Antenna array structure, antenna, and communication device

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of communications, and provides an antenna array structure, an antenna, and a communication device, for use in solving the problem of poor antenna radiation gain. The antenna provided by the present application comprises a reflecting plate, radiating elements, and parasitic structures; the reflecting plate is provided with a reflecting surface, the radiating elements and the parasitic structures are all arranged on one side of the reflecting surface, and the parasitic structures are coupled with the radiating elements; the vertical projections of the parasitic structures and the radiating elements on the reflecting surface do not overlap; and the distance between each parasitic structure and the corresponding radiating element is greater than or equal to 1 / 4 λ, wherein λ is the space-propagation wavelength of lowest-frequency electromagnetic waves radiated by the radiating elements. In the antenna array structure provided by the present application, the electromagnetic waves radiated by the radiating elements can generate induction currents in the parasitic structures, so that the parasitic structures generate secondary radiation, and the electromagnetic waves radiated by the radiating elements and electromagnetic waves radiated by the parasitic structures can be effectively superimposed, effectively narrowing the beamwidth of the antenna and increasing the radiation aperture of the antenna, thereby achieving the effect of improving the antenna radiation gain.

Description

Antenna array structure, antenna and communication equipment

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to the Chinese patent application filed with the State Intellectual Property Office of the People's Republic of China on December 8, 2023, with application number 202311692454.5 and application name "An antenna array structure, antenna and communication equipment", all contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application. Technical Field

[0003] The present application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to an antenna array structure, an antenna, and a communication device. Background Art

[0004] With the continuous advancement of communication technology, base station antennas are also moving towards broadband and miniaturization. For example, multiple oscillators can be placed in a base station antenna to increase its channel capacity and bandwidth. Due to spatial constraints, the distance between adjacent oscillators is generally small, which inevitably leads to electromagnetic coupling between different oscillators. Electromagnetic coupling between oscillators not only increases power loss but also causes signal distortion, thereby degrading base station antenna performance. Therefore, how to reduce electromagnetic coupling between oscillators has become a pressing technical problem. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In a first aspect, the present application provides an antenna array structure comprising a reflector, a vibrator, and a parasitic structure. The reflector has a reflective surface, with the vibrator and parasitic structure both disposed on one side of the reflective surface, and the parasitic structure coupled to the vibrator. The vertical projections of the parasitic structure and the vibrator on the reflective surface do not overlap, and the distance between the parasitic structure and the vibrator is greater than or equal to 1 / 4λ, where λ is the wavelength of the lowest-frequency electromagnetic wave radiated by the vibrator as it propagates in space. In the antenna array structure provided by the present application, the configuration of the parasitic structure effectively narrows the beamwidth, thereby facilitating improved antenna gain. The parasitic structure couples with the vibrator, and the electromagnetic waves radiated by the vibrator can induce currents in the parasitic structure, causing the parasitic structure to generate secondary radiation. Furthermore, because the distance between the parasitic structure and the vibrator is greater than or equal to 1 / 4λ, the electromagnetic waves radiated by the vibrator and those radiated by the parasitic structure can effectively superimpose, effectively narrowing the antenna beamwidth and increasing the antenna radiation aperture, thereby improving the antenna radiation gain.

[0006] In a specific configuration, the distance between the parasitic structure and the oscillator is less than or equal to 3 / 4λ. That is, the distance between the parasitic structure and the oscillator can be any value greater than or equal to 1 / 4λ and less than or equal to 3 / 4λ to ensure effective coupling between the parasitic structure and the oscillator.

[0007] In one example, the vibrator and the parasitic structure are located in the same plane, which is parallel to the reflecting surface. By arranging the vibrator and the parasitic structure in the same plane, the cross-sectional height of the antenna array structure is reduced, and a flat design can be achieved.

[0008] In a specific configuration, the antenna array structure includes multiple oscillators and multiple parasitic structures. These oscillators and parasitic structures are coupled in a one-to-one relationship. This configuration effectively improves the antenna array's signal transmission and reception performance. Furthermore, each oscillator is equipped with a corresponding coupled parasitic structure, effectively narrowing the antenna's beamwidth and increasing its radiation aperture, thereby improving the antenna's radiation gain.

[0009] In one example, an antenna array structure includes multiple elements and at least one parasitic structure. The multiple elements include a first element and a second element, the second element being adjacent to the first element. The at least one parasitic structure includes a first parasitic structure, coupled to the first element, and located outside the second element. Placing the first parasitic structure outside the second element effectively improves space utilization, facilitating the placement of more elements and parasitic structures within a limited area.

[0010] In a specific configuration, the second oscillator and the first parasitic structure are integrated into one structure, which can effectively improve the integration of the antenna array structure and enhance the convenience during manufacturing and assembly.

[0011] In one example, the at least one parasitic structure further includes a second parasitic structure. The second parasitic structure is coupled to the second oscillator and is located outside the first oscillator. The provision of the second parasitic structure can further increase the antenna's radiation aperture, thereby improving the antenna's radiation gain.

[0012] In a specific configuration, the first oscillator and the second parasitic structure are integrated into one structure, which can effectively improve the integration of the antenna array structure and enhance the convenience during manufacturing and assembly.

