Array antenna device

Abstract

Specifically, the objective of the present invention is to provide an array antenna device capable of controlling antenna performance such that, if a failure occurs in an antenna unit of an antenna part capable of beamforming, radiation can be performed in a beamforming direction as similar as possible to a conventional normal beamforming direction by using a normal unit in the vicinity of which the failure occurs.

Description

Array antenna device

[0001] The present invention relates to an array antenna device, and more specifically, to an array antenna device capable of controlling antenna performance so that, when a failure occurs among the antenna units of an antenna section capable of beamforming, beamforming can be radiated in a direction as similar as possible to an existing calculated beamforming direction by using normal units around the failure.

[0002] An array antenna is an antenna made up of multiple small antennas arranged in a single array. It is used to amplify signal strength in a specific direction or suppress signals in other directions. With recent advancements in wireless communication technology, especially in high-frequency band communications such as 5G, the importance of array antennas is increasing.

[0003] However, signal transmission in high-frequency bands can generate significant heat, necessitating efficient heat dissipation within the antenna module. Conventional array antennas have been plagued by overly complex heat dissipation structures, hindering antenna module assembly and maintenance.

[0004] Additionally, due to the complex configuration of the antenna module, it was difficult to check for failure of individual units of the beamforming array antenna and, if a failure was detected, to determine the location of the individual antenna unit where the failure was detected.

[0005] Against this backdrop, the need for an array antenna design that can guide fault locations and maintenance for faults is emerging.

[0006] The main purpose of the present invention is to provide an array antenna device capable of minimizing distortion of the beam direction due to failure of individual units of a beamforming array antenna.

[0007] In addition, the present invention aims to provide an array antenna device that can guide the location of an individual unit failure of a beamforming array antenna and maintenance for the failure.

[0008] The array antenna device of the present invention may include a base substrate, a plurality of terminal portions coupled to an upper surface of the base substrate and arranged in at least one direction, a plurality of openings each of which receives the plurality of terminal portions, and a heat dissipation portion located on an upper portion of the base substrate, an antenna portion including a plurality of antenna modules coupled to the plurality of terminal portions on an upper surface of the base substrate and arranged in at least one direction, a beamforming control portion that controls beamforming of the antenna portion in response to a failure of the antenna portion, and the antenna module may include an antenna substrate, a plurality of antenna units arranged in at least one direction on an upper surface of the antenna substrate, a plurality of antenna control portions coupled to a lower surface of the antenna substrate, and a connector portion formed on a lower surface of the antenna substrate and connected to the terminal portions.

[0009] In an embodiment, the antenna module includes a plurality of antenna units, and the beamforming control unit identifies a linking part that operates according to failure information of the antenna unit and a first beamforming profile set to perform beamforming in relation to the failure information, generates a second beamforming profile for the linking part so that the beamforming direction of the linking part becomes a normal direction, and applies the second beamforming profile to the linking part according to a preset condition.

[0010] In an embodiment, the beamforming control unit can determine whether the failure fluctuation amount of the failure information exceeds an allowable range.

[0011] In an embodiment, the failure variation is a variation in the beamforming direction in which the linkage part is varied according to the failure information compared to the normal direction, and the normal direction may be a direction of beamforming formed when the linkage part operates according to the first beamforming profile.

[0012] In an embodiment, the beamforming control unit may generate the second beamforming profile for the linkage portion so that the beamforming direction of the linkage portion becomes the normal direction when the failure variation exceeds the allowable range.

[0013] In an embodiment, the beamforming control unit can determine whether an expected direction of a beam pattern formed through the linking portion is within an acceptable range based on the normal direction when the linking portion operates according to the second beamforming profile.

[0014] In an embodiment, the beamforming control unit may apply the second beamforming profile to the linking portion if the expected direction is within the allowable range.

[0015] In an embodiment, the beamforming control unit can transmit the repair requirement information to at least one of the administrator terminal and the management server when the failure variation of the linked part falls below the allowable range.

[0016] In an embodiment, the heat dissipation unit may include a body portion that is in contact with the lower surface of a plurality of antenna control units and is formed parallel to the base substrate, and a plurality of heat dissipation fins that are formed to protrude downward from the lower surface of the body portion.

[0017] In an embodiment, the antenna control unit may include a signal transmission / reception unit coupled to the antenna substrate and transmitting / receiving a signal to / from the antenna unit, a signal processing unit processing a signal transmitted / received to / from the antenna unit, and a heat dissipation unit facing the body unit and dissipating heat from the signal processing unit.

[0018] In an embodiment, the terminal portion may include a control terminal and an RF terminal that are positioned spaced apart from each other, the connector portion may include a control connector that is positioned spaced apart from each other and connected to the control terminal, and an RF connector that is connected to the RF terminal, and the opening may include a first opening that accommodates the control terminal and the control connector, and a second opening that accommodates the RF terminal and the RF connector.

