Radome for a base station antenna of a mobile communications network

Abstract

The invention is referring to a radome for a base station antenna of a mobile communications network. The radome (2) comprises multiple radome segments (11, 12, 13, 14) that are connected to each other to form a hull of the radome (2), wherein the radome segments (11, 12, 13, 14) comprise a first radome segment (11) and a second radome segment (12), wherein the first radome segment (11) and the second radome segment (12) are adjacent and are made of plastic, wherein a first connection section (21) is extending along a common edge of the first radome segment (11) and the second radome segment (12) for connecting the first radome segment (11) to the second radome segment (12), wherein the first connection section (21) is aligned on a front side (7) of the radome (2), and wherein the first radome segment (11) is aligned entirely on the front side (7) of the radome (2) and the second radome segment (12) is a corner segment that comprises a first portion that is extending on the front side (7) and a second portion that is forming at least a portion of a sidewall (8) of the hull of the radome (2).

Description

[0001] Radome for a base station antenna of a mobile communications network

[0002] Technical field

[0003] The invention refers to a radome for a base station antenna of a mobile communications network.

[0004] Base station antennas are components of mobile communications networks. The base station antennas are part of the radio access network (RAN) and allow to establish a radio communication between a user equipment (UE) and a base station that comprises the base station antenna.

[0005] Today the most common solution for a radome is a closed profile produced with an endless procedure. This is still mainly pultrusion but sometimes extrusion as well. The first one works with glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP) with glass contents around 60%. The latter one utilizes thermoplastic material. Sometimes there are solutions with half-shells to find which are often combined with a metal chassis.

[0006] Figure 1 shows a base station antenna 1 with a radome 2 according to the prior art. The radome 2 is forming a tube and a cross section of the tube is depicted. A antenna module 3 is aligned inside of the radome 2. The tube has a front side 7, two sidewalls 8 and a backside 9. The antenna module 3 comprises a reflector 5 that is aligned inside of the radome 2, wherein antenna dipoles 4 are aligned on the reflector 5. The antenna dipoles 4 are configured to emit radio waves in a primary radiation direction 6 through a front side 7 of the radome 2. Typically, the radome 2 comprises a fixation element that is fixating the radome 2 to the reflector 5.

[0007] W02023035095A1 discloses an antenna that includes a reflector, a plurality of dipole antenna elements projecting forward of the reflector, and a plurality of radome elements arranged to reside in front of the reflector. Each of the plurality of radome elements resides over one or more of the dipole antenna elements. Neighbouring pairs of the radome elements are positioned laterally spaced apart with a longitudinally extending segment of the reflector residing therebetween that is exposed to environmental conditions to thereby provide external heat dissipation paths. CN203521607U discloses a radome that is assembled from a plurality of parts.

[0008] WO2023072387A1 discloses a radome for radiators of a radiator assembly, wherein a cover has a U-shaped cross-section.

[0009] Summary

[0010] A radome for a base station antenna of a mobile communications network according to the invention comprises multiple radome segments that are connected to each other to form a hull of the radome. The radome segments comprise a first radome segment and a second radome segment, wherein the first radome segment and the second radome segment are adjacent and are made of plastic. A first connection section is extending along a common edge of the first radome segment and the second radome segment for connecting the first radome segment to the second radome segment, wherein the first connection section is aligned on a front side of the radome, and wherein the first radome segment is aligned entirely on the front side of the radome and the second radome segment is a corner segment that comprises a first portion that is extending on the front side and a second portion that is forming at least a portion of a sidewall of the hull of the radome.

[0011] The radome is for a base station antenna of a mobile communications network. The mobile communications network is preferably a cellular network. A radome is a structure that is configured to allow a transmission of radio waves that are emitted by an antenna that is covered by the radome.

[0012] The multiple radome segments are connected to each other to form the radome. The radome is preferably forming a closed surface that results from combining the multiple radome segments. The multiple radome segments comprise the first radome segment and the second radome segment, wherein the first radome segment and the second radome segment are adjacent. Preferably, the multiple radome segments comprise further radome segments. The multiple radome segments are preferably a number of exactly two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or ten radome segments that are combined to form the radome. The multiple radome segments are optionally all made of the same material.

[0013] The second radome segment is a corner segment. Therefore, the second radome segment comprises an edge or a curvature that allows to connect the front side and a sidewall of the radome. The radome preferably comprises two sidewalls, wherein the sidewalls are preferably both connecting the front side of the radome with a backside of the radome. The two sidewalls are opposing sides of the radome. The front side of the radome is typically a side of the radome that has a larger surface than each one of the sidewalls. The backside of the radome and the front side of the radome are opposing sides of the radome. The first connection section is extending along a common edge of the first radome segment and the second radome segment for connecting the first radome segment to the second radome segment. The first connection section is preferably a continuous connection along the common edge. The first connection section is creating a stable and preferably water-resistant connection in between the first radome segment and the second radome segment for protecting the antenna module that is mounted inside the radome when the radome is mounted to a base station antenna. The first connection section is optionally a section in which additional components are provided for connecting the first radome segment and the second radome segment, such as glue or a connector element. In the alternative, the first radome segment and the second radome segment are formed in a way that these segments can be connected without any additional components. The first connection section is optionally providing a non-destructive detachable connection.

[0014] The first radome segment and the second radome segment are made of plastic. This implies that the first radome segment and the second radome segment are both made of a material that allows a passing of electromagnetic waves. As both of the first radome segment and the second radome segment are made of plastic, the base station antenna is able to transmit electromagnetic waves into a direction that is covered by any of the first radome segment and the second radome segment, allowing a wide coverage angle for the base station antenna. Same applies for receiving electromagnetic waves.

[0015] Due to the use of multiple radome segments, the radome can be designed in a way that less space for transport is required, as the radome can be dismantled into more compact parts. A modular radome is created in which a width of the radome can be adjusted by adapting the size of the first radome segment in production while maintaining the second radome segment unchanged. As the first connection section is aligned entirely on the front of the radome, the first radome segment can be optionally designed to have a simple design, for example to have a pure plate shape or a simple curvature. This makes it technically easier to adopt a radome to new requirements in production when design changes to the base station are done.

[0016] In particular passive Mobile Communication Antennas are usually protected from environmental influences like rain or solar radiation by a radome. Since this must take the impact of wind load it is also a part of the mechanical structure of an antenna. The described base station antenna has preferably a size range of 1,5m - 2,6m length, 300mm - 600mm width and 200mm - 300mm height. The length and the width are defining a size of the frontside. The length and the height, also referred to as depth, is defining a size of the sidewalls. Usually there are certain different widths of antennas. That means for a new width a whole new radome needs to be designed hence there is a high variety of parts with high initial investment cost per part (tooling). This can be overcome by the modularity of the described radome.

