Slot antenna

Abstract

To inhibit an antenna from protruding from a vehicle and improve the aesthetic quality of the vehicle.SOLUTION: In a slot antenna according to an embodiment, electric power is supplied to a slot, which is a slit-like opening, provided on a sheet metal forming an outer panel of a vehicle. The slot antenna includes a cover. The cover is provided so as to cover the outer surface side of the opening.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a slot antenna.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, for example, regarding an antenna device mounted on a vehicle, a technique has been proposed in which an opening in the vehicle body functions as a slot antenna (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the prior art, it is possible to suppress the antenna from protruding outside the vehicle. However, in the prior art, for example, when an opening is provided on the roof of the vehicle or the like, the opening is conspicuous from the outside, and there is a risk that the appearance of the vehicle will be impaired.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above, and an object thereof is to provide a slot antenna that suppresses the antenna from protruding from the vehicle while improving the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A slot antenna according to an aspect of an embodiment is a slot antenna that is fed power to a slot, which is a slit-shaped opening provided in a sheet metal constituting an outer panel of a vehicle. The slot antenna includes a cover. The cover is provided so as to cover the outer surface side of the opening.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] According to one embodiment, it is possible to improve the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle while suppressing the antenna from protruding from the vehicle. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows the mounting position of the slot antenna according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic plan view of a slot antenna according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in Figure 2. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a modified slot antenna. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a modified slot antenna. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a plan view showing a schematic of a modified slot antenna. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line VI-VI in Figure 6. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a plan view showing a schematic of a modified slot antenna. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IX-IX in Figure 8. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a plan view showing a schematic of a modified slot antenna. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a plan view showing a schematic of the antenna device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XII-XII in Figure 11. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a schematic plan view showing an antenna device including multiple antenna units. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a schematic plan view showing an antenna device including multiple antenna units. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a schematic side view of a cylindrical antenna unit. [Figure 16]FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing an outline of the slot antenna according to the third embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a plan view showing an outline of the slot antenna according to the modification. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a plan view showing an outline of the slot antenna according to the modification. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a plan view showing an outline of the slot antenna according to the modification. **Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention**

[0009] Hereinafter, the slot antenna according to the embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to this embodiment.

[0010] (First Embodiment) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the mounting position of the slot antenna 1 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the slot antenna 1 according to the embodiment is mounted on a vehicle C. The slot antenna 1 is mounted, for example, on a roof R of the vehicle C.

[0011] The frequency band of the radio wave received by the slot antenna 1 is, for example, the VHF band (30 to 300 MHz) or the UHF band (300 MHz to 3000 MHz), and is a frequency band including broadcast waves such as FM (Frequency Modulation) radio broadcast, AM (Amplitude Modulation) radio broadcast, DAB (Digital Audio Broadcast), and DTV (Digital TeleVision). Further, the slot antenna 1 may be an antenna used for communication such as V2X (Vehicle to Everything) and GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System).

[0012] In the subsequent figures including FIG. 1, three orthogonal coordinate axes are shown. Specifically, the X-axis corresponds to the traveling direction (front-rear direction) of the vehicle C, and the positive side is defined as the rear and the negative side as the front. The Y-axis corresponds to the vehicle width direction of the vehicle C, and the positive side is defined as the right side of the vehicle and the negative side as the left side of the vehicle. The Z-axis corresponds to the height direction of the vehicle C, and the positive side is defined as the upper side and the negative side as the lower side.

[0013] Next, a configuration example of the slot antenna 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an outline of the slot antenna 1 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III of FIG. 2. The slot antenna 1 includes a slot portion 2, a feeding point 3, and a cover 4.

[0014] The slot portion 2 is formed by a sheet metal 7. The sheet metal 7 constitutes the outer panel of the vehicle C. The sheet metal 7 constitutes the roof R. The slot portion 2 is formed by the sheet metal 7 that constitutes the outer panel of the vehicle C. The sheet metal 7 has a recess 7a. The recess 7a is formed so as to be recessed toward the interior of the vehicle C. The recess 7a is formed so as to extend in the vehicle width direction (Y-axis direction) of the vehicle C. The slot portion 2 is formed in the recess 7a. Specifically, the slot portion 2 is formed at the bottom 7b of the recess 7a.

