portion 12 perform the biasing function by lifting the holder 20 toward the top plate 11 via the bottom surfaces of the blade portions 23 due to their elastic restoring force (see FIG. 7). Therefore, the bending portions 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D act as part of the second rotation restriction mechanism and the first biasing mechanism.

[0079] Next, the second biasing mechanism biases the top plate portion 11 of the antenna element 10 in the direction of the capacitance portion 12, and is provided on the antenna element 10 and the holder 20. Specifically, the bridge portion 112 and the island portion 113 of the top plate portion 11 are formed by being pressed (offset) in the direction opposite to the capacitance portion 12, and the tip portion 24 provided on the body portion 22 is welded (including crimped) (see FIG. 8).

[0080] Then, by welding the tip portion 24 while pressing the top plate portion 11 toward the capacitance portion 12, the island portion 113 between the through hole 11c and the groove portion 111 is bent downward, generating an elastic reaction force and performing a biasing function. Note that instead of fixing the tip portion 24 by welding, it may be fixed by mechanical means such as a screw or a clip.

[0081] Next, the third biasing mechanism is provided on the holder 20 and biases the circuit board 30 toward the base portion 21 of the holder 20. Specifically, the biasing function is achieved by welding (including crimping) the rear end portion 25 provided on the base portion 21 (see FIGS. 1E and 7). At this time, it is preferable to weld and fix the circuit board 30 while pressing it toward the base portion 21.

[0082] Considering dimensional stability, it is preferable that the antenna module 1 be provided with the first to third biasing mechanisms. However, if the parallelism accuracy between the top panel 11 and capacitance section 12 of the antenna element 10 and the parallelism accuracy between the capacitance section 12 and the circuit board 30 are sufficiently high, i.e., if the dimensional error is small, a sufficient effect can be expected by providing any one of the biasing mechanisms.

[0083] Furthermore, the processing steps for fastening the front end portion 24 and the rear end portion 25 of the second and third biasing mechanisms may be performed in any order.

[0084] Finally, a modified embodiment (second embodiment) of the first rotation restriction mechanism and the first reverse rotation restriction mechanism will be described. In the second embodiment, the configurations other than the first rotation restriction mechanism and the reverse rotation restriction mechanism can be the same as those of the first embodiment. Fig. 10A is a partial perspective view showing an antenna module 1 including a first rotation restriction mechanism and a reverse rotation restriction mechanism in a second embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 10B is a partial perspective view showing an antenna element 110 in the second embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 10C is a partial perspective view showing a holder 120 in the second embodiment of the present invention. Figs. 10D to 10H show the first rotation restriction mechanism in the second embodiment of the present invention, with Fig. 10D being a partial perspective view showing the mechanism in the unlocked position, Fig. 10E being a partial perspective view showing the mechanism in the locked position, Fig. 10F being a partial cross-sectional view showing the mechanism in the assembly preparation stage, Fig. 10G being a partial cross-sectional view showing the mechanism midway through rotation, and Fig. 10H being a partial cross-sectional view showing the mechanism in the locked position.

[0085] First, the first rotation restriction mechanism in the second embodiment shown in Figure 10A has an engagement portion 1231 on the wing portion 123 (or body portion 122) of the holder 120 (see Figure 10C), and also has a groove portion 118 on the top plate portion 117 of the antenna element 110 (see Figure 10B).

[0086] The engaging portion 1231 is provided so as to protrude from the upper surface of the blade portion 123 in a boss shape (cylindrical shape).

[0087] Meanwhile, groove 118 is formed in an arc shape centered on the rotation axis of holder 120, penetrating top plate 117. Groove 118 has first end 118a, which is the leading end in the rotation direction when attached to antenna element 110, and second end 118b, which is the trailing end.

