Antennas and communication devices

Abstract

To provide an antenna whose appearance is adjustable, and a communication device.SOLUTION: An antenna 10 includes a base material 20 including a first surface 21 and a second surface 22 positioned opposite to the first surface 21, a first conductor layer 31 including a third surface 32 opposite to the first surface 21, a fourth surface 33 positioned opposite to the third surface 32, and a first side face 34 positioned between the third surface 32 and the fourth surface 33, and a first cover layer 60 covering the fourth surface 33 and the first side face 34. The first side face 34 is expanded so as to be deviated to the outside toward the third surface 32 from the fourth surface 33. The first cover layer 60 includes a first coloring layer 61 containing a colorant. The coloring agent may contain organic ink, may contain inorganic ink, and preferably contains the inorganic ink.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] TECHNICAL FIELD Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an antenna and a communication device. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art In a communication system, an antenna including a substrate and a conductive layer on the substrate is used. For example, Patent Document 1 proposes using a patch antenna as an antenna device in a mobile communication system. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2018 / 230039 Brochure Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The higher the frequency, the shorter the propagation distance of radio waves. For example, when using millimeter waves, the communication distance using an antenna is approximately 100 m. Also, the higher the frequency, the more directional the radio waves tend to travel, and the more easily they are blocked by objects. For this reason, the higher the frequency, the more antennas need to be installed.

[0005] As the number of antennas installed increases, so does the likelihood of the antennas being visible, so it is desirable for the antenna appearance to be adjustable.

[0006] The embodiments of the present disclosure have been made in consideration of these points, and have an object to provide an antenna with adjustable appearance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] One embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a substrate including a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface; a first conductor layer including a third surface facing the first surface, a fourth surface located on the opposite side of the third surface, and a first side surface located between the third surface and the fourth surface; a first cover layer covering the fourth surface and the first side surface, the first side surface includes a first end connected to the third surface and a second end connected to the fourth surface; the first end is located outward from the second end in a plan view, The first cover layer is an antenna, comprising a first color layer containing a colorant. The colorant may include an organic ink or an inorganic ink.

[0008] The antenna according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a second conductive layer located on the second surface side, and may also include a ground having a second outer edge located outside the first side surface in a plan view.

[0009] In the antenna according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first side surface may include an inner curved surface located inside an imaginary line passing through the first end and the second end in a cross-sectional view.

[0010] In an antenna according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first side may form a first angle with respect to the third plane at the first end, and the first side may form a second angle with respect to the fourth plane at the second end, and the sum of the first angle and the second angle may be greater than 90° and less than 175°.

[0011] In the antenna according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second angle may be equal to or less than 135°.

[0012] In the antenna according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first side surface may include an outer curved surface located outside an imaginary line passing through the first end and the second end in a cross-sectional view.

[0013] In an antenna according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first side may form a first angle with respect to the third plane at the first end, and the first side may form a second angle with respect to the fourth plane at the second end, and the sum of the first angle and the second angle may be greater than 185° and less than 270°.

[0014] In the antenna according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first side surface may include a flat surface.

[0015] In an antenna according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first side may form a first angle with respect to the third surface at the first end, and the first side may form a second angle with respect to the fourth surface at the second end, and the sum of the first angle and the second angle may be greater than or equal to 175° and less than or equal to 185°.

[0016] In an antenna according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first side may include an eleventh side and a twelfth side connected to the eleventh side at a first connection portion and located between the first connection portion and the fourth surface.

[0017] In an antenna according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the 11th side or the 12th side may include an inner curved surface that is located inside an imaginary straight line passing through the first end and the second end in a cross-sectional view.

[0018] In an antenna according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the 11th side or the 12th side may include an outer curved surface that is located outside an imaginary straight line passing through the first end and the second end in a cross-sectional view.

[0019] In the antenna according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the eleventh side surface or the twelfth side surface may include a flat surface.

[0020] In the antenna according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cover layer may include an upper surface parallel to the first surface.

[0021] In the antenna according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the first colored layer may include a lower surface parallel to the first surface.

[0022] In the antenna according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cover layer may be in contact with the first side surface and include a layer including an upper surface on which a step appears overlapping the first side surface in a plan view.

[0023] In the antenna according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cover layer may include an upper surface that has a step that overlaps the first side surface in a plan view.

[0024] In the antenna according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the first colored layer may be in contact with the fourth surface and the first side surface.

[0025] In an antenna according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cover layer may include a first adhesive layer located between the first conductive layer and the first colored layer and in contact with the fourth surface and the first side surface.

[0026] In the antenna according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cover layer may include a second colored layer containing a colorant.

[0027] In the antenna according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cover layer may include a second adhesive layer located between the first colored layer and the second colored layer.

[0028] In the antenna according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cover layer may include a first transparent layer positioned between the first colored layer and the second colored layer.

[0029] In an antenna according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first conductive layer may include a patch and a wiring connected to the patch, and a slit may be formed between the patch and the wiring.

[0030] In the antenna according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the patch may be configured to support transmission or reception of radio waves having a frequency of 300 MHz or higher.

[0031] The antenna according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a third conductive layer facing the fourth surface of the first conductive layer.

[0032] The antenna according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a third cover layer covering the third conductive layer, and the third cover layer may contain a colorant.

[0033] One embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a structure having a surface; A communication device comprising the antenna described above attached to the surface.

[0034] In the communication device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the surface of the structure may include a curved surface, and the antenna may be attached to the curved surface. [Effects of the Invention]

[0035] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, an antenna with adjustable appearance can be provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0036] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a communication system. [Figure 2A] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a communication device. [Figure 2B] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a communication device. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an antenna. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows the antenna of FIG. 3 with the first cover layer removed. [Figure 5] 4 is a cross-sectional view of the antenna of FIG. 3 as viewed from the VV direction. [Figure 6] 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a first side surface of the first conductive layer of FIG. 5. FIG. [Figure 7A] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of a patch. [Figure 7B] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of a patch. [Figure 8] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing an antenna. [Figure 9] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing an antenna. [Figure 10] 10A to 10C are diagrams illustrating an example of a method for processing a first conductive layer. [Figure 11] 10A to 10C are diagrams illustrating an example of a method for processing a first conductive layer. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the first side surface of the first conductive layer. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the first side surface of the first conductive layer. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the first side surface of the first conductive layer. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the first side surface of the first conductive layer. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the first side surface of the first conductive layer. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the first side surface of the first conductive layer. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the first side surface of the first conductive layer. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the first cover layer. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the first cover layer. [Figure 21A] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the first cover layer. [Figure 21B] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the first cover layer. [Figure 21C] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the first cover layer. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the first cover layer. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the first cover layer. [Figure 24]FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the first cover layer. [Figure 25] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the first cover layer. [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the antenna. [Figure 27] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a surface layer. [Figure 28] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the antenna. [Figure 29] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the antenna. [Figure 30] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing an antenna. [Figure 31] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing an antenna. [Figure 32] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing an antenna. [Figure 33] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing an antenna. [Figure 34] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing an antenna. [Figure 35] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing an antenna. [Figure 36] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing an antenna. [Figure 37] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modified example of a patch. [Figure 38] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modified example of a patch. [Figure 39A] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modified example of the antenna. [Figure 39B] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modified example of the antenna. [Figure 39C] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modified example of the antenna. [Figure 39D] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modified example of the antenna. [Figure 39E] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modified example of the antenna. [Figure 40] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the evaluation results of the resonant frequency of the antenna. [Figure 41] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the evaluation results of the radiation efficiency of the antenna. [Figure 42]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing evaluation results of antenna characteristics. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0037] The configuration of an antenna 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The following embodiments are merely examples of embodiments of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure should not be construed as being limited to these embodiments. Furthermore, in this specification, terms such as "substrate," "base material," "sheet," and "film" are not distinguished from one another solely based on differences in name. For example, "substrate" and "base material" are concepts that also include materials that may be called sheets or films. Furthermore, terms used in this specification that specify shapes, geometric conditions, and their degrees, such as "parallel" and "orthogonal," as well as values ​​of lengths and angles, are not limited to their strict meanings but are interpreted to include a range within which similar functions can be expected.

[0038] In this specification, when multiple upper limit candidates and multiple lower limit candidate values ​​are listed for a certain parameter, the numerical range of the parameter may be constructed by combining any one upper limit candidate with any one lower limit candidate. For example, consider a description that reads, "Parameter B is, for example, A1 or more, or may be A2 or more, or may be A3 or more. Parameter B is, for example, A4 or less, or may be A5 or less, or may be A6 or less." In this case, the numerical range of parameter B may be A1 or more and A4 or less, A1 or more and A5 or less, A1 or more and A6 or less, A2 or more and A4 or less, A2 or more and A5 or less, A2 or more and A6 or less, A3 or more and A4 or less, A3 or more and A5 or less, or A3 or more and A6 or less.

[0039] In the drawings referred to in this embodiment, the same parts or parts having similar functions are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, and repeated explanations thereof may be omitted. Furthermore, the dimensional ratios of the drawings may differ from the actual ratios for the convenience of explanation, and some components may be omitted from the drawings.

[0040] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described.

[0041] In recent years, high-frequency radio waves such as microwaves, millimeter waves, and quasi-millimeter waves have begun to be used in a variety of fields. Microwaves are radio waves in the frequency band of approximately 0.3 GHz to 300 GHz. Millimeter waves are radio waves in the frequency band of approximately 30 GHz to 300 GHz. Quasi-millimeter waves are radio waves in the frequency band of approximately 10 GHz to 30 GHz. Examples of fields in which they are used include 5th generation mobile communication systems, mobile and automotive communication systems, radar for collision prevention systems, and medical biosensing.