[0015] A slit-shaped opening 10 (opening) is formed in the slot portion 2. A slot 11 is provided in the slot portion 2. Specifically, the slit-shaped opening 10 functions as a slot 11 for receiving radio waves from the outside. In other words, the slot 11 is a slit-shaped opening provided in the sheet metal 7 that constitutes the outer panel of the vehicle C. The opening 10 is provided at the bottom 7b (bottom surface) of the recess 7a. The slot antenna 1 is fed power at the slot 11.

[0016] The slot 11 (opening 10) is formed so as to extend in the vehicle width direction (Y-axis direction) of the vehicle C. The slot 11 includes two end portions 11a and a central portion 11b.

[0017] The recess 7a may be formed to extend in the direction of travel of the vehicle C (X-axis direction). The slot 11 may also be formed to extend in the direction of travel of the vehicle C.

[0018] The end portions 11a are provided at both ends of the slot 11 in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction). Each end portion 11a is formed in a rectangular shape.

[0019] The central section 11b is located between the two end sections 11a and connects them. The central section 11b is formed in a rectangular shape. The central section 11b is connected to the vicinity of the center of the end sections 11a in the short-side direction (X-axis direction) of the slot 11. The length of the central section 11b in the short-side direction of the slot 11 is shorter than the length of the end sections 11a in the short-side direction of the slot 11. In other words, the slot 11 is formed in a roughly dumbbell shape in plan view.

[0020] By making the slot 11 roughly dumbbell-shaped, the slot antenna 1 can receive radio waves across a wide frequency band while shortening the length of the slot 11 in the vehicle width direction, thereby improving antenna performance.

[0021] The feed points 3 are located on both sides of the slot 11 in the width direction (X-axis direction). Specifically, the feed points 3 are located on both sides of the central part 11b in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the central part 11b. The feed points 3 are connected to the sheet metal 7 that forms the central part 11b. One feed point 3 is connected to the central conductor of the coaxial cable, which is the feed line. The other feed point 3 is connected to the outer conductor of the coaxial cable. The outer conductor is provided so as to surround the central conductor. The slot antenna 1 is fed into the slot 11 by the feed points 3.

[0022] The cover 4 is made of a dielectric material (typically an insulator). The cover 4 is made of resin, for example. The cover 4 is a resin garnish. The cover 4 is provided to cover the outer surface of the opening 10. That is, the cover 4 is provided to cover the outer surface of the slot 11. The outer surface of the opening 10 is the outside of the vehicle C. The cover 4 is provided to close the recess 7a. The cover 4 has a U-shaped cross-section consisting of an upper portion 4a and a side wall portion 4b. The side wall portion 4b is inserted into the recess 7a. The cover 4 closes the recess 7a by fitting the side wall portion 4b into the recess 7a. The cover 4 is fixed to the sheet metal 7.

[0023] Preferably, the gap between the sheet metal 7 and the cover 4 is filled with an intermediary such as rubber or caulking material to prevent water from entering and to make the step between the sheet metal 7 and the cover 4 less noticeable.

[0024] The shape of the cover 4 is provided to match the shape of the sheet metal 7 surrounding the recess 7a. That is, the shape of the cover 4 is provided to match the roof R. For example, the cover 4 is provided so as not to protrude outside the vehicle C beyond the sheet metal 7 surrounding the recess 7a. Specifically, the upper surface 4a is flush with the outer panel of the vehicle C. Also, the cover 4 is provided so as not to recess inside the vehicle C beyond the sheet metal 7 surrounding the recess 7a. Furthermore, if the roof R has a curved shape and the sheet metal 7 surrounding the recess 7a has a curved shape, the shape of the cover 4 is provided to curve to match the curved shape of the roof R.

[0025] The cover 4 may also be plate-shaped, as shown in Figure 4. The plate-shaped cover 4 is fitted into the stepped portion 7c (stepped portion) formed in the sheet metal 7. The stepped portion 7c is provided on the edge of the recess 7a. The stepped portion 7c is provided so that the depth of the recess 7a increases in a step-like manner. The cover 4 closes the recess 7a by being fitted into the stepped portion 7c. Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a modified slot antenna 1.

[0026] As a result, the slot antenna 1 can suppress the visibility of the cover 4 in the exterior of the vehicle C. Therefore, the slot antenna 1 can improve the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle C.