[0019] In an embodiment, the heat dissipation unit may further include a body portion formed parallel to the base substrate, a plurality of heat dissipation fins formed to protrude downward from a lower surface of the body portion, and a shield portion formed to protrude downward from a lower surface of the body portion to surround a side surface of the second opening.

[0020] In an embodiment, the heat dissipation unit includes a body portion formed parallel to the base substrate and a plurality of heat dissipation fins formed to protrude downward from a lower surface of the body portion, and a portion of a side surface of the first opening may be open to a space between the plurality of heat dissipation fins.

[0021] In an embodiment, the heat dissipation unit includes a body portion formed parallel to the base substrate and a plurality of heat dissipation fins protruding downward from a lower surface of the body portion and extending in one direction, and the first opening and the second opening may be formed in a rectangular shape with the one direction as a long axis.

[0022] In an embodiment, the heat dissipation unit includes a body portion formed parallel to the base substrate and a plurality of heat dissipation fins protruding downward from a lower surface of the body portion and extending in one direction, wherein the first opening and the second opening are opposed in a direction orthogonal to the one direction, and at least one heat dissipation fin may extend in the one direction between the first opening and the second opening.

[0023] A beamforming control method using an array antenna device, which includes a heat dissipation unit located on an upper surface of a base substrate according to an embodiment of the present invention, and which includes a plurality of openings for receiving a plurality of terminal portions each arranged in at least one direction, an antenna including a plurality of antenna modules each coupled to the plurality of terminal portions on an upper surface of the base substrate, and arranged in at least one direction, and a beamforming control unit for controlling beamforming of the antenna portion in response to a failure of the antenna portion, the beamforming control method may be performed by identifying a linkage unit that operates according to failure information of the antenna unit and a first beamforming profile set to perform beamforming in relation to the failure information, generating a second beamforming profile for the linkage unit so that a beamforming direction of the linkage unit becomes a normal direction, and then applying the second beamforming profile to the linkage unit according to a preset condition.

[0024] In order to prevent the beam direction of an antenna device from being distorted due to a malfunctioning antenna unit among individual antenna units of an antenna module in an array antenna device that controls a wireless signal using beamforming technology according to the present invention, a beamforming profile of a linkage portion around an antenna unit in which a malfunction has occurred can be applied as a beamforming profile that is identical or / and similar to the normal direction before the malfunction. Accordingly, even if a malfunction occurs in an individual unit, beamforming can be generated in a beam direction similar or / and identical to the normal beam direction, so there is an advantage in that the distortion of the beam direction due to an individual unit in which a malfunction has occurred can be minimized.

[0025] Moreover, in the event of a failure in the antenna unit, there is an advantage in that the location of the failure can be reported externally, allowing for quick identification and response to the problem with the antenna device.

[0026] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an array antenna device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figures 2 and 3 are exploded views of an array antenna device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing the configuration of an array antenna device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a process in which a surrounding linkable linkage part operates in a normal beamforming direction when an individual unit fails according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a process in which a surrounding linkable linkage part operates in a normal beamforming direction when an individual unit fails according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating an antenna module structure of an array antenna device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 8 is a drawing showing a heat dissipation structure according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing the coupling relationship of a control terminal and an RF terminal on a base substrate according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Regardless of the drawing reference numerals, identical or similar components will be assigned the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted. Furthermore, when describing embodiments disclosed in this specification, if a detailed description of a related known technology is judged to obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0035] Terms that include ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0036] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0037] In this application, each step described may be performed regardless of the listed order, except in cases where a special causal relationship requires that the steps be performed in the listed order.

[0038] In this application, terms such as “include” or “have” are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in the specification, but should be understood not to exclude in advance the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0039]

[0040] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0041] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an array antenna device according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIGS. 2 and 3 are exploded views of an array antenna device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating a configuration of an array antenna device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Referring to the drawings, the present invention relates to an array antenna device (hereinafter referred to as device (10)) that, when a failure occurs in an individual unit among a plurality of antenna units of an antenna unit (100) including an antenna unit (100) and the direction of a beam is distorted, an interlocking part among surrounding units that can interlock replaces the failed unit and allows the beam to be radiated in a direction similar to the existing normal beam direction.

[0043] Specifically, the array antenna device (10) may include a base substrate (300), a terminal portion (320, 340), a heat dissipation portion (200), an antenna portion (100), and a beamforming control portion (400).

[0044] The base substrate (300) may be a basic component of the array antenna device (10). The base substrate (300) may be made of various materials, and may be formed of a reinforced material to ensure stability and durability.

[0045] In an embodiment, a plurality of terminal portions (320, 340) may be coupled to the upper surface of the base substrate (300). The terminal portions (320, 340) are arranged in at least one direction and may be used for connection with an antenna. For example, the terminal portions (320, 340) may be made of metal or an alloy and may be designed in a specific shape or structure to increase the efficiency of electrical connection.

