Wireless communication module

Abstract

A wireless communication module according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: an antenna unit disposed in a first area of a substrate; and a Wi-Fi module disposed in a second area of the substrate, wherein the antenna unit includes a first antenna unit and a third antenna unit which are disposed on one side of the Wi-Fi module and are connected to each other, and the first antenna unit and the third antenna unit radiate signals having a phase difference.

Description

wireless communication module

[0001] The present invention relates to a wireless communication module, and more particularly, to a wireless communication module that improves communication performance through antenna arrangement of the wireless communication module.

[0002] Eco-friendly vehicles such as electric vehicles (EVs) or plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) use electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) installed at charging stations to charge their batteries.

[0003] Several standards are actively being developed to facilitate interaction between electric vehicles and EVSE. These standards for electric vehicle charging can be broadly categorized into charging systems, charging interfaces, and communication protocols.

[0004] However, since different regulations are adopted by each country or automobile company, the charging devices, battery packs, and battery management systems (BMS) of electric vehicles must be developed and designed according to the regulations.

[0005] When designing a vehicle charging system, the inclusion of power lines for slow charging, rapid charging, and communication, as well as communication lines for electric vehicle charging, poses a challenge: thicker cables and higher costs. Furthermore, kiosks must be installed around parking spaces to charge electric vehicles, limiting charging to the locations where these kiosks are installed. Furthermore, kiosks can only provide a set charging speed.

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a wireless communication module that improves communication performance through antenna arrangement of the wireless communication module.

[0007] In order to solve the above technical problem, a wireless communication module according to one embodiment of the present invention includes an antenna unit disposed in a first region of a substrate; and a WiFi module disposed in a second region of the substrate, wherein the antenna unit includes a first antenna unit and a third antenna unit disposed on one side of the WiFi module and connected to each other, and the first antenna unit and the third antenna unit radiate a signal having a phase difference.

[0008] The above antenna unit includes a second antenna unit and a fourth antenna unit that are arranged on the other side of the WiFi module and connected to each other, and the second antenna unit and the fourth antenna unit can radiate a signal having a phase difference.

[0009] The phase difference between the first antenna section and the third antenna section and the phase difference between the second antenna section and the fourth antenna section may be different from each other.

[0010] The above Wi-Fi module is connected to a first antenna unit through a second signal line branched from a first signal line, and the above Wi-Fi module can be connected to a third antenna unit through a third signal line branched from the first signal line.

[0011] The lengths of the second signal line and the third signal line may be different from each other based on the first signal line.

[0012] In order to solve the above technical problem, a wireless communication module according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a first case; a second case coupled with the first case; a substrate disposed within the second case; an antenna unit disposed in a first area of ​​the substrate; and a WiFi module disposed in a second area of ​​the substrate, wherein the antenna unit includes a first antenna unit and a third antenna unit disposed on one side of the WiFi module and connected to each other, and the antenna unit includes a second antenna unit and a fourth antenna unit disposed on the other side of the WiFi module and connected to each other.

[0013] The first antenna section and the third antenna section radiate a signal having a first phase difference, the second antenna section and the fourth antenna section radiate a signal having a second phase difference, and the first phase difference and the second phase difference may be different from each other.

[0014] The above Wi-Fi module is connected to a first antenna unit through a second signal line branched from a first signal line, and the above Wi-Fi module is connected to a second antenna unit through a third signal line branched from the first signal line, and the lengths of the second signal line and the third signal line may be different from each other based on the first signal line.

[0015]

[0016] In order to solve the above technical problem, a wireless communication module according to one embodiment of the present invention includes an antenna unit disposed in a first region of a substrate; and a WiFi module disposed in a second region of the substrate, wherein the antenna unit includes a first antenna unit and a third antenna unit disposed on one side of the WiFi module and connected to each other, and includes a shield unit between the first region and the second region of the substrate.

[0017] The first antenna portion and the third antenna portion do not overlap in a first axial direction and a second axial direction perpendicular to the first axial direction, and the shield portion includes a first shield portion facing the first antenna portion and a second shield portion facing the third antenna portion.

[0018] The above antenna part includes a second antenna part and a fourth antenna part that are arranged on the other side of the WiFi module and connected to each other, and the shielding part includes a third shielding part facing the second antenna part and a fourth shielding part facing the fourth antenna part.

[0019] The first and second corner portions may form an obtuse angle.

[0020] The above shielding portion can be electrically connected to the ground portion of the substrate.

[0021] In order to solve the above technical problem, a wireless communication module according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a first case; a second case coupled with the first case; a substrate disposed within the second case; an antenna unit disposed in a first region of the substrate; and a WiFi module disposed in a second region of the substrate, wherein the antenna unit includes a first antenna unit and a third antenna unit disposed on one side of the WiFi module and connected to each other, and a shield unit disposed between the first region and the second region of the substrate.

[0022] The first antenna portion and the third antenna portion do not overlap in a first axial direction and a second axial direction perpendicular to the first axial direction, and the shield portion may include a first shield portion facing the first antenna portion and a second shield portion facing the third antenna portion.

[0023] The above antenna unit may include a second antenna unit and a fourth antenna unit that are arranged on the other side of the WiFi module and connected to each other, and the shielding unit may include a third shielding unit facing the second antenna unit and a fourth shielding unit facing the fourth antenna unit.

