antenna

Abstract

This antenna includes a plurality of unit structures. The plurality of unit structures comprise a radiation conductor, a reference conductor, a first feed conductor configured to be electromagnetically connected by the radiation conductor, a second feed conductor configured to be electromagnetically connected by the radiation conductor, a third feed conductor configured to be electromagnetically connected by the radiation conductor, and a fourth feed conductor configured to be electromagnetically connected by the radiation conductor. The first feed conductor and the second feed conductor are configured such that signals having opposite phases to each other are inputted thereto, and the third feed conductor and the fourth feed conductor are configured such that signals having opposite phases to each other are inputted thereto.

Description

Technical Field

[0004] ,

[0006] , , , , ,

[0005] , , , ,

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an antenna.

Background Art

[0002] In an antenna that inputs signals from two ports, an antenna with high isolation that prevents mutual interference of signals between the two ports is known.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

[0004] The antenna of the present disclosure includes a plurality of unit structures, and the plurality of unit structures include a radiating conductor, a reference conductor, a first feeding conductor configured to be electromagnetically connected by the radiating conductor, a second feeding conductor configured to be electromagnetically connected by the radiating conductor, a third feeding conductor configured to be electromagnetically connected by the radiating conductor, and a fourth feeding conductor configured to be electromagnetically connected by the radiating conductor. The first feeding conductor and the second feeding conductor are configured such that signals having opposite phases are input thereto, and the third feeding conductor and the fourth feeding conductor are configured such that signals having opposite phases are input thereto.

[0005] The antenna of the present disclosure includes a radiating conductor, a reference conductor, and five or more input ports to which an input signal is input from the outside, and the input signal input to the input port is provided with a phase difference that enables circular polarization.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an antenna according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2]Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of a unit structure according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the phase distribution of the input signal according to the second embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the direction of the current vector in a unit structure corresponding to left circular polarization according to the third embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the direction of the current vector in a unit structure corresponding to right-hand circular polarization according to the third embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the power distribution of the input signal input to the power supply conductor according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows the power values ​​of radio waves in a comparative example of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows the power values ​​of the radio waves according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating a method for inputting signals of different phases to a power supply conductor according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating a method for inputting signals of different phases to a power supply conductor according to the sixth embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. However, this embodiment does not limit the present disclosure, and in the following embodiments, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals to omit redundant descriptions.

[0008] [First Embodiment] (Antenna configuration) An example of the antenna configuration according to the first embodiment will be described using Figure 1. Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of the antenna configuration according to the first embodiment.

[0009] As shown in Figure 1, the antenna 1 includes unit structure 10a, unit structure 10b, unit structure 10c, and unit structure 10d.

[0010] The unit structure 10a comprises a base body 11, a first radiating conductor 21a, a second radiating conductor 22a, a third radiating conductor 23a, a fourth radiating conductor 24a, an internal conductor 31a, a first power supply conductor 41a, a second power supply conductor 42a, a third power supply conductor 43a, a fourth power supply conductor 44a, a first connecting conductor 51a, a second connecting conductor 52a, a third connecting conductor 53a, a fourth connecting conductor 54a, and a ground conductor 60.

[0011] The unit structure 10b comprises a base 11, a first radiating conductor 21b, a second radiating conductor 22b, a third radiating conductor 23b, a fourth radiating conductor 24b, an internal conductor 31b, a first power supply conductor 41b, a second power supply conductor 42b, a third power supply conductor 43b, a fourth power supply conductor 44b, a first connecting conductor 51b, a second connecting conductor 52b, a third connecting conductor 53b, a fourth connecting conductor 54b, and a ground conductor 60.

[0012] The unit structure 10c comprises a base 11, a first radiating conductor 21c, a second radiating conductor 22c, a third radiating conductor 23c, a fourth radiating conductor 24c, an internal conductor 31c, a first power supply conductor 41c, a second power supply conductor 42c, a third power supply conductor 43c, a fourth power supply conductor 44c, a first connecting conductor 51c, a second connecting conductor 52c, a third connecting conductor 53c, a fourth connecting conductor 54c, and a ground conductor 60.

[0013] The unit structure 10d comprises a base 11, a first radiating conductor 21d, a second radiating conductor 22d, a third radiating conductor 23d, a fourth radiating conductor 24d, an internal conductor 31d, a first power supply conductor 41d, a second power supply conductor 42d, a third power supply conductor 43d, a fourth power supply conductor 44d, a first connecting conductor 51d, a second connecting conductor 52d, a third connecting conductor 53d, a fourth connecting conductor 54d, and a ground conductor 60.

[0014] Unit structures 10a to 10d have similar configurations. Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of a unit structure according to the first embodiment.

[0015] The unit structure 10 includes a base body 11, a first radiation conductor 21, a second radiation conductor 22, a third radiation conductor 23, a fourth radiation conductor 24, an internal conductor 31, a first power supply conductor 41, a second power supply conductor 42, a third power supply conductor 43, a fourth power supply conductor 44, a first connection conductor 51, a second connection conductor 52, a third connection conductor 53, a fourth connection conductor 54, and a ground conductor 60.

[0016] The base body 11 can be formed of a dielectric material. The base body 11 can include, for example, either a ceramic material or a resin material. The base body 11 can be formed, for example, in a substantially quadrangular prism shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0017] The first radiation conductor 21 to the fourth radiation conductor 24 can each be formed of a conductive material. The first radiation conductor 21 to the fourth radiation conductor 24 each function as a resonator. The first radiation conductor 21 to the fourth radiation conductor 24 can be formed on the upper surface of the base body 11. The first radiation conductor 21 to the fourth radiation conductor 24 each extend in the XY plane. The first radiation conductor 21 to the fourth radiation conductor 24 can each be formed with a space therebetween. Each of the first radiation conductor 21 to the fourth radiation conductor 24 can be formed, for example, in the same shape. Each of the first radiation conductor 21 to the fourth radiation conductor 24 can be formed, for example, in a substantially square shape, but is not limited thereto. The shape of each of the first radiation conductor 21 to the fourth radiation conductor 24 can be arbitrarily changed according to the design. Also, in the present embodiment, it is assumed that four radiation conductors from the first radiation conductor 21 to the fourth radiation conductor 24 are formed, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In the present disclosure, the number of radiation conductors formed on the upper surface of the base body 11 may be one or more.