[0017] Preferably, the front side of the radome is an area of the hull of the radome that is located in a primary radiation direction of the base station antenna when mounted to the base station antenna. The primary radiation direction of the base station antenna is an area in which a main lobe of the base station antenna is extending. That is, the front side of the radome is in an area that is covered by a main lobe of the base station antenna.

[0018] Preferably, the radome segments comprise a third radome segment that is shaped identically to the second radome segment, wherein a size of the third radome segment is identical to a size of the second radome segment. The size of the third radome segment is identical to the size of the second radome segment. In other words, a dimension of the third radome segment is preferably identical to a dimension of the second radome segment. Parts of the same shape and size are used. This leads to the advantage that only one component shape must be produced in one size and that the radome segments with the same shape and size can be used either as third radome segment or as second radome segment when assembling the radome. This leads to a reduction of production costs, as the same production process can be used for different parts, here radome segments, of the radome. Preferably, the third radome segment is made of plastic.

[0019] Preferably, the radome segments further comprise the third radome segment, wherein a second connection section is extending along a common edge of the first radome segment and the third radome segment for connecting the first radome segment to the third second radome segment, wherein the second connection section is aligned on the front side of the radome. This allows that the first radome segment is held on opposite sides by two adjacent radome segments. Therefore, no further mounting elements are required for holding the first radome segment in position. In particular, the first radome segment is not necessarily connected to an antenna module or reflector of the base station antenna. Also, a symmetric structure can be achieved, which allows easier production, as elements with a same shape and size can be used as second and third radome segment.

[0020] Preferably, the radome segments comprise a fourth radome segment that is shaped identically to the first radome segment, wherein a size of the first radome segment is identical to a size of the fourth radome segment. The size of the first radome segment is identical to the size of the fourth radome segment. In other words, a dimension of the first radome segment is preferably identical to a dimension of the fourth radome segment. Parts of the same shape and size are used. This leads to the advantage that only one component shape must be produced in one size and that the radome segments with the same shape and size can be used either as first radome segment or as fourth radome segment when assembling the radome. This leads to a reduction of production costs, as the same production process can be used for different parts, here radome segments, of the radome. The fourth radome segment can be aligned in any area of the radome and is preferably forming a portion of the front side, a sidewall or a backside of the radome. Preferably, the fourth radome segment is made of plastic.

[0021] Preferably, at least one of the radome segments is made from an air-incorporating material structure. This reduces the weight of the radome and is providing flexibility for the design of the radome. Preferably, the air-incorporating material is a thermoplastic material. This allows an easy shaping of the radome segments in production. Preferably, the first radome segment and the second radome segment are made from the air-incorporating material structure. Further preferably, the second radome segment and the third radome segment are made from the airincorporating material structure. Preferably, all of the radome segments of the radome are made from the air-incorporating material structure.

[0022] Preferably, the air-incorporating material structure is formed by a multiwall sheet, in particular by a polycarbonate multiwall sheet. Thus, a strong structure with low weight is achieved. The walls of the multiwall sheet are preferably extending in a direction that is parallel to the common edge of the first radome segment and the third radome segment. Therefore, any potential liquids or dirt that might enter into the structure of the radome at the common edge will not be able to further spread into the structure of the radome and can be transported through the channels of the multiwall sheet to the lowest point of the radome, where the liquids and the dirt can leave the structure of the radome.

[0023] Referring to an electrical performance of the radome, it is noted that with existing radome material it is difficult to meet demanded pattern or gain of the electrical parameters. Especially with higher frequencies that come up with e.g., 5G the electrical properties (Dk and Df) of the current material like glassfiber reinforced plastics are too high. The use of thermoplastic radomes can improve the electrical properties. With the use of the air-incorporating material structure, it is avoided that a barrier for the radiation from the dipoles is generated because of too much material in the radiation direction of the antenna. Radomes of e.g. a 2-Meter-Antenna weigh around 8kg, which is basically nearly 20% of the whole antenna. This can be decreased by the use of a air-incorporating material structure. The still mostly widespread solution uses composite glassfiber mats, which has a negative environmental impact. This kind of material is hard to recycle and hence doesn't count as very sustainable. Therefore, the use of a thermoplastic material is advantageous.

[0024] Preferably, the first radome segment comprises a first connecting edge and the second radome segments comprises a second connecting edge, wherein the first connection section comprises the first connecting edge and the second connecting edge. The first connecting edge and the second connecting edge are formed for connecting the first radome segment to the second radome segment, wherein the first connecting edge and the second connecting edge are preferably shaped to form a form-fitting or a force fitting connection.

[0025] Preferably, the radome has an emission area on the front side, wherein the emission area is an area that has a constant thickness, wherein the first connection section is part of the emission area, having the same constant thickness as the emission area, or wherein the first connection section is adjacent to the emission area and a maximal thickness of the first connection section is smaller or equal to the thickness of the emission area.

[0026] The emission area is an area that is foreseen to be in the path of a radio transmission of the base station antenna. The emission area is a logically defined area and is not necessarily a visible segment of the radome, while it can be identified as an area of constant thickness. When the radome is mounted to a base station antenna, the base station antenna is configured to transmit information towards a user equipment through the emission area. The first connection section is optionally in a communication path of a radio transmission that is sent or received from the base station antenna. It is therefore desirable that the first connection section has minimal impact on the radio communication that is performed via the base station antenna. This is achieved by maintaining a constant thickness of the radome in areas that are in a path of radio communication.

[0027] Preferably, the first connecting edge and the second connecting edge are forming a sliding connection. This allows easy manufacturing of the radome while a stable connection is achieved in between the radome segments is achieved. The portion of the first radome segment and the portion of the second radome segment connection that are forming the sliding connection are preferably formed by in one part from the plastic material of the first radome segment and the second radome segment. Preferably, a sliding connection is also formed by the connecting edges between the first radome segment and the third radome segment, wherein the sliding connection is preferably identical to the a sliding connection between the first radome segment and the second radome segment. A sliding connection is considered to be identical when the connecting edges of one sliding connection fit into the corresponding connecting edge of the other sliding connection.

[0028] Preferably, either one of the first connecting edge and the second connecting edge is shaped to form a channel, and the other one of the first connecting edge and the second connecting edge comprises a connection portion that is configured to slide into the channel for fixing the first connecting edge to the second connecting edge. Preferably, the channel has an opening towards a front wall of the corresponding radome segment, wherein the width of the channel is extending inside the channel behind the opening. The connection portion has a shape that fits into the channel, in particular an inverse shape of the channel. Preferably, the connecting portion comprises a notch on one or two sides of the corresponding radome segment, wherein the notch reduced a thickness of the radome segment to be essentially the same as the opening of the channel.