[0024] The above shielding portion can be electrically connected to the ground portion of the substrate.

[0025]

[0026] In order to solve the above technical problem, a wireless communication module according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a first antenna unit and a second antenna unit arranged in a first region of a substrate; a first NFC antenna unit and a second NFC antenna unit arranged in the first region of the substrate; and a WiFi module arranged in the second region of the substrate, wherein the first NFC antenna unit and the first antenna unit are arranged so as not to overlap in a first axis direction and a second axis direction perpendicular to the first axis direction, and the second NFC antenna unit and the second antenna unit are arranged so as not to overlap in the first axis direction and the second axis direction.

[0027] The first antenna unit and the second antenna unit may be arranged to overlap in the first axis direction, and the first NFC antenna unit and the second NFC antenna unit may be arranged to overlap in the first axis direction.

[0028] The second region of the above substrate may have an EVCC (Electric Vehicle Communication Controller) placed thereon.

[0029] The above first NFC antenna unit and the above second NFC antenna unit may be embedded NFC antennas.

[0030] The first NFC antenna unit may be positioned to face one side of the Wi-Fi module, and the second NFC antenna unit may be positioned to face the other side of the Wi-Fi module.

[0031] In order to solve the above technical problem, a wireless communication module according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a first case; a second case coupled to the first case; a substrate disposed within the second case; a first antenna unit and a second antenna unit disposed in a first region of the substrate; a first NFC antenna unit and a second NFC antenna unit disposed in the first region of the substrate; and a Wi-Fi module disposed in the second region of the substrate, wherein the first NFC antenna unit and the first antenna unit are disposed so as not to overlap in a first axis direction and a second axis direction perpendicular to the first axis direction, and the second NFC antenna unit and the second antenna unit are disposed so as not to overlap in the first axis direction and the second axis direction.

[0032] The first antenna unit and the second antenna unit may be arranged to overlap in the first axis direction, and the first NFC antenna unit and the second NFC antenna unit may be arranged to overlap in the first axis direction.

[0033] The second region of the above substrate may have an EVCC (Electric Vehicle Communication Controller) placed thereon.

[0034] According to embodiments of the present invention, direct / indirect effects due to separation of power lines and communication lines can be minimized, and communication failure can be prevented when using high power.

[0035] Additionally, a wireless environment can be created through high-performance antennas, and coverage can be expanded through multiple antennas, minimizing location constraints.

[0036] In addition, by selecting a location that minimizes the electric field influence from the Wi-Fi module and EVCC module and placing the antenna, a high-performance antenna with excellent passive performance can be developed.

[0037] Additionally, an EVCC module with high efficiency characteristics can be designed through an optimized design that takes into account the radiation pattern design between multiple antennas.

[0038] Additionally, charging and payment can be made using EVSE's Wi-Fi zone or personal mobile terminal or vehicle without restrictions on the location where the vehicle charging kiosk is installed.

[0039] Additionally, since it does not require the installation of a separate kiosk, it can be used to add to existing vehicle charging stations and expand charging facilities.

[0040] Additionally, depending on the area, array spacing, location, and phase difference settings of the antenna, the radiated signal may have directivity toward a specific direction.

[0041] Additionally, by placing a shield coated with ferrite inside the communication device, it is possible to maximize the reduction of electromagnetic fields generated from electronic components inside the device as well as noise generated outside the device, and to minimize signal interference.

[0042] Additionally, field interference can be minimized by including an NFC antenna that communicates through a different band and field than the antenna unit.

[0043] Figures 1 to 3 are block diagrams of a wireless charging control device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a wireless charging control device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a wireless charging control device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 6 is a flowchart of a wireless charging control method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 7 illustrates the appearance of a wireless communication module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 8 is a block diagram of a wireless communication module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of a wireless communication module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figures 10 and 11 illustrate a wireless communication module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 12 is a block diagram of a wireless communication module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 13 illustrates a wireless communication module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 are drawings for explaining a wireless communication module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] FIG. 16 and FIG. 17 are drawings for explaining a wireless communication module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 18 is a block diagram of a wireless communication module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] FIG. 19 illustrates a wireless communication module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0058] However, the technical idea of ​​the present invention is not limited to some of the embodiments described, but can be implemented in various different forms, and within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention, one or more of the components between the embodiments can be selectively combined or substituted for use.

[0059] In addition, terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in this embodiment may be interpreted as having a meaning that can be generally understood by a person of ordinary skill in the technical field to which this embodiment belongs, unless explicitly and specifically defined and described, and terms that are commonly used, such as terms defined in a dictionary, may be interpreted in consideration of the contextual meaning of the relevant technology.

[0060] Additionally, the terms used in this embodiment are for the purpose of describing the embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0061] In this specification, the singular may also include the plural unless specifically stated otherwise in the phrase, and when it is described as “A and / or at least one (or more) of B, C”, it may include one or more of all combinations that can be combined with A, B, C.

[0062] Additionally, in describing the components of this embodiment, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. may be used. These terms are only intended to distinguish the components from other components, and are not intended to limit the nature, order, or sequence of the components.