[0018] The first radiation conductor 21 and the second radiation conductor 22 are arranged along the diagonal direction on the upper surface of the base body 11. The first radiation conductor 21 and the third radiation conductor 23 are arranged along the X direction on the upper surface of the base body 11. The first radiation conductor 21 and the fourth radiation conductor 24 are arranged along the Y direction on the upper surface of the base body 11.

[0019] The second radiation conductor 22 and the third radiation conductor 23 are arranged along the Y direction on the upper surface of the substrate 11. The second radiation conductor 22 and the fourth radiation conductor 24 are arranged along the X direction on the upper surface of the substrate 11.

[0020] The third radiation conductor 23 and the fourth radiation conductor 24 are arranged along the diagonal direction on the upper surface of the substrate 11.

[0021] The internal conductor 31 can be formed of a conductive material. The internal conductor 31 can be formed inside the substrate 11. The internal conductor 31 extends in the XY plane. The internal conductor 31 can be formed, for example, in a substantially square shape, but is not limited thereto. The internal conductor 31 faces the first radiation conductor 21 to the fourth radiation conductor 24. The internal conductor 31 is configured to capacitively connect each of the first radiation conductor 21 to the fourth radiation conductor 24. By adjusting the area of the internal conductor 31 and the distance between the internal conductor 31 and the first radiation conductor 21 to the fourth radiation conductor 24, the strength of the capacitive coupling can be adjusted.

[0022] The ground conductor 60 can be formed of a conductive material. The ground conductor 60 can be formed so as to extend over the entire lower surface of the substrate 11. The ground conductor 60 is electrically connected, for example, to a reference potential (e.g., ground).

[0023] The first power supply conductor 41 to the fourth power supply conductor 44 can be formed of a conductive material. The first power supply conductor 41 to the fourth power supply conductor 44 may be through-hole conductors or via conductors formed from the upper surface to the lower surface of the substrate 11.

[0024] One end of the first power supply conductor 41 is electrically connected near a corner of the first radiation conductor 21. The other end of the first power supply conductor 41 is electrically connected to an external device such as a power supply device not shown.

[0025] One end of the second power supply conductor 42 is electrically connected near a corner of the second radiation conductor 22. The other end of the second power supply conductor 42 is electrically connected to an external device such as a power supply device not shown.

[0026] The third power supply conductor 43 is electrically connected at one end near the corner of the third radiating conductor 23. The other end of the third power supply conductor 43 is electrically connected to an external device such as a power supply device (not shown).

[0027] The fourth power supply conductor 44 is electrically connected at one end near the corner of the fourth radiating conductor 24. The other end of the fourth power supply conductor 44 is electrically connected to an external device such as a power supply device (not shown).

[0028] As will be described in more detail later, signals with different phases can be input to the first to fourth power supply conductors 41 to 44 from a power supply device or the like. The first to fourth power supply conductors 41 to 44 can function as input ports to which signals are input. In other words, the unit structure 10 has four input ports.

[0029] The first to fourth connecting conductors 51 to 54 may be formed of a conductive material. The first to fourth connecting conductors 51 to 54 may be through-hole conductors or via conductors formed from the upper surface to the lower surface of the substrate 11.

[0030] The first connecting conductor 51 has one end electrically connected to the first radiating conductor 21, outside the position where one end of the first feeding conductor 41 is connected. The other end of the first connecting conductor 51 is electrically connected by the ground conductor 60. The first connecting conductor 51 may include, for example, two conductors. The first connecting conductor 51 may be, for example, one conductor or three or more conductors.

[0031] The second connecting conductor 52 has one end electrically connected to the second radiating conductor 22, outside the position where one end of the second feeding conductor 42 is connected. The other end of the second connecting conductor 52 is electrically connected by the ground conductor 60. The second connecting conductor 52 may include, for example, two conductors. The second connecting conductor 52 may be, for example, one conductor or three or more conductors.

[0032] The third connecting conductor 53 has one end electrically connected to the third radiating conductor 23, outside the position where one end of the third feeding conductor 43 is connected. The other end of the third connecting conductor 53 is electrically connected by the ground conductor 60. The third connecting conductor 53 may include, for example, two conductors. There may be, for example, one third connecting conductor 53 or three or more third connecting conductors 53.

[0033] The fourth connecting conductor 54 has one end electrically connected to the fourth radiating conductor 24, outside the position where one end of the fourth feeding conductor 44 is connected. The other end of the fourth connecting conductor 54 is electrically connected by the ground conductor 60. The fourth connecting conductor 54 may include, for example, two, but is not limited to that. The fourth connecting conductor 54 may be, for example, one or three or more.

[0034] Refer to Figure 1 again. Antenna 1 can be constructed by arranging unit structures 10 in the XY plane such that rotational symmetry occurs. In the example shown in Figure 1, antenna 1 is constructed by arranging unit structures 10a, 10b, 10c, and 10d in a square shape in the XY plane.

[0035] Specifically, unit structure 10a and unit structure 10b are aligned along the X direction. Unit structure 10a and unit structure 10d are aligned along the Y direction. Unit structure 10a and unit structure 10c are aligned along the diagonal direction.

[0036] Unit structure 10b and unit structure 10c are aligned along the Y direction. Unit structure 10b and unit structure 10d are aligned along the diagonal direction.

[0037] Unit structure 10c and unit structure 10d are aligned along the X direction.