[0027] The slot antenna 1 is powered by a slot 11, which is a slit-shaped opening 10 provided in the sheet metal 7 that constitutes the outer body of the vehicle C. The slot antenna 1 is equipped with a cover 4. The cover 4 is provided so as to cover the outer surface of the opening 10.

[0028] As a result, the slot antenna 1 can be prevented from protruding from the vehicle C by covering the outer surface of the opening 10 with the cover 4. The slot antenna 1 can be prevented from detracting from the appearance of the vehicle C and improve the aesthetics of the vehicle C.

[0029] Furthermore, the sheet metal 7 has a recess 7a. The recess 7a is formed to be recessed on the interior side of the vehicle C. The opening 10 is provided at the bottom 7b of the recess 7a. The cover 4 is provided to close the recess 7a.

[0030] As a result, the slot antenna 1 can suppress the visibility of the recess 7a from the exterior of the vehicle C. Therefore, the slot antenna 1 can improve the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle C.

[0031] Furthermore, the cover 4 has a U-shaped cross-section consisting of an upper surface portion 4a and a side wall portion 4b, with the side wall portion 4b fitting into the recess 7a to close the recess 7a.

[0032] As a result, the slot antenna 1 can prevent the cover 4 from coming out of the recess 7a by the side wall portion 4b.

[0033] Furthermore, the upper surface 4a of the cover 4 is flush with the outer panel of the vehicle C.

[0034] As a result, the slot antenna 1 can suppress the visibility of the cover 4 in the exterior of the vehicle C. Therefore, the slot antenna 1 can improve the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle C.

[0035] Furthermore, the opening 10 is provided in the sheet metal 7 that constitutes the roof R of the vehicle C.

[0036] This allows the slot antenna 1 to have fewer components.

[0037] An example of a slot antenna 1 has been described in which a recess 7a is provided in the sheet metal 7 and a slot 11 is provided at the bottom 7b of the recess 7a, but the invention is not limited to this. The slot 11 of the slot antenna 1 may be provided in the sheet metal 13 which does not have a recess, as shown in Figure 5. The cover 4 is provided so as to protrude from the sheet metal 13 to the outside of the vehicle C. Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the slot antenna 1.

[0038] Furthermore, an example of a slot antenna 1 in which an opening 10 is provided in a recess 7a of the sheet metal 7 and the opening 10 functions as a slot 11 has been described, but the invention is not limited to this. As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the slot antenna 1 may also have an opening 20c formed in the bottom 20b of a recess 20a of the sheet metal 20, and a conductor plate 21 having a slot 22 provided in the opening 20c. Figure 6 is a schematic plan view of a modified slot antenna 1. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI in Figure 6.

[0039] The opening 20c is rectangular in shape. The opening 20c is provided so as to extend in the vehicle width direction (Y-axis direction) of the vehicle C.

[0040] The conductor plate 21 is, for example, a plate-shaped metal member. The conductor plate 21 is provided so as to be flush with the opening 20c. The conductor plate 21 is provided so as to be flush with the bottom portion 20b of the sheet metal 20 that forms the opening 20c. Note that "flush" does not mean perfectly flush, but also includes errors of up to a few centimeters (for example, 5 cm).

[0041] The conductor plate 21 is connected to the sheet metal 20 by metal brackets 24. The conductor plate 21 is connected to the sheet metal 20 by multiple brackets 24. The conductor plate 21 is electrically connected to the sheet metal 20 by the brackets 24. Slots 22 are formed in the conductor plate 21. The slots 22 are provided to extend in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the opening 20c. The slots 22 are dumbbell-shaped. The conductor plate 21 functions as a slot section.

[0042] The slot antenna 1 includes a conductor plate 21. The conductor plate 21 is electrically connected to the sheet metal 20, is provided in the opening 20c, and is positioned flush with the opening 20c. A slot 22 is formed in the conductor plate 21, extending in the longitudinal direction of the opening 20c.

[0043] As a result, the slot antenna 1 has a rectangular opening 20c provided in the sheet metal 20, and a slot 22 can be formed by providing a conductor plate 21 in the opening 20c. Therefore, sheet metal processing for providing the slot antenna 1 becomes easier. Furthermore, since the slot antenna 1 is constructed by attaching the conductor plate 21 with the slot 22 formed therein to the opening 20c, the assembly work of the slot antenna 1 becomes easier. In addition, by making the conductor plate 21 flush with the opening 20c, the slot antenna 1 can prevent the conductor plate 21 from protruding from the vehicle C. Therefore, the slot antenna 1 can prevent damage to the appearance of the vehicle C and improve the aesthetics of the vehicle C.