[0063] And, when a component is described as being 'connected', 'coupled', or 'connected' to another component, it may include not only cases where the component is 'connected', 'coupled', or 'connected' directly to the other component, but also cases where the component is 'connected', 'coupled', or 'connected' by another component between the component and the other component.

[0064] Additionally, when described as being formed or arranged "above" or "below" each component, "above" or "below" includes not only cases where the two components are in direct contact with each other, but also cases where one or more other components are formed or arranged between the two components. Furthermore, when expressed as "above" or "below," the meaning may include not only the upward direction but also the downward direction based on one component.

[0065]

[0066] FIGS. 1 to 3 are block diagrams of a wireless charging control device according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a wireless charging control device according to another embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a wireless charging control device according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a wireless charging control method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Below, a wireless charging control device (10) according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 1, a charging system including an electric vehicle according to a first embodiment of the present invention may include a vehicle (1) and an electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) 30. The vehicle (1) is an electric vehicle (EV) and can be charged from the EVSE (30). In order for the vehicle (1) to receive charging power from the EVSE (30), a charging cable connected to the EVSE (30) can be connected to an inlet of the vehicle (1).

[0069] EVSE (30) is a device that supplies AC or DC, and can be placed at a charging station or within a home. EVSE (30) is not limited to a location and can also be implemented to be portable. In this specification, EVSE (30) can be used interchangeably with charging station (Supply), AC charging station (AC supply), DC charging station (DC supply), socket-outlet, etc.

[0070] The EVCC (Electric Vehicle Communication Controller, 20) is a component included in a vehicle (1) and can be connected to an ECU (Electronic Control Unit, 50) within the vehicle (1). The EVCC (20) can perform charging signal and charging power amount control within the vehicle.

[0071]

[0072] A wireless charging control device (10) according to a first embodiment of the present invention may include a wireless communication module (11) and a control module (12).

[0073] Although the wireless charging control device (10) is described as a separate component from the EVCC (20), the wireless charging control device (10) may be a component included in the EVCC (20) for performing wireless communication with the EVCC (20), EVSE (30), and mobile terminal (40). The wireless charging control device (10) is a wireless communication charging control module, and the wireless charging control device (10) may include a separate control module without being controlled by the MCU (Micro Control Unit) of the EVCC (20).

[0074] The wireless charging control device (10) can issue instructions to operate the MCU of the EVCC (20) through a control module (12) configured separately from the EVCC (20) through a signal received from the mobile terminal (40). In addition, the wireless charging control device (10) can receive signals for vehicle charging and payment from the EVCC (20) and EVSE (30) and transmit them to the mobile terminal (40), thereby providing a service that allows a user to monitor the status of vehicle charging through the mobile terminal (40).

[0075] The wireless communication module (11) can transmit and receive signals with the EVCC (20), EVSE (30), and mobile terminal (40). The wireless communication module (11) can receive signals from the EVCC (20), EVSE (30), and mobile terminal (40), and transmit the received signals to the control module (12). In addition, the wireless communication module (11) can transmit the signals received from the control module (12) to at least one of the EVCC (20), EVSE (30), and mobile terminal (40).

[0076] The wireless communication module (11) may include a Wi-Fi module and a short-range communication module. The wireless communication module (11) may include a W-PAN (Wireless Personal Area Network), a W-LAN (Wireless Local Area Network), etc. W-PAN may include ZigBee, Bluetooth, UWB (Ultra Wide Band), etc., and W-LAN may include WIFI, etc. Although the wireless communication module (11) has been described as performing wireless communication, it is not particularly limited thereto, and it is obvious that it may perform wired communication in addition to wireless communication.

[0077] The wireless communication module (11) may include an NFC (Near Field Communication) module. NFC is a technology that enables communication between wireless devices at close range and is a type of non-contact short-range wireless communication using the 13.56 MHz RF (Radio Frequency) frequency band. If the wireless communication module (11) is an NFC module, the wireless communication module (11) and the EVSE (30) must be maintained at close range to perform communication, so they can be installed in various locations, such as the vehicle's side mirror or driver's door.

[0078] When the wireless communication module (11) is an NFC module, the EVSE (30) may include an NFC reader to communicate with the NFC module in the vehicle (1). When the vehicle (1) enters the EVSE (30) area and the NFC reader built into the EVSE (30) and the NFC module of the vehicle (1) are in a close range state where they can communicate with each other, communication regarding switching to the ready mode of the vehicle (1), information regarding the vehicle charging status, etc. is possible.

[0079] The control module (12) can generate a control signal to the EVSE (30) and EVCC (20) using a signal received from the mobile terminal (40). The control module (12) can generate a control signal for charging using the signals received from the EVCC (20), EVSE (30), and mobile terminal (40).

[0080] The control module (12) can generate a separate control signal without being controlled by the MCU (Micro Control Unit) of the EVCC (20). The control module (12) of the wireless charging control device (10) can be formed independently from the control module of the EVCC (20). The control module (12) can receive a signal input by a user from a mobile terminal (40) and generate a control signal for charging and charging to the EVCC (20) and EVSE (30).

[0081] The control module (12) can provide information on various vehicle charging states according to signals requested from the EVCC (20), EVSE (30), and mobile terminal (40). Information on the vehicle charging state can include various pieces of information.

