Antenna device and method for manufacturing an antenna device

Abstract

To improve the work efficiency for holding a plurality of elements.SOLUTION: An antenna device includes a plurality of elements that form at least a portion of an array antenna, and a holder that integrally holds the plurality of elements.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an antenna device and a method for manufacturing the antenna device.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, various antenna devices have been developed. For example, the antenna device described in Patent Document 1 includes an antenna element composed of a linear or rod-shaped conductor. For example, the antenna element is held by a holder.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] For example, an antenna may be composed of a plurality of elements such as a radiating element and a non-powered element. For example, when holding a plurality of elements by a holder, it is required to improve the working efficiency for holding the plurality of elements.

[0005] An example of the object of the present invention is to improve the working efficiency for holding a plurality of elements. Other objects of the present invention will become apparent from the description herein.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] One aspect of the present invention is a plurality of elements constituting at least a part of an antenna, a holder that integrally holds the plurality of elements, and an antenna device including the same.

[0007] One aspect of the present invention is A method for manufacturing an antenna device, comprising the step of integrally holding multiple elements constituting at least a part of the antenna with a holder.

[0008] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the work efficiency for holding multiple elements can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is an exploded perspective view of the antenna device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] This is an exploded perspective view of an array antenna assembly according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure shows a method for manufacturing an array antenna assembly according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] This figure shows a method for manufacturing an array antenna assembly according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a bottom view of an array antenna assembly according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a cross-sectional view AA' in Figure 5. [Figure 7] This is a bottom view of the array antenna assembly according to Modification 1. [Figure 8] This is a bottom view of the array antenna assembly according to modified example 2. [Figure 9] This is a perspective view of an antenna device relating to a comparative example. [Figure 10] This graph shows the vertical polarization directivity in the horizontal plane of an array antenna according to an embodiment and a comparative example. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments (hereinafter referred to as "this embodiment") and modified examples of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In all drawings, similar components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

[0011] In this specification, ordinal numbers such as "1st," "2nd," and "3rd" are used simply to distinguish similarly named components, unless otherwise specified, and do not imply any specific characteristics of the components (e.g., order or importance).

[0012] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of the antenna device 10 according to this embodiment.

[0013] In Figure 1, the arrows indicating the first direction X, the second direction Y, or the third direction Z indicate that the direction from the base to the tip of the arrow is the positive direction of the direction indicated by the arrow, and the direction from the tip to the base of the arrow is the negative direction of the direction indicated by the arrow.

[0014] The first direction X is the front-to-back direction of the vehicle (not shown) on which the antenna device 10 is mounted. The positive direction of the first direction X is from the rear to the front of the vehicle. The negative direction of the first direction X is from the front to the rear of the vehicle. The second direction Y is perpendicular to the first direction X. The second direction Y is the left-to-right direction of the vehicle on which the antenna device 10 is mounted. The positive direction of the second direction Y is from the right to the left of the vehicle. The negative direction of the second direction Y is from the left to the right of the vehicle. The third direction Z is perpendicular to both the first direction X and the second direction Y. The third direction Z is the up-and-down direction of the vehicle on which the antenna device 10 is mounted. The positive direction of the third direction Z is from the bottom to the top of the vehicle. The negative direction of the third direction Z is from the top to the bottom of the vehicle.

[0015] The antenna device 10 includes a base 110, an antenna case 120, an array antenna assembly 200, a patch antenna assembly 300, and a collinear antenna assembly 400. As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 to be described later, the array antenna assembly 200 has an array antenna substrate 210, an array antenna 220, and an array antenna holder 230. The patch antenna assembly 300 has a patch antenna substrate 310 and a patch antenna 320. The collinear antenna assembly 400 has a collinear antenna substrate 410, a collinear antenna 420, and a parasitic element 430.

[0016] The base 110 is made of a conductor such as metal. The base 110 is disposed on the upper surface side in the positive direction of the third direction Z of the roof of the automobile on which the antenna device 10 is mounted, with the pad P interposed therebetween. When the base 110 is disposed on the upper surface side of the automobile roof, it becomes a ground by being electrically connected to the roof through fastening components. Further, when viewed from the third direction Z, the longitudinal direction thereof is substantially parallel to the first direction X, and the short side direction thereof is substantially parallel to the second direction Y. Note that the base 110 may be composed only of a conductor such as metal, or may be composed of a resin component and a metal component which are insulating members. The base 110 fixes the array antenna assembly 200, the patch antenna assembly 300, and the collinear antenna assembly 400.

[0017] The antenna case 120 is a hollow member made of a synthetic resin (e.g., ABS resin) having radio wave permeability. The antenna case 120 covers the upper part on the positive direction side of the third direction Z of the base 110. The antenna case 120 is attached to the base 110 by fastening its periphery to the periphery of the base 110 at multiple locations. Thereby, the antenna case 120 forms a housing space together with the base 110. The outer shape of the antenna case 120 is in the shape of a shark fin. The above-described housing space becomes wider and higher as it goes in the negative direction of the first direction X. Therefore, the rear part region of the housing space is wider than the front part region. The array antenna assembly 200, the patch antenna assembly 300, and the collinear antenna assembly 400 are housed in the housing space.

[0018] Next, the configuration of the patch antenna assembly 300 and the configuration of the collinear antenna assembly 400 will be described in order. The configuration of the array antenna assembly 200 will be described later with reference to FIG. 2.

[0019] First, the configuration of the patch antenna assembly 300 will be described.

[0020] The patch antenna substrate 310 is a substrate disposed on the upper surface side in the positive direction of the third direction Z of the base 110 and is, for example, a PCB (Printed Circuit Board). When viewed from the third direction Z, the patch antenna substrate 310 is disposed in a substantially central region of the base 110 in the first direction X. One end of the patch antenna cable 302 is electrically connected to the patch antenna substrate 310. The other end of the patch antenna cable 302 is drawn out below the negative direction side of the third direction Z of the base 110 through the lead-out hole 112. When viewed from the third direction Z, the lead-out hole 112 is provided behind the negative direction side of the first direction X of the patch antenna assembly 300 of the base 110.

[0021] The patch antenna 320 is an antenna for GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System). However, the patch antenna 320 may be an antenna for a different purpose than GNSS. When viewed from the third direction Z, the patch antenna 320 has a roughly square shape. However, the shape of the patch antenna 320 is not limited to this example. A radiating element is arranged on the upper surface of the patch antenna 320 in the positive direction of the third direction Z. Note that radio waves for GNSS are an example of circular polarization. The patch antenna 320 only needs to transmit or receive circularly polarized radio waves, and these radio waves are not limited to GNSS radio waves; for example, they may be radio waves for SDARS (Satellite Digital Audio Radio Service).