[0044] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, the slot antenna 1 may also have a slot 31 formed in the rectangular opening 20c by placing a conductive plate 30 in the opening 20c. Figure 8 is a schematic plan view of a modified slot antenna 1. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IX-IX in Figure 8.

[0045] The conductor plate 30 is positioned in the center of the opening 20c in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction). The conductor plate 30 is positioned such that a space 32 is formed between both ends of the conductor plate 30 in the longitudinal direction of the opening 20c and the opening 20c. The space 32 is, for example, rectangular in plan view.

[0046] The conductor board 30 is constructed, for example, by laminating a conductor pattern 34 onto a substrate 33. The substrate 33 is, for example, an insulating substrate such as glass epoxy and ceramic. The conductor pattern 34 is, for example, printed onto the substrate 33. The conductor board 30 can be constructed using the structure of a general printed circuit board. The conductor pattern 34 is connected to the sheet metal 7 by a metal bracket. The conductor pattern 34 includes a first conductor pattern 34a and a second conductor pattern 34b.

[0047] The first conductor pattern 34a is formed, for example, in a rectangular shape. The first conductor pattern 34a is electrically connected to the sheet metal 20 by a metal bracket 24a.

[0048] The second conductor pattern 34b is formed, for example, in a rectangular shape. The second conductor pattern 34b is electrically connected to the sheet metal 20 by a metal bracket 24b.

[0049] The conductor plate 30 has a slit 35 between the first conductor pattern 34a and the second conductor pattern 34b. The slit 35 is a non-laminated portion on the substrate 33 where the conductor pattern 34 is not laminated. The slit 35 is provided so as to extend in the longitudinal direction of the opening 20c. The slit 35 is provided in a straight line along the longitudinal direction of the opening 20c. The slit 35 is provided in the center of the conductor plate 30 in the short direction of the opening 20c. The slit 35 is formed to connect to spaces 32 provided on both sides of the longitudinal direction of the opening 20c.

[0050] The sheet metal 20 forming the opening 20c and the conductor pattern 34 of the conductor plate 30 form a dumbbell-shaped slot 31 in plan view. The slot 31 includes a space 32 and a slit 35. In other words, a part of the slot 31 is formed in the conductor plate 30. The sheet metal 20 and the conductor plate 30 function as a slot portion.

[0051] This simplifies the sheet metal fabrication required to install the slot antenna 1. Furthermore, since the slot antenna 1 is constructed by attaching the conductive plate 30 with the slit 35 formed therein to the opening 20c, the assembly of the slot antenna 1 is simplified. Additionally, because the space 32 between the opening 20c and the conductive plate 30 functions as part of the slot 31, the length of the slot 31 can be increased in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) and the short-axis direction (X-axis direction) of the opening 20c. As a result, the slot antenna 1 can efficiently receive radio waves in the low-frequency band. In other words, the slot antenna 1 can broaden the receivable frequency band.

[0052] The conductor pattern 41 of the conductor plate 40 may be formed such that the slit 42 is bent in an L-shape, as shown in Figure 10. Figure 10 is a schematic plan view of a modified slot antenna 1. For example, the first conductor pattern 41a is formed in an L-shape. The second conductor pattern 41b is formed in a rectangular shape.

[0053] The first conductor pattern 41a is connected to the sheet metal 20 by a metal bracket 24a at one end of the opening 20c in the short direction (X-axis direction). The first conductor pattern 41a is not connected to the sheet metal 20 at the other end of the opening 20c in the short direction. Alternatively, the first conductor pattern 41a may be connected to the sheet metal 20 at the other end of the opening 20c in the short direction via an insulator.

[0054] The slit 42 includes a first slit 42a and a second slit 42b. That is, the conductor plate 40 includes a first slit 42a and a second slit 42b. The first slit 42a is a non-laminated portion where the conductor pattern 41 is not laminated on the substrate 33. The second slit 42b is a non-laminated portion where the conductor pattern 41 is not laminated on the substrate 33.