[0082] For example, charging status information may include information about charging mode, battery charging schedule, battery charging start / end, charging error, charging control, charging current, voltage, and power. Battery status information may include information about battery charge rate, battery temperature (cell internal / external temperature), voltage / current charging constant, etc. Authentication information may include information about vehicle ID, user ID, EVSE ID, etc. Charging billing information may include information about power rate, charging time, load information, meter data, billing data, etc.

[0083] The control module (12) can generate a control signal to be transmitted to the EVCC (20), EVSE (30), and mobile terminal (40) according to the charging stage. Hereinafter, the control module (12) is described as transmitting and receiving the control signal, but the signal generated by the control module (12) can be transmitted and received to each component via the wireless communication module (11).

[0084] When a vehicle (1) enters the area of ​​an EVSE (30), the control module (12) can receive an entry signal of the EVSE (30) and transmit a signal to cause the EVCC (20) to switch from a sleep mode to a ready mode. When the charging gun of the EVSE (30) is mounted on the vehicle (1), the control module (12) can transmit a vehicle recognition signal to the mobile terminal (40). Alternatively, when entering a charging area of ​​an EVSE (30) that is wirelessly charged, the control module (12) can transmit a vehicle recognition signal to the mobile terminal (40).

[0085] Thereafter, when a signal for a vehicle charging start request is received from a mobile terminal (40), the control module (12) can transmit a charging start signal to the EVSE (30) and the EVCC (20). The control module (12) can provide information on the vehicle charging status received from the EVCC (20) according to the request signal of the mobile terminal (40) or the request signal of the EVSE (30) during charging. When a problem occurs in the vehicle, battery, and EVSE during charging, the control module (12) that has received a problem occurrence signal from each component can transmit a signal to the mobile terminal (40) notifying that a problem has occurred and guide it to take action.

[0086] When the control module (12) receives a vehicle charging completion signal from the EVCC (20), it can transmit vehicle charging billing information and a payment signal received from the EVSE (30) to the mobile terminal (40). The user can pay the vehicle charging fee through the mobile terminal (40). Thereafter, the charging gun of the EVSE (30) is detached from the vehicle (1), and vehicle charging is completed.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 5, the EVSE (30) includes a wireless communication module (31) and can directly transmit and receive control signals according to vehicle charging operations with the mobile terminal (40). Through this, the EVSE (30) can directly transmit and receive signals to the mobile terminal (40) without going through the wireless charging control device (10) included in the vehicle (1).

[0088] According to embodiments of the present invention, direct and indirect effects resulting from the separation of power and communication lines can be minimized, communication failures can be prevented when using high power, a wireless environment can be created through a high-performance antenna, and location restrictions can be minimized through expanded coverage. Furthermore, charging and payment can be made via EVSE Wi-Fi zones, personal mobile devices, or vehicles, regardless of the location where the vehicle charging kiosk is installed. Furthermore, since no separate kiosk installation is required, existing vehicle charging stations can be added and charging facilities expanded.

[0089]

[0090] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 4, a wireless charging control device (10) according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. The description of the first embodiment of the present invention can be applied to the second embodiment of the present invention, and any duplicate description will be omitted.

[0091] Referring to FIG. 4, a wireless charging control device (10) according to a second embodiment of the present invention may include a first communication module (13), a second communication module (14), a third communication module (15), and a control module (12).

[0092] The first communication module (13) can transmit and receive signals with the EVSE (30). The first communication module (13) can be performed by a protocol that supports PLC (Power Line Communication). The second communication module (14) can transmit and receive signals with the EVCC (20). The second communication module (14) can be performed by a protocol that supports CAN (Controller Area Network).

[0093] The third communication module (15) can transmit and receive signals with the mobile terminal (40). The third communication module (15) can include a Wi-Fi module and a short-range communication module. The third communication module (15) can include a W-PAN (Wireless Personal Area Network), a W-LAN (Wireless Local Area Network), etc. W-PAN can include ZigBee, Bluetooth, UWB (Ultra Wide Band), etc., and W-LAN can include WIFI, etc. The third communication module (15) can have a configuration corresponding to the wireless communication module (11) included in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0094] The wireless charging control device (10) according to the second embodiment of the present invention can transmit and receive signals through the NFC function. The first communication module (13) that communicates with the EVSE (30) may include an NFC module. At this time, the EVSE (30) may include an NFC reader to communicate with the NFC module, which is the first communication module (13). The charging gun of the EVSE (30) may include an NFC reader. The third communication module (15) that communicates with the mobile terminal (40) may include an NFC module. At this time, the mobile terminal (40) may include an NFC reader to communicate with the NFC module, which is the third communication module (15). The first to third communication modules (13, 14, 15) may include communication modules for communicating through NFC technology.

[0095] The control module (12) is connected to the first to third communication modules (13, 14, 15) and can generate a control signal to the EVCC (20) and EVSE (30) using a signal received from the third communication module (15). More specifically, the control module (12) generates a charging control signal using signals from the EVCC (20), EVSE (30), and mobile terminal (40), and the generated charging control signal can be transmitted through the first to third communication modules (13, 14, 15) connected to the EVCC (20), EVSE (30), and mobile terminal (40), respectively. The control module (12) may be configured to be formed independently from the control module of the EVCC (20).