[0022] The patch antenna 320 according to this embodiment uses a four-point feeding system with meander slots provided near each side of a roughly quadrilateral radiating element. However, the configuration of the patch antenna 320 is not limited to this. For example, various configurations and types of patch antennas can be used, such as a two-point feeding system, a linear slot, or a combination thereof.

[0023] Next, the configuration of the collinear antenna assembly 400 will be described.

[0024] The collinear antenna substrate 410 is a substrate located on the upper side of the base 110 in the positive direction of the third direction Z, and is, for example, a PCB (Printed Circuit Board). Viewed from the third direction Z, the collinear antenna substrate 410 is located in the rear region of the base 110 on the negative side of the first direction X. One end of the collinear antenna cable 402 is electrically connected to the collinear antenna substrate 410. The other end of the collinear antenna cable 402 is routed downward on the negative side of the base 110 in the third direction Z through the exit hole 112.

[0025] The collinear antenna 420 is an antenna for V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) applications. However, the collinear antenna 420 may also be used for applications other than V2X. Note that radio waves for V2X are an example of vertical polarization. The collinear antenna 420 only needs to transmit vertically polarized radio waves, and these radio waves are not limited to those for V2X.

[0026] The parasitic element 430 is positioned at a predetermined distance from the collinear antenna 420 in the negative direction of the second direction Y. The parasitic element 430 is positioned between the collinear antenna 420 and the inner wall of the antenna case 120 in the second direction Y. The parasitic element 430 is rod-shaped and extends from the base 110 in the positive direction of the third direction Z. The parasitic element 430 functions as a reflector. Specifically, the parasitic element 430 guides the radio waves radiated from the collinear antenna 420 in the second direction Y in the negative direction of the first direction X. This strengthens the directivity of the collinear antenna 420 in the negative direction of the first direction X (towards the rear of the car).

[0027] The antennas mounted on the base 110 are not limited to the patch antenna 320 or collinear antenna 420 described in Figure 1. For example, in place of, or in addition to, these antennas described in Figure 1, other antennas for other purposes, such as antennas for TEL (Telephone), AM / FM, DAB (Digital Audio Broadcast), etc., may be mounted on the base 110.

[0028] Next, the configuration of the array antenna assembly 200 will be described using Figure 2. Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the array antenna assembly 200 according to this embodiment.

[0029] The array antenna substrate 210 is a substrate located on the upper surface side of the base 110 in the positive direction of the third direction Z, and is, for example, a PCB (Printed Circuit Board). Viewed from the third direction Z, the array antenna substrate 210 is located in the front region of the base 110 on the positive direction side of the first direction X. One end of the array antenna cable 202 is electrically connected to the array antenna substrate 210. The other end of the array antenna cable 202 is routed downward on the negative direction side of the base 110 in the third direction Z through the exit hole 112.

[0030] The array antenna 220 includes a radiating element 222, a director element 224, a left-reflecting element 226a, a right-reflecting element 226b, and a back-reflecting element 226c. The radiating element 222, director element 224, left-reflecting element 226a, right-reflecting element 226b, and back-reflecting element 226c are made of a conductor such as metal. The director element 224, left-reflecting element 226a, right-reflecting element 226b, and back-reflecting element 226c are unpowered elements. As will be described later with reference to Figures 3 and 6, the radiating element 222 is provided with a radiating element junction hole 222a. As will be described later with reference to Figures 3 and 6, the director element 224 is provided with a director element junction hole 224a. As will be described later with reference to Figures 3 and 6, the right-reflecting element 226b is provided with a pair of reflecting element junction holes 226ba. The left-facing reflector 226a and the rear-facing reflector 226c are also provided with a pair of reflector bonding holes, similar to those provided with the right-facing reflector 226b.

[0031] The array antenna holder 230 integrally holds the radiating element 222, the director element 224, the left-reflecting element 226a, the right-reflecting element 226b, and the back-reflecting element 226c. Thus, even though these elements are physically separated from each other, their positions are regulated by the array antenna holder 230. Therefore, these elements are physically coupled via the array antenna holder 230. The array antenna holder 230 is fixed to the upper surface of the array antenna substrate 210 on the positive side of the third direction Z by holder fixing screws 242. The holder fixing screws 242 penetrate the array antenna substrate 210 from the lower surface of the array antenna substrate 210 on the negative side of the third direction Z and are inserted through the lower surface of the array antenna holder 230 on the negative side of the third direction Z. The array antenna substrate 210 is fixed to the upper surface of the base 110 on the positive side of the third direction Z by four substrate fixing screws 244. Each board fixing screw 244 is inserted through the array antenna board 210 from above on the positive side of the third direction Z of the array antenna board 210 and through to the upper surface of the base 110 on the positive side of the third direction Z.

[0032] The radiating element 222 extends substantially parallel to the third direction Z. That is, the longitudinal direction of the radiating element 222 is substantially parallel to the third direction Z, and the short direction of the radiating element 222 is substantially perpendicular to the third direction Z. Viewed from the third direction Z, the radiating element 222 is positioned substantially in the center of the array antenna substrate 210 in the second direction Y. The lower end of the radiating element 222 on the negative side of the third direction Z penetrates the array antenna substrate 210 in the third direction Z. The lower end of the radiating element 222 on the negative side of the third direction Z is electrically connected to the lower surface of the array antenna substrate 210 on the negative side of the third direction Z by soldering. The lower end of the radiating element 222 on the negative side of the third direction Z is electrically connected to a feed point provided on the lower surface of the array antenna substrate 210 on the negative side of the third direction Z.

[0033] Viewed from the third direction Z, the waveguide element 224 is positioned in front of the radiating element 222 on the positive side of the first direction X. The waveguide element 224 extends approximately parallel to the third direction Z. That is, the longitudinal direction of the waveguide element 224 is approximately parallel to the third direction Z, and the short direction of the third direction Z is approximately perpendicular to the third direction Z. The height of the waveguide element 224 in the third direction Z is lower than the height of the radiating element 222 in the third direction Z.

[0034] Viewed from the third direction Z, the left-facing reflector 226a is positioned diagonally to the left and rear of the radiating element 222 on the negative side of the first direction X and the positive side of the second direction Y. Viewed from the third direction Z, the right-facing reflector 226b is positioned diagonally to the right and rear of the radiating element 222 on the negative side of the first direction X and the negative side of the second direction Y. Viewed from the third direction Z, the rear-facing reflector 226c is positioned behind the radiating element 222 on the negative side of the first direction X. Viewed from the third direction Z, the rear-facing reflector 226c is positioned further rear on the negative side of the first direction X than the left-facing reflector 226a and the right-facing reflector 226b. The left-facing reflector 226a, the right-facing reflector 226b and the rear-facing reflector 226c extend approximately parallel to the third direction Z. That is, the longitudinal direction of each reflecting element is approximately parallel to the third direction Z, and the short direction of each reflecting element is approximately perpendicular to the third direction Z. The heights in the third direction Z of the left-reflecting element 226a, the right-reflecting element 226b, and the rear-reflecting element 226c are higher than the height in the third direction Z of the radiating element 222.