[0038] Furthermore, in this disclosure, it is preferable that the shapes of the unit structures 10 arranged along the diagonal direction are the same. That is, it is preferable that the shape of unit structure 10a and the shape of unit structure 10c are the same. It is preferable that the shape of unit structure 10b and the shape of unit structure 10d are the same.

[0039] Antenna 1 has a first feeding conductor 41a, a first feeding conductor 41b, a first feeding conductor 41c, a first feeding conductor 41d, a second feeding conductor 42a, a second feeding conductor 42b, a second feeding conductor 42c, a second feeding conductor 42d, a third feeding conductor 43a, a third feeding conductor 43b, a third feeding conductor 43c, a third feeding conductor 43d, a fourth feeding conductor 44a, a fourth feeding conductor 44b, a fourth feeding conductor 44c, a fourth feeding conductor 44d, and 16 input ports. Although Antenna 1 has 16 input ports, the disclosure is not limited thereto. Antenna 1 may have, for example, five or more input ports. A signal with an appropriate phase difference can be input to each input port of Antenna 1 so as to be able to output a circularly polarized signal.

[0040] For example, signals with phase differences adjusted in 90° units are input to the first power supply conductor 41a to the first power supply conductor 41d, the second power supply conductor 42a to the second power supply conductor 42d, the third power supply conductor 43a to the third power supply conductor 43d, and the fourth power supply conductor 44a to the fourth power supply conductor 44d, respectively.

[0041] As described above, in the first embodiment, the antenna 1 is constructed by arranging a plurality of unit structures. An input signal with a phase difference set so that the antenna 1 can output circularly polarized radio waves is input to each feed conductor of the plurality of unit structures. As a result, the first embodiment can realize a highly isolated antenna that supports circular polarization.

[0042] [Second Embodiment] (Phase of input signal) The phase of the input signal according to the second embodiment will be explained using Figure 3. Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the phase distribution of the input signal according to the second embodiment.

[0043] An input signal with a phase of 90° is input to the first feed conductor 41a. An input signal with a phase of -90° is input to the second feed conductor 42a. An input signal with a phase of 90° is input to the third feed conductor 43a. An input signal with a phase of -90° is input to the fourth feed conductor 44a. The phase difference between the input signals input to the first feed conductor 41a and the fourth feed conductor 44a is 180°. The phase difference between the input signals input to the second feed conductor 42a and the third feed conductor 43a is 180°.

[0044] An input signal with a phase of -180° is input to the first feed conductor 41b. An input signal with a phase of 0° is input to the second feed conductor 42b. An input signal with a phase of 180° is input to the third feed conductor 43b. An input signal with a phase of 0° is input to the fourth feed conductor 44b. The phase difference between the input signals input to the first feed conductor 41b and the fourth feed conductor 44b is 180°. The phase difference between the input signals input to the second feed conductor 42b and the third feed conductor 43b is 180°.

[0045] An input signal with a phase of 90° is input to the first power supply conductor 41c. An input signal with a phase of -90° is input to the second power supply conductor 42c. An input signal with a phase of 90° is input to the third power supply conductor 43c. An input signal with a phase of -90° is input to the fourth power supply conductor 44c. The phase difference between the input signals input to the first power supply conductor 41c and the fourth power supply conductor 44c is 180°. The phase difference between the input signals input to the second power supply conductor 42c and the third power supply conductor 43c is 180°.

[0046] An input signal with a phase of -180° is input to the first power supply conductor 41d. An input signal with a phase of 0° is input to the second power supply conductor 42d. An input signal with a phase of 180° is input to the third power supply conductor 43d. An input signal with a phase of 0° is input to the fourth power supply conductor 44d. The phase difference between the input signals input to the first power supply conductor 41d and the fourth power supply conductor 44d is 180°. The phase difference between the input signals input to the second power supply conductor 42d and the third power supply conductor 43d is 180°.

[0047] Antenna 1 can output left-circularly polarized radio waves by inputting input signals to the third feed conductor 43a, the fourth feed conductor 44a, the first feed conductor 41b, the second feed conductor 42b, the third feed conductor 43c, the fourth feed conductor 44c, the first feed conductor 41d, and the second feed conductor 42d.

[0048] Antenna 1 can output right-circularly polarized radio waves by inputting input signals to the first feed conductor 41a, the second feed conductor 42a, the third feed conductor 43b, the fourth feed conductor 44b, the first feed conductor 41c, the fourth feed conductor 44c, the third feed conductor 43d, and the fourth feed conductor 44d.

[0049] The phase distribution of the input signals input to each feed conductor is set to have rotational symmetry in the XY plane. In the example shown in Figure 3, the phase distribution of the input signals input to each feed conductor is set to have 90° rotational symmetry. These phases can be easily achieved by combining 90° hybrids or baluns.

[0050] As described above, the second embodiment sets the phase of the input signal input to each feed conductor to a different value depending on whether it is left-circular polarization or right-circular polarization. As a result, the second embodiment can realize a highly isolated antenna that supports both left-circular polarization and right-circular polarization.

[0051] [Third Embodiment] (Current vector) The direction of the current vector in the unit structure according to the third embodiment will be explained using Figure 4. Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the direction of the current vector in the unit structure corresponding to left circular polarization according to the third embodiment.

[0052] The current vector V1 is a vector indicating the direction of the current flowing within the unit structure 10a. As indicated by the current vector V1, in the unit structure 10a, the current flows from the third power supply conductor 43a to the fourth power supply conductor 44a.

[0053] The current vector V2 is a vector indicating the direction of the current flowing within the unit structure 10b. As indicated by the current vector V2, in the unit structure 10b, the current flows from the second power supply conductor 42b to the first power supply conductor 41b.

[0054] The current vector V3 is a vector indicating the direction of the current flowing within the unit structure 10c. As indicated by the current vector V3, in the unit structure 10c, the current flows from the third supply conductor 43c to the fourth supply conductor 44c.

