Antenna and method for manufacturing antenna

Abstract

This antenna is provided with: a base material having a first surface and a second surface positioned on the opposite side from the first surface; a conductive patch layer positioned on the first surface; wiring connected to the patch layer at a power supply point and extending in a first direction from the power supply point; a conductive cell structure positioned on the first surface and including a plurality of periodically arranged cell layers; and a conductive ground layer positioned on the second surface. The cell structure includes two cell portions. The patch layer is located between the two cell portions in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. Each of the two cell portions includes a first row including a plurality of cell layers arranged in the first direction, and a second row located outside the first row in the second direction and including a plurality of cell layers arranged in the first direction. The cell layers of the first row differ from the cell layers of the second row in at least one of the size, area, spacing, arrangement pitch, and number of the cell layers.

Description

Antenna and antenna manufacturing method

[0001] TECHNICAL FIELD Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to antennas and methods for manufacturing antennas.

[0002] A planar antenna is known that includes a substrate, a patch layer, wiring, and a ground layer. The patch layer is located on a first surface of the substrate, and the ground layer is located on a second surface of the substrate. The wiring is connected to the patch layer. The patch layer emits an electric signal flowing through the wiring into space as a radio wave. Alternatively, the patch layer guides a radio wave propagating through space to the wiring as an electric signal.

[0003] When the electrical signal has a high frequency, the wiring and the ground layer form a high-speed transmission line. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a planar antenna including wiring and a ground layer that form a coplanar line.

[0004] Techniques for widening the operating band of planar antennas have been proposed. For example, Patent Document 2 proposes forming a pair of slits in the patch layer. For example, Patent Documents 3 and 4 propose arranging a cell structure next to the patch layer.

[0005] Japanese Patent Publication No. 7-235825 Japanese Patent No. 7106042 Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-190912 International Publication No. 2021 / 171830

[0006] An embodiment of the present disclosure aims to provide an antenna that can operate over a wider band.

[0007] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to the following [1] to

[30] .

[0008] [1] An antenna comprising: a substrate including a first surface and a second surface located on the opposite side of the first surface; a patch layer located on the first surface and having conductivity; a wiring connected to the patch layer at a feed point and extending from the feed point in a first direction; a cell structure located on the first surface, having conductivity, and including a plurality of periodically arranged cell layers; and a ground layer located on the second surface and having conductivity, wherein the cell structure includes two cell portions, and the patch layer is located between the two cell portions in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and the two cell portions each include a first row including a plurality of cell layers lined up in the first direction, and a second row located outside the first row in the second direction and including a plurality of cell layers lined up in the first direction, wherein the cell layers of the first row differ from the cell layers of the second row in at least one of the dimensions, area, spacing, arrangement pitch, and number of the cell layers.

[0009] [2] In the antenna described in [1], the area of ​​the cell layer in the first row may be different from the area of ​​the cell layer in the second row.

[0010] [3] In the antenna described in [2], a ratio of an area of ​​the cell layer in the second row to an area of ​​the cell layer in the first row may be equal to or greater than 0.40 and less than 1.00.

[0011] [4] In the antenna described in [1], the spacing in the first direction between the cell layers of the first row may be different from the spacing in the first direction between the cell layers of the second row.

[0012] [5] In the antenna described in [4], the ratio of the spacing in the first direction between the cell layers of the second row to the spacing in the first direction between the cell layers of the first row may be greater than 1.0 and not greater than 6.0.

[0013] [6] In the antenna described in [1], the number of the cell layers in the first row may be different from the number of the cell layers in the second row.

[0014] [7] In the antenna described in [6], the number of the cell layers in the first row may be two more than the number of the cell layers in the second row.

[0015] [8] An antenna comprising: a substrate including a first surface and a second surface located opposite the first surface; a patch layer located on the first surface and having conductivity; a wiring connected to the patch layer at a feed point and extending from the feed point in a first direction; a cell structure located on the first surface, having conductivity, and including a plurality of periodically arranged cell layers; and a ground layer located on the second surface and having conductivity, wherein the cell structure includes two cell portions, each of the two cell portions including the plurality of periodically arranged cell layers, the patch layer being located between the two cell portions in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and a dimension of the cell layer in the first direction different from a dimension of the cell layer in the second direction.

[0016] [9] In the antenna described in [8], a ratio of a dimension of the cell layer in the second direction to a dimension of the cell layer in the first direction may be equal to or greater than 0.50 and less than 1.00.

[0017]

[10] In the antenna described in any one of [1] to [9], the patch layer may include two slits, the feed point may be located between the two slits in the second direction, and the two slits may each include a contour including a first side edge and a second side edge facing each other in the second direction, and a third side edge extending from a tip of the first side edge to a tip of the second side edge.

[0018]

[11] An antenna comprising: a substrate including a first surface and a second surface located opposite the first surface; a patch layer located on the first surface and having conductivity; a wiring connected to the patch layer at a feed point and extending from the feed point in a first direction; a cell structure located on the first surface, having conductivity, and including a plurality of periodically arranged cell layers; and a ground layer located on the second surface and having conductivity, wherein the patch layer includes two slits, and in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the feed point is located between the two slits, and the two slits each include an outline including a first side edge and a second side edge facing each other in the second direction, and a third side edge extending from a tip of the first side edge to a tip of the second side edge, and the cell structure includes two cell portions, and each of the two cell portions includes the plurality of periodically arranged cell layers, and the patch layer is located between the two cell portions in the second direction.

[0019]

[12] In the antenna described in

[11] , the patch layer may include a first end and a second end facing each other in the first direction, the wiring may extend from the feed point in a direction from the second end to the first end, and the two slits may each be formed in the first end.

[0020]

[13] In the antenna described in

[12] , the feed point may be located outside the first end in the first direction.

[0021]

[14] In the antenna according to

[12] , the feed point may be located more inward than the first end in the first direction.

[0022]

[15] In the antenna according to any one of [1] to

[14] , the ground layer may overlap the patch layer and the two cell portions in a normal direction of the first surface.

[0023]

[16] In the antenna according to any one of [1] to

[15] , the arrangement pitch of the plurality of periodically arranged cell layers may be 1 mm or more and 30 mm or less.

[0024]

[17] In the antenna according to any one of [1] to

[16] , a reflection spectrum relating to a reflection coefficient of the antenna may include a first peak having a minimum value of the reflection coefficient at a first frequency, a second peak having a minimum value of the reflection coefficient at a second frequency higher than the first frequency, and a third peak having a minimum value of the reflection coefficient at a third frequency higher than the second frequency, and the minimum value of the first peak, the minimum value of the second peak, and the minimum value of the third peak may be −10 dB or less. A front gain spectrum relating to a front gain of the antenna may be located between the first frequency and the second frequency and include an effective interval having a front gain of 5.0 dBi or more, and the front gain of the antenna at the third frequency may be 0.0 dBi or less.

[0025]

[18] In the antenna described in

[17] , a difference between a front gain of the antenna at the first frequency and a front gain of the antenna at the second frequency may be 2.0 dBi or less.

[19] In the antenna described in

[17] or

[18] , the front gain spectrum may include a first minimum point, the front gain spectrum may decrease monotonically between an upper limit point of an effective range and the first minimum point, and the third frequency may be located between the upper limit point and the first minimum point.

[0026]

[20] In the antenna according to any one of

[17] to

[19] , a ratio of a difference between the first frequency and the second frequency to a center frequency may be 0.05 or more and 0.15 or less, and the center frequency is an average value of the first frequency and the second frequency.

[0027]

[21] In the antenna according to any one of

[17] to

[20] , a ratio of a difference between the second frequency and the third frequency to a center frequency may be 0.05 to 0.15, and the center frequency may be an average value of the first frequency and the second frequency.

[0028]

[22] In the antenna according to any one of

[17] to

[21] , the minimum value of the second peak may be smaller than the minimum value of the third peak.

[0029]

[23] In the antenna according to any one of

[17] to

[22] , the minimum value of the first peak may be smaller than the minimum value of the second peak.

[0030]

[24] In the antenna according to any one of

[17] to

[22] , the minimum value of the first peak may be greater than the minimum value of the second peak.

[0031]

[25] In the antenna according to any one of

[17] to

[24] , a difference between a peak height of the first peak and a peak height of the second peak may be 15 dB or less.

[0032]

[26] In the antenna according to any one of

[17] to

[25] , the reflection spectrum may include a section located between the first frequency and the second frequency and having a reflection coefficient greater than −10 dB.

[0033]

[27] In the antenna according to any one of

[17] to

[26] , the first frequency, the second frequency, and the third frequency may be equal to or greater than 3.0 GHz and equal to or less than 5.0 GHz.