[0046] In an embodiment, the heat dissipation unit (200) is positioned on the upper portion of the base substrate (300) and may include a plurality of openings (220, 240). The formed openings (220, 240) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of terminal portions (320, 340), respectively. The heat dissipation unit (200) may release excessive heat, and may be formed of a material with high thermal conductivity, such as aluminum or copper, to maintain the stability of the device (10).

[0047] In an embodiment, the antenna unit (100) may be positioned on the upper portion of the base substrate (300). The antenna unit (100) may be formed by arranging a plurality of antenna modules (100A) arranged in at least one direction, and the antenna unit (100) formed by assembling each module may be composed of an antenna substrate (180), a plurality of antenna units (160), a plurality of antenna control units (150), and a connector unit (120, 140).

[0048] In an embodiment, the antenna substrate (180) may include a plurality of antenna units (160). The plurality of antenna units (160) disposed on the upper surface of the antenna substrate (180) may be arranged in at least one direction, and these antenna units (160) may be manufactured in various shapes and sizes.

[0049] A plurality of antenna control units (150) may be coupled to the lower surface of the antenna substrate (180). In an embodiment, the antenna control unit (150) may control the operation of the antenna and perform functions necessary for transmitting and receiving signals.

[0050] In an embodiment, a connector portion (120, 140) may be formed on the lower surface of the antenna substrate (180) and connected to the terminal portion. This connector portion (120, 140) may support electrical connection between the antenna portion (100) and the base substrate (300).

[0051] In an embodiment, the beamforming control unit (400) can control the beamforming of the antenna unit (100) depending on a failure of the antenna unit (100). Beamforming refers to a technology that arranges multiple antennas at regular intervals and changes the amplitude and phase of a signal supplied to each antenna to create an antenna beam in a specific direction and strongly transmit and receive a signal in that direction.

[0052] A plurality of antenna units (160) can operate to generate a beam, and the size, intensity, and direction of the beam can be determined by the position of each antenna unit (160) or the number of antenna units (160) forming the antenna module (100A).

[0053] In the following examples, it is assumed that the size and intensity of the beam generated from the antenna unit (160) arranged at the edge of the antenna section (100) is the largest, but the present invention is not limited by the position of the antenna unit (160) that determines the size and intensity of the beam.

[0054] In the embodiment, the beamforming control unit (400) can identify the failure information of the antenna unit (100) and the interlocking part (the part where the beam is generated) that operates according to the first beamforming profile to perform beamforming in relation to the failure information.

[0055] In addition, the beamforming control unit (400) allows the beamforming direction of the interlocking portion around the faulty unit (162) among the antenna units (160) to be similar to the normal direction of the beam generated by the faulty unit (162) before the fault occurred, so that a second beamforming profile can be applied to the beamforming direction of the interlocking portion.

[0056] That is, the beamforming control unit (400) controls the operation of the antenna unit (160) so that before a failure unit (162) occurs, the linkage part applies the first beamforming profile to generate a beam, but after the failure unit (162) occurs, the second beamforming profile is applied to generate a beam in a direction similar to or / and identical to the direction of the beam generated before the failure unit (162) fails.

[0057] In this way, when a faulty unit (162) occurs among a plurality of antenna units (160) by the beamforming control unit (400), the beamforming profile of the interlocking portion around the faulty unit (162) is controlled so that a beam is generated in a direction similar to or / and identical to the direction of the beam generated before the faulty unit (162) fails, thereby minimizing the deviation of the beam direction of the device (10) even when an individual unit of the antenna unit (160) fails.

[0058] In an embodiment, the device (10) may further include a memory (500) and a processor (600). The memory (500) may store code for controlling the processor (600) and data necessary for operation. That is, the memory (500) may store data and commands regarding conditions for determining failure information of the antenna unit (100), reference numerical information for notifying an external administrator terminal or management server of a failure of the antenna unit (100), etc.

[0059] The processor (600) can control the overall operation of the device (10) in addition to the operations related to the application programs stored in the memory (500). The processor (600) can process signals, data, information, etc. input or output through the components discussed above, or can drive the application programs stored in the memory (500) to determine a failure of the antenna unit (100) of the device (10), and provide or process a function to externally notify the user of the failure of the antenna unit (100) based on the determined criteria.

[0060] Referring to the drawings below, an array antenna device (10) including a beamforming control unit (400) will be specifically examined.

[0061]

[0062] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a process in which a surrounding linkable linkage part operates in a normal beamforming direction when an individual unit fails according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a process in which a surrounding linkable linkage part operates in a normal beamforming direction when an individual unit fails according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] As described above, the beamforming control unit (400) is configured to control the beamforming profile of the interlocking portion around the faulty unit (162) so that, when a faulty unit (162) occurs among the plurality of antenna units (160), the beamforming profile of the interlocking portion can be controlled so that a beam is generated in a direction similar to or / and identical to the direction of the beam generated before the faulty unit (162) fails. To this end, the beamforming control unit (400) can monitor the operation information of the antenna module (100A) in real time and near real time to check the operation (beam generation) status of the antenna unit (160) of the antenna unit (100) module.