[0035] The waveguide element 224 guides the radio waves radiated from the radiating element 222. The left-reflecting element 226a, the right-reflecting element 226b, and the back-reflecting element 226c shield the radio waves radiated from the radiating element 222. Therefore, the array antenna 220 has directivity in the forward direction of the positive direction of the first direction X due to the waveguide element 224, the left-reflecting element 226a, the right-reflecting element 226b, and the back-reflecting element 226c.

[0036] The array antenna 220 is a mobile communication antenna, such as a V2X antenna. However, the array antenna 220 can also be used for other media by appropriately adjusting the shape and arrangement of each element. For example, the array antenna 220 can be used as a Wi-Fi® antenna or a cellular antenna. In this example, the directivity of the array antenna 220 can be adjusted by appropriately adjusting the shape and arrangement of each element.

[0037] The array antenna holder 230 covers at least a portion of the radiating element 222, the director element 224, the left-reflecting element 226a, the right-reflecting element 226b, and the back-reflecting element 226c from above on the positive side of the third direction Z. Therefore, if the array antenna holder 230 is made of a dielectric material such as resin, the wavelength of the radio waves operated by the radiating element 222, the director element 224, the left-reflecting element 226a, the right-reflecting element 226b, and the back-reflecting element 226 can be shortened by the dielectric material constituting the array antenna holder 230. As a result, the longitudinal length of each element required to obtain the desired wavelength can be shortened compared to a case where each element is not covered by a dielectric material.

[0038] Figures 3 and 4 show a method for manufacturing the array antenna assembly 200 according to this embodiment. In Figures 3 and 4, the negative direction of the third direction Z is the direction that points upward in the vertical direction, and the positive direction of the third direction Z is the direction that points downward in the vertical direction.

[0039] The array antenna assembly 200 is manufactured as follows:

[0040] First, as shown in Figure 3, the array antenna holder 230 is prepared. The array antenna holder 230 has a central insertion hole 232, a front insertion hole 234, a left insertion hole 236a, a right insertion hole 236b, and a rear insertion hole 236c on its negative side in the third direction Z. Each hole extends substantially parallel to the third direction Z. The central insertion hole 232, front insertion hole 234, left insertion hole 236a, right insertion hole 236b, and rear insertion hole 236c are provided in the array antenna holder 230 so that when the radiating elements, waveguide elements, and reflecting elements inserted into each insertion hole are installed on the array antenna substrate 210, the positional relationship of these elements is such that the directivity of the radiating element 222 is improved. In other words, the array antenna holder 230 can regulate the position of these elements, thereby suppressing and stabilizing the reduction in the directivity of the array antenna 220.

[0041] Next, the radiating element 222, the waveguide element 224, the left-reflecting element 226a, the right-reflecting element 226b, and the rear-reflecting element 226c are inserted into the central insertion hole 232, the front insertion hole 234, the left insertion hole 236a, the right insertion hole 236b, and the rear insertion hole 236c, respectively, in substantially the same direction. As a result, the array antenna holder 230 integrally holds the radiating element 222, the waveguide element 224, the left-reflecting element 226a, the right-reflecting element 226b, and the rear-reflecting element 226c. Therefore, the work of holding the radiating element 222, the waveguide element 224, the left-reflecting element 226a, the right-reflecting element 226b, and the rear-reflecting element 226c with the array antenna holder 230 becomes easier. This improves the efficiency of the work. Furthermore, the array antenna holder 230 can regulate the position of these elements in all directions, including the first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z. This stabilizes the directivity of the array antenna 220. Specifically, in this embodiment, the central insertion hole 232, the front insertion hole 234, the left insertion hole 236a, the right insertion hole 236b, and the rear insertion hole 236c are aligned in substantially the same direction, substantially parallel to the third direction Z. This makes it easy to align the radiating element 222, the director element 224, the left reflecting element 226a, the right reflecting element 226b, and the rear reflecting element 226c in substantially the same direction, substantially parallel to the third direction Z. Also, in this embodiment, there is no need to change the orientation or posture of the array antenna holder 230 when inserting each element into each insertion hole. Therefore, the work of assembling each element into the array antenna holder 230 becomes easier. This improves the efficiency of the work.

[0042] Next, as shown in Figure 4, the array antenna substrate 210 is attached to the negative side of the third direction Z of the array antenna holder 230. Specifically, two guide protrusions 238a are provided on the negative side of the third direction Z of the array antenna holder 230. Two guide holes 218a are provided on the array antenna substrate 210. By inserting each guide protrusion 238a into each guide hole 218a, the array antenna substrate 210 can be aligned with the array antenna holder 230.

[0043] With the radiating element 222 inserted through the central insertion hole 232, one end of the radiating element 222 on the negative side of the third direction Z protrudes from the negative side of the third direction Z surface of the array antenna holder 230. Specifically, the array antenna substrate 210 is provided with an element through-hole 212. With the array antenna substrate 210 attached to the negative side of the third direction Z surface of the array antenna holder 230, one end of the radiating element 222 on the negative side of the third direction Z passes through the element through-hole 212.

[0044] Next, the array antenna holder 230 and the array antenna substrate 210 are fixed together by holder fixing screws 242 so that the array antenna holder 230 aligns with the radiating element junction hole 222a, the waveguide element junction hole 224a, the left-leaning reflector element 226a, and the right-leaning reflector element 226b in the third direction Z. Specifically, the array antenna substrate 210 is provided with holder fixing screw through holes 242a. The lower surface of the array antenna holder 230 on the negative side of the third direction Z is provided with holder fixing screw holes 242b. The holder fixing screws 242 are inserted from the negative side of the third direction Z of the array antenna substrate 210, through the holder fixing screw through holes 242a, and into the holder fixing screw holes 242b. In this way, the array antenna substrate 210 is fixed to the negative side of the third direction Z of the array antenna holder 230.

[0045] In this embodiment, the holder fixing screw 242 is capable of operating as a powerless element that constitutes a part of the array antenna 220. As described above, the holder fixing screw 242 is inserted through the holder fixing screw hole 242b substantially parallel to the third direction Z. As a result, the array antenna holder 230 integrally holds the holder fixing screw 242, the radiating element 222, the waveguide element 224, the left-reflecting element 226a, the right-reflecting element 226b, and the rear-reflecting element 226c in substantially the same direction.