[0034]

[28] A method for manufacturing an antenna, comprising: a step of preparing a laminate including a substrate including a first surface and a second surface located opposite to the first surface, a first conductive layer located on the first surface, and a second conductive layer located on the second surface; and an etching step of partially removing the first conductive layer by etching, wherein the etched first conductive layer comprises a patch layer, a wiring connected to the patch layer at a feed point and extending from the feed point in a first direction, and a cell structure including a plurality of periodically arranged cell layers, wherein the cell structure includes two cell portions, and the patch layer is located between the two cell portions in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, and the two cell portions each include a first row including a plurality of cell layers lined up in the first direction, and a second row located outside the first row in the second direction and including a plurality of cell layers lined up in the first direction, wherein the cell layers of the first row are different from the cell layers of the second row in at least one of the dimensions, area, intervals, arrangement pitch, and number of the cell layers.

[0035]

[29] A method for manufacturing an antenna, comprising: a step of preparing a laminate including a substrate including a first surface and a second surface located opposite the first surface, a first conductive layer located on the first surface, and a second conductive layer located on the second surface; and an etching step of partially removing the first conductive layer by etching, wherein the etched first conductive layer comprises a patch layer, a wiring connected to the patch layer at a feed point and extending from the feed point in a first direction, and a cell structure including a plurality of periodically arranged cell layers, wherein the cell structure includes two cell portions, each of the two cell portions including the plurality of periodically arranged cell layers, the patch layer being located between the two cell portions in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and a dimension of the cell layer in the first direction differs from a dimension of the cell layer in the second direction.

[0036]

[30] A method for manufacturing an antenna, comprising: a step of preparing a laminate including a substrate including a first surface and a second surface located opposite to the first surface, a first conductive layer located on the first surface, and a second conductive layer located on the second surface; and an etching step of partially removing the first conductive layer by etching, wherein the etched first conductive layer comprises a patch layer, a wiring connected to the patch layer at a feed point and extending from the feed point in a first direction, and a cell structure including a plurality of periodically arranged cell layers, wherein the patch layer includes two slits, and in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the feed point is located between the two slits, and each of the two slits includes an outline including a first side edge and a second side edge facing each other in the second direction, and a third side edge extending from a tip of the first side edge to a tip of the second side edge, and the cell structure includes two cell portions, and each of the two cell portions includes the plurality of periodically arranged cell layers, A method for manufacturing an antenna, wherein in the second direction, the patch layer is positioned between the two cell portions.

[0037] The antenna can operate over a wider band.

[0038] 1 is a perspective view showing an example of an antenna; FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of an antenna; FIG. 3 is a plan view showing an example of a patch layer and wiring; FIG. 4 is a plan view showing an example of a cell unit; FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of an antenna; FIG. 6 is a view showing an example of a reflection spectrum of the antenna; FIG. 7 is a view showing an example of a first radiation pattern of the antenna; FIG. 8 is a view showing an example of a second radiation pattern of the antenna; FIG. 9 is a view showing an example of a third radiation pattern of the antenna; FIG. 10 is a view showing an example of a front gain spectrum of the antenna; FIG. 11 is a view showing an example of an electrical signal flowing through the antenna; FIG. 12 is a view showing an example of a method for manufacturing the antenna; FIG. 13 is a view showing an example of a method for manufacturing the antenna; FIG. 14 is a plan view showing an antenna in a first comparative embodiment; FIG. 15 is a plan view showing a patch layer and wiring in a first modified example; FIG. 16 is a plan view showing a patch layer and wiring in a second modified example; FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing an antenna in a third modified example; FIG. 18 is a view showing a reflection spectrum of the antenna of Example 1; FIG. 19 is a view showing a front gain spectrum of the antenna of Example 1; FIG. 20 is a view showing a first radiation pattern of the antenna of Example 1; FIG. 21 is a view showing a second radiation pattern of the antenna of Example 1; FIG. 22 is a view showing a third radiation pattern of the antenna of Example 1; FIG. 23 is a view showing a reflection spectrum of the antenna of Example 2; FIG. 24 is a view showing a front gain spectrum of the antenna of Example 2; FIG. 25 is a view showing a first radiation pattern of the antenna of Example 2; FIG. 26 is a view showing a second radiation pattern of the antenna of Example 2. FIG. 1 shows a third radiation pattern of the antenna of Example 2. FIG. 2 shows a reflection spectrum of the antenna of Example 3. FIG. 3 shows a front gain spectrum of the antenna of Example 3. FIG. 4 shows a first radiation pattern of the antenna of Example 3. FIG. 5 shows a second radiation pattern of the antenna of Example 3. FIG. 6 shows a third radiation pattern of the antenna of Example 3. FIG. 7 shows a reflection spectrum of the antenna of Example 4. FIG. 8 shows a front gain spectrum of the antenna of Example 4. FIG. 9 shows a first radiation pattern of the antenna of Example 4. FIG. 10 shows a second radiation pattern of the antenna of Example 4. FIG. 11 shows a third radiation pattern of the antenna of Example 4. FIG. 12 shows a reflection spectrum of the antenna of Example 5. FIG. 13 shows a first radiation pattern of the antenna of Example 5. FIG. 14 shows a second radiation pattern of the antenna of Example 5. FIG. 15 shows a third radiation pattern of the antenna of Example 5. FIG. 16 shows a reflection spectrum of the antenna of Example 6.FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a front gain spectrum of the antenna of Example 6. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a first radiation pattern of the antenna of Example 6. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a third radiation pattern of the antenna of Example 6. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a reflection spectrum of the antenna of Example 7. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a front gain spectrum of the antenna of Example 7. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a first radiation pattern of the antenna of Example 7. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a second radiation pattern of the antenna of Example 7. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a reflection spectrum of the antenna of Example 8. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a radiation pattern due to slits in the antenna of Example 8. FIG. 10 is a plan view showing an antenna in a fourth modified example. FIG. 11 is a plan view showing an antenna in a fifth modified example. FIG. 12 is a plan view showing an antenna in a sixth modified example. FIG. 13 is a plan view showing an antenna in a seventh modified example. FIG. 14 is a plan view showing an antenna in an eighth modified example. FIG. 15 is a plan view showing an antenna in an eighth modified example. FIG. 16 is a plan view showing an antenna in a ninth modified example. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing reflection spectra of antennas of Examples 11 to 20. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing reflection spectra of antennas of Examples 21 to 37. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing reflection spectra of antennas of Examples 41 to 43. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing reflection spectra of antennas of Examples 41, 44 to 45. FIG. 1 shows the reflection spectra of the antennas of Examples 51 to 57.

[0039] In this specification and drawings, unless otherwise specified, terms that refer to a material that forms the basis of a certain configuration, such as "substrate," "base material," "plate," "sheet," and "film," are not to be distinguished from one another solely on the basis of differences in name.

[0040] In this specification and drawings, unless otherwise specified, terms that specify shapes, geometric conditions, and their degrees, such as "parallel" and "orthogonal," and values ​​of lengths and angles, are not bound by strict meanings, but are interpreted to include a range within which similar functions can be expected.

[0041] In this specification and drawings, unless otherwise specified, when a certain component, such as a certain region, is referred to as "above" or "below," "upper" or "lower," or "upward" or "below" another component, such as another region, this includes cases where the component is in direct contact with the other component. It also includes cases where another component is contained between the component and the other component, i.e., cases where the components are in indirect contact. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the terms "above," "upper side," or "upper," or "under," "lower side," or "lower" may be used in the up-down direction.

[0042] In this specification and drawings, unless otherwise specified, the same or similar symbols are used to designate the same parts or parts having similar functions, and repeated explanations may be omitted. Furthermore, for the sake of convenience, the dimensional ratios of the drawings may differ from the actual ratios, and some components may be omitted from the drawings.

[0043] Unless otherwise specified in this specification and drawings, the present invention may be combined with other embodiments and modifications as long as no contradictions arise. Other embodiments may be combined with each other, or other embodiments may be combined with modifications as long as no contradictions arise. Modifications may also be combined as long as no contradictions arise.

[0044] In the present specification and drawings, unless otherwise specified, when a plurality of steps are disclosed in a method such as a manufacturing method, other steps that are not disclosed may be performed between the disclosed steps. The order of the disclosed steps is arbitrary within the range that does not cause a contradiction.

[0045] In this specification, when multiple upper limit value candidates and multiple lower limit value candidates are listed for a certain parameter, the numerical range of the parameter may be constructed by combining any one upper limit value candidate with any one lower limit value candidate. For example, consider a description that reads, "Parameter B is, for example, A1 or more, or may be A2 or more, or may be A3 or more. Parameter B is, for example, A4 or less, or may be A5 or less, or may be A6 or less." In this case, the numerical range of parameter B may be A1 or more and A4 or less, A1 or more and A5 or less, A1 or more and A6 or less, A2 or more and A4 or less, A2 or more and A5 or less, A2 or more and A6 or less, A3 or more and A4 or less, A3 or more and A5 or less, or A3 or more and A6 or less.