[0064] To this end, the beamforming control unit (400) can detect a faulty unit (162) among the plurality of antenna units (160) of the antenna module (100A), and identify a linkage part (164) that controls the beam direction of the entire antenna module (100A) so that it does not become distorted by generating a beam generated from the faulty unit (162) instead of the faulty unit (162) (S120) (see (a) and (b) of FIG. 5).

[0065] If a faulty unit (162) occurs in one of the multiple antenna units (160), the beamforming of the entire antenna module (100A) may become distorted, resulting in a distorted beam direction. In this case, the beamforming profile of the interlocking portion (164) is controlled so that beamforming that is as similar as possible to the beamforming direction in the normal state before the fault occurs is radiated by using the remaining normal units (the interlocking portion (164) of the present embodiment).

[0066] In an embodiment, in order to detect whether the antenna unit (160) is faulty, the beamforming control unit (400) can determine whether the fault variation amount for the fault information of the antenna unit (160) exceeds a preset allowable range.

[0067] That is, beamforming conditions (beamforming profile in the embodiment) for the size (intensity) of the beam radiation and the direction of radiation are set for each antenna unit (160). Based on the conditions, the beamforming control unit (400) can determine whether the intensity or direction of the beam generated by the antenna unit (160) deviates from the set beamforming profile.

[0068] Specifically, in the embodiment, the beamforming control unit (400) can determine whether the failure variation of the beam profile set in the antenna unit (160) exceeds the allowable range. The failure variation allowable range can be defined as the range in which the linkage part (164) can generate beamforming that is similar or identical to the beamforming generated by the antenna unit (100) in a normal state instead of the failed unit (162) in which a failure has occurred.

[0069] To this end, the beamforming control unit (400) can determine whether the antenna unit (160) is faulty based on whether the change in direction of the beam radiated from the antenna unit (160) exceeds the allowable range based on the characteristic of the change in direction of the beam radiated from the antenna unit (160) when a fault occurs in the antenna unit (160).

[0070] For example, if the direction of the beam deviates by more than 15 degrees from the set direction (e.g., the reference axis) under the beamforming condition of a specific antenna unit (160), the beamforming control unit (400) may determine that a failure has occurred in the specific antenna unit (160). Alternatively, it may be determined whether the antenna unit (160) is broken based on the intensity of the beam. For example, if the beam intensity decreases by 15% to 25% less than the set beam intensity, it may be determined that the antenna unit (160) is broken, and the change in the direction and intensity of the beam exemplified in the embodiment are merely exemplary and do not limit or restrict the present invention.

[0071] As described, among the individual antenna units (160), an antenna unit (160) exceeding the allowable range of the failure variation may be determined as a failure unit (162). At this time, before being determined as a failure unit (162), the linkage part (164) around the failure unit (162) may operate according to the first beamforming profile, which is a preset beamforming profile. Thereafter, if the antenna unit (160) exceeding the allowable range of the failure variation is determined as a failure unit (162), the failure unit (162) cannot control the beam in the previously normal direction. Accordingly, since it is difficult for the beam radiation of the entire antenna module (100A) to be radiated in a normal direction, the beam forming control unit (400) can change the beam condition of the interlocking portion (164) around the faulty unit (162) to the second beam forming profile so that the interlocking portion (164) can change the beam forming profile of the interlocking portion (164) so ​​that the beam forming state of each antenna unit (160) before the faulty unit (162) fails is similar to that of the beam forming state of each antenna unit (160) before the faulty unit (162) fails (S140).

[0072] At this time, the changed beamforming profile of the linkage part (164) may be a second beamforming profile having a beamforming direction that is the same as or similar to the beamforming direction before the failure unit (162) fails.

[0073] Meanwhile, after setting the beamforming condition of the linkage part (164) to the second beamforming profile, the beamforming control unit (400) can determine whether the expected direction of the beam pattern generated by driving the linkage part (164) with the set second beamforming profile is similar to the normal direction.

[0074] That is, the beamforming control unit (400) determines whether the beam pattern is radiated within an acceptable range based on the expected direction of the beam pattern formed through the linkage portion (164) and the normal direction of the beam pattern generated before a failure occurs in the failure unit (162).

[0075] Since the interlocking portion (164) is not the same antenna unit as the faulty unit (162), a beam pattern identical to the beam pattern radiated when the faulty unit (162) is a normal unit may not be generated. In an embodiment, the second beamforming profile set in the interlocking portion (164) may be set to be similar to the beam pattern radiated when the faulty unit (162) is a normal unit, and the beamforming control unit (400) may determine whether the interlocking portion (164) performs beamforming operation within the set similarity range, thereby minimizing beam direction distortion of the antenna module (100A) including the faulty unit (162).