[0046] In this embodiment, the holder fixing screw 242 is a conductor capable of operating as a waveguide element with a lower profile than the radiating element 222 in the third direction Z. Therefore, the directivity of the array antenna 220 can be corrected depending on the length of the holder fixing screw 242 in the third direction Z and the position of the holder fixing screw 242. For example, if a parasitic element is provided outside the array antenna holder 230 instead of the holder fixing screw 242, an area is required around the array antenna holder 230 for installing the parasitic element, in addition to the area for attaching the array antenna holder 230 to the array antenna substrate 210. Therefore, if the holder fixing screw 242 can operate as a parasitic element, such an area becomes unnecessary, and the installation space of the array antenna assembly 200 can be reduced.

[0047] In this embodiment, when viewed from the third direction Z, the holder fixing screw 242 is positioned diagonally forward to the right on the positive side of the first direction X and the negative side of the second direction Y of the radiating element 222. Therefore, the array antenna 220 can have directivity diagonally forward to the right on the positive side of the first direction X and the negative side of the second direction Y. However, the configuration of the holder fixing screw 242 is not limited to the configuration in this embodiment. As shown in Figures 7 and 8 described later, the position of the holder fixing screw 242 may be set appropriately depending on the application in the electrical design.

[0048] In this embodiment, with multiple elements constituting the array antenna 220 inserted through multiple insertion holes provided in the array antenna holder 230, the array antenna holder 230 and the array antenna substrate 210 can be fixed together without changing the orientation or position of the array antenna holder 230. That is, the array antenna holder 230 and the array antenna substrate 210 can be fixed together from substantially the same direction as when the elements were inserted. Therefore, the work of assembling these multiple elements and the array antenna holder 230 onto the array antenna substrate 210 becomes easier. As a result, the efficiency of this work can be improved.

[0049] Next, one end of the radiating element 222 on the positive side in the third direction Z is soldered to the positive side in the third direction Z of the array antenna substrate 210. This makes the point where the radiating element 222 connects to the array antenna substrate 210 the power supply point for the radiating element 222. Also, one end of the array antenna cable 202 is soldered to the positive side in the third direction Z of the array antenna substrate 210. This allows the current supplied from the array antenna cable 202 to be passed through a pattern formed on the array antenna substrate 210 to energize one end of the radiating element 222.

[0050] Next, the array antenna substrate 210 and the base 110 are fixed together using four substrate fixing screws 244 as shown in Figure 2. Specifically, the array antenna substrate 210 is provided with four substrate fixing screw through holes 244a. The four substrate fixing screws 244 are inserted from the positive side of the third direction Z of the array antenna substrate 210 through the four substrate fixing screw through holes 244a and into the positive side of the third direction Z of the base 110. In this way, the array antenna substrate 210 is fixed to the positive side of the third direction Z of the base 110.

[0051] In this embodiment, multiple elements constituting the array antenna 220 are inserted through multiple insertion holes provided in the array antenna holder 230, and the array antenna holder 230 is fixed to the array antenna substrate 210, allowing the array antenna substrate 210 and the base 110 to be fixed together. Therefore, the assembly of the array antenna substrate 210, array antenna 220, and array antenna holder 230 to the base 110 becomes easier. This improves the efficiency of the assembly process.

[0052] In this way, the array antenna assembly 200 is manufactured.

[0053] Figure 5 is a bottom view of the array antenna assembly 200 according to this embodiment. In Figure 5, the array antenna substrate 210 is shown transparently for illustrative purposes. In Figure 5, the white circle with an X indicating the third direction Z indicates that the direction from the front to the back of the paper is the positive direction of the third direction Z, and the direction from the back to the front of the paper is the negative direction of the third direction Z.

[0054] Viewed from the third direction Z, each of the radiating element 222, the waveguide element 224, the left-reflecting element 226a, the right-reflecting element 226b, and the rear-reflecting element 226c is bent in a substantially symmetrical shape along the short-side direction of each element. Therefore, the rigidity of each element can be improved compared to the case where each element is not bent. As a result, deformation of each element can be suppressed when each element is inserted into the insertion hole provided in the array antenna holder 230. Also, viewed from the third direction Z, the width in the short-side direction of each of the left-reflecting element 226a, the right-reflecting element 226b, and the rear-reflecting element 226c is wider compared to the case where each reflecting element is a simple linear or rod shape. Therefore, the electrical capacitance of each reflecting element can be increased compared to the case where each reflecting element is a simple linear or rod shape, and the length in the longitudinal direction of each reflecting element can be shortened while maintaining the electrical function of each reflecting element.

[0055] Viewed from the third direction Z, the bending angle of the waveguide element 224 is directed forward on the positive side of the first direction X. That is, viewed from the third direction Z, the bending angle of the waveguide element 224 is the closest to the inner wall of the antenna case 120 within the entire waveguide element 224. The bending angle of the waveguide element 224 is the part that contributes most to the radiation of radio waves within the entire waveguide element 224. The closer this part is to the inner wall of the antenna case 120, the more the influence of the antenna case 120 is suppressed, and the gain deviation of the array antenna 220 can be reduced.

[0056] Similarly to the waveguide element 224, when viewed from the third direction Z, the bend of the radiating element 222 is directed forward on the positive side of the first direction X. Therefore, when viewed from the third direction Z, the bend of the radiating element 222 can be brought as close as possible to the inner wall of the antenna case 120 within the entire radiating element 222. When viewed from the third direction Z, the bend of the left-leaning reflecting element 226a is directed diagonally forward to the left on the positive side of the first direction X and the positive side of the second direction Y. Therefore, when viewed from the third direction Z, the bend of the left-leaning reflecting element 226a can be brought as close as possible to the inner wall of the antenna case 120 within the entire left-leaning reflecting element 226a. When viewed from the third direction Z, the bend of the right-leaning reflecting element 226b is directed diagonally forward to the right on the positive side of the first direction X and the negative side of the second direction Y. Therefore, when viewed from the third direction Z, the bending corner of the right-facing reflector 226b can be brought as close as possible to the inner wall of the antenna case 120 within the entirety of the right-facing reflector 226b.

[0057] Viewed from the third direction Z, both ends of the waveguide element 224 in the short-side direction are fixed by a pair of first ribs 234b1 and second ribs 234b2 of the array antenna holder 230. Specifically, the positive end of the waveguide element 224 in the short-side direction of the second direction Y is held between the first rib 234b1 on the positive side of the second direction Y and the positive end of the second rib 234b2 on the positive side of the second direction Y. The negative end of the waveguide element 224 in the short-side direction of the second direction Y is held between the first rib 234b1 on the negative side of the second direction Y and the negative end of the second rib 234b2 on the negative side of the second direction Y. In other words, the pair of first ribs 234b1 and second ribs 234b2 are fixing parts that fix the waveguide element 224 and the array antenna holder 230 to each other in the short-side direction of the waveguide element 224. Therefore, the pair of first ribs 234b1 and second ribs 234b2 allow the waveguide element 224 to be held more firmly in the short-side direction relative to the array antenna holder 230. In the example shown in Figure 5, each of the radiating element 222, left-reflecting element 226a, right-reflecting element 226b, and back-reflecting element 226c is also fixed to the array antenna holder 230 in the short-side direction of each element by a structure similar to that described for the waveguide element 224.