[0046] An embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiment described below is an example of an embodiment of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure should not be interpreted as being limited to only these embodiments.

[0047] In recent years, radio waves with high frequencies such as microwaves, millimeter waves, and submillimeter waves have begun to be used in various fields. Microwaves are radio waves in a frequency band of approximately 3 GHz to 30 GHz. Millimeter waves are radio waves in a frequency band of approximately 30 GHz to 300 GHz. Submillimeter waves are radio waves in a frequency band of approximately 300 GHz to 3 THz. Examples of fields in which they are used include fifth-generation mobile communication systems, automotive communication systems, radar for collision prevention systems, and medical biosensing.

[0048] An antenna transmits an electric signal into space as a radio wave. Alternatively, an antenna receives a radio wave propagating through space as an electric signal. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of an antenna 10. The antenna 10 is a so-called planar antenna. The antenna 10 includes a substrate 20, a patch layer 30, wiring 39, a cell structure 40, and a ground layer 50. The substrate 20 has insulating properties. The patch layer 30, wiring 39, cell structure 40, and ground layer 50 have electrical conductivity.

[0049] The substrate 20 includes a first surface 21 and a second surface 22. The second surface 22 is located on the opposite side of the first surface 21 in the thickness direction of the antenna 10. As shown in Fig. 1 , the outlines of the first surface 21 and the second surface 22 may be rectangular.

[0050] The patch layer 30 and the cell structure 40 are located on the first surface 21. In other words, the patch layer 30 and the cell structure 40 face the first surface 21. The ground layer 50 is located on the second surface 22. In other words, the ground layer 50 faces the second surface 22.

[0051] The wiring 39 is connected to the patch layer 30. The portion to which the wiring 39 is connected is referred to as a feeding point 38. The direction in which the wiring 39 extends from the patch layer 30 is referred to as a first direction D1. The wiring 39 may extend in the first direction D1 on the first surface 21. Although not shown, a portion of the wiring 39 may be located on the second surface 22.

[0052] The wiring 39 and the ground layer 50 may form a high-speed transmission line. Examples of the high-speed transmission line include a microstrip line and a coplanar line. In the example shown in Fig. 1, the wiring 39 and the ground layer 50 form a microstrip line. The antenna 10 in Fig. 1 is also called a microstrip antenna.

[0053] The cell structure 40 includes a plurality of electrically conductive cell layers 42 arranged periodically. The arrangement pitch of the cell layers 42 is smaller than the wavelength of the radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10. Such an arrangement of the cell layers 42 is also called a metasurface. The cell structure 40 that realizes the metasurface is also called a metasurface structure 40.

[0054] When a current flows through the patch layer 30, a current also flows through the cell structure 40 due to electromagnetic coupling between the patch layer 30 and the cell structure 40. By appropriately adjusting the configuration of the cell structure 40, it is possible to widen the range of radio wave frequencies that the antenna 10 can transmit or receive. In the following description, the range of radio wave frequencies that the antenna 10 can transmit or receive is also referred to as bandwidth.

[0055] The cell structure 40 includes two cell portions 41A and 41B. Each of the two cell portions 41A and 41B includes a plurality of periodically arranged cell layers 42. The two cell portions 41A and 41B are aligned in a second direction D2 perpendicular to the first direction D1. The patch layer 30 is located between the two cell portions 41A and 41B in the second direction D2. The two cell portions 41A and 41B are also referred to as the first cell portion 41A and the second cell portion 41B. In describing the configuration common to the first cell portion 41A and the second cell portion 41B, the term and symbol "cell portion 41" are used. The cell portion 41 that realizes the metasurface is also referred to as the metasurface portion 41.

[0056] The patch layer 30 and cell structure 40 of the antenna 10 will be described in detail with reference to Figures 2 to 4. Figure 2 is a plan view showing an example of the antenna 10. Figure 3 is a plan view showing an example of the patch layer 30. Figure 4 is a plan view showing an example of the cell portion 41 of the cell structure 40.

[0057] 2 and 3 , the contour of the patch layer 30 includes a first end 31, a second end 32, a third end 33, and a fourth end 34. The first end 31 and the second end 32 face each other in a first direction D1. The first end 31 and the second end 32 may extend at least partially in a second direction D2.

[0058] The third end 33 and the fourth end 34 face each other in the second direction D2. The third end 33 and the fourth end 34 may extend at least partially in the first direction D1. As shown in FIG. 2 , the third end 33 may face the cell layer 42 of the first cell portion 41A in the second direction D2. The fourth end 34 may face the cell layer 42 of the second cell portion 41B in the second direction D2.

[0059] The patch layer 30 includes two slits 35A and 35B. The two slits 35A and 35B may be formed in the first end portion 31. The two slits 35A and 35B may extend from the first end portion 31 toward the second end portion 32.

[0060] The two slits 35A and 35B are aligned in the second direction D2. The feed point 38 is located between the two slits 35A and 35B in the second direction D2. That is, the coordinate value of the feed point 38 in the second direction D2 is between the coordinate value of the slit 35A and the coordinate value of the slit 35B in the second direction D2.

[0061] The two slits 35A, 35B are also referred to as the first slit 35A and the second slit 35B. The first slit 35A is located between the third end 33 and the feed point 38 in the second direction D2. The second slit 35B is located between the fourth end 34 and the feed point 38 in the second direction D2.

[0062] In describing the configuration common to the first slit 35A and the second slit 35B, the term "slit 35" and the reference numerals will be used.

[0063] The contour of the slit 35 includes a first side edge 361, a second side edge 362, and a third side edge 363. The first side edge 361 and the second side edge 362 face each other in the second direction D2. The first side edge 361 and the second side edge 362 may extend from the first end 31 toward the second end 32. The first side edge 361 and the second side edge 362 may include portions that extend parallel to the first direction D1.

[0064] The second side edge 362 is located outside the first side edge 361 in the second direction D2. In other words, the first side edge 361 is located inside the second side edge 362 in the second direction D2. "Outside" means a direction away from the center point C10 of the patch layer 30 in a planar view. "Inside" means a direction toward the center point C10 of the patch layer 30 in a planar view. The center point C10 is located midway between the first end 31 and the second end 32 in the first direction D1, and midway between the third end 33 and the fourth end 34 in the second direction D2. A planar view means viewing an object along the normal direction of the first surface 21 of the substrate 20.

[0065] The second side edge 362 of the first slit 35A faces the third end 33 in the second direction D2. The second side edge 362 of the second slit 35B faces the fourth end 34 in the second direction D2.

[0066] The third side edge 363 extends from the tip of the first side edge 361 to the tip of the second side edge 362. The tip of the first side edge 361 is the portion of the first side edge 361 that is farthest from the first end 31 in the first direction D1. The tip of the second side edge 362 is the portion of the second side edge 362 that is farthest from the first end 31 in the first direction D1. The third side edge 363 may include a portion that extends parallel to the second direction D2.

[0067] The patch layer 30 may include a protrusion 371. The protrusion 371 protrudes outward from the first end 31 in the first direction D1.

[0068] The wiring 39 may be connected to the protrusion 371. In this case, the feeding point 38 is located outside the first end 31 in the first direction D1.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 3, the patch layer 30 and the wiring 39 may have a first dimension K1 to an eighth dimension K8 in a plan view.

[0070] The first dimension K1 is the distance between the first end 31 and the second end 32 in the first direction D1. The second dimension K2 is the distance between the third end 33 and the fourth end 34 in the second direction D2. The first dimension K1 and the second dimension K2 are, for example, 50 mm or less, and may be 20 mm or less, 10 mm or less, or 1 mm or less. The first dimension K1 and the second dimension K2 may be, for example, 0.2 mm or more, 1 mm or more, 5 mm or more, or 10 mm or more.

[0071] The first dimension K1 and the second dimension K2 may be determined relative to the central wavelength λ of the radio wave transmitted or received by the antenna 10. The first dimension K1 and the second dimension K2 may be, for example, λ or less, or may be λ×½ or less, or λ×¼ or less, or λ×½ or less. The first dimension K1 and the second dimension K2 may be, for example, λ×½ or more.

[0072] The first dimension K1 and the second dimension K2 may be determined based on the frequency of radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10. When the frequency of the radio waves is 3 GHz or more and 6 GHz or less, the first dimension K1 and the second dimension K2 may be 5 mm or more and 100 mm or less. When the frequency of the radio waves is 25 GHz or more and 30 GHz or less, the first dimension K1 and the second dimension K2 may be 1 mm or more and 12 mm or less. When the frequency of the radio waves is 50 GHz or more and 75 GHz or less, the first dimension K1 and the second dimension K2 may be 0.4 mm or more and 6 mm or less. When the frequency of the radio waves is 75 GHz or more and 300 GHz or less, the first dimension K1 and the second dimension K2 may be 0.1 mm or more and 4 mm or less.