[0096]

[0097] Fig. 6 is a flowchart of a wireless charging control method according to an embodiment of the present invention. A detailed description of each step in Fig. 6 corresponds to the detailed description of the wireless charging control device in Figs. 1 to 5, and thus, any duplicate description will be omitted.

[0098] In a wireless charging control device that controls vehicle charging by transmitting and receiving signals with an EVSE, an EVCC, and a mobile terminal, when a vehicle entry signal is received from the EVSE in step S11, a signal is transmitted so that the EVCC switches from sleep mode to ready mode, a vehicle recognition signal is transmitted to the mobile terminal when the charging gun of the EVSE is mounted on the vehicle in step S12, and a signal is transmitted so that the EVCC switches from ready mode to charging mode, a signal regarding the vehicle charging status received from the EVCC is transmitted to the EVSE and the mobile terminal in step S13, and a vehicle charging completion signal is transmitted to the EVSE and the mobile terminal in step S14. The signal regarding the vehicle charging status may include at least one of a charging speed, a charging charge, a charging amount, and a remaining charging time.

[0099]

[0100] FIG. 7 illustrates the appearance of a wireless communication module according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a wireless communication module according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a wireless communication module according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate a wireless communication module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0101] A wireless communication module (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a first antenna unit (110) and a second antenna unit (120) disposed in a first region (1100) of a substrate (1000), and a Wi-Fi module (200) disposed in a second region (1200) of the substrate (1000). In addition to the Wi-Fi module (200), an EVCC may be disposed in the second region (1200) of the substrate (1000). The second region (1200) of the substrate (1000) may be divided into a third region where the Wi-Fi module (200) is disposed, and a fourth region where the EVCC is disposed. The third region of the substrate (1000) may be formed in a shape that protrudes from the fourth region. The first antenna unit (110) and the second antenna unit (120) may be disposed at an edge, which is an EMC minimization region generated in a circuit of the substrate (1000).

[0102] The wireless communication module (10) may include a first case (1111) and a second case (1112) coupled with the first case (1111). A substrate (1000) may be placed within the second case (1112). The substrate (1000) may be placed in an internal space formed by the coupling of the first case (1111) and the second case (1112). The first case (1111) and the second case (1112) may be referred to as a first body and a second body. The first case (1111) and the second case (1112) may be referred to as a first cover and a second cover. The first case (1111) and the second case (1112) may be referred to as a top cover and a bottom cover.

[0103] The first antenna unit (110) and the second antenna unit (120) may include a short-range communication module. The first antenna unit (110) and the second antenna unit (120) may include a Bluetooth antenna. A shield can may be placed on the top of the Wi-Fi module (200). A cover may be placed on the top of the Wi-Fi module (200).

[0104] The first antenna unit (110) and the second antenna unit (120) can be spaced apart from the WiFi module (200) by a predetermined distance to minimize the influence of parasitic capacitance caused by the shield can of the WiFi module (200) that affects antenna performance. Through this, even when the WiFi and Bluetooth antennas, which are ultra-small modules, are adjacent to each other, signal interference between them can be minimized, and when operating simultaneously with Bluetooth, a wireless WiFi transmission rate can be secured.

[0105] The first antenna unit (110) may be arranged to face one side of the Wi-Fi module (200), and the second antenna unit (120) may be arranged to face the other side of the Wi-Fi module (200). The first antenna unit (110) and the second antenna unit (120) may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the Wi-Fi module (200). The first antenna unit (110) and the second antenna unit (120) may be formed in the same shape and may be formed in a shape symmetrical with respect to the Wi-Fi module (200). The first antenna unit (110) and the second antenna unit (120) may be configured as a MIMO (Multiple-Input Multiple-Output) antenna. The first antenna unit (110) and the second antenna unit (120) are spaced apart from each other with respect to the Wi-Fi module (200), so that mutual interference of electromagnetic waves can be prevented and isolation can be improved.

[0106] The first antenna unit (110) and the second antenna unit (120) may be formed with multiple radiating units having various frequency bands for various communications. In particular, radiating units for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, and NFC may be required for short-range communications.

[0107] Each of the first antenna unit (110) and the second antenna unit (120) may include a feeding unit (111, 121) connected to a first region (1100) of a substrate (1000), a first radiating unit connected to the feeding unit (111, 121), a second radiating unit connected to the first radiating unit, and a ground unit (112, 122) connected to the second radiating unit and the first region (1100) of the substrate (1000). Current is applied to each of the first antenna unit (110) and the second antenna unit (120) through the feeding unit (111, 121), and the first radiating unit and the second radiating unit each radiate a signal having a predetermined frequency band to the outside according to the current applied through the feeding unit (111, 121). At this time, the phases of the signals radiated through each radiation pattern forming the first radiation section and the second radiation section are implemented to be different.