[0042] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a mobile communication system 100. The mobile communication system 100 includes a base station 110, multiple communication devices 120, and multiple terminal devices 130. The base station 110, also called a macrocell, performs wireless communication between the communication devices and the terminal devices 130 located in an area 115. The communication device 120, also called a small cell, performs wireless communication between the communication devices and the terminal devices 130 located in an area 125. The base station 110 and the communication device 120 include antennas. The terminal devices 130 are, for example, smartphones. The area 125 covered by each small cell communication device 120 may be located inside the area 115 covered by the macrocell, as shown in FIG. 1. Although not shown, the area 125 covered by the small cell may be partially located outside the area 115 covered by the macrocell. In this specification, a small cell refers to a communication device that covers an area smaller than a macrocell. The small cell may be a so-called femtocell, nanocell, picocell, microcell, or the like.

[0043] 2A is a diagram showing an example of a communication device 120. The communication device 120 includes a structure 121 including a surface 122, and an antenna 10 attached to the surface 122. By attaching the antenna 10 to the structure 121, the structure 121 can have a communication function.

[0044] Although not shown, the communication device 120 may include a control device that controls radio waves transmitted by the antenna 10. The communication device 120 may also include a processing device that processes radio waves received by the antenna 10. The control device and the processing device may be provided on a common substrate with the antenna 10. Alternatively, the control device and the processing device may be provided on a member different from the antenna 10.

[0045] The higher the frequency, the shorter the propagation distance of the radio waves. For example, when using millimeter waves, the communication distance using an antenna is approximately 100 m. Furthermore, the higher the frequency, the more directional the radio waves tend to travel, and the more likely they are to be blocked by objects. Therefore, the higher the frequency, the more communication devices 120 need to be installed.

[0046] As the number of installed communication devices 120 increases, the possibility that the antenna 10 will be visible also increases. That is, the possibility that the antenna 10 will be installed in a structure 121 that is easily visible to people increases. The structure 121 is, for example, an indoor pillar in a commercial facility or the like, or a support pole for a traffic light or smart street light. The structure 121 may include a curved surface. For example, the structure 121 such as a pillar or support pole has a curved shape, such as a circle, in cross section when cut horizontally.

[0047] When the antenna 10 is installed in a location visible to humans, it is preferable that the appearance of the antenna 10 be adjustable. For example, it is preferable that the antenna 10 have an appearance that blends in with the surrounding environment. In this embodiment, it is proposed to adjust the appearance of the antenna 10 using a first cover layer 60. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2A , the antenna 10 includes a patch 30 and a first cover layer 60 that covers the patch 30. The patch 30 transmits or receives radio waves. The patch 30 is also referred to as a patch element. The first cover layer 60 has a pattern. For example, the first cover layer 60 has a pattern similar to that of the surface 122 of the communication device 120. This can prevent the antenna 10 from spoiling the appearance of the structure 121.

[0048] 2A, the communication device 120 may include a plurality of patches 30. As shown in FIG. 2A, one first cover layer 60 may cover the plurality of patches 30.

[0049] 2B is a diagram showing another example of the communication device 120. As shown in FIG.

[0050] The arrangement direction, arrangement pitch, etc. of the multiple patches 30 may be determined based on the radiation angle of the patches 30. For example, when the multiple patches 30 are arranged in the circumferential direction, the circumferential angle calculated based on two patches 30 adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction may be equal to or less than the radiation angle of the patches 30. The circumferential angle is the angle formed by a first line segment connecting the center point of a first patch and the center point of the structure 121 and a second line segment connecting the center point of a second patch located adjacent to the first patch in the circumferential direction and the center point of the structure 121.

[0051] The radius of curvature of the curved surface of the structure 121 is, for example, (½)×(Cf / (π×F)) mm or more, and may be (¾)×(Cf / (π×F)) mm or more, or may be Cf / (π×F) mm or more. The radius of curvature of the curved surface of the structure 121 is, for example, 2000 mm or less, may be 1000 mm or less, or may be 200 mm or less. F is the maximum frequency of the radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10, and is expressed in GHz. Cf is the propagation speed of the electromagnetic wave, and is specifically 299792458 [m / s].

[0052] The radius of curvature that the antenna 10 can accommodate depends on the flexibility of the antenna 10, the frequency of the radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10, etc. For example, the higher the frequency, the smaller the dimensions of the patch 30. The smaller the dimensions of the patch 30, the easier it is to install the antenna 10 on a curved surface with a small radius of curvature.

[0053] Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the antenna 10. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing a state in which the first cover layer 60 is removed from the antenna 10 of Fig. 3. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the antenna 10 of Fig. 3 as seen from the VV direction.

[0054] The antenna 10 includes a substrate 20, a patch 30, and a first cover layer 60. The antenna 10 may also include a ground 40. As shown in FIG. 5, the substrate 20 includes a first surface 21, a second surface 22, and a side surface 23. The second surface 22 is located opposite the first surface 21. The side surface 23 extends from the first surface 21 to the second surface 22. The patch 30 is located on the first surface 21 side. The first cover layer 60 covers the patch 30 on the first surface 21 side. Although not shown, the first cover layer 60 may also cover the side surface 23 of the substrate 20. The first cover layer 60 may cover a portion of the side surface 23 or the entire side surface 23. The ground 40 is located on the second surface 22 side. The substrate 20 and the first cover layer 60 are insulating. The patch 30 and the ground 40 are conductive. The substrate 20, the patch 30, and the ground 40 form a capacitor-type antenna. The first cover layer 60 affects the characteristics of the antenna 10. The characteristics of the antenna 10 include the resonant frequency, gain, radiation efficiency, radiation distribution, and the like.

[0055] The frequency of the radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10 is, for example, 300 MHz or higher, and may be 3 GHz or higher, 25 GHz or higher, or 50 GHz or higher. The frequency of the radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10 is, for example, 110 GHz or lower, or may be 80 GHz or lower. Such radio waves are used in fifth-generation mobile communication systems, inter-vehicle communication systems, automotive radar devices, etc.

[0056] 5, the antenna 10 may include a first adhesive layer 36 located between the substrate 20 and the patch 30. The antenna 10 may also include a second adhesive layer 46 located between the substrate 20 and the ground 40.

[0057] Each component of the antenna 10 will now be described.

[0058] (base material) The substrate 20 may be flexible, allowing the antenna 10 to be attached to a structure 121 that includes a curved surface.

[0059] 3 and 4, the base material 20 may have a rectangular outer edge in a plan view. For example, the base material 20 may include an outer edge 20Y extending in a first direction D1 and a second direction D2 perpendicular to the first direction D1. The plan view means viewing the antenna 10 along the normal direction of the first surface 21.

[0060] The substrate 20 includes a resin material having a low relative dielectric constant. The relative dielectric constant of the substrate 20 may be 4.0 or less, 3.5 or less, 3.0 or less, 2.5 or less, or 2.0 or less. This can improve the radiation efficiency and gain of the antenna 10. The relative dielectric constant of the substrate 20 may be 1.0 or more, or 1.5 or more.

[0061] The dielectric loss tangent tan δ of the substrate 20 may be 0.01 or less, 0.005 or less, 0.001 or less, or 0.0005 or less.

[0062] Examples of resin materials that can be used for the substrate 20 include fluororesins, liquid crystal polymers (LCPs), polypropylenes (PPs), modified polypropylenes (modified PPs), and polyimides (PIs). Examples of fluororesins include fully fluorinated resins such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), partially fluorinated resins such as polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), and fluorinated resin copolymers such as ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene copolymers (ETFE). Fluororesins have a relative dielectric constant of, for example, 2.0 or more and 3.0 or less. Liquid crystal polymers have a relative dielectric constant of, for example, 2.9 or more and 3.7 or less. Polypropylene has a relative dielectric constant of, for example, 2.2 or more and 2.6 or less. Polyimides have a relative dielectric constant of approximately 3.5. The relative dielectric constant values ​​used herein are those when the ambient temperature is 20°C and the radio wave frequency is 10 GHz.

[0063] The substrate 20 may be composed of a single layer or multiple layers.

[0064] The thickness T0 of the substrate 20 is, for example, 10 mm or less, and may be 5 mm or less, 2 mm or less, or 1 mm or less. The thickness T0 of the substrate 20 is, for example, 10 μm or more, and may be 20 μm or more, 50 μm or more, or 100 μm or more.

[0065] Although not shown, the substrate 20 may contain a plurality of bubbles. That is, the substrate 20 may contain a foamed resin. This allows the relative dielectric constant of the substrate 20 to be lowered.

[0066] (patch) 4, the patch 30 includes a first outer edge 30Y located inside the outer edge 20Y of the substrate 20 in a plan view. The first outer edge 30Y may have a rectangular shape in a plan view. For example, the first outer edge 30Y may extend in a first direction D1 and a second direction D2 intersecting the first direction D1. The second direction D2 may be perpendicular to the first direction D1.

[0067] 4, a wiring 37 may be connected to the patch 30. The wiring 37 is, for example, a microstrip line.

[0068] 4, the symbol L1 represents the dimension of the patch 30 in the first direction D1. The symbol W1 represents the dimension of the patch 30 in the second direction D2. The dimensions L1 and W1 are, for example, 50 mm or less, or may be 20 mm or less, 10 mm or less, or 1 mm or less. The dimensions L1 and W1 may be, for example, 0.2 mm or more. The dimension L1 or dimension W1 may be determined based on the frequency of radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10. In the antenna 10 shown in FIG. 4, the wiring 37 is connected to the outer edge of the patch 30 extending in the second direction D2. In this case, the patch 30 can function as an antenna that resonates in the first direction D1. In this case, it is preferable that the dimension L1, which is the dimension of the patch 30 in the first direction D1, be determined based on the frequency of radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10. When the frequency of the radio wave is 300 MHz or more and 3 GHz or less, the dimension L1 may be 20 mm or more and 500 mm or less. When the frequency of the radio wave is equal to or greater than 3 GHz and equal to or less than 6 GHz, the dimension L1 may be equal to or greater than 10 mm and equal to or less than 50 mm. When the frequency of the radio wave is equal to or greater than 6 GHz and equal to or less than 25 GHz, the dimension L1 may be equal to or greater than 2.5 mm and equal to or less than 30 mm. When the frequency of the radio wave is 25 GHz or more and 30 GHz or less, the dimension L1 may be 2 mm or more and 20 mm or less. When the frequency of the radio wave is 50 GHz or more and 75 GHz or less, the dimension L1 may be 0.5 mm or more and 10 mm or less. When the frequency of the radio wave is equal to or greater than 75 GHz and equal to or less than 300 GHz, the dimension L1 may be equal to or greater than 0.2 mm and equal to or less than 5.0 mm.