[0073] The third dimension K3 is the distance in the first direction D1 between the first end 31 and the third side edge 363. The fourth dimension K4 is the distance in the second direction D2 between the first side edge 361 and the second side edge 362. The fifth dimension is the distance in the second direction D2 between the second side edge 362 and the center point C10.

[0074] Resonance may occur in an electrical signal due to the slit 35. The slit 35 may be configured so that the frequency of the resonance due to the slit 35 occurs in the band of radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10. The frequency of the resonance due to the slit 35 may be adjusted by the third dimension K3, the fourth dimension K4, and the fifth dimension K5.

[0075] The third dimension K3 is, for example, 1.0 mm or more, or may be 3.0 mm or more, or 5.0 mm or more. The third dimension K3 is, for example, 15.0 mm or less, or may be 10.0 mm or less, or may be 7.0 mm or less.

[0076] The third dimension K3 may be determined relative to the first dimension K1. The ratio K3 / K1 of the third dimension K3 to the first dimension K1 may be, for example, 0.10 or more, 0.15 or more, or 0.20 or more. K3 / K1 may be, for example, 0.40 or less, 0.35 or less, or 0.30 or less.

[0077] The fourth dimension K4 is, for example, 0.2 mm or more, or may be 0.5 mm or more, or 1.0 mm or more. The fourth dimension K4 is, for example, 5.0 mm or less, or may be 4.0 mm or less, or may be 3.0 mm or less.

[0078] The fourth dimension K4 may be determined relative to the second dimension K2. The ratio K4 / K2 of the fourth dimension K4 to the second dimension K2 may be, for example, 0.01 or more, 0.03 or more, or 0.05 or more. K4 / K2 may be, for example, 0.20 or less, 0.15 or less, or 0.10 or less.

[0079] The fifth dimension K5 is, for example, 5.0 mm or more, may be 7.0 mm or more, or may be 10.0 mm or more. The fifth dimension K5 is, for example, 25.0 mm or less, may be 20.0 mm or less, or may be 15.0 mm or less.

[0080] The fifth dimension K5 may be determined relative to the second dimension K2. The ratio K5 / K2 of the fifth dimension K5 to the second dimension K2 may be, for example, 0.25 or more, 0.30 or more, or 0.35 or more. K5 / K2 may be, for example, 0.55 or less, 0.50 or less, or 0.45 or less.

[0081] The eighth dimension K8 is the width of the wiring 39. The eighth dimension K8 is determined based on the frequency of the radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10 so as to form a high-speed transmission line. The eighth dimension K8 is, for example, 1.0 mm or more, or may be 2.0 mm or more, or 3.0 mm or more. The eighth dimension K8 is, for example, 8.0 mm or less, or may be 6.0 mm or less, or may be 4.0 mm or less.

[0082] The sixth dimension K6 is the dimension of the convex portion 371 in the first direction D1. The sixth dimension K6 determines the position of the feed point 38 in the first direction D1. The sixth dimension K6 may be determined so that the frequency of resonance caused by the patch layer 30 and the cell structure 40 occurs appropriately in the band of radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10. The sixth dimension K6 is, for example, 5.0 mm or more, may be 7.0 mm or more, or may be 10.0 mm or more. The sixth dimension K6 is, for example, 25.0 mm or less, may be 20.0 mm or less, or may be 15.0 mm or less.

[0083] The sixth dimension K6 may be determined relative to the first dimension K1. The ratio K6 / K1 of the sixth dimension K6 to the first dimension K1 may be, for example, 0.30 or more, 0.35 or more, or 0.40 or more. K6 / K1 may be, for example, 0.70 or less, 0.65 or less, or 0.60 or less.

[0084] The seventh dimension K7 is the dimension of the convex portion 371 in the second direction D2. The seventh dimension K7 may be greater than or less than the eighth dimension K8. In the example shown in FIG. 3 , the seventh dimension K7 of the convex portion 371 is greater than the eighth dimension K8 of the wiring 39. K7 / K8, which is the ratio of the seventh dimension K7 to the eighth dimension K8, is, for example, 0.50 or more, 0.70 or more, or 0.90 or more. K7 / K8 is, for example, 1.50 or less, 1.30 or less, or 1.10 or less.

[0085] 2 and 4, the cell layers 42 of the cell portion 41 may be aligned in the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. As shown in Fig. 4, the cell portion 41 may have a first dimension J1 to a seventh dimension J7 in a plan view.

[0086] The first dimension J1 is the arrangement pitch of the multiple cell layers 42 in the first direction D1. The second dimension J2 is the arrangement pitch of the multiple cell layers 42 in the second direction D2. The first dimension J1 and the second dimension J2 are smaller than the wavelength of the radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10. The first dimension J1 and the second dimension J2 are, for example, 30 mm or less, and may be 20 mm or less, 10 mm or less, or 1 mm or less. The first dimension J1 and the second dimension J2 are, for example, 0.2 mm or more, and may be 1 mm or more, 5 mm or more, or 10 mm or more.

[0087] The first dimension J1 and the second dimension J2 may be determined relative to the first dimension K1 and the second dimension K2 of the patch layer 30. J1 / K1, which is the ratio of the first dimension J1 of the cell portion 41 to the first dimension K1 of the patch layer 30, is, for example, 0.20 or more, or may be 0.30 or more, or 0.50 or more. J1 / K1 is, for example, 1.20 or less, or may be 0.90 or less, or may be 0.70 or less. J2 / K2, which is the ratio of the second dimension J2 of the cell portion 41 to the second dimension K2 of the patch layer 30, is, for example, 0.20 or more, or may be 0.30 or more, or may be 0.50 or more. J2 / K2 is, for example, 1.20 or less, or may be 0.90 or less, or may be 0.70 or less.

[0088] The third dimension J3 is the dimension of the cell layer 42 in the first direction D1. The fourth dimension J4 is the dimension of the cell layer 42 in the second direction D2. The fifth dimension J5 is the distance between two adjacent cell layers 42 in the first direction D1. The sixth dimension J6 is the distance between two adjacent cell layers 42 in the second direction D2.

[0089] The third dimension J3 may be greater than the fifth dimension J5. In other words, J3 / J1, which is the ratio of the third dimension J3 to the first dimension J1, may be greater than 0.50. J3 / J1 may be, for example, 0.60 or greater, 0.80 or greater, or 0.90 or greater. J3 / J1 may be, for example, 0.99 or less, 0.98 or less, or 0.96 or less.

[0090] The fourth dimension J4 may be greater than the sixth dimension J6. In other words, the ratio of the fourth dimension J4 to the second dimension J2, J4 / J2, may be greater than 0.50. J4 / J2 may be, for example, 0.60 or greater, 0.80 or greater, or 0.90 or greater. J4 / J2 may be, for example, 0.99 or less, 0.98 or less, or 0.96 or less.

[0091] The seventh dimension J7 is the distance between the patch layer 30 and the cell layer 42 in the second direction D2. The seventh dimension J7 is, for example, 0.01 mm or more, may be 0.05 mm or more, or may be 0.10 mm or more. The seventh dimension J7 is, for example, 2.00 mm or less, may be 1.00 mm or less, or may be 0.50 mm or less.

[0092] The thickness and materials of the components of the antenna 10 will now be described. FIG.

[0093] The substrate 20 includes an insulating material. The material of the substrate 20 may be an inorganic substance or a resin. The material of the substrate 20 may be an inorganic-organic mixture. Examples of inorganic substances include glass, quartz, and silicon. Examples of resins include fluororesins, liquid crystal polymers (LCPs), polypropylene (PP), modified polypropylene (modified PP), polyimides (PIs), cycloolefin polymers (COPs), and polystyrene (PSs). Examples of fluororesins include fully fluorinated resins such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), partially fluorinated resins such as polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), and fluorinated resin copolymers such as ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene copolymer (ETFE). The resin may contain voids.

[0094] The substrate 20 may be composed of a single layer or multiple layers.

[0095] The substrate 20 may have a low relative dielectric constant. The relative dielectric constant of the substrate 20 may be 4.5 or less, 4.0 or less, 3.5 or less, 3.0 or less, 2.5 or less, or 2.0 or less. When the substrate 20 has a low relative dielectric constant, the radiation efficiency and gain of the antenna 10 can be increased. The relative dielectric constant of the substrate 20 may be 1.0 or more, or 1.5 or more.