[0058] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of Figure 5, AA'. In Figure 6, the white circle with an X indicating the second direction Y shows that the direction from the front to the back of the paper is the positive direction of the second direction Y, and the direction from the back to the front of the paper is the negative direction of the second direction Y.

[0059] The array antenna assembly 200 will be described below with reference to Figure 6, and, where necessary, to Figure 3.

[0060] As shown in Figures 3 and 6, a waveguide element junction hole 224a is provided approximately in the center of the waveguide element 224 in the third direction Z. As shown in Figure 6, a waveguide element junction portion 234a is provided approximately in the center of the front insertion hole 234 in the third direction Z. The waveguide element junction hole 224a and the waveguide element junction portion 234a are fixing portions that fix the waveguide element 224 and the array antenna holder 230 to each other in the longitudinal direction of the waveguide element 224. Therefore, the waveguide element junction hole 224a and the waveguide element junction portion 234a allow the waveguide element 224 to be held more firmly in the longitudinal direction of the waveguide element 224 relative to the array antenna holder 230.

[0061] As shown in Figure 6, the waveguide element junction 234a includes a first inclined surface 234a1 and a first step 234a2. Viewed from the negative direction of the second direction Y, the first inclined surface 234a1 is inclined with respect to the third direction Z. Specifically, viewed from the negative direction of the second direction Y, the first inclined surface 234a1 is inclined toward the negative direction side of the first direction X as it moves toward the positive direction of the third direction Z. The first step 234a2 is inclined with respect to the third direction Z from the positive end of the first inclined surface 234a1 toward the positive direction side of the first direction X. The first inclined surface 234a1 and the first step 234a2 interfere with the insertion path through which the waveguide element 224 of the front insertion hole 234 is inserted. When the waveguide element 224 is inserted into the front insertion hole 234 from the negative side of the third direction Z, the tip of the waveguide element 224 on the positive side of the third direction Z comes into contact with the first inclined surface 234a1. As the waveguide element 224 is further inserted while this tip is in contact with the first inclined surface 234a1, the tip of the waveguide element 224 moves on the first inclined surface 234a1. When the tip of the waveguide element 224 moves to the end of the first inclined surface 234a1, the first step 234a2 enters the waveguide element junction hole 224a of the waveguide element 224, and the first step 234a2 and the waveguide element junction hole 224a come into contact. The waveguide element junction 234a is joined to the waveguide element junction hole 224a by the snap-fit ​​operation in this configuration.

[0062] As shown in Figure 3, the waveguide element 224 has a shape that is substantially symmetrical with respect to the center of the waveguide element 224 in the longitudinal direction. Therefore, the waveguide element 224 can be inserted into the central insertion hole 232 from either end in the longitudinal direction of the waveguide element 224.

[0063] As shown in Figures 3 and 6, a radiating element joining hole 222a is provided on the positive side of the third direction Z of the radiating element 222. As shown in Figure 6, a radiating element joining portion 232a is provided on the positive side of the third direction Z of the central insertion hole 232. The radiating element joining hole 222a and the radiating element joining portion 232a are fixing portions that fix the radiating element 222 and the array antenna holder 230 to each other in the longitudinal direction of the radiating element 222. Therefore, the radiating element joining hole 222a and the radiating element joining portion 232a allow the radiating element 222 to be held more firmly in the longitudinal direction of the radiating element 222 relative to the array antenna holder 230.

[0064] As shown in Figure 6, the radiating element junction 232a includes a second inclined surface 232a1 and a second step 232a2. Viewed from the negative direction of the second direction Y, the second inclined surface 232a1 is inclined with respect to the third direction Z. Specifically, viewed from the negative direction of the second direction Y, the second inclined surface 232a1 is inclined toward the negative direction side of the first direction X as it moves toward the positive direction of the third direction Z. The second step 232a2 is inclined with respect to the third direction Z from the positive end of the second inclined surface 232a1 toward the positive direction side of the first direction X. The second inclined surface 232a1 and the second step 232a2 interfere with the insertion path through which the radiating element 222 of the central insertion hole 232 is inserted. When the radiating element 222 is inserted into the central insertion hole 232 from the negative side of the third direction Z, the tip of the radiating element 222 on the positive side of the third direction Z comes into contact with the second inclined surface 232a1. As the radiating element 222 is further inserted while the tip of the radiating element 222 is in contact with the second inclined surface 232a1, the tip of the radiating element 222 moves on the second inclined surface 232a1. When the tip of the radiating element 222 moves to the end of the second inclined surface 232a1, the second step 232a2 enters the radiating element joining hole 222a of the radiating element 222, and the second step 232a2 and the radiating element joining hole 222a come into contact. The radiating element joining portion 232a is joined to the radiating element joining hole 222a by the snap-fit ​​operation in this configuration.

[0065] The radiating element joint hole 222a is provided on the positive side of the third direction Z of the radiating element 222 with respect to the center of the third direction Z of the radiating element 222. Therefore, when inserting the radiating element 222 into the central insertion hole 232, the opportunity for the radiating element joint portion 232a to contact the radiating element 222 can be limited to only when one end of the radiating element 222 on the positive side of the third direction Z reaches the vicinity of the end of the central insertion hole 232 on the positive side of the third direction Z. This reduces interference caused by contact between the radiating element joint portion 232a and the radiating element 222 when inserting the radiating element 222 into the central insertion hole 232. Therefore, the pushing load on the radiating element 222 during insertion can be reduced, making it easier to assemble the array antenna assembly 200.

[0066] Each of the left-facing reflector 226a, the right-facing reflector 226b, and the rear-facing reflector 226c is fixed to the array antenna holder 230 in the longitudinal direction of each reflector by a structure substantially similar to that described for the radiating element 222. Specifically, as shown in Figure 3, the right-facing reflector 226b is provided with a pair of reflector joint holes 226ba. The pair of reflector joint holes 226ba are arranged substantially symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal center of the right-facing reflector 226b. That is, the right-facing reflector 226b has a substantially symmetrical shape with respect to the longitudinal center of the right-facing reflector 226b. The joint provided in the right-facing insertion hole 236b is joined to the reflector joint hole 226ba located on the positive side of the third direction Z by a snap-fit ​​operation. Therefore, the right-facing reflector 226b can be inserted into the right-facing insertion hole 236b from either end of the right-facing reflector 226b in the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, when inserting the right-facing reflector 226b into the right-facing insertion hole 236b, the opportunity for the joint to contact the right-facing reflector 226b can be limited to only when one end of the right-facing reflector 226b on the positive side of the third direction Z reaches the vicinity of the end of the right-facing insertion hole 236b on the positive side of the third direction Z. Therefore, interference due to contact between the joint and the right-facing reflector 226b when inserting the right-facing reflector 226b into the right-facing insertion hole 236b can be reduced. Consequently, the pushing load on the right-facing reflector 226b during insertion can be reduced, making it easier to assemble the array antenna assembly 200. The same applies to the left-facing reflector 226a and the rear-facing reflector 226c.