[0055] The current vector V4 is a vector indicating the direction of the current flowing within the unit structure 10d. As indicated by the current vector V4, in the unit structure 10d, the current flows from the second power supply conductor 42d towards the first power supply conductor 41d.

[0056] The direction indicated by current vector V1 is the same as the direction indicated by current vector V3. The direction indicated by current vector V2 is the same as the direction indicated by current vector V4. In other words, when antenna 1 outputs left-circularly polarized radio waves, the direction of the current flowing through the unit structures 10 arranged diagonally is the same. To put it another way, the phase of the input signal input to each feed conductor is set so that the current flowing through the unit structures 10 arranged diagonally does not cancel each other out when antenna 1 outputs left-circularly polarized radio waves.

[0057] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the direction of the current vector in a unit structure corresponding to right-hand circular polarization according to the third embodiment.

[0058] The current vector V11 is a vector indicating the direction of the current flowing within the unit structure 10a. As indicated by the current vector V11, in the unit structure 10a, the current flows from the first power supply conductor 41a to the second power supply conductor 42a.

[0059] The current vector V12 is a vector indicating the direction of the current flowing within the unit structure 10b. As indicated by the current vector V12, in the unit structure 10b, the current flows from the third power supply conductor 43b to the fourth power supply conductor 44b.

[0060] The current vector V13 is a vector indicating the direction of the current flowing within the unit structure 10c. As indicated by the current vector V13, in the unit structure 10c, the current flows from the first power supply conductor 41c to the second power supply conductor 42c.

[0061] The current vector V14 is a vector indicating the direction of the current flowing within the unit structure 10d. As indicated by the current vector V14, in the unit structure 10d, the current flows from the third supply conductor 43d to the fourth supply conductor 44d.

[0062] The direction indicated by current vector V11 is the same as the direction indicated by current vector V13. The direction indicated by current vector V12 is the same as the direction indicated by current vector V14. In other words, when antenna 1 outputs right-circularly polarized radio waves, the direction of the current flowing through the unit structures 10 arranged diagonally is the same. To put it another way, when antenna 1 outputs right-circularly polarized radio waves, the phase of the input signal input to each feed conductor is set so that the current flowing through the unit structures 10 arranged diagonally is not canceled out.

[0063] As described above, the third embodiment configures an antenna 1 that corresponds to left circular polarization and right circular polarization by appropriately setting the direction of the current flowing through each unit structure. As a result, the third embodiment can more appropriately realize a high-isolation antenna that corresponds to left circular polarization and right circular polarization.

[0064] [Fourth Embodiment] In the fourth embodiment, instead of equally distributing the power of the input signal input to each power supply conductor, the power is adjusted according to the position of the power supply conductor, so that the peak power value is the same in the case of left circular polarization and right circular polarization.

[0065] (power distribution) The power distribution of the input signal input to the power supply conductor according to the fourth embodiment will be explained using Figure 6. Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the power distribution of the input signal input to the power supply conductor according to the fourth embodiment.

[0066] As shown in Figure 6, in the unit structure 10a, the power ratio of the input signals input to the third feed conductor 43a and the fourth feed conductor 44a is 1, and the power ratio of the input signals input to the first feed conductor 41a and the second feed conductor 42a is 0.43. That is, the power of the input signals input to the third feed conductor 43a and the fourth feed conductor 44a is greater than the power of the input signals input to the first feed conductor 41a and the second feed conductor 42a.

[0067] In unit structure 10b, the power ratio of the input signals input to the first power supply conductor 41b and the second power supply conductor 42b is 1, and the power ratio of the input signals input to the third power supply conductor 43b and the fourth power supply conductor 44b is 0.43. That is, the power of the input signals input to the first power supply conductor 41b and the second power supply conductor 42b is greater than the power of the input signals input to the third power supply conductor 43b and the fourth power supply conductor 44b.

[0068] In unit structure 10c, the power ratio of the input signals input to the third feed conductor 43c and the fourth feed conductor 44c is 1, and the power ratio of the input signals input to the first feed conductor 41c and the second feed conductor 42c is 0.43. That is, the power of the input signals input to the third feed conductor 43c and the fourth feed conductor 44c is greater than the power of the input signals input to the first feed conductor 41c and the second feed conductor 42c.

[0069] In unit structure 10d, the power ratio of the input signals input to the first power supply conductor 41d and the second power supply conductor 42d is 1, and the power ratio of the power input to the third power supply conductor 43d and the fourth power supply conductor 44d is 0.43. That is, the power of the input signals input to the first power supply conductor 41d and the second power supply conductor 42d is greater than the power of the input signals input to the third power supply conductor 43c and the fourth power supply conductor 44.

[0070] In the fourth embodiment, the power ratio between the input signals input to each first power supply conductor 41 and each second power supply conductor 42 and the input signals input to each third power supply conductor 43 and each fourth power supply conductor 44 was set to 1:0.43, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. The power ratio between the input signals input to each first power supply conductor 41 and each second power supply conductor 42 and the input signals input to each third power supply conductor 43 and each fourth power supply conductor 44 may be set arbitrarily depending on the operating environment, etc.

[0071] (Power value) The power values ​​of the radio waves radiated by the antenna 1 according to the fourth embodiment will be described. Figure 7 is a diagram showing the power values ​​of radio waves according to a comparative example of the fourth embodiment. Figure 8 is a diagram showing the power values ​​of radio waves according to the fourth embodiment.

[0072] Figure 7 shows phase [deg] on the horizontal axis and power value [dB] on the vertical axis. Waveform W1 shows the power value of the right-circularly polarized radio wave output by antenna 1 when the power of the input signal input to each feed conductor is uniform. Waveform W2 shows the power value of the left-circularly polarized radio wave output by antenna 1 when the power of the input signal input to each feed conductor is uniform. As shown by waveforms W1 and W2, when the power of the input signal input to each feed conductor is uniform, the power value of the radio wave with a phase of 0° output by antenna 1 may differ between the left-circularly polarized and right-circularly polarized cases.