[0108] The first antenna unit (110) and the second antenna unit (120) may be PIFA antennas. A PIFA (Planar Inverted F Antenna) is a planar inverted F antenna, which means a planar antenna in which a square patch plate with a smaller area is placed on a ground plane of a planar antenna as if F is inverted and raised. The PIFA antenna may be composed of a ground plane, a radiating patch, a feeding portion, and a short-circuit portion (shorting pin or short-circuit strip). The PIFA antenna functions as a radiating element when the patch resonates with the ground plane by current feeding, and the bandwidth, gain, resonant frequency, etc. may be determined depending on the length, width, and height of the patch, the position of the feeding line, and the position of the short-circuit pin.

[0109] The first radiating portion may include a first pattern (113, 123) connected to a feeding portion (111, 121) and a second pattern (114, 124) extending from one end of the first pattern (113, 123). The second radiating portion may include a third pattern (115, 125) connected to a ground portion (112, 122) and a fourth pattern (116, 126) perpendicular to the third pattern (115, 125). The first pattern (113, 123) and the second pattern (114, 124) may be arranged to form an obtuse angle. The second pattern (114, 124) may be arranged parallel to one side of the substrate (1000). Each radiating portion may be formed in various shapes and may vary depending on the design of the radiating portion.

[0110] The first radiating unit and the second radiating unit may be radiating units for Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Alternatively, they may be radiating units for other communications, such as NFC. The first radiating unit and the second radiating unit may be radiating units for different purposes, or they may be radiating units for the same purpose. The width of the first radiating unit may be formed to be larger than the width of the second radiating unit. The first radiating unit may resonate in a frequency band of 5.0 GHz to 5.2 GHz. The second radiating unit may resonate in a frequency band of 2.4 GHz to 2.5 GHz.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 11, the distance (A) between the first antenna portion (110) and the second antenna portion (120) may be formed to be 46.5 mm or more and 48 mm or less, and may be formed to be about 47.4 mm. The distance (B) between the second patterns (114, 124) and the side surfaces of the substrate (1000) where the second patterns (114, 124) face may be formed to be 0.2 mm or more and 1 mm or less, and may be formed to be about 0.5 mm. The distance (C) between the third region of the substrate (1000) where the WiFi module (200) is placed and one side surface of the substrate (1000) may be formed to be 23.5 mm or more and 24.5 mm or less, and may be formed to be about 24 mm. The distance (D) between the Wi-Fi module (200) and the first antenna portion (110) may be formed to be 14.5 mm or more and 16 mm or less, and may be formed to be about 15.2 mm. The distance (E) between the Wi-Fi module (200) and the side of the substrate (1000) facing the Wi-Fi module (200) may be formed to be 4 mm or more and 5.5 mm or less, and may be formed to be about 4.8 mm. It goes without saying that the shape of the first antenna portion (100) according to FIG. 11, the length of each radiating portion, and the spacing may vary depending on the antenna characteristics.

[0112]

[0113] FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a wireless communication module according to another embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 13 illustrates a wireless communication module according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 14 and 15 are drawings for explaining a wireless communication module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0114] A wireless communication module (10) according to another embodiment of the present invention may further include a third antenna unit (130) and a fourth antenna unit (140). Referring to FIG. 13, the first antenna unit (110), the second antenna unit (120), the third antenna unit (130), and the fourth antenna unit (140) may be connected to a Wi-Fi module (200). The first antenna unit (110) and the third antenna unit (130) may be connected to each other. The Wi-Fi module (200) may be connected to the first antenna unit (110) through a second signal line (312) branched from the first signal line (311). The Wi-Fi module (200) may be connected to the third antenna unit (130) through a third signal line (313) branched from the first signal line (311). The lengths of the second signal line (312) and the third signal line (313) connected from the first signal line (311) may be different from each other.

[0115] The second antenna unit (120) and the fourth antenna unit (140) can be connected to each other. The Wi-Fi module (200) can be connected to the second antenna unit (120) through the fifth signal line (322) branched from the fourth signal line (321). The Wi-Fi module (200) can be connected to the fourth antenna unit (140) through the sixth signal line (323) branched from the fourth signal line (321). The lengths of the fifth signal line (322) and the sixth signal line (323) connected from the fourth signal line (321) can be different from each other.

[0116] The first antenna unit (110) and the third antenna unit (130) may be arranged parallel to each other. The first antenna unit (110) and the third antenna unit (130) may be arranged to face one side of the substrate (1000). The first antenna unit (110) and the third antenna unit (130) may be arranged so as not to overlap in the first axial direction and the second axial direction perpendicular to the first axial direction. The second antenna unit (120) and the fourth antenna unit (140) may be arranged parallel to each other. The second antenna unit (120) and the fourth antenna unit (140) may be arranged to face the other side of the substrate (1000). The second antenna unit (120) and the fourth antenna unit (140) may be arranged so as not to overlap in the first axial direction and the second axial direction.

[0117] By applying a pattern to the antenna section that considers the voltage distribution ratio and phase difference, the radiation pattern of the signal can be adjusted so that the radiated signal has a specific directionality. This allows for beamforming of the signal radiated from the antenna section. Here, beamforming refers to a technology that focuses the signal on a receiving device located in a specific direction rather than radiating it in all directions from the antenna.