[0029] Preferably, one of the radome segments is a first plate shaped segment, wherein a plate shaped segment is a segment that has a constant thickness over the entire segment. Preferably, the first plate shaped segment is of the same material and / or structure over the entire radome segment. A plate shaped segment is a segment that has the same thickness over the entire radome segment and has a flat surface. That is, a plate shaped segment is a flat piece of the radome. It is noted that a plate shaped segment is still considered to be plate shaped in case there are any holes in the surface of the plate shaped segment or in case the plate shaped segment is continuously bent or curved over its entire width or length due to a pressure that is applied to the sidewalls of the plate shaped segment in its mounting position. Preferably, the plate shaped segment has a circumferential sidewall that is connecting an upper side of the plate shaped segment to a lower side of the plate shaped segment, wherein this circumferential sidewall is perpendicular to the upper side of the plate shaped segment and to the lower side of the plate shaped segment. Preferably, the upper side of the plate shaped segment to the lower side of the plate shaped segment is rectangular. Plate shaped segments are segments that can be manufactured and purchased for low costs. Due to the simple and basic shape, no development efforts are necessary when changing the size of the plate shaped segment for adapting the size of the radome. Therefore, a width or height of the radome, depending on the alignment of the radome segment that has the first plate shaped segment, can be easily modified in production by replacing the first plate shaped segment. By using plate shaped segments, new size variants of the radome don’t require new tooling, this saves cost and reduces time to market. It also allows for more customer specific solutions since size variants don’t need to be a compromise anymore as even small steps in size are feasible. Logistics cost can be reduced even further since flat pieces and custom rails require the least transport volume. Sheets, that is plate shaped segments, could be cut close to or within production sites on demand to a production lot which reduces the required storage and increases flexibility. Flat semi-manufactured parts are available in various materials, colors and surfaces which gives the flexibility to easily change the properties of a certain area of the antenna housing (e. g. plastics reinforced vs non reinforced for different structural or electrical performance, sheet metal for shielding, outside appearance, avoid local specific material restrictions such as PVC or PFAS ban etc., influence RF performance through material / surface variation or coating, influence structural performance through material / surface variation or coating, influence aerodynamic performance through material / surface variation or coating). The plate shaped segment preferably interlocks with the custom side pieces, that is at least with the second radome segment, to create the radome.

[0030] Preferably, one of the radome segments is a second plate shaped segment, wherein the first plate shaped segment and the second plate shaped segment are aligned on opposite sides of the radome. Thus, a width or depth of the radome can be easily modified for opposing sides of the radome.

[0031] Preferably, the first radome segment is the first plate shaped segment. Therefore, a width of the radome can be changed with low constructional efforts.

[0032] Preferably, the first plate shaped segment is aligned in between two adjacent radome segments, the adjacent radome segments both being adjacent to the plate shaped segment, wherein the adjacent radome segments are connected to each other via a mounting element, wherein a first one of the adjacent radome segments is mounted to a first side of the mounting element and a second one of the adjacent radome segments is mounted to a second side of the mounting element, and wherein the plate shaped segment is held in its mounting position by the two adjacent radome segments. Preferably, the first radome segment is the first plate shaped segment that is aligned in between the two adjacent radome segments, wherein the adjacent radome segments are the second radome segment and the third radome segment. Therefore, the first plate shaped segment is preferably the first radome segment, which is aligned in between the second radome segment and the third radome segment. Preferably, the first plate shaped segment is clamped or fixated in between the adjacent radome segments. The mounting element can be a reflector (assembly), a frequency selective surface (FFS), a radome support, a traverse, a phase shifter bridge or other (existing) structures in the base station antenna that span the antenna from side to side. Other solutions that would allow to avoid the use of a mounting element would be adhesives or welding at the interconnections or additional fasteners like screws, rivets or custom parts.

[0033] Preferably, one of the radome segments is a third plate shaped segment, wherein the third plate shaped segment is held in its mounting position in between two radome segments that are connected to the first side of the mounting element. This allows that multiple plate shaped segments can be held by a single mounting element that is only connected to adjacent radome segments of the plate shaped segments. Preferably, the third plate shaped segment is fixated in between the adjacent radome segments.

[0034] Preferably, the radome is forming a tube and the connection section is extending from a first end of the tube to a second end of the tube. This shape for a radome is commonly used for base station antennas, which allows to provide a modular system for providing radomes for different antenna types.

[0035] Preferably, the tube is closed by two endcaps, that are aligned on opposite endings of the tube.

[0036] Preferably, one of the multiple radome segments comprises a notch on an outer surface of the radome, wherein preferably an aerodynamic element is held by the notch. The notch is preferably extending to an edge of the tube that is formed by the radome. A width of the notch is preferably increasing with a distance to the outer surface of the radome. The aerodynamic element is preferably sided into the notch for mounting the aerodynamic element.

[0037] Preferably, all radome segments are made of the same plastic, which allows to simplify a production process. In the alternative, the first radome segments and the second radome segment are made of different types of plastic. Preferably, the third radome segment is made of the same type of plastic as the second radome segment. This allows to adapt a damping of the electromagnetic waves that are emitted by the base station antenna under the consideration of the required structural strength of the radome segments. In particular, the plastic that is used for the second radome segment and / or the third radome segment has a material characteristic that leads to a higher damping than the plastic that is used for the first radome segment. Preferably, the base station is a base station antenna is an antenna of a macro base station.

[0038] An antenna system comprising the base station antenna and the radome according to the invention is suitable to achieve all advantages of the radome.

[0039] Brief description of the drawings

[0040] Fig. 1 shows a cross section of a base station antenna according to the known prior art, figs. 2a to 2e show various embodiments of a base station antenna according to the invention, fig. 3 shows a front view of a base station antenna according to an embodiment of the invention, fig. 4 shows a detail view of a connections section of a radome according to an embodiment of the invention, fig. 5 shows a detail view of a fixation notch in a radome according to an embodiment of the invention, figs. 6a to 6d show different details of a radome with plate shaped segments according to an embodiment of the invention, and figs. 7a to 7d show different details of a radome with plate shaped segments according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0041] Detailed description

[0042] Figure 1 shows a base station antenna system 1 with a radome 2 according to the prior art, wherein the radome 2 is forming a tube and a cross section of the tube is depicted. The radome 2 is made from a single part. Therefore, it is necessary to re-design the entire radome 2 when changing the size or shape of the reflector 5. Also, such a radome 2 is costly in transport, as multiple radomes of the same type cannot be stacked efficiently.