[0073] Figure 8 shows phase [deg] on the horizontal axis and power value [dB] on the vertical axis. Waveform W3 shows the power value of the right-circularly polarized radio wave output by antenna 1 when the power distribution of the input signal input to each feed conductor is as shown in Figure 6. Waveform W3 shows the power value of the left-circularly polarized radio wave output by antenna 1 when the power distribution of the input signal input to each feed conductor is as shown in Figure 6. As shown by waveforms W3 and W4, when the power distribution of the input signal input to each feed conductor is set as shown in Figure 6, the power value of the radio wave with a phase of 0° output by antenna 1 can be the same for both left-circular polarization and right-circular polarization.

[0074] As described above, the fourth embodiment adjusts the power ratio of the input signals input to each power supply conductor of each unit structure to a predetermined value. As a result, the fourth embodiment can make the peak power value of the radio waves output in the case of left circular polarization and the case of right circular polarization approximately the same.

[0075] [Fifth Embodiment] Using Figure 9, a method for inputting signals with different phases to the power supply conductor according to the fifth embodiment will be explained. Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating a method for inputting signals with different phases to the power supply conductor according to the fifth embodiment.

[0076] As shown in Figure 9, in the fifth embodiment, a first distributor 71, a first distributor 72, a second distributor 81, a second distributor 82, a second distributor 83, a second distributor 84, a third distributor 91, a third distributor 92, a third distributor 93, a third distributor 94, a third distributor 95, a third distributor 96, a third distributor 97, and a third distributor 98 are arranged around the antenna 1. In the fifth embodiment, input signals are input to each feed conductor of the antenna 1 via each distributor.

[0077] The first distributors 71 and 72 are 90° hybrids (90° phase difference distributors). The first distributors 71 and 72 are configured to receive a signal and output two signals that are 90° apart in phase from each other. In the fifth embodiment, two 90° hybrids are arranged around the antenna 1.

[0078] The second distributors 81 to 84 are 0° phase difference distributors. That is, when the second distributors 81 to 84 receive a signal, they are configured to output two signals with the same phase. In the fifth embodiment, four 0° phase difference distributors are arranged around the antenna 1.

[0079] Third distributors 91 to 98 are baluns (180° phase difference distributors). That is, when third distributors 91 to 98 receive a signal, they are configured to output two signals that are 180° apart in phase from each other. In the fifth embodiment, eight baluns are arranged around antenna 1.

[0080] The first distributor 71 is electromagnetically connected to a wiring 101 that receives input signals from an external device. The first distributor 71 and the second distributor 81 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 102. The first distributor 71 and the second distributor 82 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 103. The first distributor 71 is configured to output a signal with a phase of 90° to the second distributor 81 and a signal with a phase of 0° to the second distributor 82 when an input signal with a phase of 0° is received from wiring 101.

[0081] The second distributor 81 and the third distributor 91 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 104. The second distributor 81 and the third distributor 93 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 105. The second distributor 81 is configured to output signals with a phase of 90° to the third distributor 91 and the third distributor 93.

[0082] The second distributor 82 and the third distributor 92 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 106. The second distributor 82 and the third distributor 94 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 107. The second distributor 82 is configured to output signals with a phase of 0° to the third distributor 92 and the third distributor 94.

[0083] The third distributor 91 and the first power supply conductor 41a are electromagnetically connected by wiring 108. The third distributor 91 and the second power supply conductor 42a are electromagnetically connected by wiring 109. The third distributor 91 is configured to output a signal with a phase of 90° to the first power supply conductor 41a and a signal with a phase of -90° to the second power supply conductor 42a.

[0084] The third distributor 92 and the third power supply conductor 43b are electromagnetically connected by wiring 110. The third distributor 92 and the fourth power supply conductor 44b are electromagnetically connected by wiring 111. The third distributor 92 is configured to output a signal with a phase of 180° to the third power supply conductor 43b and a signal with a phase of 0° to the fourth power supply conductor 44b.

[0085] The third distributor 93 and the first power supply conductor 41c are electromagnetically connected by wiring 112. The third distributor 93 and the second power supply conductor 42c are electromagnetically connected by wiring 113. The third distributor 93 is configured to output a signal with a phase of 90° to the first power supply conductor 41c and a signal with a phase of -90° to the second power supply conductor 42c.

[0086] The third distributor 94 and the third power supply conductor 43d are electromagnetically connected by wiring 114. The third distributor 94 and the fourth power supply conductor 44d are electromagnetically connected by wiring 115. The third distributor 94 is configured to output a signal with a phase of 180° to the third power supply conductor 43d and a signal with a phase of 0° to the fourth power supply conductor 44d.

[0087] The first distributor 72 is electromagnetically connected to wiring 201, which receives input signals from an external device. The first distributor 71 and the second distributor 83 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 202. The first distributor 72 and the second distributor 84 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 203. The first distributor 71 is configured to output a signal with a phase of 90° to the second distributor 83 and a signal with a phase of 0° to the second distributor 84 when an input signal with a phase of 0° is received from wiring 101.

[0088] The second distributor 83 and the third distributor 95 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 204. The second distributor 83 and the third distributor 97 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 205. The second distributor 81 is configured to output signals with a phase of 90° to the third distributor 95 and the third distributor 97.

[0089] The second distributor 84 and the third distributor 96 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 206. The second distributor 84 and the third distributor 98 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 207. The second distributor 84 is configured to output signals with a phase of 0° to the third distributor 96 and the third distributor 98.

[0090] The third distributor 95 and the third power supply conductor 43a are electromagnetically connected by wiring 208. The third distributor 95 and the fourth power supply conductor 44a are electromagnetically connected by wiring 209. The third distributor 95 is configured to output a signal with a phase of 90° to the third power supply conductor 43a and a signal with a phase of -90° to the fourth power supply conductor 44a.