[0055] The first slit 42a is formed along the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the opening 20c. The second slit 42b is formed along the short direction (X-axis direction) of the opening 20c. One end of the second slit 42b is connected to the first slit 42a. The other end of the second slit 42b is connected to the third slit 43. The third slit 43 is a gap formed between the conductor plate 40 and the sheet metal 20. Specifically, the third slit 43 is a gap formed between the end of the first conductor pattern 41a, which is not electrically connected to the sheet metal 20, and the sheet metal 20 in the short direction of the opening 20c.

[0056] Slot 45 includes space 32, a first slit 42a, a second slit 42b, and a third slit 43.

[0057] The conductor plate 30 includes a first slit 42a and a second slit 42b. The first slit 42a is formed along the longitudinal direction of the opening 20c. The second slit 42b is formed along the short direction of the opening 20c. One end of the second slit 42b is connected to the first slit 42a. The other end of the second slit 42b is connected to a third slit 43 formed between the conductor plate 40 and the sheet metal 20.

[0058] This allows the slot antenna 1 to increase the length of the slot 45. As a result, the slot antenna 1 can efficiently receive radio waves in the lower frequency band. In other words, the slot antenna 1 can broaden the receivable frequency band.

[0059] (Second Embodiment) Next, an example of the configuration of the antenna device 60 according to the second embodiment will be described using Figures 11 and 12. The antenna device 60 is mounted on the roof R of the vehicle C, similar to the slot antenna 1. Figure 11 is a schematic plan view of the antenna device 60 according to the second embodiment. Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XII-XII in Figure 11. The antenna device 60 according to the second embodiment will be described focusing on the differences from the first embodiment. Components similar to those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment.

[0060] The antenna device 60 comprises an antenna unit 61 and a cover 4. The antenna unit 61 is installed in an opening 20c formed in a recess 20a of the sheet metal 20.

[0061] The antenna unit 61 is housed in a case 62. The case 62 is made of a dielectric material. For example, the case 62 is made of resin. The antenna unit 61 is installed in the opening 20c while housed in the case 62.

[0062] The antenna unit 61 includes a slot antenna element 63 and an antenna amplifier. The slot antenna element 63 includes a conductive plate 30 that forms a slot 31, and a feed point 3, etc. The antenna amplifier includes a receiving circuit that converts radio waves acquired by the feed point 3 into an electrical signal.

[0063] The antenna unit 61 is supported on the sheet metal 20 by a bracket 64. The bracket 64 includes a metal bracket. The conductor pattern 34 of the conductor plate 30 is electrically connected to the sheet metal 20 by the metal bracket 64. The conductor plate 30 is electrically connected to the sheet metal 20, is provided in the opening 20c, and is positioned flush with the opening 20c.

[0064] At least a portion of a slot 31 extending in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the opening 20c is formed in the conductor plate 30. The slot 31 formed in the conductor plate 30 is a slit 35 formed linearly along the longitudinal direction of the opening 20c, as shown in Figure 11.

[0065] The slot 31 formed in the conductor plate 30 may be an L-shaped slit 42, as shown in Figure 10. Alternatively, the slot 31 in the antenna unit 61 may be a roughly dumbbell-shaped slot 22 formed in the conductor plate 21, as shown in Figure 6.

[0066] The antenna device 60 comprises an antenna unit 61 and a cover 4. The antenna unit 61 is provided in an opening 20c of a sheet metal 20 that constitutes the outer body of the vehicle C and has a slot antenna element 63. The cover 4 is made of a dielectric material and is provided to cover the outer surface of the opening 20c.

[0067] As a result, the antenna device 60 can prevent the antenna unit 61 from protruding from the vehicle C. The antenna device 60 can prevent damage to the appearance of the vehicle C and improve the aesthetics of the vehicle C. The antenna device 60 can be assembled by attaching the antenna unit 61 to the opening 20c, making the assembly of the antenna device 60 easier.

[0068] The slot antenna element 63 includes a conductor plate 30 that is electrically connected to the sheet metal 20 and is positioned flush with the opening 20c. At least a portion of the slot 31 extending in the longitudinal direction of the opening 20c is formed in the conductor plate 30.