[0043] Figures 2a to 2e are illustrating embodiments of an antenna system 1 according to invention, wherein the radome 2 comprises multiple radome segments 11 , 12, 13, 14 that are connected to each other to form the radome 2. Thus, a modular radome 2 is created that can be modified with low efforts, without re-designing all components, and that allows efficient stacking of the radome segments 11 , 12, 13, 14 for transport. In all embodiments that are depicted with Figures 2a to 2d the radome 2 is forming a tube, wherein a cross section of the tube is depicted in Figures 2a to 2e. The tube has a front side 7, two sidewalls 8a, 8b and a backside 9. The base station antenna 1 comprises the radome 2 and an antenna module 3 that is aligned inside the radome 2 and is therefore protected against environmental conditions. The antenna module 3 comprises a reflector 5, wherein antenna dipoles 4 are aligned on the reflector 5. The antenna dipoles 4 are configured to emit radio waves in a primary radiation direction 6 through a front side 7 of the radome. The primary radiation direction 6 is defined by the design of the antenna module 3, for example by the alignment of the reflector 5 in relation to the dipoles 4. The front side 7 is a side of the radome 2 that is visible when viewing the radome 2 from the front. The backside 9 is an opposite side of the front side 7. The sidewalls 8a, 8b connect the front side 7 to the backside 9, wherein the sidewalls 8a, 8b are aligned on opposite sides of the radome 2. The sidewalls 8a, 8b, comprise a first sidewall 8a, which is depicted on the right side in Figures 2a to 2e, and a second sidewall 8b, which is depicted on the left side in Figures 2a to 2e.

[0044] Preferably, the radome 2 comprises a fixation element that is fixating the radome 2 to the reflector 5. The front side 7 of the radome 2 is an area of the radome 2 that is located in the primary radiation direction 6 of the antenna module 3 when the radome 2 is mounted to the base station antenna 1.

[0045] The radome segments 11 , 12, 13, 14 are all made from an air-incorporating material structure, wherein the air-incorporating material structure is a multiwall sheet. The air-incorporating material structure is made of a thermoplastic material and is therefore made of plastic, which is formed into the required shape of the corresponding radome segment 11 , 12, 13, 14 that is made from the air-incorporating material structure. The walls of the multiwall sheet are forming canals, wherein the walls of the multiwall sheet are preferably aligned in a way that the canals are connecting the ends of the tube that is formed by the radome 2. This allows that fluids can flow to a bottom side of the radome segments 11 , 12, 13, 14 to exit the radome 2 at a bottom side.

[0046] Figure 2a shows a radome 2 that comprises four radome segments 11 , 12, 13, 14. That is, the radome 2 comprises a first radome segment 11 , a second radome segment 12, a third radome segment 13 and a fourth radome segment 14. The multiple radome segments 11 , 12, 13, 14 are connected to each other to form the radome 2. The first radome segment 11 is aligned entirely on the front side 7 of the radome 2. The fourth radome segment 14 is aligned entirely on the backside 9 of the radome 2. The second radome segment 12 is a corner segment that comprises a first portion that is extending on the front side 7 and a second portion that is forming at least a portion of the first sidewall 8a of the radome 2. Further than that, the second radome segment 12 comprises a third portion that is extending on the backside 9 of the radome 2. Thus, the second portion of the second radome segment 12 is forming the entire first sidewall 8a. The third radome segment 13 is a corner segment that comprises a first portion that is extending on the front side 7 and a second portion that is forming at least a portion of the second sidewall 8b of the radome 2. Further than that, the third radome segment 13 comprises a third portion that is extending on the backside 9 of the radome 2. Thus, the second portion of the third radome segment 13 is forming the entire second sidewall 8b. The second radome segment 12 and the third radome segment 13 are both U-shaped segments.

[0047] Adjacent ones of the radome segments 11 , 12, 13, 14 are connected in a corresponding connection section that is extending along a common edge of the adjacent radome segments. In this embodiment, the radome 2 comprises four connection sections 21 , 22, 23, 24, wherein a connection section is an area in which adjacent ones of the four radome segments 11 , 12, 13, 14 are connected to each other. A first connection section 21 is an area in which the first radome segment 11 is connected to the second radome segment 12, wherein the first radome segment 11 and the second radome segment 12 are adjacent. A second connection section 22 is an area in which the first radome segment 11 is connected to the third radome segment 13, wherein the first radome segment 11 and the third radome segment 13 are adjacent. A third connection section 23 is an area in which the second radome segment 12 is connected to the fourth radome segment 14, wherein the second radome segment 12 and the fourth radome segment 14 are adjacent. A fourth connection section 24 is an area in which the third radome segment 13 is connected to the fourth radome segment 14, wherein the third radome segment 13 and the fourth radome segment 14 are adjacent.

[0048] Each connection section 21 , 22, 23, 24 is extending along a common edge of the radome segments that are connected by the corresponding connection section. Thus, the first connection section 21 is extending along a common edge of the first radome segment 11 and the second radome segment 12 for connecting the first radome segment 11 to the second radome segment 12. The second connection section 22 is extending along a common edge of the first radome segment 11 and the third radome segment 13 for connecting the first radome segment 11 to the third radome segment 13. The third connection section 23 is extending along a common edge of the second radome segment 12 and the fourth radome segment 14 for connecting the second radome segment 12 to the fourth radome segment 14. The fourth connection section 24 is extending along a common edge of the third radome segment 13 and the fourth radome segment 14 for connecting the third radome segment 13 to the fourth radome segment 14. The connection sections 21, 22, 23, 24 are all extending over the entire length of the tube that is formed by the radome 2. The first connection section 21 and the second connection section 22 are both aligned on the front side 7 of the radome 2. The third connection section 23 and the fourth connection section 24 are both aligned on the backside 9 of the radome 2.

[0049] The first radome segment 11 is shaped identically to the fourth radome segment 14 and has the same size as the fourth radome segment 14. The second radome segment 12 is shaped identically to the third radome segment 13 and has the same size as the third radome segment 13. Thus, the radome segments 11, 12, 13, 14 comprise a third radome segment 13 that is shaped identically to the second radome segment 12, wherein a size of the third radome segment 13 is identical to a size of the second radome segment 12. Also, the radome segments 11 , 12, 13, 14 comprise a fourth radome segment 14 that is shaped identically to the first radome segment 11, wherein a size of the first radome segment 11 is identical to a size of the fourth radome segment 14. Therefore, only two types of radome segments have to be manufactured for the radome 2, which leads to a small number of production processes that have to be implemented.