[0091] The third distributor 96 and the first power supply conductor 41b are electromagnetically connected by wiring 210. The third distributor 96 and the second power supply conductor 42b are electromagnetically connected by wiring 211. The third distributor 92 is configured to output a signal with a phase of -180° to the first power supply conductor 41b and a signal with a phase of 0° to the second power supply conductor 42b.

[0092] The third distributor 97 and the third power supply conductor 43c are electromagnetically connected by wiring 212. The third distributor 97 and the fourth power supply conductor 44c are electromagnetically connected by wiring 213. The third distributor 93 is configured to output a signal with a phase of 90° to the third power supply conductor 43c and a signal with a phase of -90° to the fourth power supply conductor 44c.

[0093] The third distributor 98 and the first power supply conductor 41d are electromagnetically connected by wiring 214. The third distributor 98 and the second power supply conductor 42d are electromagnetically connected by wiring 215. The third distributor 94 is configured to output a signal with a phase of -180° to the first power supply conductor 41d and a signal with a phase of 0° to the fourth power supply conductor 44d.

[0094] In other words, by arranging each distributor as shown in Figure 9, the phase distribution shown in Figures 4 and 5 can be realized. Specifically, by inputting a signal to the first distributor 71, right-hand circular polarization can be realized as shown in Figure 5. Also, by inputting a signal to the first distributor 72, left-hand circular polarization can be realized as shown in Figure 4.

[0095] It is preferable that wiring 102 and wiring 103 are the same length. By making wiring 102 and wiring 103 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wiring.

[0096] It is preferable that wires 104 and 105 are the same length. By making wires 104 and 105 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wire.

[0097] It is preferable that wires 106 and 107 are the same length. By making wires 106 and 107 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wire.

[0098] It is preferable that wires 108 and 109 are the same length. By making wires 108 and 109 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wire.

[0099] It is preferable that wiring 110 and wiring 111 are the same length. By making wiring 110 and wiring 111 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wiring.

[0100] It is preferable that wiring 112 and wiring 113 are the same length. By making wiring 112 and wiring 113 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wiring.

[0101] It is preferable that wires 114 and 115 are the same length. By making wires 114 and 115 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wire.

[0102] It is preferable that wiring 202 and wiring 203 are the same length. By making wiring 202 and wiring 203 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wiring.

[0103] It is preferable that wiring 204 and wiring 205 are the same length. By making wiring 204 and wiring 205 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wiring.

[0104] It is preferable that wiring 206 and wiring 207 are the same length. By making wiring 206 and wiring 207 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wiring.

[0105] It is preferable that wires 208 and 209 are the same length. By making wires 208 and 209 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wire.

[0106] It is preferable that wiring 210 and wiring 211 are the same length. By making wiring 210 and wiring 211 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wiring.

[0107] It is preferable that wiring 212 and wiring 213 are the same length. By making wiring 212 and wiring 213 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wiring.

[0108] It is preferable that wiring 214 and wiring 215 are the same length. By making wiring 214 and wiring 215 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wiring.

[0109] As described above, the fifth embodiment can appropriately emit left-circularly polarized or right-circularly polarized radio waves by inputting a signal to the antenna 1 using three types of distributors.

[0110] [Sixth Embodiment] Using Figure 10, a method for inputting signals with different phases to the power supply conductor according to the sixth embodiment will be explained. Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating a method for inputting signals with different phases to the power supply conductor according to the sixth embodiment.

[0111] As shown in Figure 10, in the sixth embodiment, a first distributor 71, a first distributor 72, a second distributor 81, a second distributor 82, a second distributor 83, a second distributor 84, a second distributor 85, a second distributor 86, a second distributor 87, a second distributor 88, a third distributor 91, a third distributor 92, a third distributor 93, and a third distributor 94 are arranged around the antenna 1. In the sixth embodiment, input signals are input to each feed conductor of the antenna 1 via each distributor.

[0112] In the sixth embodiment, two 90° hybrids are arranged around antenna 1. In the sixth embodiment, eight 0° phase difference dividers are arranged around antenna 1. Four baluns are arranged around antenna 1.

[0113] The first distributor 71 is electromagnetically connected to a wiring 301 that receives input signals from an external device. The first distributor 71 and the third distributor 91 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 302. The first distributor 71 and the third distributor 92 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 303. The first distributor 71 is configured to output a signal with a phase of 90° to the third distributor 91 and a signal with a phase of 0° to the third distributor 92 when an input signal with a phase of 0° is received from wiring 301.

[0114] The third distributor 91 and the second distributor 81 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 304. The third distributor 91 and the second distributor 82 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 305. The third distributor 91 is configured to output a signal with a phase of 90° to the second distributor 81 and a signal with a phase of -90° to the second distributor 82.

[0115] The third distributor 92 and the second distributor 83 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 306. The third distributor 92 and the second distributor 84 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 307. The third distributor 92 is configured to output a signal with a phase of 180° to the second distributor 83 and a signal with a phase of 0° to the second distributor 84.

[0116] The second distributor 81 and the first power supply conductor 41a are electromagnetically connected by wiring 308. The second distributor 81 and the first power supply conductor 41c are electromagnetically connected by wiring 309. The second distributor 81 is configured to output signals with a phase of 90° to the first power supply conductor 41a and the first power supply conductor 41c.

[0117] The second distributor 82 and the second power supply conductor 42a are electromagnetically connected by wiring 310. The second distributor 82 and the second power supply conductor 42c are electromagnetically connected by wiring 311. The second distributor 82 is configured to output signals with a phase of 180° to the second power supply conductor 42a and the second power supply conductor 42c.

[0118] The second distributor 83 and the third power supply conductor 43b are electromagnetically connected by wiring 312. The second distributor 83 and the third power supply conductor 43d are electromagnetically connected by wiring 313. The second distributor 83 is configured to output signals with a phase of 180° to the third power supply conductor 43b and the third power supply conductor 43d.