[0069] The dimension L1 may be the same as or different from the dimension W1. The dimension W1 may be determined based on the frequency of the radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10, or may be determined independently of the frequency. When the dimension W1 is determined based on the frequency of the radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10, the numerical range of the dimension W1 may be the same as the numerical range described above for the dimension L1.

[0070] In Fig. 4, the symbol L0 represents the dimension of the substrate 20 in the first direction D1. The symbol W0 represents the dimension of the substrate 20 in the second direction D2. The dimensions L0 and W0 are larger than the dimensions L1 and W1. For example, the dimensions L0 and W0 may be two or more times the dimensions L1 and W1, or three or more times the dimensions L1 and W1.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 5, the patch 30 includes a first conductive layer 31 located on the first surface 21 side of the substrate 20. The first conductive layer 31 includes a third surface 32, a fourth surface 33, and a first side surface 34. The third surface 32 faces the first surface 21 of the substrate 20. The fourth surface 33 is located on the opposite side of the third surface 32. The first side surface 34 is located between the third surface 32 and the fourth surface 33. The first side surface 34 forms a first outer edge 30Y of the patch 30 in a plan view.

[0072] The above-mentioned wiring 37 may also include the first conductive layer 31. That is, the patch 30 and the wiring 37 may include the first conductive layer 31 in common.

[0073] The first conductive layer 31 includes a conductive material. For example, the first conductive layer 31 includes a metal material such as copper (Cu), gold (Au), silver (Ag), or aluminum (Al), or an alloy using any of these. The first conductive layer 31 may include a transparent conductive material such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO). The first conductive layer 31 may include a carbon-based conductive material such as graphite, carbon nanotubes, graphene, or fullerene.

[0074] The method for forming the first conductive layer 31 is not particularly limited. For example, the first conductive layer 31 may be formed by a plating method, a printing method, a sputtering method, a vapor deposition method, or the like. The foil constituting the first conductive layer 31 may be attached to the base material 20 via a first adhesive layer 36. The foil may be produced by an electrodeposition method, a rolling method, or the like.

[0075] The thickness T1 of the first conductive layer 31 may be 1 μm or more, or may be 5 μm or more. The thickness of the first conductive layer 31 may be 35 μm or less, or may be 20 μm or less.

[0076] The surface of the first conductive layer 31 preferably has small surface roughness, which can reduce transmission loss occurring in the patch 30. For example, the maximum height roughness (Rz) of the third surface 32 of the first conductive layer 31 may be 3.0 μm or less, 2.0 μm or less, or 1.0 μm or less. By making the maximum height roughness of the third surface 32 3.0 μm or less, the transmission loss of the patch 30 at 20 GHz can be reduced to, for example, 6 dB or less.

[0077] The arithmetic mean roughness (Ra) of the third surface 32 of the first conductive layer 31 may be 3.0 μm or less, 2.0 μm or less, or 1.0 μm or less.

[0078] Note that the smaller the arithmetic mean roughness (Ra) and the maximum height roughness (Rz) of the third surface 32, the lower the adhesion of the third surface 32 to the first surface 21 of the substrate 20. In consideration of this, it is preferable that a first adhesive layer 36 is provided between the first surface 21 and the third surface 32. This makes it possible to prevent the patch 30 from peeling off even when the arithmetic mean roughness (Ra) and the maximum height roughness (Rz) of the third surface 32 are small.

[0079] The arithmetic mean roughness (Ra) and maximum height roughness (Rz) are specified based on JIS B 0601:2013.

[0080] FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the first side surface 34 of the first conductive layer 31 in FIG. 5. The first side surface 34 expands outward as it moves from the fourth surface 33 toward the third surface 32. Therefore, the first side surface 34 is not hidden by the fourth surface 33 in a plan view. This makes it easier for the first cover layer 60 to come into contact with the first side surface 34 when forming the first cover layer 60 to cover the fourth surface 33 and the first side surface 34. This prevents a gap from forming between the first side surface 34 and the first cover layer 60. The "outside" refers to the side from the center of the patch 30 toward the first outer edge 30Y in a plan view. The "inside" described below refers to the side from the first outer edge 30Y toward the center of the patch 30 in a plan view.

[0081] If a gap exists between the first side surface 34 and the first cover layer 60, the gap also affects the characteristics of the antenna 10. For example, the gap affects the characteristics of the antenna 10 based on the dielectric constant of air. The shape, volume, etc. of the gap change depending on the ambient temperature, the temperature of the antenna 10, etc. For example, as the ambient temperature increases, the volume of the gap increases as the air expands. When the volume of the gap changes, the characteristics of the antenna 10 also change. For this reason, if a gap exists between the first side surface 34 and the first cover layer 60, it is conceivable that the characteristics of the antenna 10 will become unstable.

[0082] According to the present embodiment, by devising the shape of the first side surface 34, it is possible to prevent a gap from being generated between the first side surface 34 and the first cover layer 60. This makes it possible to stabilize the characteristics of the antenna 10. For example, it is possible to prevent the resonant frequency and radiation efficiency of the antenna 10 from changing in response to changes in the environmental temperature.

[0083] The first side surface 34 includes a first end 341 connected to the third surface 32 and a second end 342 connected to the fourth surface 33. The first end 341 is located outside the second end 342 in a plan view. As shown in FIG. 6 , the first side surface 34 may include a curved surface that is convex toward the inside. "Convex toward the inside" means that, in a cross-sectional view, the first side surface 34 is located inside a virtual line K3 that passes through the first end 341 and the second end 342. The curved surface that is convex toward the inside is also referred to as an inward curved surface. The first side surface 34 may be configured by an inward curved surface that extends from the first end 341 to the second end 342.

[0084] In FIG. 6, the symbol θ1 represents the angle (also referred to as the first angle) that the first side surface 34 forms with the third surface 32 at the first end 341. The first angle θ1 is the angle between the third surface 32 and a tangent K1 to the first side surface 34 at the first end 341. The first angle θ1 is less than 90°. When the first side surface 34 is formed by an inwardly curved surface, the first angle θ1 is, for example, 45° or less, or may be 40° or less, or may be 35° or less. The first angle θ1 is, for example, 5° or more, or may be 10° or more, or may be 15° or more.

[0085] In FIG. 6 , the symbol θ2 represents the angle (also referred to as the second angle) that the first side surface 34 forms with the fourth surface 33 at the second end 342. The second angle θ2 is the angle between the tangent K2 of the first side surface 34 at the second end 342 and the fourth surface 33. The second angle θ2 is greater than 90°. When the first side surface 34 is formed by an inwardly curved surface, the second angle θ2 is, for example, 95° or more, or may be 100° or more, or may be 105° or more. The second angle θ2 is, for example, 135° or less, or may be 130° or less, or may be 125° or less.

[0086] When the first side surface 34 is formed by an inner curved surface, the sum of the first angle θ1 and the second angle θ2 is greater than 90° and less than 175°. The sum of the first angle θ1 and the second angle θ2 is, for example, 95° or greater, or may be 100° or greater, or even 105° or greater. The sum of the first angle θ1 and the second angle θ2 is, for example, 145° or less, or may be 140° or less, or may be 135° or less.

[0087] 7A is a plan view showing an example of the patch 30. As shown in Fig. 7A, a slit 35A may be formed between the patch 30 and the wiring 37 in plan view. The dimensions of the slit 35A affect the characteristics of the antenna 10.

[0088] The first side surface 34 facing the slit 35A may also be expanded so as to be displaced outward from the fourth surface 33 toward the third surface 32. This can prevent a gap from being formed between the first side surface 34 and the first cover layer 60 at the location of the slit 35A.

[0089] The length L3 of the slit 35A may be set to any value that allows impedance matching, and may be, for example, 20 mm or less, or may be 10 mm or less, or may be 5 mm or less. The length L3 of the slit 35A may be, for example, 1 mm or more, or may be 2 mm or more, or may be 3 mm or more.

[0090] The width W3 of the slit 35A is, for example, 2 mm or less, or may be 1 mm or less, or 0.8 mm or less, or 0.5 mm or less. The width W3 of the slit 35A is, for example, 0.01 mm or more, or may be 0.05 mm or more, or 0.1 mm or more.

[0091] The ratio of length L3 to width W3, L3 / W3, is, for example, 2 or more, or may be 5 or more, or may be 10 or more. L3 / W3 is, for example, 100 or less, or may be 50 or less, or may be 30 or less.

[0092] 7B is a plan view showing another example of the patch 30. As shown in Fig. 7B, a slit 35B may be formed in the patch 30 at a position that is not adjacent to the wiring 37. The dimensions of the slit 35B also affect the characteristics of the antenna 10.

[0093] As in the case of the slit 35A, the first side surface 34 facing the slit 35B may also widen so as to be displaced outward from the fourth surface 33 toward the third surface 32. This makes it possible to prevent a gap from being formed between the first side surface 34 and the first cover layer 60 at the location of the slit 35B. The shape of the patch 30 including the slit 35B is also referred to as an E-shape.

[0094] The length of slit 35B may be within the range of length L3 exemplified for slit 35A. The length of slit 35B may be greater than length L3 of slit 35A. The width of slit 35B may be within the range of width W3 exemplified for slit 35A. The ratio of length to width of slit 35B may be within the range of L3 / W3 exemplified for slit 35A.