[0050] Figure 3 shows a front view of the radome 2 that is illustrated in figure 2a. It is depicted that the first connection section 21 and the second connection section 22, which are both aligned on the front side 7, are parallel and are both extending from a first end of the tube that is formed by the radome 2 to a second end of the tube that is formed by the radome 2. The first end of the tube is depicted in the upper area of the radome 2 in figure 3, wherein the first end is closed by a first endcap 51. The second end of the tube is depicted in the lower area of the radome 2 in figure 3, wherein the second end is closed by a second endcap 52. Therefore, the tube is closed by two endcaps 51, 52, that are aligned on opposite endings of the tube.

[0051] Figure 2b is showing a radome 2 that comprises three radome segments 11 , 12, 13. The radome 2 has the features of the radome that is depicted in figure 2a and comprises the first radome segment 11, the second radome segment 12 and the third radome segment 13. However, the second radome segment 12 and the third radome segment 13 are in combination covering the entire backside 9 of the radome 2. Therefore, the second radome segment 12 and the third radome segment 13 are adjacent on the backside 9 and the third connection section 23 and the fourth connection section 24 are replaced by a single fifth connection section 25. The second radome segment 11 and the third radome segment 13 are shaped identically and have an identical size.

[0052] Figure 2c is showing a radome 2 that comprises five radome segments 11 , 12, 13, 14a, 14b. The radome 2 has the features of the radome 2 that is depicted in figure 2a and comprises the first radome segment 11 , the second radome segment 12 and the third radome segment 13. The fourth radome segment 14 is split into two radome segments 14a, 14b of the same size, which means that the radome 2 comprises a left fourth radome segment 14a and a right fourth radome segment 14b. The third radome segment 13 is adjacent to the left fourth radome segment 14a, the left fourth radome segment 14a is adjacent to the right fourth radome segment 14b and the right fourth radome segment 14b is adjacent to the second radome segment 12. Consequently, the third connection section 23 is between the second radome segment 12 and the right fourth radome segment 14b. The fourth connection section 24 is between the left fourth radome segment 14a and the third radome segment 13. The fifth connection section 25 is between the left fourth radome segment 14a and the right fourth radome segment 14b.

[0053] The left fourth radome segment 14a and the right fourth radome segment 14b are shaped identically, wherein a shape and size of the left fourth radome segment 14a is identical to a shape and size of the right fourth radome segment 14b. The second radome segment 12 and the third radome segment 13 are shaped identically, wherein a shape and size of the second radome segment 12 is identical to a shape and size of the third radome segment 13.

[0054] Figure 2d shows a radome 2 that comprises six radome segments 11a, 11 b, 12, 13, 14a, 14b. The radome 2 has the features of the radome that is depicted in figure 2c and comprises the second radome segment 12, the third radome segment 13, the left fourth radome segment 14a and the right fourth radome segment 14b. Further than that, the first radome segment 11 is split into two radome segments 11a, 11 b of the same size, which means that the radome 2 comprises a left first radome segment 11a and a right first radome segment 11b. The third radome segment 13 is adjacent to the left first radome segment 11a, the left first radome segment 11 a is adjacent to the right first radome segment 11 b and the right first radome segment 11 b is adjacent to the second radome segment 12. Consequently, the first connection section 21 is between the second radome segment 12 and the right first radome segment 11 b. The second connection section 21 is between the left first radome segment 11a and the third radome segment 13. A sixth connection section 26 is between the left first radome segment 11a and the right first radome segment 11b. The left first radome segment 11a, the right first radome segment 11 b, the left fourth radome segment 14a and the right fourth radome segment 14b are shaped identically. The second radome segment 12 and the third radome segment 13 are shaped identically.

[0055] Figure 2e is showing a radome 2 that comprises six radome segments 11 , 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18. The radome 2 has the features of the radome that is depicted in figure 2a and comprises the first radome segment 11 , the second radome segment 12, the third radome segment 13 and the fourth radome segment 14. Contrary to the radome of figure 2a, the second radome segment 12 is not extending over the entire first sidewall 8a and the third radome segment 13 is not extending over the entire second sidewall 8b.

[0056] The multiple radome segments 11 , 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18 comprise a fifth radome segment 15 and a sixth radome segment 16 for connecting the second radome segment 12 to the fourth radome segment 14. The second radome segment 12 is adjacent to the fifth radome segment 15. The fifth radome segment 15 is adjacent to the sixth radome segment 16. The sixth radome segment 16 is adjacent to the fourth radome segment 14. A seventh connection section 27a is between the second radome segment 12 and the fifth radome segment 15. An eighth connection section 27b is between the fifth radome segment 15 and the sixth radome segment 16. The third connection section 23 is between the sixth radome segment 16 and the fourth radome segment 14.

[0057] The multiple radome segments 11 , 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18 comprise a seventh radome segment 17 and an eighth radome segment 18 for connecting the third radome segment 13 to the fourth radome segment 14. The third radome segment 13 is adjacent to the seventh radome segment 17. The seventh radome segment 17 is adjacent to the eighth radome segment 18. The eighth radome segment 18 is adjacent to the fourth radome segment 14. A ninth connection section 28a is between the third radome segment 13 and the seventh radome segment 17. A tenth connection section 28b is between the seventh radome segment 17 and the eighth radome segment 18. The fourth connection section 24 is between the eighth radome segment 18 and the fourth radome segment 14.

[0058] The left first radome segment 11 and the fourth radome segment 14 are shaped identically. The second radome segment 12, the third radome segment 13, the sixth radome segment 16 and the eighth radome segment 18 are shaped identically. The fifth radome segment 15 and the seventh radome segment 17 are shaped identically. Referring to all embodiments that are described with figures 2a to 2e, it is noted that these embodiments allow an easy adaptation of a width of the radome 2 by changing the radome segments that are entirely aligned on the frontside 7 or on the backside 9. This is preferable, as these radome segments typically have a less complex shape when compared to the radome segments that are forming the sidewalls of the radome 2. The radome segments are preferably symmetrical elements, wherein each radome segment has preferably two symmetry planes. This allows that one radome segment can be rotated by 180 degrees to be used as a different radome segment. For example, depending on the design of the connection sections, the second radome segment 12 of Figure 2e might be rotated by 180degrees in the depicted plane to be used as the eighth radome segment 18 or the second radome segment 12 of Figure 2e might be rotated by 180 degrees around an axis that is in the depicted plane to be used as the eighth radome segment 18.

[0059] Further referring to the embodiments that are described with figures 2a to 2e, the radome 2 preferably comprises a connecting portion that is configured to mount the radome 2 to the base station antenna 3. In particular, the connecting portion is configured to connect the reflector 5 to at least one of the radome segments that is forming one of the sidewalls of the radome 2. For the embodiments according to figures 2a to 2d it is preferable that the second radome segment 12 and the third radome segment 13 both comprise a connecting portion that is configured to connect the respective radome segment 13 to the reflector 5. For the embodiment according to figure 2e it is preferable that the fifth radome segment 15 and the seventh radome segment 17 both comprise a connecting portion that is configured to connect the respective radome segment 13 to the reflector 5. The connecting portion can be a mechanical connection (interlocking), a sealed mechanical connection or a glued connection. Also sliding or clipping elements can be used to implement the connecting portion.