[0013] In one example, the equivalent electrical length of the parasitic structure is greater than 1 / 2λ, so as to effectively improve the radiation aperture and radiation gain of the antenna. The equivalent electrical length of the parasitic structure refers to the ratio of the signal wavelength corresponding to the operating frequency of the parasitic structure to π. The equivalent electrical length of the parasitic structure is generally measured through simulation. The signal wavelength can be considered as the above-mentioned λ. In actual applications, the physical size parameters of the parasitic structure, such as the length, cross-sectional area and shape, are the main factors determining its equivalent electrical length. In addition, the dielectric strength of the parasitic structure is also the main factor determining its equivalent electrical length.

[0014] In one example, the oscillator may be a dual-polarization oscillator. The oscillator includes a first oscillating arm and a second oscillating arm, the first oscillating arm and the second oscillating arm being arranged orthogonally to each other. The parasitic structure includes a first coupling arm and a second coupling arm, the first coupling arm and the second coupling arm being arranged orthogonally to each other; wherein the first coupling arm is coupled to the first oscillating arm, and the second coupling arm is coupled to the second oscillating arm.

[0015] In a specific configuration, the parasitic structure is cross-shaped, with the first coupling arm and the second coupling arm arranged orthogonally. The angle between the first vibration arm and the first coupling arm is 0° or 45°. Alternatively, it can be understood that in practical applications, the relative spatial orientation between the parasitic structure and the vibrator can be flexibly adjusted, providing good applicability.

[0016] In one example, the parasitic structure is a rectangular frame, a portion of the edges of the rectangular frame constitutes the first coupling arm, and another portion of the edges constitutes the second coupling arm.

[0017] In summary, the part of the parasitic structure coupled with the first vibration arm can be considered as the first coupling arm, and the part coupled with the second vibration arm can be considered as the second coupling arm.

[0018] On the second aspect, the present application also provides an antenna, including a feeding network and the above-mentioned antenna array structure, wherein the feeding network is connected to the vibrator feed and is used to send a feeding signal to the vibrator to excite the vibrator to radiate wireless signals outward. In the antenna, by equipping the above-mentioned antenna array structure, the beam width can be effectively narrowed, which is beneficial to improving the gain strength of the antenna. The parasitic structure is coupled with the vibrator, and the electromagnetic waves radiated by the vibrator can generate an induced current in the parasitic structure, thereby causing the parasitic structure to generate secondary radiation. In addition, since the distance between the parasitic structure and the vibrator is greater than or equal to 1 / 4λ. Therefore, the electromagnetic waves radiated by the vibrator and the electromagnetic waves radiated by the parasitic structure can be effectively superimposed, which can effectively narrow the beam width of the antenna and increase the antenna radiation aperture, thereby achieving the effect of improving the antenna radiation gain.

[0019] On the third aspect, the present application also provides a communication device, including a radio frequency processing unit and the above-mentioned antenna, and the radio frequency processing unit is connected to the feed network. By equipping the above-mentioned antenna, the beam width can be effectively narrowed, which is beneficial to improving the gain strength of the communication device. The parasitic structure is coupled with the vibrator, and the electromagnetic waves radiated by the vibrator can generate an induced current in the parasitic structure, thereby causing the parasitic structure to generate secondary radiation. In addition, since the distance between the parasitic structure and the vibrator is greater than or equal to 1 / 4λ. Therefore, the electromagnetic waves radiated by the vibrator and the electromagnetic waves radiated by the parasitic structure can be effectively superimposed, which can effectively narrow the beam width of the antenna and increase the antenna radiation aperture, thereby achieving the effect of improving the antenna radiation gain. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] FIG1 is a schematic diagram of an application scenario of an antenna provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0021] FIG2 is a simplified structural diagram of a base station provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0022] FIG3 is a simplified schematic diagram of the structure of an antenna provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0023] FIG4 is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of an antenna provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0024] FIG5 is a schematic diagram of the side structure of an antenna provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0025] FIG6 is a schematic side view of another antenna according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0026] FIG7 is a schematic diagram of the side structure of another antenna provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0027] FIG8 is a schematic side view of another antenna according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0028] FIG9 is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of another antenna provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0029] FIG10 is a schematic diagram of the side structure of another antenna provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0030] FIG11 is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of another antenna provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0031] FIG12 is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of another antenna provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0032] FIG13 is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of an oscillator in another antenna provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0033] FIG14 is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of a parasitic structure in another antenna provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0034] FIG15 is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of another parasitic structure in an antenna provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0035] FIG16 is a schematic side view of another antenna according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0036] FIG17 is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of another antenna provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0037] FIG18 is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of another antenna provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0038] FIG19 is a schematic side view of another antenna according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0039] FIG20 is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of another antenna provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0040] FIG21 is a schematic diagram of the side structure of another antenna provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0041] FIG22 is a schematic diagram of a planar structure of a parasitic structure provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0042] Figure 23 is a structural block diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] In order to make the purpose, technical solutions and advantages of this application clearer, this application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0044] To facilitate understanding of the antenna provided in the embodiments of the present application, the following first introduces its application scenarios.

[0045] The antenna provided in the embodiments of the present application can be used in communication equipment such as base stations and radars to realize wireless communication functions.