[0095] (1st adhesive layer) The first adhesive layer 36 is located between the first surface 21 of the base material 20 and the third surface 32 of the patch 30. The first adhesive layer 36 bonds the first surface 21 and the third surface 32 together. As shown in FIG. 4 , the first adhesive layer 36 may extend outward beyond the first outer edge 30Y of the patch 30. In other words, the first adhesive layer 36 may include an area that does not overlap the patch 30 in a plan view.

[0096] The first adhesive layer 36 is selected depending on the environment in which the antenna will be used, the first cover layer 60, and the substrate 20. The first adhesive layer 36 may include a fluorine-based adhesive containing a fluororesin. For example, the first adhesive layer 36 may include a carboxyl group-containing styrene-based elastomer, an epoxy resin, or the like. The relative dielectric constant of the first adhesive layer 36 may be 4.0 or less, 3.5 or less, 3.0 or less, 2.5 or less, or 2.0 or less. The relative dielectric constant of the first adhesive layer 36 may be 1.0 or more, or 1.5 or more.

[0097] The dielectric loss tangent tan δ of the first adhesive layer 36 may be 0.01 or less, 0.005 or less, 0.001 or less, or 0.0005 or less.

[0098] The thickness of the first adhesive layer 36 is, for example, 30 μm or less, or may be 25 μm or less, or may be 20 μm or less. The thickness of the first adhesive layer 36 is, for example, 2 μm or more, or may be 5 μm or more, or may be 10 μm or more. The thickness of the first adhesive layer 36 may be even greater, for example, 50 μm or more, or may be 100 μm. An adhesive such as a fluorine-based adhesive may constitute the substrate 20. For example, the first conductive layer 31 and the second conductive layer 41 may be provided on the first surface 21 and the second surface 22 of the substrate 20 obtained by solidifying the adhesive.

[0099] (First cover layer) 5 and 6, the first cover layer 60 covers the fourth surface 33 and the first side surface 34 of the first conductive layer 31. The first cover layer 60 preferably contacts the fourth surface 33 and the first side surface 34 without any gaps. The first cover layer 60 may also contact the entire fourth surface 33 and the first side surface 34.

[0100] The first cover layer 60 is configured to exhibit some color. In other words, the first cover layer 60 is not a colorless and transparent layer. By providing the first cover layer 60, it is possible to prevent the first conductor layer 31 from being visible. This makes it possible to prevent the first conductor layer 31 from impairing the appearance of the structure 121. Colorless and transparent means that there is no color and that the transmittance of light having a wavelength of 150 nm to 400 nm is 95% or more.

[0101] The first cover layer 60 includes at least a first colored layer 61. In the present embodiment, the first colored layer 61 contacts the fourth surface 33 and the first side surface 34 of the first conductor layer 31. The first colored layer 61 includes a colorant and a binder resin. Therefore, the color exhibited by the first colored layer 61 is visually recognized as the appearance of the antenna 10. The first colored layer 61 may contact the entire fourth surface 33 and the first side surface 34. Although not shown, a layer for enhancing the color development of the first colored layer 61 may be provided between the first colored layer 61 and the first conductor layer 31.

[0102] The first colored layer 61 may be configured to exhibit the same color throughout its entire area. For example, the colorant may be uniformly distributed throughout the first colored layer 61. The first colored layer 61 may be configured to exhibit some kind of pattern. For example, the colorant may be distributed in the first colored layer 61 in some kind of pattern. The first colored layer 61 may be configured to exhibit one color, or two or more colors. The first colored layer 61 may include a transparent portion.

[0103] The colorant may include organic ink, which is a pigment mainly composed of an organic compound, or inorganic ink, which is a natural mineral pigment or a synthetic inorganic pigment mainly composed of an inorganic compound. As shown in FIG. 6 , when the thickness of the portion of the first colored layer 61 overlapping the first conductor layer 31 in a planar view is smaller than the thickness of the portion of the first colored layer 61 not overlapping the first conductor layer 31 in a planar view, the transmittance of the first colored layer 61 overlapping the first conductor layer 31 becomes relatively large. In this case, it is preferable that the colorant contains an inorganic ink. This enhances the light-blocking properties of the first colored layer 61. Therefore, even when the thickness of the first colored layer 61 overlapping the first conductor layer 31 is small, the absolute value of the transmittance can be sufficiently small. This prevents a difference from occurring between the transmittance of the first colored layer 61 overlapping the first conductor layer 31 and the transmittance of the first colored layer 61 not overlapping the first conductor layer 31. This prevents the pattern of the first conductor layer 31 from being visible. 21A, when the first colored layer 61 includes a lower surface parallel to the first surface 21 of the substrate 20, differences in transmittance due to differences in thickness are unlikely to occur. In this case, even if the colorant contains organic ink, it is possible to prevent the pattern of the first conductor layer 31 from being visible.

[0104] The thickness T4 of the first cover layer 60 is, for example, 5 μm or more, and may be 10 μm or more, 20 μm or more, 50 μm or more, or 100 μm or more. The thickness T4 of the first cover layer 60 is, for example, 2 mm or less, 1 mm or less, 500 μm or less, or 200 μm or less.

[0105] The thickness T41 of the first colored layer 61 is, for example, 5 μm or more, or may be 10 μm or more, or 20 μm or more, or 50 μm or more. The thickness T41 of the first colored layer 61 is, for example, 500 μm or less, or may be 300 μm or less, or 100 μm or less.

[0106] As shown in FIG. 6 , the upper surface of the first cover layer 60 may be parallel to the first surface 21 of the substrate 20. For example, the upper surface of the first colored layer 61 may be parallel to the first surface 21 of the substrate 20. That is, the influence of the first side surface 34 may not be apparent on the upper surface of the layer of the first cover layer 60 that is in contact with the first side surface 34. This makes it possible to prevent the pattern of the first conductor layer 31 from being visible. When the antenna 10 is installed indoors, such as in a commercial facility, it is preferable that the upper surface of the first cover layer 60 be parallel to the first surface 21.

[0107] With respect to the first cover layer 60 and the layers that make up the first cover layer 60, the "upper surface" refers to the surface that is opposite the "lower surface." The "lower surface" refers to the surface of the first cover layer 60 and the layers that make up the first cover layer 60 that faces the first surface 21 of the substrate 20.

[0108] "The upper surface of the first cover layer 60 is parallel to the first surface 21 of the substrate 20" means that the difference between the first distance M1 and the second distance M2 is 20 μm or less. The first distance M1 is the distance between the upper surface of the first cover layer 60 that overlaps the first conductive layer 31 in a planar view and the first surface 21 of the substrate 20. The second distance M2 is the distance between the upper surface of the first cover layer 60 that does not overlap the first conductive layer 31 in a planar view and the first surface 21 of the substrate 20.

[0109] The upper surface of the first cover layer 60 preferably has a small surface roughness. This can prevent the antenna 10 from being visible. For example, the maximum height roughness (Rz) of the upper surface of the first cover layer 60 may be 3.0 μm or less, 2.0 μm or less, or 1.0 μm or less. For example, the arithmetic mean roughness (Ra) of the upper surface of the first cover layer 60 may be 3.0 μm or less, 2.0 μm or less, or 1.0 μm or less.

[0110] (ground) 5, the ground 40 includes a second conductive layer 41 located on the second surface 22 side of the substrate 20. The second conductive layer 41 includes a fifth surface 42 facing the second surface 22 of the substrate 20 and a sixth surface 43 located on the opposite side of the fifth surface 42. The ground 40 includes a second outer edge 40Y located outside the first outer edge 30Y of the patch 30 in a plan view. The second outer edge 40Y may coincide with the outer edge 20Y of the substrate 20.

[0111] The second conductive layer 41 includes a conductive material. The materials exemplified for the first conductive layer 31 can be used as the material for the second conductive layer 41. The material for the second conductive layer 41 may be the same as or different from the material for the first conductive layer 31.

[0112] The thickness T2 of the second conductive layer 41 may be 1 μm or more, or may be 5 μm or more. The thickness T2 of the second conductive layer 41 may be 35 μm or less, or may be 20 μm or less, or may be 10 μm or less.

[0113] The second conductive layer 41 faces the first conductive layer 31 in the thickness direction of the base material 20. This allows an electric field to be generated between the first conductive layer 31 and the second conductive layer 41.

[0114] (Second adhesive layer) The second adhesive layer 46 is located between the second surface 22 of the substrate 20 and the fifth surface 42 of the ground 40. The second adhesive layer 46 bonds the second surface 22 and the fifth surface 42 together.

[0115] The second adhesive layer 46 can be made of the same materials as those exemplified for the first adhesive layer 36. The material of the second adhesive layer 46 may be the same as or different from the material of the first adhesive layer 36.

[0116] The thickness of the second adhesive layer 46 is within the range of thickness exemplified for the first adhesive layer 36. The thickness of the second adhesive layer 46 may be the same as or different from the thickness of the first adhesive layer 36.

[0117] (base layer) The member located between the third surface 32 of the first conductive layer 31 and the fifth surface 42 of the second conductive layer 41 is also referred to as the underlayer 50. In the example shown in Fig. 5, the underlayer 50 includes a substrate 20, a first adhesive layer 36, and a second adhesive layer 46. The underlayer 50 is obtained by removing the patch 30 and the ground 40 of the antenna 10 by etching or the like.

[0118] The relative dielectric constant of the underlayer 50 may be 4.0 or less, 3.5 or less, 3.0 or less, 2.5 or less, or 2.0 or less, thereby improving the radiation efficiency and gain of the antenna 10. The relative dielectric constant of the underlayer 50 may be 1.0 or more, or 1.5 or more.

[0119] The dielectric loss tangent tan δ of the underlayer 50 may be 0.01 or less, 0.005 or less, 0.001 or less, or 0.0005 or less.