[0076] Meanwhile, if the beam forming control unit (400) determines that the expected direction of the beam pattern operated in the linkage part (164) is within the allowable range, the beam forming control unit (400) can apply the set second beam forming profile to the linkage part (164) (S160) (see (c) of FIG. 5).

[0077] By applying the second beamforming profile to the linkage section (164), beamforming can be attempted again using the remaining normal units even in the event of individual unit failure, and the beam can be radiated in a beam pattern as similar as possible to the existing normal beamforming direction.

[0078] In an embodiment, the failure fluctuation amount of the linkage part (164) may fall below the allowable range. Specifically, it may be determined through the beamforming control unit (400) that the normal unit of the linkage part (164) surrounding the failure unit (162) is not sufficiently generating the beamforming generated by the failure unit (162). In this case, information about the failure of the failure unit (162) or information about the failure fluctuation amount of the linkage part (164) falling below the allowable range is notified to an external administrator terminal or management server so that subsequent work such as replacing the failure unit (162) can be performed.

[0079]

[0080] Meanwhile, in an embodiment of the present invention, the antenna module (100A) of the device may include a configuration necessary for repair. Specifically, the antenna module (100A) may include a fastening portion (not shown) to which a repair-related detachable mechanism may be fastened.

[0081] In an embodiment, the fastening portion may be designed to allow the antenna module (100A) to be easily removed from the terminal portion. The fastening portion may be combined with the antenna substrate or other components within the antenna module (100A), and may be formed as a separate component.

[0082] The specific form of the fastener can vary. For example, the fastener may be formed in the form of a screw and may have an internal screw groove for connection to a fastening / detachment mechanism. Furthermore, the fastener may be configured in the form of a button or lever for quick fastening / detachment.

[0083] Additionally, the fastener may be formed from a high-strength metal material, such as stainless steel or aluminum, or a polymer material such as plastic. Furthermore, the surface of the fastener may be specially coated to prevent corrosion or enhance durability.

[0084] In one embodiment, the fastener can play a significant role in extending the life of the antenna module (100A). This facilitates the easy replacement of an antenna module (100A) that has malfunctioned or been damaged by the fastener, thereby facilitating maintenance of the entire system. Furthermore, the fastener can enhance the stability of the antenna module (100A), thereby improving the performance of the entire system.

[0085]

[0086] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing an antenna module structure of an array antenna device according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 8 is a drawing showing a heat dissipation structure according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a coupling relationship of a control terminal and an RF terminal on a base substrate according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0087] As described above, the device (10) according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a base substrate (180) forming the lower portion of the entire array antenna device (10). The base substrate (180) may serve to support the antenna module (100A), the heat dissipation unit (200), and the terminal unit. The material of the base substrate (180) may be composed of a material having electrical properties, mechanical strength, and durability. Possible modifications may include various metal alloys, high-performance plastics, composite materials, etc.

[0088] The base substrate (180) may be formed with various electronic components, connection terminals, and paths for transmitting or receiving RF (Radio Frequency) signals. A plurality of terminals may be positioned on the upper surface of the base substrate (180). Each terminal is composed of a control terminal (340) and an RF terminal (320), which may be positioned spaced apart from each other.

[0089] The base substrate (180) is typically made of FR4, Teflon, or other high-frequency-compatible materials. These materials can minimize RF signal loss and ensure stable performance. Furthermore, the base substrate (180) typically has a rectangular or square shape, but may be manufactured in various shapes, such as circular or oval, depending on specific applications. Furthermore, the thickness, size, and number of layers of the substrate (180) can be varied depending on the application or design purpose.

[0090] The base substrate (180) supports the heat sink (200), antenna module (100A), and related electronic components, and can provide necessary electrical connections. In addition, it forms a transmission path for RF signals and a ground plane to optimize the performance of the antenna.

[0091] In some cases, when a high degree of integration is required, a multilayer structured base substrate (180) can be used. This allows circuit connections even within the inner layers, thereby increasing space utilization.

[0092] In some cases, it is also possible to add a heat diffusion layer inside the base substrate (180) to effectively diffuse heat generated during RF signal processing or heat transferred to the heat dissipation unit (200).

[0093] The base substrate (180) can be connected by direct contact with the heat dissipation unit (200). In this case, the base substrate (180) can receive heat from the heat dissipation fins (260) of the heat dissipation unit (200) and discharge the heat back to the outside.

[0094] However, in some cases, the base substrate (180) may not be in direct contact with the heat dissipation unit (200) but may be spaced apart from it. In this case, the heat of the heat dissipation unit (200) may not be directly transferred to the base substrate (180), but may be discharged through the space between the base substrate (180) and the heat dissipation unit (200).

[0095] The control terminal (340) is coupled to the upper surface of the base substrate (180). The control terminal (340) serves as an important interface for communication with the antenna module (100A). It is primarily responsible for transmitting and receiving control signals, and can perform a function of controlling the operating status of the antenna module (100A).