[0060] The radome 2 is preferably symmetrical in the described embodiments when considering that a symmetry plane is a plane that comprises a centre axis of the tube that is formed by the radome, wherein the symmetry plane is preferably parallel to the frontside or parallel to the sidewalls.

[0061] The connection sections 21 , 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27a, 27b, 28a and 28b are preferably configured to have a low impact on the radio communication that is performed through the radome. This is in particular important, as some of the connection sections, for example the first connection section 21 and the second connection section 22 are optimally aligned in the primary beam of the base station antenna 2. The connection sections can be either a section in which adjacent radome segments are glued together or in which adjacent radome segments are connected by means of a connector element.

[0062] Preferably techniques for the connection sections are described in the following by referring to the first connection section 21. All other connection sections correspond to the first connection section 21.

[0063] Figure 4 is illustrating a preferable first connection section 21 , wherein a first connecting edge 21a and a second edge 21b are forming a sliding connection.

[0064] The first connection section 21 is in between the first radome segment 11 and the second radome segment 12. The first radome segment 11 comprises the first connecting edge 21a and the second radome segment 12 comprises the second connecting edge 21b, wherein the first connection section 21 comprises the first connecting edge 21a and the second connecting edge 21b. In other words, the first connecting edge 21a is connecting to the second connecting edge 21 b for interconnecting the first radome segment 11 and the second radome segment 12. For example, the first connecting edge 21a is glued to the second connecting edge 21b.

[0065] The second connecting edge 21 b is shaped to form a channel. The first connecting edge 21a comprises a connection portion that is configured to slide into the channel for fixing the first connecting 21a edge to the second connecting edge 21 b. The channel and the connection portion are essentially extending over the full length of the first radome segment 11 and the second radome segment 12. Optionally, enough friction is provided for providing a stable connection between the first radome segment 11 and the second radome segment 12 for mounting the radome segments. Further optionally, glue is added to the connection sections for providing a even more stable connection between the first radome segment 11 and the second radome segment 12. It is also preferable that all radome segments are held in position by the two endcaps 51 , 52, that are aligned on the opposite endings of the tube that is formed by the radome 2.

[0066] In alternative embodiments, the first connecting edge 21a is shaped to form the channel and the second connecting edge 21 b comprises the connection portion. For each edge of the multiple radome segments 11 , 12, 13, 14 that is forming a connection section to an adjacent radome segment, it is to be decided whether this edge comprises the channel or the connection portion. Preferably, this decision is made under the objective to maximize the number of radome segments that has an identical shape.

[0067] The radome 2 has an emission area on the front side, wherein the emission area is an area that has a constant thickness h. For example, the first radome segment 11 has a constant thickness h outside of the first connection section 21 and the second connection section 22. Also the first portion of the second radome segment 12 that is extending on the front side 7 has the same constant thickness h outside of the first connection section 21 . However, seeing the first radome segment 11 and the second radome segment 12 as separate elements, the thickness of these elements is reduced in the area of the first connection section 21 to form the necessary shape for the sliding connection.

[0068] The first connection section 21 is on the front side 7 of the radome 2 and it is to be expected that the first connection section 21 is in a way of a radio communication that is performed by using the dipoles 4. Therefore, it is desirable that the first connection section 21 has a minimal impact on the radio communication. This is achieved by constructing the first connection section 21 in a way that the first connection section 21 is having the same constant thickness h as the emission area. In other words, the thickness of the area that is formed by the first radome segment 11 and the first portion of the second radome segment 12 that is extending on the front side 7 is essentially constant over the first connection section 21a, which is achieved by the sliding connection that is depicted in Figure 4. As deviations in the thickness h can result from inaccuracies in the manufacturing process or can be necessary for the functionality of the first connection section 21 , it is considered to be preferable that the thickness is at least not increased by the first connection section 21a. That is, as the emission area is an area that has a constant thickness h, the first connection section 21 is not part of the emission area in case the thickness h is smaller than the adjacent emission area. In this scenario, the first connection section 21 is adjacent to the emission area, as areas of constant thickness h are on both sides of the first connection section 21. A maximal thickness of the first connection section is smaller or equal to the thickness h of the emission area. An increase of the thickness h in the area of the first connection section 21 can lead to portions of the radome 2 that are more exposed to environmental influences, as such portions rise over a continuous surface of the radome 2. This can have a negative impact on the aerodynamic of the radome 2 that should be avoided. Figure 5 is illustrating an alignment of an optional aerodynamic element 30 that is mounted to one of the multiple radome segments 11, 12, 13, 14, preferably to the second radome segment 12 and / or the third radome segment 13. Therefore, the second radome segment 12 and / or the third radome segment 13 preferably comprises a notch 31 on the outer surface of the radome 2, wherein the notch is extending in a direction parallel to the center axis of the tube that is formed by the radome 2. This allows that the aerodynamic element 30 can be slid into the notch 31 for mounting the aerodynamic element 30. Although the notch leads to additional costs in a design process of the radome segments that comprise the notch, the overall costs are optimized, as the size of the radome 2 can be adjusted by changing the size of the first radome segment 11 while the shape of the second radome segment 12 and the third radome segment 13 is maintained unchanged.

[0069] Figures 6a to 6d are illustrating an embodiment in which one of the radome segments 11, 12, 13, 14 is a first plate shaped segment, wherein a plate shaped segment is a segment that has a constant thickness over the entire segment. The radome 2 comprises the configuration of radome segments 11, 12, 13, 14 and connection sections 21, 22, 23, 24 that is described in further detail by referring to figure 2a. The first radome segment 11 is the first plate shaped segment. The fourth radome segment 14 is a second plate shaped segment.

[0070] A plate shaped segment is a segment that has a constant thickness over the entire segment. The plate shape is one of the most common shapes in which materials can be purchased. Therefore, the plate shaped segment is an element that can be purchased and integrated to the radome 2 very cost effective, as for example no specific pressing molds or processing steps are required for adapting a shape of the purchased raw material to fit as a component of the radome 2. Merely simple or no tools are required. For example, only cutting of the plate shaped segment to a desired size is required. The plate shaped segment is planar. However, the planar plate shape is the shape of the plate shaped segment before mounting. In the mounting position, the planar plate shape can be bent to have a curvature.