[0120] The thickness T3 of the underlayer 50 is, for example, 2 mm or less, and may be 800 μm or less, 500 μm or less, or 200 μm or less. The thickness T3 of the underlayer 50 is, for example, 10 μm or more, and may be 20 μm or more, 50 μm or more, or 100 μm or more.

[0121] The open resonator method can be used to measure the dielectric constant and dielectric loss tangent. A measurement system that implements the open resonator method includes a network analyzer, a millimeter-wave multiplier, a millimeter-wave detector, and a Fabry-Perot resonator. Fabry-Perot resonators such as Keycom's FPR-40, FPR-50, FPR-60, FPR-75, PFR-90, and FPR-110 can be used depending on the frequency.

[0122] A length measuring machine can be used as a measuring device for measuring the thickness, for example, a Nikon digital microscope can be used. If the thickness cannot be measured using a length measuring machine, the thickness can be calculated based on an image of the cross section of the antenna 10 sample. The cross-sectional shape of each layer is calculated based on the image. A scanning electron microscope can be used as a measuring device for measuring the image.

[0123] The overall thickness of the antenna 10 is, for example, 2 mm or less, and may be 800 μm or less, 500 μm or less, or 200 μm or less. The overall thickness of the antenna 10 is, for example, 10 μm or more, 20 μm or more, 50 μm or more, or 100 μm or more.

[0124] Next, an example of a method for manufacturing the antenna 10 will be described.

[0125] As shown in Fig. 8, a laminate including a first conductive layer 31, a base material 20, and a second conductive layer 41 in this order is prepared. The laminate may include a first adhesive layer 36 located between the first conductive layer 31 and the base material 20. The laminate may include a second adhesive layer 46 located between the second conductive layer 41 and the base material 20. Subsequently, as shown in Fig. 8, a resist layer 150 is formed on the fourth surface 33 of the first conductive layer 31.

[0126] 9, the first conductor layer 31 is processed by wet etching using the resist layer 150 as a mask, thereby obtaining the patch 30. Thereafter, the resist layer 150 is removed.

[0127] Next, a first colored layer 61 is formed on the fourth surface 33 and the first side surface 34 of the first conductive layer 31. For example, a solution containing a colorant and a binder resin is applied to the first conductive layer 31 by a printing method such as an inkjet method. The solution may also be applied to the first surface 21 of the substrate 20 or the first adhesive layer 36. The solution is then solidified. For example, the solution is dried. This results in the first colored layer 61. In this way, an antenna 10 is produced, which includes a first cover layer 60 that covers the fourth surface 33 and the first side surface 34 of the first conductive layer 31. When the first colored layer 61 is formed using a printing method such as an inkjet method, there is a high degree of freedom in terms of design of the first colored layer 61. Therefore, it is easy to impart to the first colored layer 61 a color or pattern that harmonizes with the surrounding environment. When the first colored layer 61 is formed using a printing method such as an inkjet method, a step of flattening the upper surface of the first colored layer 61 before it is cured may be carried out. For example, a roller may be brought into contact with the upper surface of the first colored layer 61 before it is cured. This can reduce the surface roughness of the upper surface of the first colored layer 61.

[0128] The process of processing the first conductive layer 31 will be described in detail with reference to Figures 10 and 11. Figures 10 and 11 are views showing how the first conductive layer 31 is etched by an etching solution 155.

[0129] Etching by the etching solution 155 proceeds not only in the thickness direction of the first conductor layer 31 but also in the surface direction of the first conductor layer 31. For example, as shown in Fig. 10, in the vicinity of an end portion 151 of the resist layer 150, the portion of the first conductor layer 31 in contact with the resist layer 150 is etched in the surface direction.

[0130] Etching of the first conductor layer 31 in the in-plane direction starts at the fourth surface 33. Therefore, etching in the plane direction at the fourth surface 33 progresses more rapidly than etching in the plane direction at the third surface 32. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 11 , a first side surface 34 is formed that expands and displaces outward as it moves from the fourth surface 33 toward the third surface 32.

[0131] The operation of the antenna 10 will now be described.

[0132] The antenna 10 includes a first cover layer 60 that covers the first conductive layer 31. The first cover layer 60 includes a first colored layer 61 that contains a colorant. This can prevent the first conductive layer 31 from being visible. Therefore, for example, it can prevent the first conductive layer 31 from impairing the appearance of the structure 121.

[0133] The first side surface 34 of the first conductor layer 31 covered by the first cover layer 60 expands so as to be displaced outward from the fourth surface 33 toward the third surface 32. Therefore, the first side surface 34 is not hidden by the fourth surface 33 in a plan view. This makes it easier for the first cover layer 60 to come into contact with the first side surface 34 when forming the first cover layer 60 to cover the fourth surface 33 and the first side surface 34. This makes it possible to prevent a gap from being generated between the first side surface 34 and the first cover layer 60. This stabilizes the characteristics of the antenna 10. For example, it is possible to prevent the resonant frequency and radiation efficiency of the antenna 10 from changing in response to changes in the environmental temperature.

[0134] Preferably, the antenna 10 includes a ground 40 located on the second surface 22 side of the substrate 20. The antenna 10 is attached to the structure 121 so that the ground 40 faces the structure 121. By including the ground 40 in the antenna 10, it is possible to prevent the characteristics of the antenna 10 from being affected by the structure 121. Preferably, the substrate 20 of the antenna 10 is flexible. These features alleviate restrictions on the installation location and installation form of the antenna 10. For example, as shown in FIG. 2A or 2B, the antenna 10 can be attached to a curved surface of the surface 122 of the structure 121, such as a utility pole. Since the antenna 10 can be installed on various structures 121, the area 125 can be easily configured. This allows the communication capacity of the mobile communication system 100 to be increased.

[0135] As shown in Figure 2A or 2B, when an antenna 10 is attached to a curved surface of a surface 122 of a structure 121, radio waves can be transmitted in various directions. For example, as shown in Figure 2A or 2B, the normal direction of a first antenna 10 is different from the normal direction of a second antenna 10 adjacent to the first antenna 10. Therefore, the direction of radio waves E1 transmitted from the first antenna 10 can also be different from the direction of radio waves E2 transmitted from the second antenna 10. This makes it possible to easily expand the range of radio wave transmission directions.

[0136] It should be noted that various modifications can be made to the above-described embodiment. Below, modifications will be described with reference to the drawings as necessary. In the following description and the drawings used in the following description, parts that can be configured similarly to the above-described embodiment will be designated by the same reference numerals as those used for the corresponding parts in the first embodiment, and duplicated explanations will be omitted. Furthermore, if it is clear that the effects obtained in the above-described embodiment can also be obtained in the modified embodiment, the explanations thereof may be omitted.

[0137] (First Modification) FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing the first conductive layer 31 of the antenna 10 according to the first modification. As shown in FIG. 12, the first side surface 34 of the first conductive layer 31 may include a flat surface. The first side surface 34 may be configured by a flat surface extending from the first end 341 to the second end 342. In this case, the sum of the first angle θ1 and the second angle θ2 is approximately 180°. For example, the sum of the first angle θ1 and the second angle θ2 is 175° or more and 185° or less. The first side surface 34 including the flat surface can be obtained by processing the first conductive layer 31 by, for example, dry etching. Dry etching may be, for example, plasma etching, sandblasting, or the like.

[0138] A "flat surface" is a surface that expands in a certain direction. For example, the difference between the direction in which the flat surface expands at the upper end and the direction in which the flat surface expands at the lower end is 5° or less. The "upper end" is the end of the flat surface that is farther from the substrate 20, and the "lower end" is the end of the flat surface that is closer to the substrate 20. In the example shown in FIG. 12, the second end 342 is the upper end, and the first end 341 is the lower end. Therefore, the angle formed by the tangent to the first side surface 34 at the second end 342 and the tangent to the first side surface 34 at the first end 341 is 5° or less.

[0139] When the first side surface 34 is a flat surface, the first angle θ1 is, for example, 30° or more, or may be 35° or more, or 40° or more. The first angle θ1 is, for example, 60° or less, or may be 55° or less, or may be 50° or less.

[0140] When the first side surface 34 is a flat surface, the second angle θ2 is, for example, 120° or more, or may be 125° or more, or 130° or more. The second angle θ2 is, for example, 150° or less, or may be 145° or less, or may be 140° or less.

[0141] (Second Modification) 13 is a cross-sectional view showing the first conductive layer 31 of the antenna 10 according to the second modification. As shown in FIG. 13, the first side surface 34 of the first conductive layer 31 may include a curved surface that is convex outward. "Convex outward" means that, in the cross-sectional view, the first side surface 34 is located outside an imaginary line K3 that passes through the first end 341 and the second end 342. The first side surface 34 may be formed by an outwardly curved surface that extends from the first end 341 to the second end 342.

[0142] When the first side surface 34 is formed by an outer curved surface, the first angle θ1 is, for example, 45° or more, or may be 50° or more, or may be 55° or more. The first angle θ1 is, for example, 85° or less, or may be 80° or less, or may be 75° or less.

[0143] When the first side surface 34 is formed by an outer curved surface, the second angle θ2 is, for example, 175° or less, or may be 170° or less, or 165° or less, or may be, for example, 135° or more, or 140° or more, or 145° or more.

[0144] When the first side surface 34 is formed by an outer curved surface, the sum of the first angle θ1 and the second angle θ2 is greater than 185° and less than 270°. The sum of the first angle θ1 and the second angle θ2 is, for example, 265° or less, or may be 260° or less, or may be 255° or less. The sum of the first angle θ1 and the second angle θ2 is, for example, 215° or more, or may be 220° or more, or may be 225° or more.