[0046] As shown in Figure 1, the application scenario may include a base station and a terminal. Wireless communication can be achieved between the base station and the terminal. The base station can be located in a base bastion subsystem (BBS), a terrestrial radio access network (UMTS terrestrial radio access network, UTRAN) or an evolved universal terrestrial radio access (E-UTRAN), and is used to provide cell coverage of wireless signals to enable communication between terminal devices and wireless networks. Specifically, the base station can be a base transceiver station (BTS) in a global system for mobile communication (GSM) or a (code division multiple access, CDMA) system, or a node B (NB) in a wideband code division multiple access (WCDMA) system, or an evolved node B (eNB or eNodeB) in a long term evolution (LTE) system, or a wireless controller in a cloud radio access network (CRAN) scenario. Alternatively, the base station may also be a relay station, an access point, a vehicle-mounted device, a wearable device, a g-node (gNodeB or gNB) in a new radio (NR) system, or a base station in a future evolved network, etc., and the embodiments of the present application are not limited thereto.

[0047] The antenna in this application can also be used in access network equipment, which is sometimes also referred to as an access node. The access network equipment has wireless transceiver functions and is used to communicate with the terminal. Access network equipment includes but is not limited to base stations (base stations) in the above-mentioned communication systems, evolved NodeBs (eNodeBs), transmission reception points (TRPs), next-generation base stations (next generation NodeBs, gNBs) in 5G mobile communication systems, next-generation base stations in sixth-generation (6G) mobile communication systems, access network equipment or modules of access network equipment in open access network ORAN (open RAN, ORAN) systems, base stations in future mobile communication systems, or access nodes in WiFi systems, etc. The access network equipment can also be a module or unit that can implement some functions of a base station. For example, the access network equipment can be a centralized unit (CU), a distributed unit (DU), a CU-control plane (CP), a CU-user plane (UP), or a radio unit (RU), etc., as described below. Among them, in the ORAN system, CU can also be called O-CU, DU can also be called open (O)-DU, CU-CP can also be called O-CU-CP, CU-UP can also be called O-CUP-UP, and RU can also be called O-RU. The access network device can be a macro base station (such as 110a in Figure 2), a micro base station or an indoor station (such as 110b in Figure 2), a relay node or a donor node, or a wireless controller in a cloud radio access network (CRAN) scenario. Optionally, the access network device can also be a server, a wearable device, or an on-board device. For example, the access network device in the vehicle to everything (V2X) technology can be a road side unit (RSU). Multiple access network devices in the communication system can be base stations of the same type or different types. The base station can communicate with the terminal or communicate with the terminal through a relay station. The terminal can communicate with multiple base stations in different access technologies.

[0048] As shown in Figure 2, a base station provided in an embodiment of the present application includes a base station antenna feed system. In practical applications, the base station antenna feed system primarily comprises an antenna 01, a feeder line 02, and a grounding device 03. Antenna 01 is typically mounted on a mast 04, and its downtilt angle can be adjusted using an antenna adjustment bracket 05 to adjust the signal coverage range of antenna 01 to a certain extent.

[0049] In addition, the base station may further include a radio frequency processing unit 06 and a baseband processing unit 20. For example, the radio frequency processing unit 06 may be used to perform frequency selection, amplification, and down-conversion processing on the signal received by the antenna 01, and convert it into an intermediate frequency signal or a baseband signal and send it to the baseband processing unit 20, or the radio frequency processing unit 06 may be used to convert the intermediate frequency signal sent by the baseband processing unit 20 into a wireless signal through the antenna 01 after up-conversion and amplification processing. The baseband processing unit 20 may be connected to the feed network of the antenna 01 through the radio frequency processing unit 06. In some embodiments, the radio frequency processing unit 06 may also be referred to as a remote radio unit (RRU), and the baseband processing unit 20 may also be referred to as a baseband unit (BBU).

[0050] As shown in FIG2 , in one possible embodiment, the RF processing unit 06 may be integrated with the antenna 01, while the baseband processing unit 20 is located at the remote end of the antenna 01. The RF processing unit 06 and the baseband processing unit 20 may be connected via a feeder 02. In another embodiment, the RF processing unit 06 and the baseband processing unit 20 may be both located at the remote end of the antenna 01.

[0051] Referring to Figures 2 and 3 , the antenna 01 used in the base station may also include a radome 011, a reflector 012 located within the radome 011, and a feed network 013. Reflector 012 may also be referred to as a base plate. The primary function of feed network 013 is to feed signals to radiating element 014 at a predetermined amplitude and phase, or to transmit wireless signals received by radiating element 014 at a predetermined amplitude and phase to the baseband processing unit 20 of the base station. It is understood that, in a specific implementation, feed network 013 may include at least one of a phase shifter, a combiner, a transmission or calibration network, or a filter. This application does not limit the components, types, or functions that feed network 013 can perform.

[0052] Of course, the above-mentioned antenna 01 can also be applied to various other types of communication devices, and this application does not limit the application scenarios of the antenna 01.

[0053] The radome 011 has excellent electrical properties, such as good electromagnetic wave penetration, which does not affect the normal transmission and reception of electromagnetic waves between the radiating component 014 and the outside world. In terms of mechanical properties, the radome 011 has excellent stress resistance and oxidation resistance, allowing it to withstand the erosion of harsh external environments.

[0054] The radiating element 014, also known as a vibrator, is the basic unit of the antenna structure, effectively transmitting or receiving electromagnetic waves. The radiating element 014 can include multiple vibrators, which can also be used in an array. In specific applications, vibrators can be divided into single-polarization and dual-polarization types. During specific configuration, the vibrator type can be appropriately selected based on actual needs.