[0096] The control terminal (340) can be primarily made of metal or a high-performance alloy. This minimizes signal loss and provides a stable communication environment. Typically, connection to the base substrate (180) is achieved through soldering or other connection methods.

[0097] The shape of the control terminal (340) may vary. Some may be rectangular, while others may be designed in a circular or oval shape. Specifically, the control terminal (340) may be formed in a rectangular shape extending in one direction. This may vary depending on the type or design of the antenna module (100A) to which it is coupled.

[0098] The control terminals (340) may be arranged in multiples. This arrangement structure may be configured differently depending on the number or complexity of the antenna modules (100A). Specifically, the control terminals (340) may be arranged in first and second directions that are orthogonal to each other.

[0099] The control terminal (340) can be directly connected to the control connector (140) of the antenna module (100A) within the first opening (220) of the heat dissipation unit (200) described later. The first opening (220) of the heat dissipation unit (200) can provide an RF noise shielding function in relation to the connection between the control terminal (340) and the control connector (140).

[0100] The RF terminal (320) is coupled to the upper surface of the base substrate (180) and is primarily responsible for transmitting and receiving wireless signals. Unlike the control terminal (340) described above, the RF terminal (320) can transmit signals related to RF communication with the antenna module (100A).

[0101] The RF terminal (320) is specially designed and constructed of materials capable of effectively transmitting high-frequency signals. Most RF terminals (320) are made of metal or special alloys, ensuring signal transmission speed and quality.

[0102] The RF terminal (320) may be formed of two distinct cable terminals. Considering the characteristics of RF communication, it is manufactured in a shape optimized for signal transmission and interference prevention. Most may have a circular or oval shape.

[0103] The RF terminal (320) can be directly connected to the RF connector (120) of the antenna module (100A) within the second opening (240) of the heat dissipation unit (200). The cable connected to the RF terminal (320) can also be manufactured with a structure and material suitable for high-frequency signal transmission.

[0104] The heat dissipation unit (200) may include a body unit (280) that is in contact with the lower surface of a plurality of antenna control units (150) and heat dissipation fins (260). Specifically, the body unit (280) may be formed parallel to the base substrate (180) and may directly receive heat generated by the antenna control unit (150) and serve to disperse the heat. The body unit (280) may be made of a high heat conductivity material, for example, aluminum or copper.

[0105] The heat dissipation fins (260) may be formed to protrude downward from the lower surface of the body portion (280). In an embodiment, the heat dissipation fins (260) may be designed to rapidly release heat into the atmosphere. The shape of the heat dissipation fins (260) may be formed into a rectangular shape, a circular shape, or other various shapes. The number and arrangement of the heat dissipation fins (260) may also vary depending on the specific requirements of the device (10).

[0106] The antenna module (100A) is coupled to a base substrate (180) and may include an antenna substrate (180), a plurality of antenna units (160), a plurality of antenna control units (150), a control connector (140), and an RF connector (120).

[0107] The antenna module (100A) is responsible for receiving and transmitting wireless signals, and can provide a communication function through an antenna unit (160) and an antenna control unit (150) on the base substrate (180). In addition, the antenna module (100A) may include a plurality of antenna units (160) arranged in a first direction and a second direction on the upper surface of the antenna substrate (180), and the antenna module (100A) may include a plurality of antenna control units (150) arranged in a first direction and a second direction on the lower surface of the antenna substrate (180).

[0108] At this time, the number of antenna units (160) may be greater than that of antenna control units (150), but the number of antenna units (160) and antenna control units (150) may be changed depending on conditions.

[0109] The antenna unit (160) is a plurality of components arranged on the upper surface of the antenna substrate (180), and can be responsible for receiving and transmitting wireless signals. The antenna unit (160) can be formed as a patch-shaped antenna formed on the antenna substrate (180). The antenna unit (160) is mainly manufactured from a conductive material such as metal or a metal alloy, and can be formed as a plating pattern formed on the antenna substrate (180). The shape of the antenna unit (160) can be designed and optimized for efficient reception and transmission of wireless signals.

[0110] The antenna control unit (150) is coupled to the lower portion of the antenna substrate (180). The antenna control unit (150) includes a signal transmission / reception unit, a signal processing unit, and a heat dissipation unit. The antenna control unit (150) is in the form of a chip mainly composed of semiconductors and metal. It processes signals received or transmitted from the antenna unit (160) and modifies or amplifies the signals as needed.

[0111] The signal transmitting and receiving unit is coupled to the lower surface of the antenna substrate (180), and transmits and receives signals to and from multiple antenna units (160) controlled by individual antenna control units (150). The signal processing unit processes signals transmitted and received by the antenna unit (160). The heat dissipating unit faces the body unit (280) and dissipates heat from the signal processing unit. The heat dissipating unit may correspond to the lower surface of the semiconductor chip package corresponding to the antenna control unit (150) (the lower surface when coupled to the antenna substrate (180).