[0096] Fluororesin has a relative dielectric constant of, for example, 2.0 or more and 3.0 or less. Liquid crystal polymer has a relative dielectric constant of, for example, 2.8 or more and 3.7 or less. Polypropylene has a relative dielectric constant of, for example, 2.2 or more and 2.6 or less. Polyimide has a relative dielectric constant of, for example, 3.0 or more and 3.5 or less.

[0097] The substrate 20 may have a low dielectric loss tangent tanδ. The dielectric loss tangent tanδ of the substrate 20 may be 0.01 or less, 0.005 or less, 0.001 or less, or 0.0005 or less.

[0098] The values ​​of the relative permittivity and dielectric loss tangent in the present application are values ​​when the ambient temperature is 20° C. and the radio wave frequency is 10 GHz.

[0099] The thickness T1 of the substrate 20 is, for example, 10 mm or less, and may be 5 mm or less, 2 mm or less, 1 mm or less, 900 μm or less, 700 μm or less, 500 μm or less, 300 μm or less, 200 μm or less, or 100 μm or less. The thickness T1 of the substrate 20 is, for example, 10 μm or more, 20 μm or more, 50 μm or more, or 100 μm or more.

[0100] The thickness T1 of the substrate 20 may be determined relative to the central wavelength λ of the radio wave. The central wavelength λ is calculated by dividing the speed of light by the frequency of the radio wave. The thickness T1 of the substrate 20 is, for example, λ×1 / 10 or less, or may be λ×1 / 20 or less, or λ×1 / 50 or less, or λ×1 / 100 or less. The thickness T1 of the substrate 20 is λ×1 / 10000 or more, or may be λ×1 / 5000 or more, or λ×1 / 2000 or more, or λ×1 / 1000 or more.

[0101] The higher the frequency of the radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10, the smaller the thickness T1 can be.

[0102] The patch layer 30 includes a first conductive layer 60 located on the first surface 21. The first conductive layer 60 includes a fourth surface 62 facing the first surface 21, and a first adhesive layer 63 located on the opposite side of the fourth surface 62 in the thickness direction. The concept of "located on the first surface 21" includes not only the case where the fourth surface 62 of the first conductive layer 60 is in contact with the first surface 21, but also the case where another layer is disposed between the first surface 21 and the fourth surface 62. For example, as shown in FIG. 5 , the antenna 10 may include a first adhesive layer 63 located between the first surface 21 and the fourth surface 62.

[0103] The cell layer 42 may include a first conductive layer 60 located on the first surface 21. In other words, the conductive layer constituting the cell layer 42 may be located in the same plane as the conductive layer constituting the patch layer 30. As will be described later, the conductive layer constituting the cell layer 42 may be located at a different position in the thickness direction from the conductive layer constituting the patch layer 30.

[0104] The ground layer 50 includes a second conductive layer 70 located on the second surface 22. The second conductive layer 70 includes a fifth surface 71 facing the second surface 22 and a sixth surface 72 located on the opposite side of the fifth surface 71 in the thickness direction. The concept of "located on the second surface 22" includes not only the case where the fifth surface 71 of the second conductive layer 70 is in contact with the second surface 22, but also the case where another layer is disposed between the second surface 22 and the fifth surface 71. For example, as shown in FIG. 5 , the antenna 10 may include a second adhesive layer 73 located between the second surface 22 and the fifth surface 71.

[0105] Conductive layers such as the first conductive layer 60 and the second conductive layer 70 include a conductive material. The conductive layer includes, for example, a metal material such as copper (Cu), gold (Au), silver (Ag), or aluminum (Al), or an alloy using any of these. The conductive layer may include a transparent conductive material such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO). The conductive layer may include a carbon-based conductive material such as graphite, carbon nanotubes, graphene, or fullerene.

[0106] The thickness of the conductive layers such as the first conductive layer 60 and the second conductive layer 70 is, for example, 0.1 μm or more, and may be 1 μm or more, 3 μm or more, or 5 μm or more. The thickness of the conductive layers is, for example, 35 μm or less, and may be 25 μm or less, 20 μm or less, or 15 μm or less.

[0107] The lower limit of the thickness of the conductive layer may be determined depending on the frequency of the radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10. For example, the lower limit of the thickness of the conductive layer may be greater than the skin depth of the electrical signal flowing through the wiring 39. The skin depth of the electrical signal depends on the frequency of the radio waves.

[0108] The adhesive layers such as the first adhesive layer 63 and the second adhesive layer 73 contain a resin. Examples of the resin for the adhesive layers include fluororesin, styrene-based elastomer, epoxy resin, and acrylic resin.

[0109] The thickness of the adhesive layer is, for example, 30 μm or less, or may be 25 μm or less, or may be 20 μm or less. The thickness of the adhesive layer is, for example, 2 μm or more, or may be 5 μm or more, or may be 10 μm or more.

[0110] The antenna 10 has a thickness T2. The thickness T2 is the distance in the thickness direction between the fourth surface 62 of the first conductive layer 60 and the fifth surface 71 of the second conductive layer 70. The thickness T2 is, for example, 2 mm or less, and may be 800 μm or less, 500 μm or less, or 200 μm or less. The thickness T2 is, for example, 10 μm or more, 20 μm or more, 50 μm or more, or 100 μm or more.

[0111] The antenna 10 has a thickness T3. The thickness T3 is the distance in the thickness direction between the third surface 61 of the first conductive layer 60 and the sixth surface 72 of the second conductive layer 70. The thickness T3 is, for example, 2 mm or less, and may be 1 mm or less, 700 μm or less, or 500 μm or less. The thickness T3 is, for example, 30 μm or more, 50 μm or more, 100 μm or more, or 150 μm or more.

[0112] The characteristics of the antenna 10 will now be described. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a reflection spectrum P1 of the antenna 10. In the reflection spectrum of Fig. 6, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents the reflection coefficient. The reflection coefficient is also referred to as S11. S11 is a coefficient that indicates the proportion of the electrical signal reflected at the input terminal of the antenna 10 relative to the electrical signal input to the input terminal.

[0113] 6, the reflection spectrum P1 appears between the upper frequency F01 and the lower frequency F02. Examples of combinations of the upper frequency F01 and the lower frequency F02 are shown in the table below.

[0114] As shown in Fig. 6, the reflection spectrum P1 may include a first peak P11, a second peak P12, and a third peak P13. The first peak P11 has a minimum value of the reflection coefficient at a first frequency F11. The first peak P11 may be the peak that appears at the lowest frequency in the reflection spectrum P1. The second peak P12 has a minimum value of the reflection coefficient at a second frequency F12 that is higher than the first frequency F11. The second peak P12 may be adjacent to the first peak P11. The third peak P13 has a minimum value of the reflection coefficient at a third frequency F13 that is higher than the second frequency F12. The third peak P13 may be adjacent to the second peak P12.

[0115] Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a radiation pattern of the antenna 10 at a first frequency F11 of a first peak P11. The radiation pattern at the first frequency F11 is also referred to as a first radiation pattern E11. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a radiation pattern of the antenna 10 at a second frequency F12 of a second peak P12. The radiation pattern at the second frequency F12 is also referred to as a second radiation pattern E12. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a radiation pattern of the antenna 10 at a third frequency F13 of a third peak P13. The radiation pattern at the third frequency F13 is also referred to as a third radiation pattern E13.

[0116] The radiation pattern of the antenna 10 represents the directivity of the antenna 10. The radiation pattern of the antenna 10 is measured by receiving radio waves from a fixed transmitting antenna using the antenna 10. The radiation pattern is calculated by rotating the antenna 10 with respect to a reference direction from the transmitting antenna toward the antenna 10 and measuring the received power at various angles.

[0117] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the first radiation pattern E11 and the second radiation pattern E12 have high intensity in the front direction. On the other hand, as shown in Figure 9, the third radiation pattern E13 has almost no intensity in the front direction. The front direction is the normal direction of the first surface 21 of the substrate 20 of the antenna 10.

[0118] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the front gain spectrum P2 of the antenna. The front gain spectrum P2 represents the gain of the antenna 10 in the front direction. In this application, gain refers to absolute gain, not relative gain. The unit of absolute gain is dBi. The gain in the front direction is also referred to as front gain. As shown in FIG. 10, the front gain spectrum P2 includes an effective range having a front gain of 5.0 dBi or more. The antenna 10 can operate properly in the effective range.

[0119] As described above, the first radiation pattern E11 and the second radiation pattern E12 have large intensity in the front direction. Therefore, the first frequency F11 and the second frequency F12 are included in the effective range. In other words, the first radiation pattern E11 and the second radiation pattern E12 contribute to the proper operation of the antenna 10. On the other hand, the third radiation pattern E13 has almost no intensity in the front direction. Therefore, the third radiation pattern E13 is not included in the effective range. In other words, the third radiation pattern E13 does not contribute to the proper operation of the antenna 10.