[0055] With the continuous development of mobile communication technology, fifth-generation mobile communication technology (5G) has also been widely used. Massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) technology, as one of the key technologies of 5G communication systems, can effectively increase channel capacity. In the context of MIMO, a large number of oscillators must be arranged in the antenna. Furthermore, due to the premise of miniaturization, the effective diameter of the antenna is reduced, and the coupling between the oscillators is more significant. This easily distorts the antenna's radiation pattern, reducing the antenna gain.

[0056] To this end, an embodiment of the present application provides an antenna that can effectively narrow the beam width and achieve a larger radiation gain.

[0057] In order to make the purpose, technical solutions and advantages of this application clearer, this application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0058] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, in an example provided in the present application, the antenna array structure in the antenna 10 includes a reflector 11, a vibrator 12 and a parasitic structure 13. The reflector 11 has a reflective surface 111, and the vibrator 12 and the parasitic structure 13 are both arranged on one side of the reflective surface 111. The parasitic structure 13 is coupled with the vibrator 12, and the electromagnetic waves radiated by the vibrator 12 can generate an induced current in the parasitic structure 13, thereby exciting the parasitic structure 13 to generate secondary radiation. Among them, the vertical projections of the parasitic structure 13 and the vibrator 12 on the reflective surface 111 do not overlap, and the distance between the parasitic structure 13 and the vibrator 12 is greater than or equal to 1 / 4λ, where λ is the wavelength of the lowest frequency electromagnetic wave radiated by the vibrator 12 propagating in space. It should be noted that the parasitic structure 13 refers to a conductive structure that has a parasitic relationship with the vibrator 12, and the parasitic structure 13 generates secondary radiation based on the electromagnetic waves generated by the vibrator 12. Specifically, when the electromagnetic wave generated by the vibrator 12 passes through the parasitic structure 13 , the electric field component in the electromagnetic wave causes movement of charges in the parasitic structure 13 , generating an induced current in the parasitic structure 13 , thereby generating secondary radiation.

[0059] In the example provided in the present application, by configuring the parasitic structure 13 in the antenna 10, the beam width can be effectively narrowed, which is beneficial to improving the gain strength of the antenna 10. Specifically, in the example provided in the present application, the vibrator 12 is an active vibrator 12. The feeding network 14 can be arranged on the side of the reflector 11 away from the reflecting surface 111. The feeding network 14 is connected to the vibrator 12 for sending a feeding signal to the vibrator 12 so that the vibrator 12 radiates electromagnetic waves outward. The parasitic structure 13 is coupled with the vibrator 12, and the electromagnetic waves radiated by the vibrator 12 can generate an induced current in the parasitic structure 13, thereby causing the parasitic structure 13 to generate secondary radiation. In addition, since the distance between the parasitic structure 13 and the vibrator 12 is greater than or equal to 1 / 4λ. Therefore, the electromagnetic waves radiated by the vibrator 12 and the electromagnetic waves radiated by the parasitic structure 13 can be effectively superimposed, which can effectively narrow the beam width of the antenna 10 and improve the radiation aperture of the antenna 10, thereby achieving the effect of improving the radiation gain of the antenna 10.

[0060] In addition, in the example provided in this application, the vertical projections of the vibrator 12 and the parasitic structure 13 on the reflecting surface 111 do not overlap, which can effectively reduce the cross-sectional height of the antenna 10 and is conducive to achieving a flat design of the antenna 10.

[0061] Specifically, as shown in Figure 6, when the vertical projections of the oscillator 12 and the parasitic structure 13 on the reflecting surface 111 overlap, the distance between the oscillator 12 and the parasitic structure 13 is L1. Furthermore, the distance between the oscillator 12 and the parasitic structure 13 in the direction perpendicular to the reflecting surface 111 is also L1. The distance between the oscillator 12 and the reflecting surface 111 is L2, and the cross-sectional height of the antenna 10 is approximately L1 + L2.

[0062] As shown in Figure 5 , when the vertical projections of the oscillator 12 and the parasitic structure 13 on the reflecting surface 111 do not overlap, the distance between the oscillator 12 and the parasitic structure 13 is L1. In the direction perpendicular to the reflecting surface 111, the distance between the oscillator 12 and the parasitic structure 13 is approximately zero. The distance between the oscillator 12 and the reflecting surface 111 is L2, and the cross-sectional height of the antenna 10 is approximately L2. Therefore, the non-overlapping vertical projections of the oscillator 12 and the parasitic structure 13 on the reflecting surface 111 effectively reduce the cross-sectional height of the antenna 10, facilitating a flat design for the antenna 10.

[0063] In specific configurations, the distance between the vibrator 12 and the parasitic structure 13 can be less than 3 / 4λ to ensure a coupling effect between the vibrator 12 and the parasitic structure 13. Specifically, the distance between the vibrator 12 and the parasitic structure 13 can be any value between 1 / 4λ and 3 / 4λ. For example, the distance between the vibrator 12 and the parasitic structure 13 can be 1 / 4λ, 2 / 5λ, 1 / 2λ, 3 / 5λ, or 3 / 4λ, etc. In specific applications, the specific distance between the vibrator and the parasitic structure 13 can be reasonably selected and configured based on actual needs, and this will not be elaborated upon here.