[0071] In this example, the plate shaped segments are made from the air-incorporating material structure, which is formed by a multiwall sheet. Plate shaped multiwall sheets are widely available and not specialised vendor has to be contacted for manufacturing the plate shaped multiwall sheets. Forming the first radome segment 11 and the fourth radome segment 14 as plate shaped segments leads to the requirement that also the connection sections 21 , 22, 23, 24 are to be designed accordingly to maintain the plate shape. For example, the first radome segment 11 is glued to the second radome segment 12 and the third radome segment 13, which can be done without changing the plate shape of the first radome segment 11 , as it would be necessary for the sliding connection. In another example, which is depicted in figures 6a to 6d, the first connection section 21 and the second connection section 22 are formed in a way that the second radome segment 12 and the third radome segment 13 are capable to hold the plate shaped first radome segment 11 , for example by holding the first radome segment 11 between the legs of a Y-Shaped reception portion of the second radome segment 11 and a Y-Shaped reception portion of the third radome segment 13.

[0072] It is preferable that the first radome segment 11 is fixated between two adjacent radome segments 12, 13. As the second radome segment 12 and the third radome segment 13 are adjacent to the first radome segment 11 , it is preferable that the first radome segment 11 is clamped or at least fixated in between the second radome segment 12 and the third radome segment 13.

[0073] The adjacent radome segments of the first radome segment 11 , that is the second radome segment 12 and the third radome segment 13, are connected to each other via a mounting element 40, which is illustrated by example in figure 6b. The mounting element can be the reflector 5 and is preferably inside of the radome 2.

[0074] A first one of the adjacent radome segments is mounted to a first side of the mounting element 40. That is, the second radome segment 12 is fixed to the first side of the mounting element 40. A second one of the adjacent radome segments is mounted to a second side of the mounting element 40. That is, the third radome segment 13 is fixed to the second side of the mounting element 40. The mounting element 40 is holding the second radome segment 12 and the third radome segment 13 in a fixed relative position to each other. Therefore, the second radome segment 12 and the third radome segment 13 are held in position such that the first radome segment 11 is held in between the second radome segment 12 and the third radome segment 13, as it cannot slide out of the Y-Shaped reception portions. Optionally, a glue is provided to an inside of the Y-Shaped reception portions.

[0075] The fourth radome segment 14 is the second plate shaped segment, wherein the first plate shaped segment and the second plate shaped segment, that is the first radome segment 11 and the fourth radome segment 14, are aligned on opposite sides of the radome. The third connection section 23 and the fourth connection section 24 are formed in a way that the second radome segment 12 and the third radome segment 13 are capable to hold the plate shaped fourth radome segment 14, for example by holding the fourth radome segment 14 between the legs of a Y-Shaped reception portion of the second radome segment 11 and a Y- Shaped reception portion of the third radome segment 13.

[0076] The plate shaped segments are planar, as illustrated in Figures 6a and 6b. However, the mounting of the radome segment 11 , 12, 13, 14 for forming the radome 2 can lead to a curvature in the plate shaped segments, which is illustrated in figures 6c and 6d. The first radome segment 11 and the fourth radome segment 14 are the plate shape segments, while these segments 14 comprise a curvature. The curvature results from a pressure that is applied to the edges of the first radome segment 11 via the connection sections 21 , 22, wherein the pressure results from the mounting element 40 that is holding the second radome segment 12 and the third radome segment 13 together.

[0077] It is noted that the shape of the second radome segment 12 and the third radome segment 13, which are not plate shaped segments, can comprise a curvature for shaping the form of the radome 2.

[0078] The radome 2 that is described with figures 6a to 6d is adjustable in a width by changing the size of the first radome segment 11 and the fourth radome segment 14. The first radome segment 11 and the fourth radome segment 14 are optionally of the same size, as depicted in figures 6a and 6b. In the alternative, the first radome segment 11 and the fourth radome segment 14 are of a different width, as described in figures 6c and 6d.

[0079] Figures 7a to 7d are showing a modification of the radome 2 that is described with Figures 6a to 6d, wherein a depth of the radome 2 is adjustable by changing the size of two plate shaped radome segments. The radome 2 comprises the configuration of radome segments 11 , 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 and connection sections 21 , 22, 23, 24 that is described in further detail by referring to figure 2e.

[0080] The radome 2 comprises a third plate shaped segment, wherein the fifth radome segment 15 is the third plate shaped segment. The radome 2 further comprises a fourth plate shaped segment, wherein the seventh radome segment 17 is the fourth plate shaped segment. The third plate shaped segment, that is the fifth radome segment 15, is held in its mounting position in between two radome segments that are connected to the first side of the mounting element 40. More specifically, the second radome segment 12 and the sixth radome segment 16 are both connected to the first side of the mounting element 40. The fifth radome segment 15 is held in its mounting position in between the second radome segment 12 and the sixth radome segment 16. For this, the seventh connection section 27a and the eighth connection section 27b are both formed in a way that the second radome segment 12 and the sixth radome segment 16 are capable to hold the plate shaped fifth radome segment 15, for example by holding the fifth radome segment 15 between the legs of a Y-Shaped reception portion of the second radome segment 12 and a Y-Shaped reception portion of the sixth radome segment 16.

[0081] The fourth plate shaped segment, that is the seventh radome segment 17, is held in its mounting position in between two radome segments that are connected to the second side of the mounting element 40. More specifically, the third radome segment 13 and the eighth radome segment 18 are both connected to the second side of the mounting element 40. The seventh radome segment 17 is held in its mounting position in between the third radome segment 13 and the eighth radome segment 18. For this, the ninth connection section 28a and the tenth connection section 28b are both formed in a way that the third radome segment 13 and the eighth radome segment 18 are capable to hold the plate shaped seventh radome segment 17, for example by holding the seventh radome segment 17 between the legs of a Y-Shaped reception portion of the third radome segment 13 and a Y-Shaped reception portion of the eighth radome segment 18.

[0082] The radome 2 that is described with figures 7a to 7d is adjustable in the width by changing the size of the first radome segment 11 and the fourth radome segment 14. The radome 2 that is described with figures 7a to 7d is further adjustable in the depth by changing the size of the fifth radome segment 15 and the seventh radome segment 17. The fifth radome segment 15 and the seventh radome segment 17 are preferably of the same size.

[0083] The plate shaped segments are planar, as illustrated in Figures 7a and 7b. However, as described in view of Figures 6c and 6d, the mounting of the radome segments 11 , 12, 13, 14 for forming the radome 2 can lead to a curvature in the plate shaped first radome segment 11 and the plate shaped fourth radome segment 14, which is illustrated in figures 7c and 7d. It is noted that characteristics, in particular a shape or a size, of two elements that are described to be identical are considered to be identical if these elements are identical within the tolerances of a manufacturing process for these elements.