[0067] In the example shown in Figure 6, at least a portion of the negative end of the third direction Z of the radiating element 222 is spaced in the third direction Z away from the positive side of the third direction Z of the array antenna substrate 210. Similarly, at least a portion of the negative end of the third direction Z of the waveguide element 224 is spaced in the third direction Z away from the positive side of the third direction Z of the array antenna substrate 210. The same can be done for the left-reflecting element 226a, the right-reflecting element 226b, and the back-reflecting element 226c. Therefore, contact between the negative end of each element in the third direction Z and the positive side of the third direction Z of the array antenna substrate 210 can be suppressed. As a result, the array antenna substrate 210 can be reliably positioned on the negative side of the third direction Z of the array antenna holder 230 without interference from the negative end of each element in the third direction Z. Therefore, the array antenna substrate 210 can be securely held in place by the array antenna holder 230 and the holder fixing screw 242, and variations in the height of the array antenna assembly 200 in the third direction Z can be reduced.

[0068] In the example shown in Figure 6, a recess 230a is provided on the negative side of the third direction Z of the array antenna holder 230. At least a portion of the recess 230a overlaps with at least a portion of the negative side of the first direction X of the array antenna substrate 210 in the third direction Z. The provision of the recess 230a prevents the array antenna cable 202, which is drawn out from the array antenna substrate 210 toward the negative side of the first direction X, from interfering with the negative side of the third direction Z of the array antenna holder 230.

[0069] Figure 7 is a bottom view of the array antenna assembly 200A according to Modification 1. The array antenna assembly 200A according to Modification 1 is the same as the array antenna assembly 200 according to this embodiment, except for the following points. In Figure 7, for explanatory purposes, a central axis C is virtually depicted that passes through the center of the second direction Y of the array antenna holder 230A substantially parallel to the first direction X.

[0070] In Modification 1, when viewed from the third direction Z, the two holder fixing screws 242A are arranged substantially symmetrically with respect to the central axis C of the array antenna holder 230A. The two holder fixing screws 242A in Modification 1 are inserted through the array antenna substrate 210A from the lower surface on the negative side of the third direction Z of the array antenna substrate 210A, and through to the lower surface on the negative side of the third direction Z of the array antenna holder 230A, in the same manner as the holder fixing screws 242 in the present embodiment. When viewed from the third direction Z, the two holder fixing screws 242A in Modification 1 are arranged diagonally to the left front of the radiating element 222 on the positive side of the first direction X and the positive side of the second direction Y, and diagonally to the right front of the radiating element 222 on the positive side of the first direction X and the negative side of the second direction Y.

[0071] The two holder fixing screws 242A in Modification 1 are capable of operating as passive elements constituting a part of the array antenna 220A, similar to the holder fixing screws 242 in this embodiment. The array antenna holder 230A in Modification 1 holds the two holder fixing screws 242A, the radiating element 222, the waveguide element 224, the left-reflecting element 226a, the right-reflecting element 226b, and the rear-reflecting element 226c integrally in substantially the same direction, similar to the array antenna holder 230 in this embodiment. In Modification 1, as in this embodiment, the directivity of the array antenna 220A can be corrected according to the length of the two holder fixing screws 242A in the third direction Z and the position of the two holder fixing screws 242A. For example, in Modification 1, a directivity that is substantially symmetric with respect to the central axis C when viewed from the third direction Z can be achieved.

[0072] Figure 8 is a bottom view of the array antenna assembly 200B according to Modification 2. The array antenna assembly 200B according to Modification 2 is the same as the array antenna assembly 200 according to this embodiment, except for the following points.

[0073] In Modification 2, when viewed from the third direction Z, the holder fixing screw 242B is positioned on the central axis C of the array antenna holder 230B. The holder fixing screw 242B in Modification 2 is inserted through the array antenna substrate 210B from the lower surface on the negative side of the third direction Z of the array antenna substrate 210B, and through to the lower surface on the negative side of the third direction Z of the array antenna holder 230B, in the same manner as the holder fixing screw 242 in the present embodiment. When viewed from the third direction Z, the holder fixing screw 242B in Modification 2 is positioned in front of the radiating element 222 on the positive side of the first direction X.

[0074] The holder fixing screw 242B in Modification 2 is capable of operating as a powerless element constituting a part of the array antenna 220B, similar to the holder fixing screw 242 in the present embodiment. The array antenna holder 230B in Modification 2 holds the holder fixing screw 242B, the radiating element 222, the waveguide element 224, the left-reflecting element 226a, the right-reflecting element 226b, and the rear-reflecting element 226c integrally in substantially the same direction, similar to the array antenna holder 230 in the present embodiment. In Modification 2, as in the present embodiment, the directivity of the array antenna 220B can be corrected according to the length of the holder fixing screw 242B in the third direction Z and the position of the holder fixing screw 242B. For example, in Modification 2, a directivity that is substantially symmetric with respect to the central axis C when viewed from the third direction Z can be achieved.

[0075] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the antenna device 10K according to the comparative example. The antenna device 10K according to the comparative example is the same as the antenna device 10 according to the present embodiment, except for the following points.

[0076] The comparative example antenna device 10K comprises a base 110K, an array antenna substrate 210K, an array antenna 220K, a front holder 230aK, and a rear holder 230bK. The comparative example array antenna 220K has a radiating element 222K, a waveguide element 224K, a left-reflecting element 226aK, a right-reflecting element 226bK, and a back-reflecting element 226cK. The comparative example array antenna 220K is positioned on the upper surface side of the array antenna substrate 210K in the positive direction of the third direction Z. The array antenna substrate 210K is fixed to the upper surface side of the base 110K in the positive direction of the third direction Z.