[0120] The causes of the various peaks and radiation patterns described above will be considered. The following consideration only shows one possibility. The technical significance of this embodiment is not limited to the following consideration.

[0121] One of the first peak P11 and the second peak P12 may be a peak based on the configuration of the patch layer 30 itself and the configuration of the slits 35. The other of the first peak P11 and the second peak P12 may be a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself. For example, the first peak P11 may be a peak based on the configuration of the patch layer 30 itself and the configuration of the slits 35, and the second peak P12 may be a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself. For example, the first peak P11 may be a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself, and the second peak P12 may be a peak based on the configuration of the patch layer 30 itself and the configuration of the slits 35. The configuration of the patch layer 30 itself includes a first dimension K1, a second dimension K2, etc. The configuration of the slits 35 includes a third dimension K3, a fourth dimension K4, a fifth dimension K5, etc. The configuration of the cell structure 40 itself includes first dimensions J1 to seventh dimensions J7, etc.

[0122] The third peak P13 may be a peak due to an interaction between the cell structure 40 and the slit 35. FIG. 11 illustrates an example of an electrical signal flowing through the antenna 10. A portion of the current C0 input from the wiring 39 to the antenna 10 flows in the second direction D2 along the third side edge 363. When the current C1 flows through the third side edge 363 of the first slit 35A, a current C3 flows in the first cell unit 41A in the opposite direction to the current C1 in the second direction D2 due to electromagnetic coupling between the patch layer 30 and the first cell unit 41A. When the current C2 flows through the third side edge 363 of the second slit 35B, a current C4 flows in the second cell unit 41B in the opposite direction to the current C2 in the second direction D2 due to electromagnetic coupling between the patch layer 30 and the second cell unit 41B. The current C3 in the first cell unit 41A and the current C4 in the second cell unit 41B flow in opposite directions in the second direction D2. Therefore, in the front direction, the radio waves generated by the current C3 in the first cell unit 41A and the radio waves generated by the current C4 in the second cell unit 41B have opposite phases. Since the radio waves generated by the current C3 and the radio waves generated by the current C4 cancel each other out in the front direction, it is considered that the third radiation pattern E13 has almost no intensity in the front direction.

[0123] In order to widen the bandwidth of the antenna 10, it is preferable to effectively utilize the first peak P11 and the second peak P12 while suppressing the adverse effect of the third peak P13 on the bandwidth of the antenna 10.

[0124] A description will now be given of the preferred forms of the reflection spectrum P1 and the front gain spectrum P2.

[0125] As shown in FIG. 6 , the first peak P11 has a minimum value V11 and a peak height H11. The second peak P12 has a minimum value V12 and a peak height H12. The third peak P13 has a minimum value V13 and a peak height H13. The minimum values ​​V11, V12, and V13 may all be −10 dB or less. One of the minimum values ​​V11 and V12 may be greater than −10 dB. For example, the minimum value V11 may be greater than −10 dB, and the minimum value V12 may be less than −10 dB.

[0126] The minimum value V12 may be smaller than the minimum value V13. For example, the minimum value V12 may be less than −15 dB, and the minimum value V13 may be not less than −15 dB and not more than −10 dB.

[0127] When the center frequency Fc of the radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10 is 4.0 GHz, the difference Fd23 between the second frequency F12 and the third frequency F13 is, for example, 0.20 GHz or more, or may be 0.25 GHz or more, or may be 0.30 GHz or more. When the center frequency Fc of the radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10 is 4.0 GHz, the difference Fd23 between the second frequency F12 and the third frequency F13 is, for example, 0.50 GHz or less, or may be 0.45 GHz or less, or may be 0.40 GHz or less.

[0128] The difference Fd23 between the second frequency F12 and the third frequency F13 may be defined relative to the center frequency Fc of the radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10. Fd23 / Fc, which is the ratio of the difference Fd23 to the center frequency Fc, is, for example, 0.05 or more, or may be 0.06 or more, or may be 0.07 or more. Fd12 / Fc is, for example, 0.15 or less, or may be 0.12 or less, or may be 0.10 or less.

[0129] The center frequency Fc of the radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10 is the average value of the first frequency F11 and the second frequency F12. For example, if the first frequency F11 is 3.678 GHz and the second frequency F12 is 3.953 GHz, the center frequency Fc is 3.816 GHz.

[0130] The minimum value V12 may be smaller than the minimum value V13. For example, the minimum value V12 may be equal to or smaller than −15 dB, and the minimum value V13 may be equal to or larger than −15 dB and equal to or smaller than −10 dB.

[0131] The minimum value V11 may be smaller than the minimum value V12. For example, the minimum value V11 may be less than −20 dB, and the minimum value V12 may be −20 dB or greater.

[0132] Alternatively, the minimum value V12 may be smaller than the minimum value V11. For example, the minimum value V12 may be less than −20 dB, and the minimum value V11 may be −20 dB or greater.

[0133] The difference between the peak height H11 of the first peak P11 and the peak height H12 of the second peak P12 may be equal to or less than a predetermined value. The difference between the peak height H11 and the peak height H12 may be, for example, 15 dB or less, 12 dB or less, or 10 dB or less. The difference between the peak height H11 and the peak height H12 may be, for example, 1 dB or more, 3 dB or more, or 5 dB or more.

[0134] When the minimum value V11 is smaller than the minimum value V12, the difference between the peak height H11 and the peak height H12 may be within the above-mentioned range. When the minimum value V12 is smaller than the minimum value V11, the difference between the peak height H11 and the peak height H12 may be within the above-mentioned range.

[0135] When the center frequency Fc of the radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10 is 4.0 GHz, the difference Fd12 between the first frequency F11 and the second frequency F12 is, for example, 0.20 GHz or more, or may be 0.25 GHz or more, or 0.30 GHz or more. When the center frequency Fc of the radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10 is 4.0 GHz, the difference Fd12 between the first frequency F11 and the second frequency F12 is, for example, 0.50 GHz or less, or may be 0.45 GHz or less, or may be 0.40 GHz or less.

[0136] The difference Fd12 between the first frequency F11 and the second frequency F12 may be defined relative to the center frequency Fc of the radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10. Fd12 / Fc, which is the ratio of the difference Fd12 to the center frequency Fc, is, for example, 0.05 or more, or may be 0.06 or more, or may be 0.07 or more. Fd12 / Fc is, for example, 0.15 or less, or may be 0.12 or less, or may be 0.10 or less.

[0137] 6, the reflection spectrum P1 may include a section located between the first frequency F11 and the second frequency F12 and having a reflection coefficient greater than −10 dB. This section is likely to occur when there is a large difference between the first frequency F11 and the second frequency F12.

[0138] As shown in FIG. 6 , the reflection spectrum P1 may include a fourth peak P14. The fourth peak P14 appears at a fourth frequency higher than the third frequency F13. The minimum value of the fourth peak P14 may be −10 dB or less. The reflection spectrum P1 may include a fifth peak P15. The fifth peak P15 appears at a fifth frequency higher than the fourth frequency. The minimum value of the fifth peak P15 may be −10 dB or less. The reflection spectrum P1 may include a sixth peak P16. The sixth peak P16 appears at a sixth frequency higher than the fifth frequency. The minimum value of the sixth peak P16 may be −10 dB or less.

[0139] As shown in FIG. 10, the front gain spectrum P2 has a first front gain G21 at a first frequency F11, a second front gain G22 at a second frequency F12, and a third front gain G23 at a third frequency F13.

[0140] The first front gain G21 and the second front gain G22 are, for example, 5.0 dBi or more, or may be 6.0 dBi or more, or 7.0 dBi or more. The first front gain G21 and the second front gain G22 are, for example, 15.0 dBi or less, or may be 13.0 dBi or less, or may be 11.0 dBi or less.

[0141] The difference between the first front gain G21 and the second front gain G22 may be equal to or less than a predetermined value, for example, 2.0 dBi or less, 1.8 dBi or less, 1.5 dBi or less, 1.2 dBi or less, or 1.0 dBi or less.

[0142] The third front gain G23 is, for example, 0.0 dBi or less, and may be -3.0 dBi or less, or may be -5.0 dBi or less. The third front gain G23 is, for example, -10.0 dBi or more, and may be -12.0 dBi or more, or may be -10.0 dBi or more.

[0143] 10, the effective section having a front gain of 5.0 dBi or more has a bandwidth BW. The lower limit of the effective section is also called the lower limit point and is represented by the symbol Pa. The upper limit of the effective section is also called the upper limit point and is represented by the symbol Pb.

[0144] The antenna 10 of this embodiment includes the slit 35 and the cell structure 40, and therefore the bandwidth BW can be widened.