[0118] This improves the signal quality delivered to the signal receiver without amplifying the transmitted power at the antenna. Furthermore, it accelerates information transmission and minimizes signal errors. Furthermore, by not radiating signals in unnecessary directions, it minimizes signal interference. Furthermore, by using multiple antennas to adjust phase and power levels, it is possible to eliminate shadow areas in locations where wireless communication modules are installed.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 14, the first antenna unit (110) can radiate a signal with a phase difference of 180 degrees based on the third antenna unit (130). When the first antenna unit (110) and the third antenna unit (130) radiate with a phase difference of 180 degrees, beamforming can occur between the first antenna unit (110) and the third antenna unit (130). The second antenna unit (120) can radiate a signal with a phase difference of 180 degrees based on the fourth antenna unit (140). When the second antenna unit (120) and the fourth antenna unit (140) radiate with a phase difference of 180 degrees, beamforming can occur between the second antenna unit (120) and the fourth antenna unit (140). The first antenna unit (110) and the third antenna unit (130) and the second antenna unit (120) and the fourth antenna unit (140) can radiate signals having the same phase difference. The first antenna unit (110) and the third antenna unit (130) and the second antenna unit (120) and the fourth antenna unit (140) can radiate signals having different phase differences.

[0120] Referring to FIG. 15, the first antenna unit (110) can radiate a signal with a phase difference of 90 degrees with respect to the third antenna unit (130). The second antenna unit (120) can radiate a signal with a phase difference of 90 degrees with respect to the fourth antenna unit (140). When the first antenna unit (110) and the third antenna unit (130) radiate with a phase difference of 90 degrees, the steering distance can be smaller and the beamforming can be performed over a wider area than when the signal is radiated with a phase difference of 180 degrees. When the second antenna unit (120) and the fourth antenna unit (140) radiate with a phase difference of 90 degrees, the steering distance can be smaller and the beamforming can be performed over a wider area than when the signal is radiated with a phase difference of 180 degrees.

[0121]

[0122] FIG. 16 and FIG. 17 are drawings for explaining a wireless communication module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0123] A wireless communication module (10) according to another embodiment of the present invention may include a shielding portion (401, 402, 403, 404) between a first region (1100) and a second region (1200) of a substrate (1000). The shielding portions (401, 402, 403, 404) may be arranged vertically on the substrate (1000). The shielding portions (401, 402, 403, 404) may be made of a material including at least one of aluminum (Al) and copper (Cu). A shielding agent may be applied to the surface of the shielding portions (401, 402, 403, 404). A radio wave absorbing material may be applied to the surface of the shielding portions (401, 402, 403, 404). The shielding portion (401, 402, 403, 404) may have a surface coated with ferrite. The shielding portion (401, 402, 403, 404) may have a surface coated with ferrite on at least one of the inner and outer surfaces.

[0124] Referring to FIG. 16, the first antenna portion (110) may be arranged adjacent to the first side (S1) of the substrate (1000). The third antenna portion (130) may be arranged adjacent to the fourth side (S4) connected to the first side (S1) and the third side (S3) connected to the fourth side (S4). The first side (S1) and the fourth side (S4) of the substrate (1000) may form an obtuse angle, and the fourth side (S4) and the third side (S3) may form an obtuse angle. The first shield portion (401) may be arranged to face the first antenna portion (110). The second shield portion (402) may be arranged to face the third antenna portion (130). The first shielding portion (401) and the second shielding portion (402) can form an obtuse angle with each other.

[0125] The second antenna portion (120) may be arranged adjacent to the second side (S2) of the substrate (1000). The fourth antenna portion (140) may be arranged adjacent to the fifth side (S5) connected to the second side (S2) and the third side (S3) connected to the fifth side (S5). The second side (S2) and the fifth side (S5) of the substrate (1000) may form an obtuse angle, and the fifth side (S5) and the third side (S3) may form an obtuse angle. The third shielding portion (403) may be arranged to face the second antenna portion (120). The fourth shielding portion (404) may be arranged to face the fourth antenna portion (140). The third shielding section (403) and the fourth shielding section (404) can form an obtuse angle with each other.

[0126] The shielding portions (401, 402, 403, 404) can be electrically connected to the ground portion of the first substrate (1000). The shielding portions (401, 402, 403, 404) can be electrically connected to the ground portion within the wireless communication module (10). The shielding portions (401, 402, 403, 404) can be electrically connected to the ground portion within the vehicle in which the wireless communication module (10) is placed. The shielding portions (401, 402, 403, 404) can guide signal noise generated in the wireless communication module (10) to the ground portion. Through this, signal interference between the EVCC circuit and the antenna portion within the wireless communication module (10) can be minimized, and mutual electromagnetic influence can be minimized.

[0127] The shielding member (401, 402, 403, 404) can absorb electromagnetic field signals generated inside or outside the wireless communication module (10) and eliminate them by directing them to the surface. In addition, the electromagnetic field influence due to the formation of the electric field of the antenna in the EVCC circuit within the wireless communication module (10) can be minimized. Accordingly, the directivity of the signal radiated from the antenna can be improved, and the coverage of the antenna can be increased.

[0128]

[0129] FIG. 18 is a block diagram of a wireless communication module according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 19 illustrates a wireless communication module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0130] Referring to FIG. 18, a wireless communication module (10) according to another embodiment of the present invention may additionally include an NFC (Near Field Communication) antenna. NFC is a technology that enables communication between wireless devices at close range and is a type of non-contact short-range wireless communication using the 13.56 MHz RF (Radio Frequency) frequency band.