[0077] The radiating element 222K and the waveguide element 224K are inserted through the front holder 230aK in the third direction Z. The upper end of the radiating element 222K on the positive side in the third direction Z protrudes from the upper surface of the front holder 230aK on the positive side in the third direction Z. The left-reflecting element 226aK and the right-reflecting element 226bK are mounted on the front surface of the rear holder 230bK on the positive side in the first direction X. The upper ends of the left-reflecting element 226aK and the right-reflecting element 226bK on the positive side in the third direction Z are bent towards the rear on the negative side in the first direction X. The rear-reflecting element 226cK is mounted on the rear surface of the rear holder 230bK on the negative side in the first direction X. The upper end of the rear-reflecting element 226cK on the positive side in the third direction Z is bent towards the front on the positive side in the first direction X.

[0078] Figure 10 is a graph showing the vertical polarization directivity in the horizontal plane of the array antenna 220 according to this embodiment and the array antenna 220K according to a comparative example. The horizontal plane is a plane perpendicular to the third direction Z.

[0079] The numbers around the circles in the graph shown in Figure 10 indicate the direction (in degrees). The numbers from the center of the graph in Figure 10 to the direction 270° indicate the gain (in dBi). In the graph shown in Figure 10, direction 0° is forward on the positive side of the first direction X. Direction 90° is to the left on the positive side of the second direction Y. Direction 180° is backward on the negative side of the first direction X. Direction 270° is to the right on the negative side of the second direction Y.

[0080] As shown in Figure 10, the array antenna 220 in this embodiment can be given directivity in the direction of azimuth 0°, similar to the array antenna 220K of the comparative example. The rearward gain in the direction of azimuth 90° to 270° in this embodiment is lower than the rearward gain in the direction of azimuth 90° to 270° in the comparative example. Therefore, in this embodiment, forward directivity is achieved more than in the comparative example. This result suggests that by integrally holding the multiple elements constituting the array antenna 220 with the array antenna holder 230, the dielectric shortening effect of the array antenna holder 230 is achieved, strengthening the electrical operation of the left-reflecting element 226a, the right-reflecting element 226b, and the rear-reflecting element 226c, thereby stabilizing the directivity of the array antenna 220.

[0081] The gain at azimuth 300° and its vicinity in this embodiment is higher than the gain at other azimuths in this embodiment and the gain at azimuth 300° and its vicinity in the comparative example. This result suggests that the holder fixing screw 242 in this embodiment is acting as a waveguide element.

[0082] In this embodiment, as described above, when viewed from the third direction Z, the holder fixing screw 242 is positioned diagonally forward to the right on the positive side of the first direction X and the negative side of the second direction Y of the radiating element 222. Therefore, as described above, the array antenna 220 can have directivity diagonally forward to the right on the positive side of the first direction X and the negative side of the second direction Y. This makes it possible to achieve good antenna characteristics. However, as explained with reference to Figure 7, when viewed from the third direction Z, the two holder fixing screws 242A may be arranged substantially symmetrically with respect to the central axis C of the array antenna holder 230A. Alternatively, as explained with reference to Figure 8, when viewed from the third direction Z, the holder fixing screw 242B may be positioned on the central axis C of the array antenna holder 230B. In the examples shown in Figures 7 and 8, it is possible to realize an antenna with directivity substantially symmetrical with respect to the central axis C when viewed from the third direction Z.

[0083] Although embodiments and variations of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings, these are merely examples of the present invention, and various other configurations can also be adopted.

[0084] For example, in this embodiment, the multiple elements held by the antenna array holder have a longitudinal direction substantially parallel to the third direction Z. However, the shape of each element is not limited to this example. For example, each element may be plate-shaped with a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the third direction Z.

[0085] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the array antenna holder holds multiple elements in substantially the same direction (third direction Z). However, some elements held by the antenna array holder may be oriented in a different direction from the other elements held by the antenna array holder, for example, in the first direction X or the second direction Y.

[0086] According to this specification, the following embodiments of antenna devices and methods for manufacturing antenna devices are provided. (Aspect 1) In embodiment 1, the antenna device comprises a plurality of elements that constitute at least a part of the antenna, The system includes a holder that integrally holds the plurality of elements.

[0087] "Multiple elements" correspond to the "radiating element," "waveguide element," "left-reflecting element," "right-reflecting element," "backward-reflecting element," and "holder fixing screw" in the above-described embodiment and modified examples. "Holder" corresponds to the "array antenna holder" in the above-described embodiment and modified examples.

[0088] According to the above-described embodiment, the holder facilitates the process of holding multiple elements. Therefore, the efficiency of the process of holding multiple elements can be improved.

[0089] (Aspect 2) In embodiment 2, the holder is provided with multiple insertion holes through which the multiple elements are inserted.

[0090] The "multiple insertion holes" correspond to the "central insertion hole," "front insertion hole," "left insertion hole," "right insertion hole," "rear insertion hole," and "holder fixing screw hole" in the above-described embodiment and modified examples.

[0091] According to the above-described embodiment, by aligning multiple insertion holes in substantially the same direction, multiple elements can be inserted in substantially the same direction. Therefore, the work of assembling multiple elements into the holder becomes easier. As a result, the work efficiency for assembling multiple elements into the holder can be improved. Furthermore, since each element is provided with an insertion hole, multiple elements can be assembled using these insertion holes. This allows for the positioning of the multiple elements to be controlled.

[0092] (Aspect 3) In embodiment 3, the antenna device further comprises a substrate that overlaps the plurality of insertion holes, and the holder and the substrate are fixed to each other.

[0093] The "substrate" corresponds to the "array antenna substrate" in the above-described embodiment and modified examples.

[0094] According to the above-described embodiment, the holder can be fixed to the substrate from substantially the same direction as when inserting multiple elements. Therefore, the work of assembling multiple elements and the holder to the substrate becomes easier. As a result, the work efficiency for assembling multiple elements and the holder to the substrate can be improved.

[0095] (Aspect 4) In embodiment 4, at least a portion of the end of at least one of the elements on the side where the substrate is located is spaced apart from the substrate.

[0096] According to the above-described embodiment, contact between the edges of the element and the substrate can be suppressed. Therefore, the substrate can be reliably placed on the holder and securely fixed to the holder without interference from the edges of the element.

[0097] (Aspect 5) In embodiment 5, the antenna device further comprises a fixing portion that fixes at least one of the elements and the holder to each other.

[0098] The "fixing portion" corresponds to the "first rib," "second rib," "waveguide element bonding hole," and "waveguide element bonding portion" in the above-described embodiment and modified examples.

[0099] According to the above-described embodiment, the fixing portion can more firmly hold the element in place of the holder.

[0100] (Aspect 6) In embodiment 6, at least one of the elements is bent along the shorter direction of the element.

[0101] According to the above-described embodiment, the rigidity of the element can be improved compared to the case where the element is not bent.

[0102] (Aspect 7) In embodiment 7, at least one of the elements has a shape that is substantially symmetrical with respect to the center of the element in a predetermined direction.