[0069] Since a slot antenna is formed by attaching an antenna unit 61 having a conductive plate 30 with slots 31 formed therein to the opening 20c, the assembly of the antenna device 60 becomes easier. Furthermore, by making the conductive plate 30 flush with the opening 20c, the antenna device 60 can prevent the antenna unit 61 from protruding from the vehicle C. Therefore, the antenna device 60 can prevent the appearance of the vehicle C from being spoiled and improve the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle C.

[0070] Furthermore, the antenna device 60 may include multiple antenna units. The multiple antenna units are provided in the aperture 20c. The multiple antenna units include antenna units capable of receiving broadcast waves in different frequency bands. For example, one antenna unit is an antenna unit that receives broadcast waves such as FM radio broadcasts, and the other antenna units are antenna units that receive radio waves such as V2X.

[0071] For example, the multiple antenna units include an antenna unit 61 having the slot antenna element 63 described above and a flat plate antenna unit 66, as shown in Figure 13. Figure 13 is a schematic plan view of an antenna device 60 including multiple antenna units 61 and 66.

[0072] The flat plate antenna unit 66 is, for example, positioned above the conductor plate 30 of the antenna unit 61. The flat plate antenna unit 66 receives radio waves, for example, by a home plate-shaped antenna section 67. In the flat plate antenna unit 66, the feed point is provided at the triangular vertex 68 of the home plate shape. The antenna device 60 can avoid adverse effects of the flat plate antenna unit 66 on the conductor plate 30 by maintaining a predetermined distance (for example, 5 mm) or more between the flat plate antenna unit 66 and the conductor plate 30 of the antenna unit 61 in the Z-axis direction.

[0073] The conductor plate of the antenna unit 61 may be the conductor plate 21 shown in Figure 6, or the conductor plate 40 shown in Figure 10.

[0074] Furthermore, the multiple antenna units may include an antenna unit 61 having the slot antenna element 63 described above and a cylindrical antenna unit 70, as shown in Figure 14. Figure 14 is a schematic plan view of an antenna device 60 including multiple antenna units 61 and 70.

[0075] The cylindrical antenna unit 70 is provided, for example, above the conductive plate 30 of the antenna unit 61. The cylindrical antenna unit 70 is formed, for example, in a rectangular shape in plan view. As shown in Figure 15, the cylindrical antenna unit 70 includes a cylindrical conductor 71 and flat plate conductors 72a and 72b. Figure 15 is a schematic side view of the cylindrical antenna unit 70.

[0076] The cylindrical conductor 71 extends in the Z-axis direction. The flat conductors 72a and 72b extend from the end of the cylindrical conductor 71 in the X-axis and Y-axis directions, respectively. The flat conductors 72a and 72b are spaced apart in the Z-axis direction. In the cylindrical antenna unit 70, slots 73 are formed along the circumferential direction of the cylindrical conductor 71.

[0077] A portion 71a of the cylindrical conductor 71 penetrates a through-hole formed in the flat conductor 72b without contacting the flat conductor 72b. The portion 71a of the cylindrical conductor 71 functions as a power supply point. A power supply point is also connected to the flat conductor 72b in which the through-hole is formed. The power supply points may be located on both sides in the width direction (Z-axis direction) of the slot 73.

[0078] The antenna device 60 can avoid adverse effects on the antenna performance of the conductor plate 30 by the cylindrical antenna unit 70 by maintaining a predetermined distance (for example, 5 mm) or more between the cylindrical antenna unit 70 and the conductor plate 30 in the Z-axis direction.

[0079] The flat antenna unit 66 or the cylindrical antenna unit 70 may be provided in the space 32 of the antenna unit 61 having the slot antenna element 63.

[0080] The antenna device 60 comprises a plurality of antenna units. The plurality of antenna units are provided in openings 20c of sheet metal 20 that constitute the outer body of the vehicle C. The plurality of antenna units include at least one of a flat plate antenna unit 66 and a cylindrical antenna unit 70.

[0081] As a result, the antenna device 60 can receive radio waves in different frequency bands using multiple antenna units. Furthermore, the antenna device 60 can have multiple antenna units installed together in the opening 20c.

[0082] Alternatively, the antenna device 60 may be configured such that multiple antenna units are covered by a single cover 4.

[0083] As a result, the antenna device 60 can minimize the opening 20c provided in the outer sheet metal 20. Furthermore, the antenna device 60 can reduce the number of components such as the cover 4. Therefore, the antenna device 60 is advantageous in terms of ease of processing and cost reduction.