[0131] The wireless communication module (10) may include a first NFC antenna unit (710) and a second NFC antenna unit (720) disposed in a first region (1100) of a substrate (1000). The first NFC antenna unit (710) and the second NFC antenna unit (720) may include a magnetic sheet disposed in the first region (1100) of the substrate (1000) and a magnetic induction coil disposed on the magnetic sheet. The first NFC antenna unit (710) and the second NFC antenna unit (720) may be embedded NFC antennas. When the first NFC antenna unit (710) and the second NFC antenna unit (720) are embedded NFC antennas, they may be connected to a Wi-Fi module (200) or an EVCC configuration disposed in a second region (1200) of the substrate (1000).

[0132] The first NFC antenna unit (710) may be arranged to face one side of the Wi-Fi module (200), and the second NFC antenna unit (720) may be arranged to face the other side of the Wi-Fi module (200). The first NFC antenna unit (710) and the second NFC antenna unit (720) may be arranged at symmetrical positions with respect to the Wi-Fi module (200). The first NFC antenna unit (710) and the second NFC antenna unit (720) may be arranged to overlap each other in the first axis direction. The first NFC antenna unit (710) may be arranged so as not to overlap with the first antenna unit (110) in the first axis direction and the second axis direction perpendicular to the first axis direction. The second NFC antenna unit (720) may be arranged so as not to overlap with the second antenna unit (120) in the first axis direction and the second axis direction.

[0133] When the wireless communication module (10) includes an NFC antenna unit (710, 720), the EVSE (30) may include an NFC reader to communicate with the NFC antenna unit (710, 720). When the vehicle (1) enters the EVSE (30) area and the NFC reader built into the EVSE (30) and the NFC antenna unit (710, 720) are in a close range state where they can communicate with each other, communication regarding the vehicle (1)'s ready mode switching, information about the vehicle's charging status, etc. is possible.

[0134] As previously described, by including an NFC antenna unit (710, 720) in the wireless communication module (10), a security authentication function, charging fee charging, and vehicle information can be provided in conjunction with a mobile terminal. Unlike the antenna unit that communicates using 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz in an electric field, the NFC antenna unit (710, 720) uses 13.56 MHz in a magnetic field, thereby minimizing frequency and field interference.

[0135]

[0136] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention can be implemented in modified forms without departing from the essential characteristics of the above-described description. Therefore, the disclosed methods should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive. The scope of the present invention is set forth in the claims, not the foregoing description, and all differences within the scope equivalent thereto should be construed as being encompassed by the present invention.

Claims

1. An antenna portion arranged in the first region of the substrate; and Including a WiFi module arranged in the second area of ​​the above substrate, The above antenna part includes a first antenna part and a third antenna part which are arranged on one side of the above WiFi module and connected to each other, A wireless communication module in which the first antenna section and the third antenna section radiate signals having a phase difference.

2. In paragraph 1, The above antenna part includes a second antenna part and a fourth antenna part which are arranged on the other side of the WiFi module and are connected to each other, A wireless communication module in which the second antenna section and the fourth antenna section radiate signals having a phase difference.

3. In paragraph 2, A wireless communication module wherein the phase difference between the first antenna section and the third antenna section and the phase difference between the second antenna section and the fourth antenna section are different from each other.

4. In paragraph 1, The above WiFi module is connected to the first antenna section through a second signal line branched from the first signal line, The above WiFi module is a wireless communication module connected to a third antenna section through a third signal line branched from the first signal line.

5. In paragraph 4, A wireless communication module in which the lengths of the second signal line and the third signal line are different from each other based on the first signal line.

6. Case 1; A second case combined with the first case above; A substrate placed within the second case; An antenna portion arranged in the first region of the above substrate; and Including a WiFi module arranged in the second area of ​​the above substrate, The above antenna part includes a first antenna part and a third antenna part which are arranged on one side of the WiFi module and connected to each other, A wireless communication module including a second antenna unit and a fourth antenna unit which are arranged on the other side of the WiFi module and connected to each other.

7. In paragraph 6, The first antenna section and the third antenna section radiate a signal having a first phase difference, The second antenna section and the fourth antenna section radiate a signal having a second phase difference, The above first phase difference and the above second phase difference are different wireless communication modules.

8. In paragraph 6, The above WiFi module is connected to the first antenna section through a second signal line branched from the first signal line, The above WiFi module is connected to the second antenna section through a third signal line branched from the first signal line, A wireless communication module in which the lengths of the second signal line and the third signal line are different from each other based on the first signal line.

9. Antenna portion arranged in the first region of the substrate; and Including a WiFi module arranged in the second area of ​​the above substrate, The above antenna part includes a first antenna part and a third antenna part which are arranged on one side of the above WiFi module and connected to each other, A wireless communication module including a shielding portion between the first region and the second region of the substrate.

10. In paragraph 9, The first antenna portion and the third antenna portion do not overlap in the first axis direction and the second axis direction perpendicular to the first axis direction, A wireless communication module including a first shielding portion facing the first antenna portion and a second shielding portion facing the third antenna portion.

Images