[0088] Since only one set of engaging portion 1231 and groove portion 118 is provided, the positional relationship (for example, the angle and direction with respect to power supply portion 14) between antenna element 110 and holder 120 is uniquely determined. However, engaging portion 1231 and groove portion 118 are not limited to one set, and multiple engaging portions 1231 and groove portions 118 may be provided as long as the positional relationship is uniquely determined. For example, two sets may be provided on adjacent blade portions 123 that are not diagonally arranged.

[0089] Furthermore, the first rotation restriction mechanism has an engaging recess 1232 in the blade portion 123 of the holder 120 (see FIG. 10C), and also has an engaging piece 1112 in the top plate portion 117 of the antenna element 110 (see FIG. 10B).

[0090] Four engagement pieces 1112 are provided inside a cross-shaped opening formed in the (diagonal) center of top plate portion 117, and are formed in the shape of tongues (cantilever beams) extending from the outer edge of the opening toward the center. Furthermore, engagement pieces 1112 are formed to bend or curve and protrude further toward capacitance portion 119 than the back surface of top plate portion 117, and are elastically deformable toward top plate portion 117. The number of engagement pieces 1112 should be the same as the number of blade portions 123 of holder 120, but it is preferable to provide at least one.

[0091] On the other hand, engagement recess 1232 is formed so as to be recessed from the upper surface (top surface) of blade portion 123 and to become deeper toward the rotation axis. The shape of engagement recess 1232 in top view is the same as or slightly larger than the shape of engagement piece 1112, and engagement piece 1112 and engagement recess 1232 can engage with each other.

[0092] When attaching the holder 120 to these antenna elements 110, the engaging portion 1231 is inserted into the second end 118b of the groove 118 at the unlocked position (see FIG. 10D). At this time, it is preferable that the engaging portion 1231 is in contact with or located close to the second end 118b of the groove 118. This prevents rotation in the opposite direction from the unlocked position to the locked position. Furthermore, the tip 124 of the holder 120 is positioned so that four tongue-shaped engaging pieces 1112 protrude from the center of the opposing positions (see FIG. 10F).

[0093] Next, when holder 120 is rotated from the unlocked position to the locked position, engaging portion 1231 moves toward first end 118a along arc-shaped groove 118 (see FIG. 10E). At this time, because engaging piece 1112 protrudes toward capacitance portion 119, it is pushed up toward top plate 117 by the upper surface of blade 123 (see FIG. 10G), and rotates along the upper surface of blade 123.

[0094] Then, when holder 120 is rotated 45 degrees relative to antenna element 110 and reaches the locked position from the unlocked position (see FIG. 10E), that is, when engaging portion 1231 reaches first end 118a, engaging piece 1112, which was raised on the upper surface of blade portion 123 toward top plate portion 117, returns to the capacitance portion 119 side by its own elastic force and falls into engaging recess 1232 to fit in (see FIG. 10H). When engaging piece 1112 fits in, a clicking sensation (sound) is generated, which notifies the operator that the rotation of holder 120 relative to antenna element 110 has been completed (fixing has been completed).

[0095] Furthermore, when the engagement piece 1112 fits into the engagement recess 1232, rotation of the holder 120 in either the forward or reverse direction relative to the antenna element 110 is restricted. On the other hand, when the engagement portion 1231 abuts against the first end portion 118a, rotation of the holder 120 in the rotation direction is restricted (see FIG. 10E). Therefore, part of the first rotation restriction mechanism also functions as a first reverse rotation restriction mechanism.