[0119] The second distributor 84 and the fourth power supply conductor 44b are electromagnetically connected by wiring 314. The second distributor 84 and the fourth power supply conductor 44d are electromagnetically connected by wiring 315. The second distributor 84 is configured to output a signal with a phase of 0° to the fourth power supply conductor 44b and the fourth power supply conductor 44d.

[0120] The first distributor 72 is electromagnetically connected to wiring 401, which receives input signals from an external device. The first distributor 72 and the third distributor 93 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 402. The first distributor 72 and the third distributor 94 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 403. The first distributor 71 is configured to output a signal with a phase of 90° to the third distributor 93 and a signal with a phase of 0° to the third distributor 94 when an input signal with a phase of 0° is received from wiring 401.

[0121] The third distributor 93 and the second distributor 85 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 404. The third distributor 93 and the second distributor 86 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 405. The third distributor 93 is configured to output a signal with a phase of -90° to the second distributor 85 and a signal with a phase of 90° to the second distributor 82.

[0122] The third distributor 94 and the second distributor 87 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 406. The third distributor 94 and the second distributor 88 are electromagnetically connected by wiring 407. The third distributor 94 is configured to output a signal with a phase of -180° to the second distributor 87 and a signal with a phase of 0° to the second distributor 88.

[0123] The second distributor 85 and the fourth power supply conductor 44a are electromagnetically connected by wiring 408. The second distributor 85 and the fourth power supply conductor 44c are electromagnetically connected by wiring 409. The second distributor 85 is configured to output signals with a phase of -90° to the fourth power supply conductor 44a and the fourth power supply conductor 44c.

[0124] The second distributor 86 and the third power supply conductor 43a are electromagnetically connected by wiring 410. The second distributor 86 and the third power supply conductor 43c are electromagnetically connected by wiring 411. The second distributor 82 is configured to output signals with a phase of 90° to the third power supply conductor 43a and the third power supply conductor 43c.

[0125] The second distributor 87 and the first power supply conductor 41b are electromagnetically connected by wiring 412. The second distributor 87 and the first power supply conductor 41d are electromagnetically connected by wiring 413. The second distributor 87 is configured to output signals with a phase of -180° to the first power supply conductor 41b and the first power supply conductor 41d.

[0126] The second distributor 88 and the second power supply conductor 42b are electromagnetically connected by wiring 414. The second distributor 88 and the second power supply conductor 42d are electromagnetically connected by wiring 415. The second distributor 88 is configured to output a signal with a phase of 0° to the second power supply conductor 42b and the second power supply conductor 42d.

[0127] In other words, by arranging each distributor as shown in Figure 10, the phase distribution shown in Figures 4 and 5 can be realized. Specifically, by inputting a signal to the first distributor 71, right-hand circular polarization can be realized as shown in Figure 5. Also, by inputting a signal to the first distributor 72, left-hand circular polarization can be realized as shown in Figure 4.

[0128] It is preferable that wiring 302 and wiring 303 are the same length. By making wiring 302 and wiring 303 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wiring.

[0129] It is preferable that wiring 304 and wiring 305 are the same length. By making wiring 304 and wiring 305 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wiring.

[0130] It is preferable that wiring 306 and wiring 307 are the same length. By making wiring 306 and wiring 307 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wiring.

[0131] It is preferable that wiring 308 and wiring 309 are the same length. By making wiring 308 and wiring 309 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wiring.

[0132] It is preferable that wiring 310 and wiring 311 are the same length. By making wiring 310 and wiring 311 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wiring.

[0133] It is preferable that wiring 312 and wiring 313 are the same length. By making wiring 312 and wiring 313 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wiring.

[0134] It is preferable that wiring 314 and wiring 315 are the same length. By making wiring 314 and wiring 315 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wiring.

[0135] It is preferable that wiring 402 and wiring 403 are the same length. By making wiring 402 and wiring 403 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wiring.

[0136] It is preferable that wiring 404 and wiring 405 are the same length. By making wiring 404 and wiring 405 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wiring.

[0137] It is preferable that wiring 406 and wiring 407 are the same length. By making wiring 406 and wiring 407 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wiring.

[0138] It is preferable that wiring 408 and wiring 409 are the same length. By making wiring 408 and wiring 409 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wiring.

[0139] It is preferable that wiring 410 and wiring 411 are the same length. By making wiring 410 and wiring 411 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wiring.

[0140] It is preferable that wiring 412 and wiring 413 are the same length. By making wiring 412 and wiring 413 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wiring.

[0141] It is preferable that wiring 414 and wiring 415 are the same length. By making wiring 414 and wiring 315 the same length, it is possible to prevent a phase shift when the signal flows through each wiring.

[0142] As described above, the sixth embodiment can appropriately emit left-circularly polarized or right-circularly polarized radio waves by inputting a signal to the antenna 1 using three types of distributors.

[0143] In the fifth and sixth embodiments, the distributors were described as being arranged around the antenna 1, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, each distributor may be located inside the antenna 1.

[0144] In the fifth and sixth embodiments, it is preferable that the number of 90° phase difference dividers be two or less. By reducing the number of 90° phase difference dividers to two or less, miniaturization can be achieved.