[0064] It should be noted that in the example provided in FIG5 , the vibrator 12 and the parasitic structure 13 are substantially located in the same plane, and the plane is parallel to the reflective surface 111. However, in actual applications, the vibrator 12 and the parasitic structure 13 may also be located in different planes, that is, in a direction perpendicular to the reflective surface 111, there may be a height deviation between the vibrator 12 and the parasitic structure 13.

[0065] In addition, when specifically set, the equivalent electrical length of the parasitic structure 13 can be greater than 1 / 2λ, so as to effectively improve the radiation aperture and radiation gain of the antenna 10. When specifically set, the equivalent electrical length of the parasitic structure 13 can be 3 / 5λ, 4 / 5λ, λ, 2λ, etc. In actual application, the equivalent electrical length of the parasitic structure 13 can be reasonably set according to actual needs, which will not be described in detail here. It should be noted that the distance between the parasitic structure 13 and the vibrator 12 is related to the wavelength λ of the lowest frequency electromagnetic wave radiated by the vibrator 12 propagating in space, and the equivalent electrical length of the parasitic structure 13 is also related to the wavelength λ of the lowest frequency electromagnetic wave radiated by the vibrator 12 propagating in space. Therefore, in actual application, the distance between the parasitic structure 13 and the vibrator 12 and the equivalent electrical length of the parasitic structure 13 can be reasonably set according to this λ.

[0066] It should be noted that the equivalent electrical length of the parasitic structure 13 refers to the ratio of the signal wavelength corresponding to the operating frequency of the parasitic structure 13 to π. The equivalent electrical length of the parasitic structure 13 is generally measured through simulation. The signal wavelength can be considered to be the aforementioned λ. In actual application, the physical size parameters of the parasitic structure 13, such as the length, cross-sectional area, and shape, are the main factors determining its equivalent electrical length. In addition, the dielectric strength of the parasitic structure 13 is also a main factor determining its equivalent electrical length. In specific settings, the parameters such as the physical size and dielectric strength of the parasitic structure 13 can be reasonably set according to actual needs, and will not be elaborated here.

[0067] In addition, in specific configurations, the relative positions between the vibrator 12 and the parasitic structure 13 may be varied.

[0068] For example, as shown in FIG7 , in an example provided in this application, the parasitic structure 13 is located on a side of the vibrator 12 away from the reflective surface 111 .

[0069] Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 8 , in another example provided in the present application, the parasitic structure 13 is located on a side of the vibrator 12 close to the reflective surface 111 .

[0070] Alternatively, as shown in FIG5 , in an example provided in this application, the parasitic structure 13 and the vibrator 12 are located in the same plane, and the plane is approximately parallel to the reflective surface 111. It should be noted that the parasitic structure 13 and the vibrator 12 are located in the same plane, meaning that the parasitic structure 13 and the vibrator 12 are located in approximately the same plane. That is, in a direction perpendicular to the reflective surface 111, there is no height difference, or a small height difference, between the parasitic structure 13 and the vibrator 12. This positional layout is conducive to improving the integrated design of the antenna 10.

[0071] For example, in actual application, the antenna 10 may include a plurality of oscillators 12 , and the parasitic structure 13 may be integrated with one of the oscillators 12 .

[0072] To facilitate understanding of the technical solution of the present application, the following description will be given by taking the antenna 10 including two oscillators as an example. In addition, for ease of distinction, one of the two oscillators is defined as a first oscillator 12a, and the other is defined as a second oscillator 12b.

[0073] Specifically, as shown in Figure 9, antenna 10 includes a first dipole 12a and a second dipole 12b, wherein the first dipole 12a and the second dipole 12b are adjacent to each other. A parasitic structure 13 is coupled to the first dipole 12a. The first dipole 12a, the second dipole 12b, and the parasitic structure 13 are all located in the same plane, and the parasitic structure 13 is located outside the second dipole 12b.

[0074] In specific applications, the parasitic structure 13 and the second oscillator 12 b can be integrated and manufactured, which can effectively reduce the manufacturing cost of the antenna 10 , simplify the process flow, and improve the integration level of the antenna 10 .

[0075] In terms of structural type, the second oscillator 12b and the parasitic structure 13 can be formed from a printed circuit board (PCB) or a flexible printed circuit board (FPC). Specifically, a conductive structure can be provided within the PCB or FPC to form the second oscillator 12b and the parasitic structure 13. During fabrication, the well-established processes used for making circuit boards can be employed, resulting in low production costs and high reliability.

[0076] For example, as shown in Figure 10 , the second oscillator 12b and the parasitic structure 13 are formed from a printed circuit board. The second oscillator 12b and the parasitic structure 13 are located on two surfaces of a dielectric substrate 15, respectively. It should be noted that in the example provided in Figure 10 , for ease of illustration, the second oscillator 12b and the parasitic structure 13 are located on two surfaces of the dielectric substrate 15, respectively. However, in actual applications, the second oscillator 12b and the parasitic structure 13 can also be located on the same surface of the dielectric substrate 15, which is not discussed here.

[0077] Alternatively, in other examples, the second vibrator 12b and the parasitic structure 13 can be metal sheet metal parts. For example, the second vibrator 12b and the parasitic structure 13 can be formed by stamping, cutting, or other processes. Of course, it should be noted that in order to prevent a short circuit between the second vibrator 12b and the parasitic structure 13, electrical insulation needs to be maintained between the second vibrator 12b and the parasitic structure 13. In specific settings, the second vibrator 12b and the parasitic structure 13 can be processed by using an insulating bracket or secondary injection molding, so that the second vibrator 12b and the parasitic structure 13 are fixed as an integrated structure.