[0096] In this way, even the first rotation restriction mechanism and reverse rotation restriction mechanism in the second embodiment can restrict rotation of the holder 120 in the forward or reverse direction relative to the antenna element 110. After assembly is completed, the tip portion 124 is welded in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0097] As described above, the antenna module of an embodiment of the present invention is an antenna module 1 comprising a circuit board 30 which is a conductive member, an antenna element 10, 110 arranged on the circuit board 30, and a holder 20, 120 arranged between the circuit board 30 and the antenna element 10, 110, wherein the antenna element 10, 120 has a top plate portion 11, 117, a capacitance portion 12, 119 which forms capacitance with the circuit board 30, and a connection portion 13 which connects the top plate portion 11, 117 and the capacitance portion 12, 119, and the holder 20, 120 has a base portion 21 which is arranged between the capacitance portion 12, 119 and the circuit board 30, and when the holder 20, 120 is rotated, the circuit board 30 and the antenna element 10, 120 are fixed via the base portion 21. This allows the antenna element 10, 110 and the holder 20, 120 to be easily fixed together simply by rotating the antenna element 10, 110 and the holder 20, 120 relative to each other without using nails or soldering. Furthermore, the distance between the antenna element 10, 110 and the circuit board 30 can be kept constant, allowing capacitance to be formed between them. This eliminates the need for the chip capacitors described in Patent Document 1.

[0098] The holders 20, 120 of the embodiment have body portions 22, 122 disposed between the top panel portion 11, 117 and the capacitance portion 12, 119. This allows the top panel portion 11, 117 and the capacitance portion 12, 119 to be held (supported) at a fixed distance.

[0099] The antenna module 1 of the embodiment includes a rotation restriction mechanism that restricts rotation beyond the lock position of the holders 20 and 120. This restricts rotation of the holders 20 and 120 at the lock position, preventing the holders 20 and 120 from continuing to rotate and reaching the unlock position.

[0100] The antenna module 1 of the embodiment includes a reverse rotation restricting mechanism that restricts the reverse rotation of the holders 20, 120 to the unlocked position, thereby restricting the holders 20, 120 from returning to the unlocked position.

[0101] The reverse rotation restricting mechanism of the embodiment has an engaging portion 221 on the holder 20 and a groove portion 111 on the top plate portion 11 of the antenna element 10, and the shape of the groove portion 111 on the side of the second end portion 111b in the reverse rotation direction of the holder 20 does not match the rotation trajectory of the engaging portion 221 in the reverse rotation direction of the holder 20, and the engaging portion 221 can abut against the side of the second end portion 111b in the rotation direction of the holder 20 in the groove portion 111 so as to restrict the reverse rotation of the holder 20. This makes it possible to restrict the reverse rotation of the holder 20 on the side of the top plate portion 11 of the antenna element 10.

[0102] The reverse rotation restricting mechanism of the (second) embodiment has an engaging recess 1232 in the holder 120 and an engaging piece 1112 on the top plate 117 of the antenna element 110, and restricts reverse rotation of the holder 120 by engagement between the engaging recess 1232 and the engaging piece 1112. This allows reverse rotation of the holder 120 to be restricted on the side of the top plate 117 of the antenna element 110. Furthermore, by providing the engaging recess 1232 in the holder 120, the engagement area can be increased compared to when the engaging portion 221 is provided to protrude from the holder 120, thereby increasing the engagement force in the rotation direction and the strength of the components. Furthermore, the biasing force due to elastic deformation of the engaging piece 1112 can increase the adhesion force and adhesion (reduction of rattle) between the antenna element 110 and the holder 120.

[0103] The rotation restricting mechanism of the embodiment has engaging portions 221, 1231 on the holder 20, 120 and grooves 111, 118 on the top plate 11, 117 of the antenna element 10, and the engaging portions 221, 1231 can abut against the first end portions 111a, 118a of the grooves 111, 118 in the rotation direction of the holder 20, 120 so as to restrict rotation of the holder 20, 120. This makes it possible to restrict rotation of the holder 20, 120 on the top plate 11, 117 side of the antenna element 10, 110. Furthermore, by having at least one pair of engaging portions 221, 1231 and grooves 111, 118, the assembly orientation of the holder 120 relative to the antenna element 110 can be uniquely determined, preventing incorrect attachment.