[0084] Summarizing the above, a closed profile of a radome is divided into pieces in a way that there are left and right parts which are symmetrical and hence suitable to produce from one tool only. They same is valid for top and bottom parts. The pieces can be made from an air-incorporating material structure. This makes the product lighter and electrically better. The connection between the parts is optionally established by a form fit design. The connection can be positioned also in the radiation section of the antenna. With this multi part modular design reusability of single parts in many products are possible, easy shipping and less storage needed. When assembled functions as a standard radome.

[0085] With a lightweight modular radome it is possible to achieve many advantages:

[0086] Electrical Performance: with thermoplastic radomes (e.g. multi wall extrusion) the electrical performance is drastically improved (dielectric constant and losses) in addition to that the modular approach can utilize different materials with different behavior for optimal performance.

[0087] Weight: Due to the connection section a thicker radome in this section is necessary. Simulations show that a uniform overall wall thickness is beneficial in the area of the antenna radiating. Therefore there are two options: Create a radome with a very big wall thickness, or use air-incorporated materials. For example foamed materials or materials with an air filled structure.

[0088] With that not only weight can be reduced, but a further benefit for the electrical performance is given.

[0089] Sustainability: With lightweight radomes less material is used. In case of a compound it’s much easier to recycle and due to the modularity materials with higher environmental impact can be reduced due to the usage only in the sections where it is absolutely necessary. Finally, by shipping modular parts can be packaged much more efficiently.

[0090] Logistics & Storage: Due to the modularity it is possible to package much more parts in the same space compared to classical closed radomes, and even half shells. Therefore, transport and of course also on site storage is highly reduced, up to a factor of 5. Modularity: With the modular approach it is possible to reuse parts in different products. Before it was necessary to order new tools and parts dependent on the wanted profile. Now it is possible to reuse e.g. side walls in a different product and just swap the dimensional dependent parts. Additionally it is now possible to access the inner wall of the radome very easily for instal- lation of foils or other additional parts that would be hard to reach in a closed radome.

Claims

Claims1. Radome (2) for a base station antenna (1) of a mobile communications network, the radome (2) comprising multiple radome segments (11 , 12, 13, 14) that are connected to each other to form a hull of the radome (2), wherein the radome segments (11, 12, 13, 14) comprise a first radome segment (11) and a second radome segment (12), wherein the first radome segment (11) and the second radome segment (12) are adjacent and are made of plastic, wherein a first connection section (21) is extending along a common edge of the first radome segment (11) and the second radome segment (12) for connecting the first radome segment (11) to the second radome segment (12), wherein the first connection section (21) is aligned on a front side (7) of the radome (2), and wherein the first radome segment (11) is aligned entirely on the front side (7) of the radome (2) and the second radome segment (12) is a corner segment that comprises a first portion that is extending on the front side (7) and a second portion that is forming at least a portion of a sidewall (8) of the hull of the radome (2).

2. Radome (2) according to claim 1, wherein the front side (7) of the radome (2) is an area of the hull of the radome that is located in a primary radiation direction (6) of the base station antenna (3) when mounted to the base station antenna (3).

3. Radome (2) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the radome segments (11 , 12, 13, 14) comprise a third radome segment (13) that is shaped identically to the second radome segment (12), wherein a size of the third radome segment (13) is identical to a size of the second radome segment (12).

4. Radome (2) according to claim 3, wherein the radome segments (11, 12, 13, 14) wherein a second connection section (22) is extending along a common edge of the first radome segment (11) and the third radome segment (13) for connecting the first radome segment (11) to the third second radome segment (13), wherein the second connection section (22) is aligned on the front side (7) of the radome (2).

5. Radome (2) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the radome segments (11 , 12, 13, 14) comprise a fourth radome segment (14) that is shaped identically to the first radome segment (11), wherein a size of the first radome segment (11) is identical to a size of the fourth radome segment (15).

6. Radome (2) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein at least one of the radome segments (11 , 12, 13, 14) is made from an air-incorporating material structure.

7. Radome (2) according to claim 6, wherein the air-incorporating material structure is formed by a multiwall sheet.

8. Radome (2) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the first radome segment (11) comprises a first connecting edge (21a) and the second radome segment (12) comprises a second connecting edge (21b), wherein the first connection section (21) comprises the first connecting edge (21a) and the second connecting edge (21b).

9. Radome (2) according to claim 8, wherein the radome (2) has an emission area on the front side, wherein the emission area is an area that has a constant thickness (h), wherein the first connection section (21) is part of the emission area, having the same constant thickness (h) as the emission area, or wherein the first connection section (21) is adjacent to the emission area and a maximal thickness of the first connection section is smaller or equal to the thickness (h) of the emission area.

10. Radome (2) according to any one of claims 8 and 9, wherein the first connecting edge (21a) and the second edge (21 b) are forming a sliding connection.

11. Radome (2) according to claim 10, wherein either one of the first connecting edge (21a) and the second connecting edge (21b) is shaped to form a channel, and the other one of the first connecting edge (21a) and the second connecting edge (21b) comprises a connection portion that is configured to slide into the channel for fixing the first connecting (21a) edge to the second connecting edge (21b).

12. Radome (2) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein one of the radome segments (11 , 12, 13, 14) is a first plate shaped segment, wherein a plate shaped segment is a segment that has a constant thickness over the entire segment.

13. Radome (2) according to claim 12, wherein one of the radome segments is a second plate shaped segment, wherein the first plate shaped segment and the second plate shaped segment are aligned on opposite sides of the radome.

14. Radome (2) according to any one of claims 12 and 13, wherein the first radome segment (11) is the first plate shaped segment.

15. Radome (2) according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the first plate shaped segment is aligned in between two adjacent radome segments, the adjacent radome segments both being adjacent to the plate shaped segment, wherein the adjacent radome segments are connected to each other via a mounting element (40), wherein a first one of the adjacent radome segments is mounted to a first side of the mounting element and a second one of the adjacent radome segments is mounted to a second side of the mounting element, and wherein the plate shaped segment is held in its mounting position by the two adjacent radome segments.

16. Radome according to claim 15, wherein one of the radome segments is a third plate shaped segment, wherein the third plate shaped segment is held in its mounting position in between two radome segments that are connected to the first side of the mounting element.

17. Radome according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the radome (2) is forming a tube and the connection section (21) is extending from a first end of the tube to a second end of the tube, wherein the tube is preferably closed by two endcaps (51, 52), that are aligned on opposite endings of the tube.

18. Radome according to any one of the previous claims, wherein one of the multiple radome segments (11, 12, 13, 14) comprises a notch (31) on the outer surface of the radome 2, wherein preferably an aerodynamic element (30) is held by the notch (31).

19. Base station antenna (1) comprising a antenna module (3) and a radome (2) according to any one of the previous claims.

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