[0078] In addition, the integrated structural setting is also helpful in reducing the number of connectors used and simplifying the assembly process.

[0079] Specifically, as shown in FIG10 , in actual application, an insulating bracket 16 or other connector can be used to secure the second oscillator 12 b and the parasitic structure 13 to the reflector 11. That is, the second oscillator 12 b and the parasitic structure 13 can be secured to the reflector 11 using the same connector, thereby reducing the number of connectors used and simplifying the assembly process of the antenna 10.

[0080] It is understood that in other examples, the second oscillator 12b and the parasitic structure 13 may be two independent structural components, that is, the second oscillator 12b and the parasitic structure 13 may not be fixedly connected. In addition, the second oscillator 12b and the parasitic structure 13 may also be fixedly connected to the reflector 11 via different connecting members, which will not be described in detail here.

[0081] In addition, in practical applications, a parasitic structure coupled with the second oscillator 12 b may also be provided in the antenna 10 , thereby further improving the radiation gain of the antenna 10 .

[0082] For example, as shown in FIG11 , in the example provided in the present application, the antenna 10 includes two parasitic structures, namely a parasitic structure 13a and a parasitic structure 13b. The parasitic structure 13a is coupled to the first oscillator 12a, and the parasitic structure 13b is coupled to the second oscillator 12b. Alternatively, it can be understood that the distance between the parasitic structure 13a and the first oscillator 12a can be any value between 1 / 4λa and 3 / 4λa, where λa is the wavelength of the lowest frequency electromagnetic wave radiated by the first oscillator 12a propagating in space, so as to ensure effective coupling between the parasitic structure 13a and the first oscillator 12a. In addition, the distance between the parasitic structure 13b and the second oscillator 12b can be any value between 1 / 4λb and 3 / 4λb, where λb is the wavelength of the lowest frequency electromagnetic wave radiated by the second oscillator 12b propagating in space, so as to ensure effective coupling between the parasitic structure 13b and the second oscillator 12b.

[0083] It should be noted that, in actual application, the operating frequency bands of the first oscillator 12a and the second oscillator 12b can be the same or different. In specific settings, the operating frequency bands of the first oscillator 12a and the second oscillator 12b can be reasonably set according to actual needs, which will not be described in detail here.

[0084] It should be understood that the above example illustrates an antenna 10 including two parasitic structures and two oscillators. In actual applications, the antenna 10 may include more than two oscillators and more than two parasitic structures, and each oscillator may be equipped with a corresponding coupled parasitic structure. In general, the antenna 10 may include multiple oscillators and multiple parasitic structures, with the multiple oscillators and multiple parasitic structures being coupled in a one-to-one relationship.

[0085] In addition, in the example provided in FIG. 11 , the vibrator and the parasitic structure are both independent structural components, and are independently disposed on one side of the reflector 11 .

[0086] In other examples, the oscillator and the parasitic structure can also be integrated.

[0087] For example, as shown in Figure 12, in an example provided in this application, two oscillators and two parasitic structures are shown. Specifically, the two oscillators are a first oscillator 12a and a second oscillator 12b. The two parasitic structures are a parasitic structure 13a and a parasitic structure 13b. Parasitic structure 13a is coupled to the first oscillator 12a, and parasitic structure 13b is coupled to the second oscillator 12b. Furthermore, the first oscillator 12a and the parasitic structure 13b are integrated, and the second oscillator 12b and the parasitic structure 13a are integrated.

[0088] During specific configuration, the specific structural types of the first oscillator 12a, the second oscillator 12b, the parasitic structure 13a, and the parasitic structure 13b can be reasonably selected and adjusted based on actual conditions. Furthermore, the integration method between the first oscillator 12a and the parasitic structure 13b, and the integration method between the second oscillator 12b and the parasitic structure 13a can also be reasonably configured based on actual needs.

[0089] For example, as shown in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 , in an example provided in the present application, the first oscillator 12 a and the second oscillator 12 b are both dual-polarization oscillators.

[0090] Specifically, the first vibrator 12a includes a first vibrating arm 121a and a second vibrating arm 122a arranged orthogonally. The first vibrating arm 121a and the second vibrating arm 122a can radiate or receive electromagnetic waves with different polarization directions, and have good signal transmission and reception performance. Correspondingly, the second vibrator 12b includes a first vibrating arm 121b and a second vibrating arm 122b arranged orthogonally. The first vibrating arm 121b and the second vibrating arm 122b can radiate or receive electromagnetic waves with different polarization directions, and have good signal transmission and reception performance.

[0091] As shown in Figures 12 and 14 , parasitic structure 13a and parasitic structure 13b are both rectangular frame structures. Corner 131a of parasitic structure 13a is coupled to first vibration arm 121a, and corner 132a of parasitic structure 13a is coupled to second vibration arm 122a. Correspondingly, corner 131b of parasitic structure 13b is coupled to first vibration arm 121b, and corner 132b of parasitic structure 13b is coupled to second vibration arm 122b.

[0092] In a specific configuration, the first oscillator 12a and the parasitic structure 13b can be located in the same plane, and the parasitic structure 13b is located outside the first oscillator 12a. The second oscillator 12b and the parasitic structure 13a can be located in the same plane, and the parasitic structure 13a is located outside the second oscillator 12b.