[0104] The rotation restriction mechanism of the embodiment has a contact portion 232 on the holder 20 and a contacted portion 152 on the capacitance portion 12 of the antenna element 10, and the contact portion 232 can contact the contacted portion 152 so as to restrict rotation of the holder 20. This makes it possible to restrict reverse rotation of the holder 20 on the capacitance portion 12 side of the antenna element 10.

[0105] The rotation restriction mechanism of the embodiment has a protrusion 213 on the base portion 21 of the holder 20 and openings 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d on the capacitance portion 12 of the antenna element 10, and the protrusion 213 is inserted into the openings 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d so as to restrict the rotation of the holder 20. This makes it possible to restrict reverse rotation of the holder 20 on the capacitance portion 12 side of the antenna element 10 by a plurality of different structures.

[0106] The holders 20, 120 of the embodiment include tip portions 24, 124 that protrude beyond the top plate portions 11, 117 of the antenna elements 10, 110, and the tip portions 24, 124 are fixed so as to urge the top plate portions 11, 117 toward the base portion 21. This makes it possible to maintain (support) the top plate portions 11, 117 and the capacitance portion 12, 119 at a constant distance, and also makes it possible to bring the capacitance portion 12 and the base portion 21 into close contact even if there is a dimensional error in each component.

[0107] The holder 20 of the embodiment has a body portion 22 disposed between the top plate portion 11 and the capacitance portion 12, and the capacitance portion 12 includes bent portions 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D that are bent toward the top plate portion 11, and the bent portions 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D contact the body portion 22 so as to urge the base portion 21 toward the top plate portion 11. This makes it possible to maintain (support) the top plate portion 11 and the capacitance portion 12 at a constant distance, and also to bring the capacitance portion 12 and the base portion 21 into close contact even if there is a dimensional error in each component.

[0108] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention as set forth in the claims.

[0109] (Variation) In the above embodiment, capacitance is formed by maintaining a fixed distance between the capacitance section 12 of the antenna element 10 and the circuit board 30, but the antenna module 1' may also be configured to form capacitance between the capacitance section 12 of the antenna element 10 and the conductive member 40 by providing a conductive member 40 instead of the circuit board 30. FIG. 9 shows a modified antenna module 1' according to the present invention, with FIG. 9A being a perspective view and FIG. 9B being a front view.

[0110] For example, the top panel 11 of the antenna module 1 may be used as the conductive member 40 of this antenna module 1', and the antenna module 1' may be placed on the antenna module 1. At this time, the antenna element 10' (the power supply portion 14') of the antenna module 1' is also electrically connected to the circuit board 30. The antenna module 1 and the antenna module 1' may be fixed by a fixing means or the like provided on the holder 20'.

[0111] In addition, instead of the above-mentioned antenna module 1', an antenna of a different type or structure, such as a patch antenna or a ceramic antenna, may be placed on the top plate portion 11 of the antenna module 1, and these may be combined to form a structure of three or more layers.

[0112] In the above embodiment, the power supply portion 14 (terminals 14a, 14b) was integrally molded with the antenna element 10 (top panel portion 11), but for example, a power supply pin, which is a separate component, may be used to electrically connect the antenna element 10 and the circuit board 30 to supply power.

[0113] Furthermore, although power supply unit 14 has been described as having two power supply points formed by two terminals 14a and 14b, it may also have a single power supply point. In this case, the rotation angle from the unlocked position to the locked position by the first to third rotation restriction mechanisms described above may be set to a large angle such as 45 degrees or more, such as 60 degrees, or even 90 degrees or more. Furthermore, the angle may be set to an appropriate angle depending on the number of regions into which capacitance unit 12 is divided. [Explanation of symbols]