[0145] When the center frequency Fc of the radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10 is 4.0 GHz, the bandwidth BW is, for example, 0.40 GHz or more, or may be 0.60 GHz or more, or 0.80 GHz or more. When the center frequency of the radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10 is 4.0 GHz, the bandwidth BW is, for example, 2.00 GHz or less, or may be 1.60 GHz or less, or may be 0.80 GHz or less.

[0146] A preferred range of the bandwidth BW may be defined relative to the center frequency Fc of the radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10. BW / Fc, which is the ratio of the bandwidth BW to the center frequency Fc, is, for example, 0.10 or more, or may be 0.15 or more, or may be 0.20 or more. BW / Fc is, for example, 0.50 or less, or may be 0.40 or less, or may be 0.25 or less.

[0147] 10, the front gain spectrum P2 may include a first minimum point Pm that appears at a higher frequency than the upper limit point Pb. The front gain spectrum P2 may decrease monotonically between the upper limit point Pb and the first minimum point Pm.

[0148] The third frequency F13 may be located between the upper limit point Pb and the first minimum point Pm. In other words, the third frequency F13 may be lower than the frequency at which the first minimum point Pm appears.

[0149] An example of a method for manufacturing the antenna 10 will now be described.

[0150] 12 , a laminate 15 is prepared. The laminate 15 includes at least a substrate 20, a first conductive layer 60 located on a first surface 21 of the substrate 20, and a second conductive layer 70 located on a second surface 22 of the substrate 20.

[0151] The manufacturing method of the laminate 15 is not particularly limited. For example, the metal foil constituting the first conductive layer 60 may be attached to the first surface 21 of the substrate 20 by a first adhesive layer 63. Similarly, the metal foil constituting the second conductive layer 70 may be attached to the second surface 22 of the substrate 20 by a second adhesive layer 73. Although not shown, the first conductive layer 60 and the second conductive layer 70 may be formed by a plating method, a vapor deposition method, a sputtering method, a printing method, or the like. The first conductive layer 60 and the second conductive layer 70 may be in contact with the first surface 21 and the second surface 22 of the substrate 20. In other words, the first adhesive layer 63 and the second adhesive layer 73 may not be provided. The methods for forming the first conductive layer 60 and the second conductive layer 70 may be the same or different.

[0152] Next, a patterning step is performed to process the first conductive layer 60 and divide it into a plurality of first conductive layers 60. For example, as shown in FIG. 13 , a plurality of resist layers 25 are formed on the first conductive layer 60. The positions of the plurality of resist layers 25 correspond to the positions of the plurality of first conductive layers 60 shown in FIG. 5 . Next, an etching step is performed to process the first conductive layer 60 by wet etching. As shown in FIG. 14 , the portions of the first conductive layer 60 that are not overlapped by the resist layers 25 are removed by wet etching. As a result, the first conductive layer 60 that constitutes the patch layer 30 and the wiring 39, and the plurality of first conductive layers 60 that constitute the plurality of cell layers 42 of the cell structure 40 are obtained.

[0153] Subsequently, the resist layer 25 is removed to obtain the antenna 10 shown in Fig. 5. Although not shown, a protective layer may be formed to cover the first conductive layer 60. Similarly, a protective layer may be formed to cover the second conductive layer 70.

[0154] The antenna 10 of this embodiment includes a patch layer 30 in which slits 35 are formed, and a cell structure 40. The slits 35 and the cell structure 40 can each contribute to widening the bandwidth BW of the front gain spectrum P2 of the antenna 10. On the other hand, a radiation pattern with almost no intensity in the front direction also occurs due to the interaction between the slits 35 and the cell structure 40. By configuring the slits 35 and the cell structure 40 so as to suppress the influence of such a radiation pattern, it is possible to provide an antenna 10 that can operate over a wider band.

[0155] An antenna in a first comparative embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 15. The antenna in the first comparative embodiment has a cell structure 40, but no slits are formed in the patch layer 30.

[0156] The antenna 10 of this embodiment includes a patch layer 30 in which a slit 35 is formed, and a cell structure 40. Therefore, compared to the antenna of the first comparative embodiment, the bandwidth BW of the front gain spectrum P2 can be widened.

[0157] The above-described embodiment can be modified in various ways. Hereinafter, other embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings as necessary. In the following description and the drawings used in the following description, parts that can be configured similarly to the above-described embodiment will be designated by the same reference numerals as those used for the corresponding parts in the above-described embodiment. Duplicate descriptions will be omitted. Furthermore, if it is clear that the effects obtained in the above-described embodiment can also be obtained in other embodiments, the descriptions may be omitted.

[0158] 16 is a plan view showing the patch layer 30 of the antenna 10 according to a first modification. As shown in FIG. 16, the seventh dimension K7 of the convex portion 371 of the patch layer 30 may be smaller than the eighth dimension K8 of the wiring 39.

[0159] 17 is a plan view showing the patch layer 30 of the antenna 10 according to a second modification. As shown in Fig. 17, the patch layer 30 may include a recess 372 instead of a protrusion 371. The recess 372 is recessed inward from the first end 31 in the first direction D1.

[0160] The wiring 39 may be connected to the recess 372. In this case, the feeding point 38 is located more inward than the first end 31 in the first direction D1.

[0161] As shown in FIG. 17, the recess 372 may have a ninth dimension K9 to a tenth dimension K10 in a plan view.

[0162] The ninth dimension K9 is the dimension of the recess 372 in the first direction D1. The ninth dimension K9 determines the position of the feed point 38 in the first direction D1. The ninth dimension K9 may be determined so that the frequency of resonance caused by the cell structure 40 appropriately occurs in the band of radio waves transmitted or received by the antenna 10. The ninth dimension K9 is, for example, 0.5 mm or more, 1.0 mm or more, or 2.0 mm or more. The ninth dimension K9 is, for example, 10.0 mm or less, 6.0 mm or less, or 4.0 mm or less.

[0163] The tenth dimension K10 is the dimension in the second direction D2 between the side surface of the recess 372 and the wiring 39. The tenth dimension K10 is, for example, 0.2 mm or more, or may be 0.5 mm or more, or 1.0 mm or more. The tenth dimension K10 is, for example, 5.0 mm or less, or may be 4.0 mm or less, or may be 3.0 mm or less.

[0164] When the recess 372 is formed by wet etching the first conductive layer 60, the larger the ninth dimension K9, the more likely the ninth dimension K9 and tenth dimension K10 of the actual recess 372 will deviate from the design values ​​of the ninth dimension K9 and tenth dimension K10. In other words, the smaller the ninth dimension K9, the more likely the ninth dimension K9 and tenth dimension K10 of the actual recess 372 will approach the design values ​​of the ninth dimension K9 and tenth dimension K10.

[0165] For example, the ninth dimension K9 of the recess 372 may be smaller than the third dimension K3 of the slit 35. The difference between the third dimension K3 and the ninth dimension K9 is, for example, 1.0 mm or more, or may be 2.0 mm or more, or may be 3.0 mm or more.

[0166] (Third Modification) FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view showing an antenna 10 according to a third modification. As shown in FIG. 18 , the position of the patch layer 30 and the position of the cell structure 40 may be different in the thickness direction. For example, the multiple cell layers 42 of the cell structure 40 may be formed by the first-B conductive layer 60B, and the patch layer 30 may be formed by the first-A conductive layer 60A. The positions of the first-A conductive layer 60A and the first-B conductive layer 60B may be different in the thickness direction. For example, the distance between the first-A conductive layer 60A and the substrate 20 in the thickness direction is greater than the distance between the first-B conductive layer 60B and the substrate 20 in the thickness direction. For example, the first-A conductive layer 60A may be located on the surface of an insulating layer 65 that covers the multiple first-B conductive layers 60B.

[0167] Although not shown, the distance between the first A conductive layer 60A and the substrate 20 in the thickness direction may be smaller than the distance between the first B conductive layer 60B and the substrate 20 in the thickness direction.

[0168] The antenna 10 of this modification also includes a patch layer 30 in which a slit 35 is formed, and a cell structure 40. This makes it possible to widen the bandwidth BW of the front gain spectrum P2.

[0169] Although not shown, the first A conductive layer 60A of the patch layer 30 may partially overlap the first B conductive layer 60B of the cell structure 40 in a plan view.

[0170] (Fourth Modification) FIG. 27 is a plan view showing an antenna 10 according to a fourth modification. The patch layer 30 of the antenna 10 of this modification does not have a slit. In this case, the spectrum of the antenna 10, such as its reflection spectrum, is not affected by the slit configuration. Meanwhile, the cell portion 41 of the cell structure 40 of the antenna 10 of this modification includes a first column 43A and a second column 43B. The first column 43A and the second column 43B each include multiple cell layers 42. The configuration of the first column 43A is different from the configuration of the second column 43B. In this case, the spectrum of the antenna 10, such as its reflection spectrum, is affected by the difference between the configurations of the first column 43A and the second column 43B. Therefore, according to this modification, the bandwidth of the antenna 10 can be widened even when the patch layer 30 does not have a slit.