[0093] In addition, as shown in FIG15 , in another example provided herein, the spatial postures of the parasitic structures 13a and 13b are different from those in the example shown in FIG14 . Alternatively, it can be understood that the structure shown in FIG15 can be considered to be formed by rotating the parasitic structures 13a and 13b shown in FIG14 counterclockwise by approximately 45°, and the first oscillator 12a and the second oscillator 12b do not need to be adjusted.

[0094] For details, please refer to Figures 13 and 15 . In the example provided in Figure 15 , edge 133a of parasitic structure 13a is coupled to first vibration arm 121a, and edge 134a of parasitic structure 13a is coupled to second vibration arm 122a. Correspondingly, edge 133b of parasitic structure 13b is coupled to first vibration arm 121b, and edge 134b of parasitic structure 13b is coupled to second vibration arm 122b.

[0095] In addition, in the example provided in FIG15 , due to size and shape limitations, the space enclosed by parasitic structure 13a may not be sufficient to accommodate second oscillator 12b, and the space enclosed by parasitic structure 13b may not be sufficient to accommodate first oscillator 12a. Therefore, when integrating parasitic structure 13a and second oscillator 12b, parasitic structure 13a and second oscillator 12b may be layered. Similarly, when integrating parasitic structure 13b and first oscillator 12a, parasitic structure 13b and first oscillator 12a may be layered.

[0096] For example, as shown in Figure 16, in one example provided herein, the first oscillator 12a can be located on the upper surface of a dielectric substrate 15a, and the parasitic structure 13b can be located on the lower surface of the dielectric substrate 15a. This allows the first parasitic structure 12a and the parasitic structure 13b to be integrated. The second oscillator 12b can be located on the upper surface of the dielectric substrate 15b, and the parasitic structure 13a can be located on the lower surface of the dielectric substrate 15b. This allows the second parasitic structure 12b and the parasitic structure 13a to be integrated.

[0097] In addition, in the above example, the parasitic structure 13 a and the parasitic structure 13 b are both rectangular frame structures.

[0098] In other examples, the parasitic structure 13 a and the parasitic structure 13 b may also have other shapes.

[0099] For example, as shown in Figure 17, take the parasitic structure 13a as an example. In another example provided in the present application, the parasitic structure 13a is cross-shaped. Specifically, the parasitic structure 13a includes a first coupling arm 135a and a second coupling arm 136a arranged orthogonally. Among them, the extension direction of the first coupling arm 135a is consistent with the extension direction of the first vibration arm 121a, thereby achieving effective coupling between the first coupling arm 135a and the first vibration arm 121a. The extension direction of the second coupling arm 136a is consistent with the extension direction of the second vibration arm 122a, thereby achieving effective coupling between the second coupling arm 136a and the second vibration arm 122a.

[0100] Alternatively, as shown in FIG18 , in another example provided in this application, the parasitic structure 13a shown in FIG17 can be considered to be formed by rotating the parasitic structure 13a counterclockwise by about 45°. In this case, effective coupling can still be achieved between the parasitic structure 13a and the first oscillator 12a.

[0101] In summary, in practical applications, the spatial postures of the parasitic structure 13 a and the first oscillator 12 a can be flexibly set according to actual conditions, which will not be elaborated here.

[0102] It should be noted that when setting the parasitic structure 13b, the parasitic structure 13b can be similarly set with reference to the specific structure of the parasitic structure 13a, which will not be described in detail here.

[0103] In addition, in practical applications, the cross-shaped parasitic structure 13 a and the second oscillator 12 b may also be integrated.

[0104] For example, as shown in Figure 19, in one example provided herein, the parasitic structure 13a and the second oscillator 12b can be layered. Specifically, the parasitic structure 13a can be located on the lower surface of the dielectric substrate, and the second oscillator 12b can be located on the upper surface of the dielectric substrate, thereby achieving an integrated arrangement of the parasitic structure 13a and the second oscillator 12b.

[0105] It should be noted that in the above example, the oscillator 12 is a dual-polarized oscillator. In actual applications, the oscillator 12 can also be a single-polarized oscillator or other types. This application does not limit the specific type of the oscillator 12.

[0106] In addition, in actual application, the antenna 10 may include a plurality of oscillators 12 , and the plurality of oscillators may be arranged in an array.

[0107] For example, as shown in Figure 20, in one example provided herein, antenna 10 may include six oscillators 12, which are sequentially spaced apart along a first direction. Furthermore, antenna 10 may include six parasitic structures 13, which are sequentially spaced apart along the first direction. In a second direction, oscillators 12 and parasitic structures 13 are coupled in a one-to-one correspondence. The first direction is perpendicular to the second direction, and both the first and second directions are parallel to reflective surface 111.

[0108] In other examples, more vibrators 12 and parasitic structures 13 may be arranged in the second direction. In practical applications, the number, position and other parameters of the vibrators 12 and parasitic structures 13 may be reasonably set according to actual needs, and this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0109] In addition, in actual applications, the operating frequency bands of the oscillators 12 in the antenna 10 may be substantially the same. Alternatively, the antenna 10 may also be provided with oscillators 12 of different operating frequency bands.

[0110] For example, as shown in FIG21 , in one example provided herein, antenna 10 includes two oscillators operating in different frequency bands: oscillator 12a and oscillator 12c. The operating frequency bands of oscillator 12a and 12c are substantially the same, and the operating frequency band of oscillator 12c is greater than the operating frequency band of oscillator 12a.