[0112] The control connector (140) is coupled to the lower surface of the antenna substrate (180) and can be connected to the control terminal (340). The control connector (140) is mainly made of metal and can be in the form of a pin or socket. The control connector (140) provides data communication between the antenna control unit (150) and an external device (10).

[0113] The RF connector (120) is coupled to the lower surface of the base substrate (180) and can be connected to the RF terminal (320). The RF connector (120) is made of metal and can be designed in a screw, push-pull, or other form.

[0114] A plurality of antenna control units (150) are arranged in at least one direction on the lower surface of the antenna substrate (180). The plurality of antenna control units (150) transmit and receive signals to and process signals from the antenna unit (160).

[0115] The RF connector (120) is located between a plurality of antenna control units (150) arranged in one direction. Referring to the drawing, four antenna control units (150) are arranged in a 2X2 array, and the RF connector (120) can be located between the four antenna control units (150).

[0116] Some of the plurality of antenna control units (150) are positioned between the control connector (140) and the RF connector (120). Referring to the drawing, four antenna control units (150) are arranged in a 2X2 array, and two antenna control units (150) can be positioned between the control connector (140) and the RF connector (120).

[0117] Depending on the positional relationship between the antenna control unit (150), control connector (140) and RF connector (120), the heat dissipation effect can be improved, and there is an advantage in that signal transmission interference between the antenna control unit (150) and control connector (140) can be minimized.

[0118] Referring again to the drawing, the heat sink (200) may include an opening that accommodates a terminal portion, and the opening may include a first opening (220) that accommodates a control terminal (340) and a control connector (140) and a second opening (240) that accommodates an RF terminal (320) and an RF connector (120).

[0119] In the embodiment, a plurality of heat dissipation fins (260) block between the first opening (220) and the second opening (240), so that the connection between the control terminal (340) and the control connector (140) inside the first opening (220) and the connection between the RF terminal (320) and the RF connector (120) inside the second opening (240) can be electrically separated as much as possible.

[0120] Additionally, in the embodiment, the heat sink (200) may include a shield (250) that provides an RF noise shielding function in relation to the connection between the RF terminal (320) and the RF connector (120). Since the RF terminal (320) is designed for high-frequency communication with the antenna module (100A), it may be specially shielded or insulated to maintain stable performance from external electromagnetic interference.

[0121] Specifically, the shield portion (250) protrudes from the body portion (280) in a structure that surrounds the side of the second opening (240). This serves to protect the connection portion of the RF terminal (320) and the RF connector (120) from the external environment. The second opening (240) can be formed to be surrounded by the shield portion (250), thereby blocking external RF noise interference. The shape, size, and thickness of the shield portion (250) can also be changed depending on the design.

[0122] In addition, the first opening (220) formed in the heat dissipation part (200) provides a space for fastening the control terminal (340) and the control connector (140). The first opening (220) may be formed in a rectangular shape and is partially open to the space between the heat dissipation fins (260). The heat dissipation fins (260) may be formed parallel to the long axis of the first opening (220) and may form a part of the side surface of the first opening. Unlike the connecting pin portion of the second opening (240), the space between the heat dissipation fins (260) may be open, but not the portion surrounded by the heat dissipation fins (260) among the side surfaces of the first opening (220).

[0123]

[0124] In order to prevent the beam direction of an antenna device from being distorted due to a malfunctioning antenna unit among individual antenna units of an antenna module in an array antenna device that controls a wireless signal using beamforming technology, a beamforming profile of a linkage portion around a malfunctioning antenna unit can be applied as a beamforming profile identical to or similar to the normal direction before the malfunction.

[0125] This allows beamforming to be generated in a beam direction similar to or identical to the normal beam direction even when an individual unit fails, thereby minimizing beam direction distortion caused by a failed individual unit.

[0126] Moreover, if a failure occurs in the antenna unit, the location of the failure can be reported externally, allowing for quick identification and response to the problem with the antenna device.

[0127] The technical features disclosed in each embodiment of the present invention are not limited to that embodiment, and, unless they are mutually incompatible, the technical features disclosed in each embodiment may be combined and applied to different embodiments.

[0128] Therefore, although each embodiment focuses on its own technical features, each technical feature can be applied in combination with each other as long as they are not mutually incompatible.

[0129] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and the attached drawings, and various modifications and variations are possible within the scope of those skilled in the art. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should be defined not only by the claims of this specification but also by equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. Base board; A plurality of terminal portions coupled to the upper surface of the base substrate and arranged in at least one direction; A heat dissipation unit including a plurality of openings each of which receives the plurality of terminal portions, and located on the upper portion of the base substrate; An antenna unit including a plurality of antenna modules arranged in at least one direction and each of which is connected to the plurality of terminal units on the upper portion of the base substrate; A beamforming control unit that controls beamforming of the antenna unit in response to a failure of the antenna unit; and The antenna module includes an antenna substrate, a plurality of antenna units arranged in at least one direction on an upper surface of the antenna substrate, a plurality of antenna control units coupled to a lower surface of the antenna substrate, and a connector unit connected to the terminal unit on the lower surface of the antenna substrate. The above antenna module includes a plurality of antenna units, The above beamforming control unit, Identifying a linkage part that operates according to the fault information of the above antenna unit and the first beamforming profile set to perform beamforming in relation to the fault information, Generate a second beamforming profile for the above-mentioned linkage portion so that the beamforming direction of the above-mentioned linkage portion becomes the normal direction, Applying the second beamforming profile to the linkage portion according to the preset conditions, Array antenna device.