[0145] (Third Modification) 14 is a cross-sectional view showing the first conductive layer 31 of the antenna 10 according to the third modification. As shown in FIG. 14, the first side surface 34 may include an eleventh side surface 34a and a twelfth side surface 34b connected at the first connection portion 343. The eleventh side surface 34a is located between the third surface 32 and the first connection portion 343. The eleventh side surface 34a may extend from the first end 341 to the first connection portion 343. The twelfth side surface 34b is located between the fourth surface 33 and the first connection portion 343. The twelfth side surface 34b may extend from the fourth surface 33 to the first connection portion 343.

[0146] The eleventh side surface 34a and the twelfth side surface 34b may be flat surfaces. The surface direction of the eleventh side surface 34a is different from the surface direction of the twelfth side surface 34b. Therefore, at the first connecting portion 343, the surface direction of the tangent surface of the first side surface 34 changes discontinuously.

[0147] The eleventh side surface 34a and the twelfth side surface 34b are formed by processing the first conductor layer 31 by dry etching under mutually different conditions, for example.

[0148] The eleventh side surface 34a and the twelfth side surface 34b may be connected so that the first connecting portion 343 is convex outward. The first connecting portion 343 may be located outside an imaginary straight line K3 that passes through the first end 341 and the second end 342.

[0149] (Fourth Modification) Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing the first conductive layer 31 of the antenna 10 according to the fourth modification. As shown in Fig. 15, the eleventh side surface 34a and the twelfth side surface 34b may be connected so that the first connection portion 343 is convex inward. The first connection portion 343 may be located inside an imaginary line K3 passing through the first end 341 and the second end 342. The eleventh side surface 34a and the twelfth side surface 34b may be flat. At the first connection portion 343, the plane direction of the tangent surface of the first side surface 34 changes discontinuously.

[0150] (Fifth Modification) Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing the first conductive layer 31 of the antenna 10 according to the fifth modification. As shown in Fig. 16, the eleventh side surface 34a and the twelfth side surface 34b may be inwardly curved surfaces that are convex toward the inside. At the first connection portion 343, the plane direction of the contact surface of the first side surface 34 changes discontinuously.

[0151] (Sixth Modification) Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing the first conductive layer 31 of the antenna 10 according to the sixth modification. As shown in Fig. 17, the eleventh side surface 34a may be a flat surface, and the twelfth side surface 34b may be an inwardly curved surface. Although not shown, the eleventh side surface 34a may be an inwardly curved surface, and the twelfth side surface 34b may be a flat surface. In the first connecting portion 343, the plane direction of the tangent surface of the first side surface 34 changes discontinuously.

[0152] (Seventh Modification) Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view showing the first conductive layer 31 of the antenna 10 according to the seventh modification. As shown in Fig. 18, the eleventh side surface 34a may be an inner curved surface, and the twelfth side surface 34b may be an outer curved surface. Although not shown, the eleventh side surface 34a may be an outer curved surface, and the twelfth side surface 34b may be an inner curved surface.

[0153] The first side surface 34 may be formed by a combination of an eleventh side surface 34a and a twelfth side surface 34b (not shown). For example, the eleventh side surface 34a may be any one of an inner curved surface, an outer curved surface, and a flat surface, and the twelfth side surface 34b may be any one of an inner curved surface, an outer curved surface, and a flat surface.

[0154] (Eighth Modification) In the above-described embodiment, an example has been shown in which the upper surface of the first cover layer 60 in contact with the first side surface 34 is parallel to the first surface 21 of the substrate 20. For example, an example has been shown in which the upper surface of the first colored layer 61 in contact with the first side surface 34 is parallel to the first surface 21 of the substrate 20. In other words, an example has been shown in which the influence of the first side surface 34 does not appear on the upper surface of the first cover layer 60 in contact with the first side surface 34.

[0155] In this modified example, an example will be described in which the influence of the first side surface 34 appears on the upper surface of the layer of the first cover layer 60 in contact with the first side surface 34. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing an antenna 10 according to the eighth modified example. As shown in FIG. 19, a step corresponding to the shape of the first side surface 34 may appear on the upper surface of the layer of the first cover layer 60 in contact with the first side surface 34. For example, a step 611 corresponding to the shape of the first side surface 34 may appear on the upper surface of the first colored layer 61 in contact with the first side surface 34.

[0156] When the first colored layer 61 has the step 611, the difference in thickness between the portion of the first colored layer 61 that overlaps the first conductive layer 31 in a planar view and the portion of the first colored layer 61 that does not overlap the first conductive layer 31 in a planar view is reduced. Therefore, for example, the difference in the amount of shrinkage that occurs in the portion of the first colored layer 61 that overlaps the first conductive layer 31 in a planar view and the amount of shrinkage that occurs in the portion of the first colored layer 61 that does not overlap the first conductive layer 31 in a planar view is reduced. This makes it possible to prevent defects such as cracks from occurring in the first colored layer 61. The shrinkage of the first colored layer 61 occurs, for example, in the process of heating the first colored layer 61 to harden the first colored layer 61.

[0157] When the first colored layer 61 has the steps 611, the antenna 10 may be installed outdoors, which can prevent the pattern of the first conductor layer 31 corresponding to the steps 611 from being visible.

[0158] The height T5 of the step 611 may be approximately equal to the thickness T1 of the first conductive layer 31. That is, the shape of the step of the layer of the first cover layer 60 that contacts the first side surface 34 may be similar to the shape of the first side surface 34. The height T5 is, for example, 0.7 times or more, or alternatively 0.8 times or more, or even 0.9 times or more, the thickness T1.

[0159] (Ninth Modification) 20 is a cross-sectional view showing an antenna 10 according to a ninth modification. As shown in FIG. 20, the shape of the step of the first cover layer 60 in contact with the first side surface 34 does not have to be similar to the shape of the first side surface 34. The height T5 is, for example, less than 0.7 times the thickness T1, and may be 0.6 times or less, or 0.5 times or less. The height T5 may be, for example, 0.1 times or more, 0.2 times or more, or 0.3 times or more the thickness T1.

[0160] (Tenth Modification) 21A is a cross-sectional view showing an antenna 10 according to a tenth modification. As shown in FIG. 21A, the first cover layer 60 may include a first adhesive layer 64 located between the first conductive layer 31 and the first colored layer 61. The first adhesive layer 64 may be in contact with the fourth surface 33 and the first side surface 34 of the first conductive layer 31. The first colored layer 61 may be in contact with the first adhesive layer 64.

[0161] The first adhesive layer 64 is a layer for attaching the first colored layer 61 to the first conductive layer 31 and the base layer 50. The adhesive strength of the first adhesive layer 64 to the first conductive layer 31 is stronger than the adhesive strength of the first colored layer 61 to the first conductive layer 31. By providing the first adhesive layer 64, it is possible to prevent a gap from being formed between the first side surface 34 and the first cover layer 60. In the present application, the "adhesive layer" may be a layer that can be peeled off from an object, or may be a layer that is difficult to peel off from an object, or a layer that is not intended to be peeled off from an object. The first adhesive layer 64 may be transparent. The material of the first adhesive layer 64 is, for example, OCA (optical adhesive sheet), polyester urethane adhesive, or the like.

[0162] The thickness T44 of the first adhesive layer 64 may be greater than the thickness T1 of the first conductive layer 31. The thickness T44 of the first adhesive layer 64 may be 2 μm or more, or 5 μm or more. The thickness T44 of the first adhesive layer 64 may be 50 μm or less, or 30 μm or less.

[0163] 21A is produced by, for example, attaching a decorative sheet including a first colored layer 61 and a first adhesive layer 64 to the first conductive layer 31 and the base layer 50. By using the decorative sheet, the first cover layer 60 can be formed efficiently.

[0164] 21A, the first colored layer 61 may include a lower surface parallel to the first surface 21 of the substrate 20. In this case, the thickness of the portion of the first colored layer 61 that overlaps the first conductor layer 31 in a planar view is approximately equal to the thickness of the portion of the first colored layer 61 that does not overlap the first conductor layer 31 in a planar view. This makes it possible to prevent the first conductor layer 31 from being visible.

[0165] "The lower surface of the first colored layer 61 is parallel to the first surface 21 of the substrate 20" means that the difference between the third distance M3 and the fourth distance M4 is 20 μm or less. The third distance M3 is the distance between the lower surface of the first colored layer 61 that overlaps the first conductive layer 31 in a planar view and the first surface 21 of the substrate 20. The fourth distance M4 is the distance between the lower surface of the first colored layer 61 that does not overlap the first conductive layer 31 in a planar view and the first surface 21 of the substrate 20.

[0166] 21B is a cross-sectional view showing an example of antenna 10 according to Modification 10. As shown in Fig. 21B, a step corresponding to the shape of first side surface 34 may appear in both the layer in contact with first side surface 34 and the layer constituting the upper surface of first cover layer 60.

[0167] The symbol T5' denotes the height of the step in the layer in contact with the first side surface 34. The symbol T5 denotes the step that appears in the layer that constitutes the upper surface of the first cover layer 60. As in the eighth modification, the height of the step T5' and the height of the step T5 may be 0.7 times or more, 0.8 times or more, or 0.9 times or more of the thickness T1. As in the ninth modification, the height of the step T5' and the height of the step T5 may be less than 0.7 times, 0.6 times or less, 0.5 times or less, 0.1 times or more, 0.2 times or more, or 0.3 times or more of the thickness T1.

[0168] 21B, the upper surface of the first adhesive layer 64 in contact with the first side surface 34 includes a step 641 corresponding to the shape of the first side surface 34. The step 641 has the height T5' described above. In the example shown in FIG. 21B, the upper surface of the first colored layer 61 constituting the upper surface of the first cover layer 60 includes a step 611 corresponding to the shape of the first side surface 34. The step 611 has the height T5 described above.

[0169] The first cover layer 60 shown in FIG. 21B is produced by, for example, attaching a decorative sheet that is thin enough to follow the shape of the first side surface 34 to the first conductor layer 31 and the base layer 50.