[0145] While embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the present disclosure is not limited by the content of these embodiments. Furthermore, the aforementioned components include those that are readily conceivable to those skilled in the art, those that are substantially identical, and those that fall within the so-called equivalent range. Moreover, the aforementioned components can be combined as appropriate. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, or modifications of the components can be made without departing from the spirit of the embodiments described above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0146] 1 Antenna 10 Unit Structure 11 Base 21 First Radiating Conductor 22 Second Radiating Conductor 23 Third Radiating Conductor 24. Fourth Radiating Conductor 31 Inner conductor 41 First power supply conductor 42 Second power supply conductor 43 Third power supply conductor 44. Fourth power supply conductor 51 First connecting conductor 52 Second connecting conductor 53 Third connecting conductor 54 Fourth connecting conductor 60 Ground conductor 71,72 1st distributor 81,82,83,84,85,86,87,88 2nd distributor 91,92,93,94,95,96,97,98 Third distributor

Claims

1. It includes multiple unit structures, The multiple unit structures are, Radiating conductor and, Reference conductor and, A first power supply conductor configured to be electromagnetically connected by the aforementioned radiating conductor, A second power supply conductor configured to be electromagnetically connected by the aforementioned radiating conductor, A third power supply conductor configured to be electromagnetically connected by the aforementioned radiating conductor, A fourth power supply conductor configured to be electromagnetically connected by the aforementioned radiating conductor, Equipped with, The first and second power supply conductors are configured to receive signals with opposite phases from each other. The third and fourth power supply conductors are configured to receive signals with opposite phases from each other. antenna.

2. The radiating conductor includes a first radiating conductor, a second radiating conductor, a third radiating conductor, and a fourth radiating conductor. The first power supply conductor is configured to be electrically connected by the first radiating conductor, The second power supply conductor is configured to be electrically connected by the second radiating conductor, The third power supply conductor is configured to be electrically connected by the third radiating conductor, The fourth power supply conductor is configured to be electrically connected by the fourth radiating conductor. The antenna according to claim 1.

3. Multiple of the aforementioned unit structures are arranged in a rotationally symmetrical manner in the first plane. The antenna according to claim 2.

4. It includes four of the aforementioned unit structures, The phases of the signals input to the first, second, third, and fourth power supply conductors, each of the four aforementioned unit structures, are adjusted in 90° increments. The antenna according to claim 3.

5. The distribution of the phase difference of the signals input to the first, second, third, and fourth power supply conductors, each of the four aforementioned unit structures, has rotational symmetry. The antenna according to claim 4.

6. When the four aforementioned unit structures are arranged in a square with rotational symmetry, the unit structures arranged diagonally have the same shape, and the phases of the signals input to the first, second, third, and fourth power supply conductors are adjusted so that the direction of the current vectors is the same. The antenna according to claim 4.

7. In the aforementioned unit structure, the power of the signals input to the first, second, third, and fourth power supply conductors located on a diagonal vector orthogonal to the direction of the current vector is greater than the power of the signals input to the first, second, third, and fourth power supply conductors located on the current vector. The antenna according to claim 6.

8. A first distributor is configured to receive a signal and output two signals of the same phase, A second distributor is configured to receive a signal and output two signals with a phase difference of 90°, It includes a third distributor configured to output two signals with a phase difference of 180° upon receiving a signal, The first power supply conductor, the second power supply conductor, the third power supply conductor, and the fourth power supply conductor are configured to receive signals via the first distributor, the second distributor, and the third distributor. The antenna according to claim 1.

9. The second distributor consists of two or fewer units. The antenna according to claim 8.

10. The plurality of unit structures include a first unit structure, a second unit structure, a third unit structure, and a fourth unit structure. Through the first distributor, the second distributor, and the third distributor, A signal with a phase of 180° is input to the third power supply conductor of the second unit structure and the third power supply conductor of the fourth unit structure. A signal with a phase of 90° is input to the first and third power supply conductors of the first unit structure and the first and third power supply conductors of the third unit structure. A signal with a phase of 0° is input to the second and fourth power supply conductors of the second unit structure, and to the second and fourth power supply conductors of the fourth unit structure. A signal with a phase of -90° is input to the second and fourth power supply conductors of the first unit structure and the second and fourth power supply conductors of the third unit structure. The first power supply conductor of the second unit structure and the fourth power supply conductor of the fourth unit structure are configured to receive a signal with a phase of -180°. The antenna according to claim 8.

11. The plurality of unit structures include a first unit structure, a second unit structure, a third unit structure, and a fourth unit structure. The first power supply conductor and the second power supply conductor of the first unit structure are electromagnetically connected to the same third distributor. The third and fourth power supply conductors of the first unit structure are electromagnetically connected to the same third distributor. The first power supply conductor and the second power supply conductor of the second unit structure are electromagnetically connected to the same third distributor. The third and fourth power supply conductors of the second unit structure are electromagnetically connected to the same third distributor. The first and second power supply conductors of the third unit structure are electromagnetically connected to the same third distributor. The third power supply conductor and the fourth power supply conductor of the third unit structure are electromagnetically connected to the same third distributor. The first and second power supply conductors of the fourth unit structure are electromagnetically connected to the same third distributor. The third power supply conductor and the fourth power supply conductor of the fourth unit structure are electromagnetically connected to the same third distributor. The antenna according to claim 8.

12. The plurality of unit structures include a first unit structure, a second unit structure, a third unit structure, and a fourth unit structure. The first power supply conductor of the first unit structure and the first power supply conductor of the third unit structure are electromagnetically connected to the same second distributor. The second power supply conductor of the first unit structure and the second power supply conductor of the third unit structure are electromagnetically connected to the same second distributor. The third power supply conductor of the second unit structure and the third power supply conductor of the fourth unit structure are electromagnetically connected to the same second distributor. The fourth power supply conductor of the second unit structure and the fourth power supply conductor of the fourth unit structure are electromagnetically connected to the same second distributor. The fourth power supply conductor of the first unit structure and the fourth power supply conductor of the third unit structure are electromagnetically connected to the same second distributor. The third power supply conductor of the first unit structure and the third power supply conductor of the third unit structure are electromagnetically connected to the same second distributor. The first power supply conductor of the second unit structure and the first power supply conductor of the fourth unit structure are electromagnetically connected to the same second distributor. The second power supply conductor of the second unit structure and the second power supply conductor of the fourth unit structure are electromagnetically connected to the same second distributor. The antenna according to claim 8.

Images