[0111] In addition, in actual applications, in order to prevent the parasitic structure 13 from coupling with the vibrator 12 c and affecting the performance of the vibrator 12 c, a decoupling structure may be provided in the parasitic structure 13 to reduce or avoid coupling with the vibrator 12 c.

[0112] For example, as shown in FIG22 , in one example provided herein, the parasitic structure 13 includes a bent decoupling branch 130. The provision of the decoupling branch 130 can reduce or prevent coupling between the parasitic structure and the oscillator 12 c. In specific configurations, the shape and number of the decoupling branch 130 can be reasonably configured according to currently used methods and will not be elaborated upon herein.

[0113] In specific applications, the antenna 10 provided in the embodiment of the present application can be used in communication equipment such as base stations and radars to realize wireless communication functions.

[0114] As shown in Figure 23, a communication device may include a radio frequency processing unit, which may be connected to the feed network in the antenna. The radio frequency processing unit is used to perform frequency selection, amplification, and down-conversion processing on the signal received by the antenna, and convert it into an intermediate frequency signal or a baseband signal and send it to the baseband processing unit, or the radio frequency processing unit is used to convert the intermediate frequency signal emitted by the baseband processing unit into a wireless signal through the antenna after up-conversion and amplification processing. The baseband processing unit can be connected to the feed network of the antenna through the radio frequency processing unit. In some embodiments, the radio frequency processing unit may also be referred to as a remote radio unit (RRU), and the baseband processing unit may also be referred to as a baseband unit (BBU).

[0115] It should be noted that, in actual application, the specific type of communication equipment and the components included in the communication equipment can be reasonably selected and adjusted according to actual conditions. This application does not limit the specific type of communication equipment.

[0116] In the various embodiments of the present application, unless otherwise specified or there is a logical conflict, the terms and / or descriptions between different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. The technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationships.

[0117] In this application, "plurality" refers to two or more. "and / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, "A and / or B" can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone. A and B can be singular or plural.

[0118] It is understood that the various numbers used in the embodiments of this application are merely for ease of description and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. The order of the sequence numbers of the above-mentioned processes does not necessarily imply a specific order of execution; the order of execution of the processes should be determined by their functions and inherent logic.

Claims

1. An antenna array structure, characterized in that: Including reflectors, vibrators and parasitic structures; The reflective plate has a reflective surface; The vibrator is arranged on one side of the reflecting surface; The parasitic structure is arranged on one side of the reflecting surface and is coupled with the vibrator; The vertical projections of the parasitic structure and the vibrator on the reflecting surface do not overlap, and the distance between the parasitic structure and the vibrator is greater than or equal to 1 / 4λ, where λ is the wavelength of the lowest frequency electromagnetic wave radiated by the vibrator propagating in space.

2. The antenna array structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The distance between the parasitic structure and the oscillator is less than or equal to 3 / 4λ.

3. The antenna array structure according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The vibrator and the parasitic structure are located in the same plane, and the plane is parallel to the reflection surface.

4. The antenna array structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The antenna array structure includes a plurality of the vibrators and a plurality of the parasitic structures; The plurality of oscillators and the plurality of parasitic structures are coupled in a one-to-one correspondence.

5. The antenna array structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The antenna array structure includes a plurality of the vibrators and at least one parasitic structure; The plurality of vibrators include a first vibrator and a second vibrator, wherein the second vibrator is a vibrator adjacent to the first vibrator; The at least one parasitic structure includes a first parasitic structure, the first parasitic structure is coupled to the first oscillator, and the first parasitic structure is located at the periphery of the second oscillator.

6. The antenna array structure according to claim 5, characterized in that: The second oscillator and the first parasitic structure are an integrated structure.

7. The antenna array structure according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that: The at least one parasitic structure further comprises a second parasitic structure; The second parasitic structure is coupled to the second oscillator, and the second parasitic structure is located at the periphery of the first oscillator.

8. The antenna array structure according to claim 7, characterized in that: The first oscillator and the second parasitic structure are an integrated structure.

9. The antenna array structure according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The equivalent electrical length of the parasitic structure is greater than 1 / 2λ.

10. The antenna array structure according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: The vibrator comprises a first vibrating arm and a second vibrating arm, wherein the first vibrating arm and the second vibrating arm are arranged orthogonally; The parasitic structure comprises a first coupling arm and a second coupling arm, wherein the first coupling arm and the second coupling arm are arranged orthogonally; The first coupling arm is coupled to the first vibration arm, and the second coupling arm is coupled to the second vibration arm.

11. The antenna array structure according to claim 10, characterized in that: The parasitic structure is in a cross shape, and the first coupling arm and the second coupling arm are arranged orthogonally; Wherein, the included angle between the first vibration arm and the first coupling arm is 0° or 45°.

12. The antenna array structure according to claim 10, characterized in that: The parasitic structure is a rectangular frame, a portion of the edges of the rectangular frame constitutes the first coupling arm, and another portion of the edges of the rectangular frame constitutes the second coupling arm.

13. An antenna, characterized in that: It comprises a feeding network and the antenna array structure according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the feeding network is connected to the dipole feeding.

14. A communication device, characterized in that: The antenna comprises a radio frequency processing unit and the antenna as claimed in claim 13, wherein the radio frequency processing unit is connected to the feeding network.

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