[0170] 21C is a cross-sectional view showing an example of antenna 10 according to Modification 10. The upper surface of the layer in contact with first side surface 34 may include a step corresponding to the shape of first side surface 34, and the upper surface of the layer constituting the upper surface of first cover layer 60 may be parallel to first surface 21 of substrate 20.

[0171] 21C, the upper surface of the first adhesive layer 64 in contact with the first side surface 34 includes a step 641 that corresponds to the shape of the first side surface 34. In the example shown in FIG. 21C, the upper surface of the first colored layer 61 that constitutes the upper surface of the first cover layer 60 is parallel to the first surface 21 of the base material 20.

[0172] (Eleventh Modification) Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view showing an antenna 10 according to an eleventh modification. As shown in Fig. 22, the first cover layer 60 may include a second colored layer 62 located on a first colored layer 61. The second colored layer 62 includes a colorant. The second colored layer 62 may be in contact with the first colored layer 61.

[0173] The colorant for the second colored layer 62 can be the same as the colorant for the first colored layer 61. The colorant for the second colored layer 62 may be the same as or different from the colorant for the first colored layer 61.

[0174] The thickness T42 of the second colored layer 62 may be greater than, smaller than, or the same as the thickness T41 of the first colored layer 61.

[0175] 22, when the first cover layer 60 includes multiple layers, the first cover layer 60 may be formed by any method. For example, multiple layers may be laminated in order on the substrate 20 by a printing method or the like. For example, a sheet including multiple layers may be attached to the substrate 20.

[0176] (12th Modification) Fig. 23 is a cross-sectional view showing an antenna 10 according to a twelfth modification. As shown in Fig. 23, the first cover layer 60 may include a second adhesive layer 65 located between the first colored layer 61 and the second colored layer 62.

[0177] The second adhesive layer 65 is a layer for attaching the second colored layer 62 to the first colored layer 61. The adhesive strength of the second adhesive layer 65 to the first colored layer 61 is stronger than the adhesive strength of the second colored layer 62 to the first colored layer 61.

[0178] The second adhesive layer 65 can be made of the same materials as those exemplified for the first adhesive layer 64. The material of the second adhesive layer 65 may be the same as the material of the first adhesive layer 64, or may be different.

[0179] The thickness T45 of the second adhesive layer 65 may be greater than, smaller than, or the same as the thickness T44 of the first adhesive layer 64.

[0180] (13th Modification) Fig. 24 is a cross-sectional view showing an antenna 10 according to a thirteenth modification. As shown in Fig. 24, the first cover layer 60 may include a first colored layer 61 in contact with the fourth surface 33 and the first side surface 34, and a second colored layer 62. The second colored layer 62 may be in contact with the first colored layer 61. A layer such as an adhesive layer may be provided between the first colored layer 61 and the second colored layer 62.

[0181] 24, the first colored layer 61 may have adhesiveness to the first conductive layer 31. For example, the adhesive strength of the first colored layer 61 to the first conductive layer 31 may be higher than the adhesive strength of the second colored layer 62 to the first conductive layer 31.

[0182] (14th Modification) FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view showing an antenna 10 according to a fourteenth modification. As shown in FIG. 25, the first cover layer 60 may include a first transparent layer 67 located between the first colored layer 61 and the second colored layer 62. The first transparent layer 67 is made of a transparent material. "Transparent" means that the color of the light emitted from the first transparent layer 67 is affected by a layer located between the first transparent layer 67 and the substrate 20. For example, in the example of FIG. 25, the color of the light emitted from the first transparent layer 67 is affected by the first colored layer 61. The material of the first transparent layer 67 is, for example, a transparent olefin film, a transparent polypropylene film, or the like.

[0183] The thickness T47 of the first transparent layer 67 is, for example, 2 μm or more, and may be 5 μm or more. The thickness T47 of the first transparent layer 67 is, for example, 50 μm or less, and may be 30 μm or less.

[0184] (15th Modification) Fig. 26 is a cross-sectional view showing an antenna 10 according to a fifteenth modification. As shown in Fig. 26, the first cover layer 60 may include a surface layer 90 that forms the upper surface of the first cover layer 60. The surface layer 90 may be weather resistant. The material of the surface layer 90 is, for example, a UV-curable resin, an EB-curable resin, or the like.

[0185] Weather resistance is a characteristic that prevents deterioration of the antenna 10 due to the surrounding environment. For example, when the antenna 10 is attached to an outdoor structure 121, the antenna 10 is subjected to various environmental influences such as sunlight, rain, and snow. The weather resistance of the antenna 10 can be improved by providing the antenna 10 with a surface layer 90 that is resistant to environmental changes.

[0186] The thickness T6 of the surface layer 90 is, for example, 2 μm or more, and may be 5 μm or more. The thickness T6 of the surface layer 90 is, for example, 50 μm or less, and may be 30 μm or less.

[0187] 27 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the surface layer 90. The surface layer 90 may include recesses 91 and protrusions 92. The recesses 91 and protrusions 92 may be configured to provide a pattern or texture to the surface of the antenna 10, to prevent reflection, or to prevent the adhesion of dirt, bacteria, and the like. Although not shown, such recesses and protrusions may be formed on the upper surface of the first colored layer 61.

[0188] The depth T7 of the recess 91 is, for example, 100 nm or more, and may be 200 nm or more. The depth T7 of the recess 91 is, for example, 28,000 nm or less, and may be 4,800 nm or less. The depth T7 of the recess 91 may be constant regardless of position, or may vary depending on position.

[0189] (16th Modification) FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view showing an antenna 10 according to a sixteenth modification. As shown in FIG. 28, the antenna 10 may include a second cover layer 70 that covers the sixth surface 43 of the ground 40. This can improve at least one of the design and weather resistance of the antenna 10. For example, if the structure 121 is made of transparent glass, the second cover layer 70 can be seen. If the second cover layer 70 has an appropriate color, pattern, or the like, the design of the antenna 10 can be improved.

[0190] The layer structure and materials of the second cover layer 70 can be the same as those exemplified for the first cover layer 60. For example, the second cover layer 70 may contain a colorant. The layer structure and materials of the second cover layer 70 may be the same as or different from those of the first cover layer 60. The second cover layer 70 may be composed of a single layer or multiple layers.

[0191] The thickness T8 of the second cover layer 70 may be within the range of the thickness T4 exemplified for the first cover layer 60. The thickness T8 of the second cover layer 70 may be within the range of the sum of the range of the thickness T4 exemplified for the first cover layer 60 and the range of the thickness T6 exemplified for the surface layer 90. The thickness T8 of the second cover layer 70 may be the same as or different from the thickness T4 of the first cover layer 60.

[0192] (17th Modification) Fig. 29 is a cross-sectional view showing an antenna 10 according to a seventeenth modification. As shown in Fig. 29, the antenna 10 may include a third conductive layer 38 facing the fourth surface 33 of the first conductive layer 31. The third conductive layer 38 may be located on the first cover layer 60.

[0193] The third conductive layer 38 includes a conductive material. The materials exemplified for the first conductive layer 31 can be used as the material for the third conductive layer 38. The material for the third conductive layer 38 may be the same as or different from the material for the first conductive layer 31.

[0194] The thickness T9 of the third conductive layer 38 may be 1 μm or more, or may be 5 μm or more. The thickness T9 of the third conductive layer 38 may be 35 μm or less, or may be 20 μm or less, or may be 10 μm or less.

[0195] Although not shown, the antenna 10 may include a plurality of third conductive layers 38 that overlap one first conductive layer 31 in a planar view. When a plurality of third conductive layers 38 are provided, a layer having adhesiveness, colorability, transparency, etc. may be present between two adjacent third conductive layers 38 in a planar view.

[0196] The third conductive layer 38 may be a layer that affects the characteristics of the antenna 10. The third conductive layer 38 may be a layer that is provided for the design of the antenna 10.

[0197] As shown in FIG. 29 , the antenna 10 may include a third cover layer 80 that covers the third conductive layer 38. The layer structure and materials of the third cover layer 80 may be the same as those of the first cover layer 60. For example, the third cover layer 80 may contain a colorant. The layer structure and materials of the third cover layer 80 may be the same as or different from those of the first cover layer 60. The third cover layer 80 may be composed of a single layer or multiple layers.

[0198] The thickness T9 of the third cover layer 80 is within the range of the thickness T6 exemplified for the first cover layer 60. The thickness T9 of the third cover layer 80 may be the same as or different from the thickness T6 of the first cover layer 60.

[0199] When the third conductive layer 38 is a layer that affects the characteristics of the antenna 10, the third side surface 39 of the third conductive layer 38 may expand so as to be displaced outward toward the first cover layer 60, similar to the first side surface 34 of the first conductive layer 31. In this case, the third side surface 39 is not hidden in a plan view. This makes it easier for the third cover layer 80 to come into contact with the third side surface 39 when the third cover layer 80 is formed. This makes it possible to prevent a gap from being formed between the third side surface 39 and the third cover layer 80.

[0200] (18th Modification) In this modification, an example will be described in which the first conductive layer 31 is produced by transfer. Figures 30 to 33 are diagrams showing a method for manufacturing the antenna 10 according to this modification.

[0201] 30, a first conductive layer 31 is formed on a substrate 160. The first conductive layer 31 includes a third surface 32 facing the substrate 160 and a fourth surface 33 located on the opposite side of the third surface 32. The first conductive layer 31 may be formed by any method. For example, as in the above-described embodiment, the first conductive layer 31 may be formed by wet etching.

[0202] 31 , a first cover layer 60 is formed on the base material 160 so as to cover the first conductive layer 31. The first cover layer 60 may be formed by printing. Alternatively, the first cover layer 60 may be formed by attaching a decorative sheet or the like to the base material 160.

[0203] 32, the first cover layer 60 is peeled off from the substrate 160. The adhesive strength of the first cover layer 60 to the first conductive layer 31 is stronger than the adhesive strength of the substrate 160 to the first conductive layer 31. Therefore, the first conductive layer 31 is peeled off from the substrate 160 together with the first cover layer 60. In other words, the first conductive layer 31 is transferred to the first cover layer 60.