[0084] (Third embodiment) Next, an example of the configuration of the slot antenna 1 according to the third embodiment will be described using Figure 16. Figure 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the slot antenna 1 according to the third embodiment. The slot antenna 1 according to the third embodiment will be described mainly in terms of parts that differ from the first embodiment. Components similar to those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment.

[0085] The slot antenna 1 has a conductor pattern 90 formed on the interior side of the cover 4 facing the vehicle C. The conductor pattern 90 is laminated onto the cover 4, which is made of dielectric material. The conductor pattern 90 forms a slot 91. That is, the slot antenna 1 has a slot 91 formed on the interior side of the cover 4. The conductor pattern 90 is electrically connected to the sheet metal 20 by wiring 92. That is, the conductor pattern 90 is electrically conductive with the sheet metal 20. The cover 4 is provided so as to cover the opening 20c of the sheet metal 20.

[0086] The conductor pattern 90 is formed, for example, by applying conductive paint to the surface of the cover 4 (the side facing the vehicle interior). Alternatively, the conductor pattern 90 may be formed by attaching metal foils such as copper and aluminum to the surface of the cover 4. Alternatively, the conductor pattern 90 may be formed by attaching metal plates such as copper and aluminum to the surface of the cover 4. Alternatively, the conductor pattern 90 may be a vapor-deposited film of copper and aluminum, for example, by vacuum deposition on the surface of the cover 4.

[0087] The conductor pattern 90 may be, for example, a flexible plastic film with a pattern formed on its surface using a conductive paint, which is then attached to the surface of the cover 4.

[0088] Furthermore, if the conductor pattern 90 is thin, such as a conductive paint or a vapor-deposited film, it may be formed on the outside of the vehicle interior of the cover 4. In this case, the durability of the conductor pattern 90 can be increased by applying further coatings or other treatments over the conductor pattern 90.

[0089] The slot antenna 1 comprises a cover 4 and a conductor pattern 90. The cover 4 is provided to cover an opening 20c provided in the sheet metal 20 that constitutes the outer body of the vehicle C, and is made of dielectric material. The conductor pattern 90 is formed on the cover 4. The conductor pattern 90 forms a slot 91.

[0090] As a result, the slot antenna 1 has a slot 91 in the cover 4 itself. Therefore, the slot antenna 1 can be constructed without having to place a separate conductor plate 21 or the like in the opening 20c. The slot antenna 1 has a simplified structure, improving ease of processing and assembly. In addition, the slot antenna 1 has fewer parts, which is advantageous for cost reduction.

[0091] As another example, as shown in Figure 17, the conductor pattern 90 is positioned in the middle of the longitudinal portion of the opening 20c of the sheet metal 20, and a gap 94 is provided between the conductor pattern 90 and the edge of the opening 20c. The longitudinal ends of the opening 20c where the conductor pattern 90 is not placed are connected by the gap 94 between the conductor pattern 90 and the opening 20c, forming a slot 95 that is narrow in the center and wide at both ends. That is, the slot 95 is formed by the opening 20c and the conductor pattern 90. At least a portion of the slot 95 is formed by the gap 94 between the edge of the opening 20c and the conductor pattern 90. The slot antenna 1 is an antenna in which this slot 95 functions as an antenna element. Figure 17 is a schematic plan view showing a modified example of the slot antenna 1.

[0092] As a result, the conductor pattern 90 provided on the cover 4 and the opening 20c in the sheet metal 20 together form a slot 95 in the slot antenna 1. Therefore, the slot antenna 1 can be constructed without placing a separate conductor plate 21 or the like in the opening 20c. The slot antenna 1 has a simplified structure, improving ease of processing and assembly. In addition, the slot antenna 1 has fewer parts, which is advantageous for cost reduction.

[0093] As another example, as shown in Figure 18, the conductor pattern 90 is positioned in the middle of the longitudinal portion of the opening 20c of the sheet metal 20, and a groove (slit) 90a is provided in the conductor pattern 90. The longitudinal ends of the opening 20c where the conductor pattern 90 is not located are connected by the groove 90a provided in the conductor pattern 90, forming a slot 96 that is narrow in the center and wide at both ends. That is, the slot 96 is formed at least in part by the groove 90a provided in the conductor pattern 90. The slot antenna 1 is an antenna in which this slot 96 functions as an antenna element. Figure 18 is a schematic plan view showing a modified example of the slot antenna 1.