2. In paragraph 1, The above beamforming control unit, Determining whether the failure fluctuation amount of the above failure information exceeds the allowable range, Array antenna device.

3. In paragraph 2, The above fault variation is the variation of the beamforming direction in which the linkage part is changed according to the fault information compared to the normal direction, and the normal direction is the direction of beamforming formed when the linkage part operates according to the first beamforming profile. Array antenna device.

4. In paragraph 2, The above beamforming control unit, When the above-mentioned fault fluctuation amount exceeds the allowable range, the second beamforming profile for the linkage part is generated so that the beamforming direction of the linkage part becomes the normal direction. Array antenna device.

5. In paragraph 2, The above beamforming control unit, When the above-mentioned linking part operates according to the second beamforming profile, it is determined whether the expected direction of the beam pattern formed through the above-mentioned linking part is within an acceptable range based on the above-mentioned normal direction. Array antenna device.

6. In paragraph 5, The above beamforming control unit, If the above expected direction is within the above tolerance range, the second beamforming profile is applied to the linkage portion. Array antenna device.

7. In paragraph 1, The above beamforming control unit, If the above-mentioned fault fluctuation amount of the above-mentioned linkage part falls below the above-mentioned allowable range, the above-mentioned repair requirement information is transmitted to at least one of the administrator terminal and the management server. Array antenna device.

8. In paragraph 1, The above heat dissipation part, A body portion that is in contact with the lower surface of the plurality of antenna control units and is formed parallel to the base substrate; and It includes a plurality of heat dissipation fins formed by protruding downward from the lower surface of the above body part. Array antenna device.

9. In paragraph 1, The above antenna control unit, A signal transmitting and receiving unit coupled to the antenna substrate and transmitting and receiving signals to the antenna unit; A signal processing unit that processes signals transmitted and received by the antenna unit; and A heat dissipation unit that faces the body and dissipates heat from the signal processing unit. Array antenna device.

10. In paragraph 1, The above terminal section includes a control terminal and an RF terminal which are positioned spaced apart from each other, The above connector portions are positioned spaced apart from each other and include a control connector connected to the control terminal and an RF connector connected to the RF terminal, The opening includes a first opening for accommodating the control terminal and the control connector and a second opening for accommodating the RF terminal and the RF connector. Array antenna device.

11. In paragraph 10, The above heat dissipation part, A body portion formed parallel to the base substrate; A plurality of heat dissipation fins formed by protruding downward from the lower surface of the above body portion; and It further includes a shield portion formed by protruding downward from the lower surface of the body portion to surround the side of the second opening. Array antenna device.

12. In paragraph 10, The above heat dissipation part, A body portion formed parallel to the base substrate; and It includes a plurality of heat dissipation fins formed by protruding downward from the lower surface of the above body portion, Some of the sides of the first opening are open to the space between the plurality of heat dissipation fins. Array antenna device.

13. In paragraph 10, The above heat dissipation part, A body portion formed parallel to the base substrate; and It includes a plurality of heat dissipation fins that protrude downward from the lower surface of the above body and extend in one direction, The above first opening and the above second opening are formed in a rectangular shape with the long axis in the above one direction. Array antenna device.

14. In paragraph 10, The above heat dissipation part, A body portion formed parallel to the base substrate; and It includes a plurality of heat dissipation fins that protrude downward from the lower surface of the above body and extend in one direction, The above first opening and the above second opening are opposite in a direction orthogonal to the above one direction, At least one heat dissipation fin extends in the one direction between the first opening and the second opening. Array antenna device.

15. A beamforming control method using an array antenna device, comprising: a heat dissipation unit located on an upper surface of a base substrate, each of a plurality of openings receiving a plurality of terminal portions arranged in at least one direction, the heat dissipation unit being coupled to an upper surface of the base substrate; an antenna including a plurality of antenna modules, each of the plurality of terminal portions coupled to the upper surface of the base substrate and arranged in at least one direction; and a beamforming control unit that controls beamforming of the antenna portion in response to a failure of the antenna portion. The above beamforming control method is, A step of identifying a linkage part that operates according to failure information of the antenna unit and a first beamforming profile set to perform beamforming in relation to the failure information; A step of generating a second beamforming profile for the linkage portion so that the beamforming direction of the linkage portion becomes the normal direction; and Comprising a step of applying the second beamforming profile to the linking portion according to preset conditions, Beamforming control method using an array antenna device.

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