[0204] 33, the first cover layer 60 and the first conductive layer 31 are attached to the base layer 50. In this manner, the antenna 10 including the base layer 50, the first conductive layer 31, and the first cover layer 60 is obtained.

[0205] (19th Modification) In this modification, an example in which the first conductive layer 31 is produced by transfer will also be described. Figures 34 to 36 are diagrams showing a method for producing the antenna 10 according to this modification.

[0206] 34, a first conductive layer 31 is formed on a substrate 170. The first conductive layer 31 includes a fourth surface 33 facing the substrate 170, and a third surface 32 located on the opposite side of the fourth surface 33. The first conductive layer 31 may be formed by any method.

[0207] Next, as shown in FIG. 35 , the first conductive layer 31 on the substrate 170 is brought into contact with the foundation layer 50. Next, as shown in FIG. 36 , the substrate 170 is separated from the foundation layer 50. The adhesive strength of the foundation layer 50 to the first conductive layer 31 is stronger than the adhesive strength of the substrate 170 to the first conductive layer 31. Therefore, the first conductive layer 31 remains on the foundation layer 50. That is, the first conductive layer 31 is transferred to the foundation layer 50.

[0208] Next, a first cover layer 60 is formed on the base layer 50 so as to cover the first conductive layer 31. In this manner, an antenna 10 including the base layer 50, the first conductive layer 31, and the first cover layer 60 is obtained.

[0209] (20th Modification) In the above-described embodiment, an example has been shown in which the first outer edge 30Y of the patch 30 extends in a first direction D1 and a second direction D2 perpendicular to the first direction D1 in a plan view. That is, an example has been shown in which the shape of the patch 30 in a plan view is rectangular or square. However, the shape of the patch 30 in a plan view is not particularly limited. FIG. 37 is a diagram showing an example of the shape of the patch 30 in a plan view.

[0210] As shown in FIG. 37 by reference numeral 30A, the patch 30 may be circular. As shown by reference numeral 30B, the patch 30 may be elliptical. As shown by reference numeral 30C, the patch 30 may be ring-shaped. As shown by reference numeral 30D, the patch 30 may be shaped like a portion of a ring in the circumferential direction. As shown by reference numeral 30E, the patch 30 may be triangular. Although not shown, the patch 30 may be other polygonal shapes such as a pentagon or hexagon. As shown by reference numeral 30F, the patch 30 may be arc-shaped.

[0211] (21st Modification) When the patch 30 has a polygonal shape in a plan view, the corners of the patch 30 may be curved as shown in Fig. 38. The radius of curvature R1 of the corners is, for example, 1 mm or more, or may be 2 mm or more, or may be 3 mm or more.

[0212] (22nd Modification) Some examples of arrangements of the patches 30 of the antenna 10 will now be described.

[0213] 39A is a diagram showing an example of the antenna 10. The antenna 10 may include a plurality of patches 30 for horizontal polarization. In the following description, the patch 30 for horizontal polarization is represented by the reference symbol 30H. The patch 30H for horizontal polarization may include a slit 35H extending in the horizontal direction.

[0214] 39A, the multiple patches 30H for horizontal polarization may be arranged in the vertical direction. The multiple patches 30H for horizontal polarization may be connected to the same wiring 37. Although not shown, the multiple patches 30H for horizontal polarization do not have to be connected to the same wiring 37. For example, a separate wiring for supplying power may be connected to each of the multiple patches 30H for horizontal polarization.

[0215] 39B is a diagram showing an example of the antenna 10. The antenna 10 may include a plurality of vertically polarized patches 30. In the following description, the vertically polarized patches 30 are denoted by the reference symbol 30V. The vertically polarized patches 30V may include slits 35V extending in the up-down direction.

[0216] 39B, the multiple patches 30V for vertical polarization may be arranged in the vertical direction. The multiple patches 30V for vertical polarization may be connected to the same wiring 37. Although not shown, the multiple patches 30V for vertical polarization do not have to be connected to the same wiring 37. For example, a separate wiring for supplying power may be connected to each of the multiple patches 30V for vertical polarization.

[0217] 39C and 39D are diagrams illustrating an example of the antenna 10. The antenna 10 may include a plurality of patches 30H for horizontal polarization and a plurality of patches 30V for vertical polarization. As shown in FIG. 39C, the antenna 10 may be configured such that the wiring 37 is not located between the patch 30H for horizontal polarization and the patch 30V for vertical polarization. As shown in FIG. 39D, the antenna 10 may be configured such that the wiring 37 is located between the patch 30H for horizontal polarization and the patch 30V for vertical polarization.

[0218] 39E is a diagram showing an example of the antenna 10. Each of the multiple patches 30 arranged in the vertical direction may include a slit 35H extending in the horizontal direction and a slit 35V extending in the vertical direction. In this case, one patch 30 can accommodate both horizontally polarized waves and vertically polarized waves.

[0219] (22nd Modification) In the above-described embodiment, the structure 121 to which the antenna 10 is attached is an electric pole, but this is not particularly limited. For example, the structure 121 may be the inner or outer surface of a wall, ceiling, beam, pillar, or other building component, or may be the inner or outer surface of an electric pole, traffic light, tunnel inner wall, sidewalk step, or other building, or may be the ground, a tree, or other natural structure. The structure 121 may also be a part of an automobile. For example, the structure 121 may be a pillar of the automobile. In this case, the communication device 120 including the structure 121 and the antenna 10 may function as a radar for a collision prevention system.

[0220] The above-described multiple modifications may be combined appropriately and applied to the above-described embodiment. [Example]

[0221] Next, the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to examples. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the following examples as long as it does not depart from the gist of the disclosure.

[0222] (Example 1) The characteristics of the antenna 10 shown in Fig. 5 were evaluated based on simulations. The main parameters of the components of the antenna 10 are as follows: The relative permittivity of the first cover layer 60: ε1, ε2, ε3 (ε1<ε2<ε3) Thickness of the first cover layer 60: 0 to 200 μm

[0223] The evaluation results of the resonant frequency of the antenna 10 are shown in Figure 40. The horizontal axis of Figure 40 represents the thickness of the first cover layer 60. The vertical axis of Figure 40 represents the resonant frequency of the antenna 10. As shown in Figure 40, the resonant frequency of the antenna 10 decreases as the thickness of the first cover layer 60 increases. For example, when the thickness of the first cover layer 60 increases from 0 μm to 25 μm, the resonant frequency decreases by approximately 0.4 GHz. Therefore, when the first cover layer 60 is provided on the first conductive layer 31, the antenna 10 must be designed taking into account the resonant frequency shift caused by the first cover layer 60. Note that 0.4 GHz corresponds to the band allocated to one communication carrier in the 28 GHz band.

[0224] The evaluation results of the radiation efficiency of antenna 10 are shown in Figure 41. The horizontal axis of Figure 41 represents the thickness of first cover layer 60. The vertical axis of Figure 41 represents the radiation efficiency of antenna 10. As shown in Figure 41, the radiation efficiency of antenna 10 decreases as the thickness of first cover layer 60 increases. It is said that a radiation efficiency of 80% or more is required for communications in the 28 GHz band.

[0225] (Example 2) The characteristics of the antenna 10 were evaluated based on simulations when there was no gap between the first side surface 34 and the first cover layer 60 and when there was a gap. The results are shown in FIG. 42. The horizontal axis of FIG. 42 represents the resonant frequency of the antenna. The vertical axis of FIG. 42 represents S11, which is one of the S parameters. As shown in FIG. 42, when a gap was created between the first side surface 34 and the first cover layer 60, the resonant frequency at which the S11 peak appeared changed by approximately 0.1 GHz. [Explanation of symbols]

[0226] 10 Antennas 20 Base material 21 Page 1 22 Side 2 30 patches 30Y First outer edge 31 First conductive layer 32 Page 3 33 Page 4 34 First aspect 341 1st end 342 2nd end 343 First Connection 34a 11th aspect 34b 12th aspect 35A, 35B slit 36 1st adhesive layer 37 Wiring 38 Third Conductive Layer 39 Third aspect 40 grand 40Y Second outer edge 41 Second conductive layer 42 Page 5 43 Page 6 46 Second adhesive layer 50 Base layer 60 First cover layer 61 1st colored layer 62 2nd colored layer 64 1st adhesive layer 65 Second adhesive layer 67 1st transparent layer 70 Second Cover Layer 80 Third Cover Layer 90 Surface layer 100 Mobile communication system

Claims

1. a substrate including a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface; a first conductor layer including a third surface facing the first surface, a fourth surface located on the opposite side of the third surface, and a first side surface located between the third surface and the fourth surface; a first cover layer covering the fourth surface and the first side surface, the first side surface includes a first end connected to the third surface and a second end connected to the fourth surface; the first end is located outward from the second end in a plan view, the first cover layer comprises a first color layer containing a colorant; the first colored layer is in contact with the fourth surface and the first side surface, The colorant comprises an organic ink or an inorganic ink.

2. The antenna according to claim 1 , further comprising a ground including a second conductive layer located on the second surface side and having a second outer edge located outside the first side surface in a plan view.

3. the first conductive layer includes a patch and a wiring connected to the patch; The antenna according to claim 1 , wherein a slit is formed between the patch and the wiring.

4. The antenna of claim 3 , wherein the patch is configured to transmit or receive radio waves having a frequency of 300 MHz or greater.

5. The antenna according to claim 1 , further comprising a third conductive layer facing the fourth surface of the first conductive layer.

6. a third cover layer covering the third conductive layer; The antenna of claim 5 , wherein the third cover layer includes a colorant.

7. a structure having a surface; A communication device comprising: an antenna according to any one of claims 1 to 6 attached to the surface.

8. the surface of the structure includes a curved surface; The communication device of claim 7 , wherein the antenna is mounted on a curved surface.

Images