[0094] Furthermore, as another example, as shown in Figure 19, the conductor pattern 90 is positioned in the middle of the longitudinal portion of the opening 20c of the sheet metal 20, and a gap 97 is provided between the conductor pattern 90 and the edge of the opening 20c. In addition, a groove (slit) 98 is provided in the conductor pattern 90. The longitudinal ends of the opening 20c where the conductor pattern 90 is not placed are connected by the gap 97 between the conductor pattern 90 and the opening 20c and the groove 98 provided in the conductor pattern 90. As a result, a slot 99 is formed that is narrow in the center and wide at both ends. The slot antenna 1 is an antenna in which this slot 99 functions as an antenna element. Figure 19 is a schematic plan view showing a modified slot antenna 1.

[0095] In the slot antenna 1, the conductor pattern 90 provided on the cover 4 and the opening 20c in the sheet metal 20 together form slots 96 and 99. This allows the slot antenna 1 to be constructed without the need to separately place a conductor plate 21 or the like in the opening 20c. The slot antenna 1 has a simplified structure, improving ease of processing and assembly. Furthermore, the slot antenna 1 has fewer parts, which is advantageous for cost reduction.

[0096] The slot antenna 1 and antenna device 60 described above may have the following configurations.

[0097] A sheet metal panel may be provided on the interior side of the opening 20c of the sheet metal 20 that constitutes the outer panel of vehicle C, facing the opening 20c.

[0098] This allows, for example, the slot antenna 1 to suppress the reception of noise inside the vehicle cabin.

[0099] Furthermore, the slot antenna 1 and the antenna device 60 may be installed on the body of the vehicle C, such as the back door and pillars.

[0100] Further effects and modifications can be readily derived by those skilled in the art. Therefore, broader aspects of the present invention are not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments expressed and described above. Accordingly, various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit or scope of the overall concept of the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0101] 1 slot antenna 2 slot section 3. Power supply point 4 Covers 7, 13, 20 Sheet metal 7a, 20a recess 10, 20c opening Slots 11, 22, 31, 91, 95, 96, 99 21, 30, 40 Conductor board 34, 41, 90 Conductor Patterns 35, 42 slits 42a First Slit 42b Second Slit 43 Third Slit 60 Antenna equipment 61 Antenna Unit 62 cases 63 Slot Antenna Element 66. Flat-plate antenna unit 70 Cylindrical Antenna Unit 94, 97 gap 90a, 98 groove C Vehicle

Claims

1. A slot antenna that supplies power to a slot, which is a slit-shaped opening provided in the sheet metal that makes up the outer body of a vehicle, The opening is provided with a cover that covers the outer surface side, The aforementioned sheet metal has a recessed area on the interior side of the vehicle, The opening is a slot antenna provided on the bottom surface of the recess.

2. The aforementioned sheet metal has a recessed area on the interior side of the vehicle, The opening is provided on the bottom surface of the recess, The slot antenna according to claim 1, wherein the cover is provided so as to close the recess.

3. The slot antenna according to claim 2, wherein the cover has a U-shaped cross-section consisting of an upper surface portion and a side wall portion, and the side wall portion is fitted into the recess to close the recess.

4. The slot antenna according to claim 3, wherein the upper surface of the cover is flush with the outer panel of the vehicle.

5. The recess has a stepped portion at its edge where the depth of the recess increases in a stepped manner. The slot antenna according to claim 3, wherein the cover is fitted into the stepped portion to close the recess.

6. The slot antenna according to claim 1, wherein the opening is provided in sheet metal constituting the roof of a vehicle.

7. A cover made of a dielectric material is provided to cover an opening provided in the sheet metal constituting the outer body of a vehicle, A conductive pattern formed on the cover and electrically conductive with the sheet metal and Equipped with, A slot antenna, wherein the slot is formed by the opening and the conductor pattern.

8. The slot antenna according to claim 7, wherein at least a portion of the slot is formed by a gap between the edge of the opening and the conductor pattern.

9. The slot antenna according to claim 7, wherein at least a portion of the slot is formed by a slit provided in the conductor pattern.

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