[0103] According to the above-described embodiment, the element can be inserted into the insertion hole of the holder from either end of the element in a predetermined direction.

[0104] (Pattern 8) In embodiment 8, the holder covers at least a portion of the plurality of elements.

[0105] According to the above-described embodiment, when the holder is made of a dielectric material, the wavelength of the radio waves operating in the element can be shortened by the dielectric material constituting the holder. Therefore, compared to the case where the element is not covered by a dielectric material, the longitudinal length of each element required to obtain the desired wavelength can be shortened.

[0106] (Aspect 9) In embodiment 9, the method for manufacturing the antenna device includes a step of integrally holding a plurality of elements constituting at least a part of the antenna with a holder.

[0107] "Multiple elements" correspond to the "radiating element," "waveguide element," "left-reflecting element," "right-reflecting element," "backward-reflecting element," and "holder fixing screw" in the above-described embodiment and modified examples. "Holder" corresponds to the "array antenna holder" in the above-described embodiment and modified examples.

[0108] According to the above-described embodiment, the holder facilitates the process of holding multiple elements. Therefore, the efficiency of the process of holding multiple elements can be improved.

[0109] (Aspect 10) In embodiment 10, in the step of holding the plurality of elements with the holder, the plurality of elements are inserted through a plurality of insertion holes provided in the holder.

[0110] The "multiple insertion holes" correspond to the "central insertion hole," "front insertion hole," "left insertion hole," "right insertion hole," "rear insertion hole," and "holder fixing screw hole" in the above-described embodiment and modified examples.

[0111] According to the above-described embodiment, by aligning multiple insertion holes in substantially the same direction, multiple elements can be inserted in substantially the same direction. Therefore, the work of assembling multiple elements into the holder becomes easier. As a result, the work efficiency for assembling multiple elements into the holder can be improved.

[0112] (Aspect 11) In embodiment 11, the method for manufacturing the antenna device further includes a step of fixing the holder and the substrate such that the holder overlaps with the plurality of insertion holes.

[0113] According to the above-described embodiment, the holder and the substrate can be fixed from substantially the same direction as when inserting multiple elements. Therefore, the work of assembling multiple elements and the holder onto the substrate becomes easier. As a result, the work efficiency for assembling multiple elements and the holder onto the substrate can be improved.

[0114] (Aspect 12) In embodiment 12, the method for manufacturing the antenna device further includes a step of fixing the substrate and the base.

[0115] According to the above-described embodiment, the substrate and the base can be fixed together with multiple elements inserted through the insertion holes and the holder fixed to the substrate. Therefore, the work of assembling the substrate, multiple elements, and holder to the base becomes easier. As a result, the work efficiency for assembling the substrate, multiple elements, and holder to the base can be improved. [Explanation of symbols]

[0116] 10,10K antenna equipment 110,110K base 112 Extraction hole 120 Antenna Case 200, 200A, 200B Array Antenna Assembly 202 Array Antenna Cable 210, 210A, 210B, 210K Array Antenna Board 212 Element through-holes 218a Guide hole 220, 220A, 220B, 220K array antennas 222,222K radiating element 222a Radiation element junction hole 224,224K waveguide element 224a Waveguide element junction hole 226a,226aK Left reflective element 226b,226bK Right reflective element 226ba Reflector element bonding hole 226c, 226cK back reflector 230, 230A, 230B Array Antenna Holder 230a recess 230aK Front Holder 230bK Rear Holder 232 Central insertion hole 232a Radiation element junction 232a1 2nd slope 232a2 Second step 234 Front insertion hole 234a Waveguide element junction 234a1 1st slope 234a2 First step 234b1 First Rib 234b2 Second Rib 236a Left insertion hole 236b Right insertion hole 236c Rear insertion hole 238a Guide projection 242, 242A, 242B Holder fixing screws 242a Holder fixing screw through hole 242b Holder fixing screw hole 244 Circuit board fixing screws 244a Through-hole for fixing screws to the circuit board 300 Patch Antenna Assembly 302 Patch Antenna Cable 310 Patch Antenna Board 320 Patch Antenna 400 Collinear Antenna Assembly 402 Collinear Antenna Cable 410 Collinear Antenna Board 420 Collinear Antenna 430 Powerless element C center axis P Pad X 1st direction Y Second direction Z 3rd direction

Claims

1. Bass and, A plurality of elements constituting at least a part of the antenna, which is positioned above the base, A holder that integrally holds the aforementioned plurality of elements, Equipped with, The holder has a plurality of insertion holes through which the plurality of elements are inserted, An antenna device in which the plurality of elements are inserted into the plurality of insertion holes from the side on which the base is located.

2. The base further comprises a substrate disposed on the upper side and overlapping the plurality of insertion holes, The antenna device according to claim 1, wherein the holder and the substrate are fixed to each other.

3. Multiple elements that constitute at least a part of the antenna, A holder that integrally holds the plurality of elements and is provided with a plurality of insertion holes through which the plurality of elements are inserted, A substrate that overlaps with the aforementioned plurality of insertion holes, Equipped with, The holder and the substrate are fixed to each other. An antenna device in which at least a portion of the end of at least one of the elements on the side where the substrate is located is spaced apart from the substrate.

4. Multiple elements that constitute at least a part of the antenna, A holder that integrally holds the aforementioned plurality of elements, At least one of the elements, the holder, and a fixing part that fixes them to each other, An antenna device equipped with the following features.

5. Multiple elements that constitute at least a part of the antenna, A holder that integrally holds the aforementioned plurality of elements, Equipped with, An antenna device in which at least one of the elements is bent along the short-side direction of the element.

6. The antenna device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein at least one of the elements has a shape that is substantially symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal center of the element.

7. The antenna device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the holder covers at least a portion of the plurality of elements.

8. The process includes a step of integrally holding multiple elements constituting at least a part of the antenna with a holder, A method for manufacturing an antenna device, comprising the step of holding the plurality of elements with the holder, wherein the plurality of elements are inserted into a plurality of insertion holes provided in the holder.

9. A step of integrally holding multiple elements constituting at least a part of the antenna with a holder, A step of arranging the plurality of elements and the holder above the base, Equipped with, A method for manufacturing an antenna device, comprising the step of holding the plurality of elements with the holder, wherein the plurality of elements are inserted into a plurality of insertion holes provided in the holder from the side on which the base is located.

10. The method for manufacturing an antenna device according to claim 8, further comprising the step of fixing the holder and the substrate so that the plurality of insertion holes overlap with the substrate.

11. The method for manufacturing an antenna device according to claim 9, further comprising the step of fixing the holder and the substrate such that the plurality of insertion holes overlap with the substrate disposed on the upper surface side of the base.

12. A method for manufacturing an antenna device according to claim 11, further comprising the step of fixing the substrate and the base.

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