[0114] 1 Antenna Module 10 Antenna Element 11 top plate portion, 11a, 11b notch portions, 11c through-hole, 111 groove portion, 111a first end portion, 111b second end portion, 112 bridge portion, 113 island portion 12 Capacitance part, 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D area, 12n notch, 15A, 15B, 15C, 15D bent part, 152 Abutted part, 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d opening 13 Connection 14 Power supply part, 14a, 14b terminals 20 Holder 21 base portion, 21a hollow portion, 213 protrusion 22 body portion, 221 engagement portion 23 blade portion, 232 contact portion 24 Tip 25 Rear end 30 circuit board (conductive member), 30a, 30b through holes, 30c through hole 40 Conductive material 110 Antenna Element 117 top plate portion, 118 groove portion, 118a first end portion, 118b second end portion, 1112 engagement piece, 119 capacitance portion 120 Holder 122 body portion, 123 blade portion, 1231 engagement portion, 1232 engagement recess, 124 tip portion

Claims

1. A conductive member; an antenna element disposed on the conductive member; a holder disposed between the conductive member and the antenna element, the antenna element has a top plate portion, a capacitance portion that forms capacitance between the top plate portion and the conductive member, and a connection portion that connects the top plate portion and the capacitance portion; the holder has a base portion disposed between the capacitance portion and the conductive member, and a body portion disposed between the top plate portion and the capacitance portion, the base portion being fixed to the conductive member; the body portion of the holder has an engagement portion, the top plate portion of the antenna element has a groove portion that can come into contact with the engaging portion of the body portion of the holder when the holder is rotated relative to the antenna element, When the holder is rotated, the engaging portion of the holder comes into contact with the groove of the top plate, thereby fixing the conductive member and the antenna element via the base portion. An antenna module characterized by:

2. a rotation restriction mechanism that restricts rotation of the holder beyond a lock position; 2. The antenna module according to claim 1.

3. a reverse rotation restriction mechanism that restricts reverse rotation of the holder to an unlocked position; 3. The antenna module according to claim 2.

4. the reverse rotation restricting mechanism has the engaging portion on the holder, and the groove portion that is connected from a first end to a second end on the top plate portion of the antenna element, the groove portion has a shape on a second end side in the reverse rotation direction of the holder that does not match a rotation locus of the engagement portion in the reverse rotation direction of the holder, the engaging portion is capable of contacting a second end side of the groove portion so as to restrict reverse rotation of the holder.

4. The antenna module according to claim 3.

5. the reverse rotation restricting mechanism has an engaging recess in the holder and an engaging piece on the top plate of the antenna element; The engagement recess and the engagement piece are engaged with each other to restrict reverse rotation of the holder.

4. The antenna module according to claim 3.

6. the rotation restriction mechanism has the engaging portion on the holder, and the groove portion that is connected from a first end to a second end on the top plate portion of the antenna element, the engaging portion is capable of contacting a first end portion of the groove portion in a rotation direction of the holder so as to restrict rotation of the holder.

6. The antenna module according to claim 2, wherein the antenna module is a conductor.

7. the rotation restriction mechanism has an abutting portion on the holder and an abutted portion on the capacitance portion of the antenna element, The contact portion is capable of contacting the contacted portion so as to restrict rotation of the holder.

6. The antenna module according to claim 2, wherein the antenna module is a conductor.

8. the rotation restriction mechanism has a convex portion on the base portion of the holder and an opening on the capacitance portion of the antenna element, The protrusion is inserted into the opening so as to restrict rotation of the holder.

6. The antenna module according to claim 2, wherein the antenna module is a conductor.

9. the holder includes a tip portion that protrudes beyond the top plate portion of the antenna element, The tip portion is fixed so as to bias the top plate portion toward the base portion.

2. The antenna module according to claim 1.

10. The capacitance portion includes a bent portion bent toward the top plate portion, The bent portion contacts the body portion so as to bias the base portion toward the top plate portion.

10. The antenna module according to claim 1 or 9.

11. the conductive member is a flat circuit board on which a transmitting / receiving circuit capable of transmitting and receiving radio signals is formed; 2. The antenna module according to claim 1.

12. Another antenna is mounted on the top plate portion of the antenna element.

12. The antenna module according to claim 11.

Images