[0171] The cell structure 40 will be described in detail. As shown in FIG. 27 , the cell structure 40 includes two cell portions 41A and 41B, similar to the case of the above-described embodiment. Each of the two cell portions 41A and 41B includes a first row 43A and a second row 43B. Each of the first row 43A and the second row 43B includes a plurality of cell layers 42 aligned in the first direction D1. The second row 43B is located outside the first row 43A in the second direction D2. "Outside in the second direction D2" refers to a direction away from the center point C10 of the patch layer 30 in the second direction D2.

[0172] The cell layer 42 in the first row 43A is different from the cell layer 42 in the second row 43B in at least one of the dimensions, area, spacing, arrangement pitch, and number of the cell layer 42. In this modification, the area S1 of the cell layer 42 in the first row 43A is different from the area S2 of the cell layer 42 in the second row 43B. As a result, for example, the distance between two peaks appearing in a spectrum, such as the reflection spectrum of the antenna 10, is wider than when the area S1 is the same as the area S2. Therefore, the bandwidth of the antenna 10 is broadened. The two peaks are, for example, one based on the configuration of the patch layer 30 itself and the other based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself.

[0173] The area S2 of the cell layer 42 in the second row 43B may be smaller than the area S1 of the cell layer 42 in the first row 43A. The smaller the area S2 compared to the area S1, the higher the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself appears. Reducing the area S2 compared to the area S1 is particularly effective when the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself appears is higher than the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the patch layer 30 itself appears.

[0174] The ratio S2 / S1 of the area S2 of the cell layer 42 in the second row 43B to the area S1 of the cell layer 42 in the first row 43A is, for example, less than 1.00, and may be 0.95 or less, 0.90 or less, or 0.85 or less. S2 / S1 is, for example, 0.40 or more, 0.50 or more, 0.60 or more, or 0.70 or more.

[0175] The cell layer 42 of the first row 43A has a third dimension J31 in the first direction D1 and a fourth dimension J41 in the second direction D2. The cell layer 42 of the second row 43B has a third dimension J32 in the first direction D1 and a fourth dimension J42 in the second direction D2. The third dimension J32 of the second row 43B may be smaller than the third dimension J31 of the first row 43A. The fourth dimension J42 of the second row 43B may be smaller than the fourth dimension J41 of the first row 43A. The third dimension J32 and the fourth dimension J42 of the second row 43B may be smaller than the third dimension J31 and the fourth dimension J41 of the first row 43A, respectively.

[0176] Although not shown, the area S2 of the cell layer 42 in the second row 43B may be larger than the area S1 of the cell layer 42 in the first row 43A. The larger the area S2 is compared to the area S1, the lower the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself appears. Increasing the area S2 compared to the area S1 is particularly effective when the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself appears is lower than the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the patch layer 30 itself appears.

[0177] The ratio S1 / S2, which is the ratio of the area S1 of the cell layer 42 in the first row 43A to the area S2 of the cell layer 42 in the second row 43B, is, for example, less than 1.00, and may be 0.95 or less, 0.90 or less, or 0.85 or less. S1 / S2 is, for example, 0.40 or more, 0.50 or more, 0.60 or more, or 0.70 or more.

[0178] 28 is a plan view showing an antenna 10 according to a fifth modification. The antenna 10 of the fifth modification differs from the antenna 10 of the fourth modification in that the cell units 41A, 41B are located inside the first row 43A in the second direction D2 and further include a row of multiple cell layers 42 aligned in the first direction D1. "Inside in the second direction D2" means a direction approaching the center point C10 of the patch layer 30 in the second direction D2.

[0179] Similar to the fourth modified antenna 10, the cell units 41A and 41B of the fifth modified antenna 10 also include a first row 43A and a second row 43B. The configuration of the first row 43A is different from the configuration of the second row 43B. Therefore, according to this modified example, the bandwidth of the antenna 10 can be widened even when no slits are formed in the patch layer 30.

[0180] Although not shown, the cell portions 41A and 41B may further include a row of multiple cell layers 42 aligned in the first direction D1 and located outside the second row 43B in the second direction D2.

[0181] 29 is a plan view showing the antenna 10 according to a sixth modification. The antenna 10 according to the sixth modification differs from the antenna 10 according to the fourth modification in that two slits 35A and 35B are formed in the patch layer 30.

[0182] Similar to the antenna 10 of the fourth modification, the cell units 41A and 41B of the antenna 10 of the sixth modification also include a first row 43A and a second row 43B. The configuration of the first row 43A is different from the configuration of the second row 43B. Therefore, according to this modification, the bandwidth of the antenna 10 can be widened. Since slits are formed in the patch layer 30 of this modification, the bandwidth of the antenna 10 can be further widened.

[0183] (Seventh Modification) Figure 30 is a plan view showing an antenna 10 in a seventh modification. In the fourth modification described above, an example was described in which the area S1 of the cell layer 42 in the first row 43A is different from the area S2 of the cell layer 42 in the second row 43B. In the seventh modification, an example is described in which the distance J51 in the first direction D1 between the plurality of cell layers 42 in the first row 43A, i.e., the spacing J51, is different from the distance J52 in the first direction D1 between the plurality of cell layers 42 in the second row 43B, i.e., the spacing J52.

[0184] 30 , the spacing J52 between the cell layers 42 in the second row 43B may be larger than the spacing J51 between the cell layers 42 in the first row 43A. The larger the spacing J52 between the cell layers 42 in the second row 43B compared to the spacing J51 between the cell layers 42 in the first row 43A, the higher the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself appears. Increasing the spacing J52 compared to the spacing J51 is particularly effective when the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself appears is higher than the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the patch layer 30 itself appears.

[0185] The ratio J52 / J51 of the spacing J52 of the cell layers 42 in the second row 43B to the spacing J51 of the cell layers 42 in the first row 43A is, for example, greater than 1.0, may be 1.5 or greater, may be 2.0 or greater, or may be 2.5 or greater. J52 / J51 is, for example, 6.0 or less, may be 5.0 or less, may be 4.0 or less, or may be 3.0 or less.

[0186] The spacing J52 between the cell layers 42 in the second row 43B may be greater or smaller than the distance between two adjacent cell layers 42 in the second direction D2.

[0187] The arrangement pitch J12 of the multiple cell layers 42 in the second row 43B in the first direction D1 may be larger than the arrangement pitch J11 of the multiple cell layers 42 in the first row 43A in the first direction D1. The third dimension J32 of the cell layers 42 in the second row 43B may be the same as the third dimension J31 of the cell layers 42 in the first row 43A. In this case, the spacing J52 of the cell layers 42 in the second row 43B is larger than the spacing J51 of the cell layers 42 in the first row 43A.

[0188] Although not shown, the spacing J52 between the cell layers 42 in the second row 43B may be smaller than the spacing J51 between the cell layers 42 in the first row 43A. The smaller the spacing J52 between the cell layers 42 in the second row 43B compared to the spacing J51 between the cell layers 42 in the first row 43A, the lower the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself appears. Reducing the spacing J52 compared to the spacing J51 is particularly effective when the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself appears is lower than the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the patch layer 30 itself appears.

[0189] The ratio J51 / J52 of the spacing J51 between the cell layers 42 in the first row 43A to the spacing J52 between the cell layers 42 in the second row 43B is, for example, greater than 1.0, may be 1.5 or greater, may be 2.0 or greater, or may be 2.5 or greater. J51 / J52 is, for example, 6.0 or less, may be 5.0 or less, may be 4.0 or less, or may be 3.0 or less.

[0190] The arrangement pitch J12 of the multiple cell layers 42 in the second row 43B in the first direction D1 may be smaller than the arrangement pitch J11 of the multiple cell layers 42 in the first row 43A in the first direction D1. The third dimension J32 of the cell layers 42 in the second row 43B may be the same as the third dimension J31 of the cell layers 42 in the first row 43A. In this case, the spacing J52 between the cell layers 42 in the second row 43B is smaller than the spacing J51 between the cell layers 42 in the first row 43A.

[0191] Although not shown, the cell units 41A, 41B of the antenna 10 of the seventh modification may be located inside the first row 43A in the second direction D2 and further include a row of multiple cell layers 42 aligned in the first direction D1, as in the case of the fifth modification described above. Although not shown, the cell units 41A, 41B of the antenna 10 of the seventh modification may be located outside the second row 43B in the second direction D2 and further include a row of multiple cell layers 42 aligned in the first direction D1.

[0192] Although not shown, the patch layer 30 of the antenna 10 of the seventh modified example may be formed with two slits 35A and 35B, similar to the sixth modified example described above.

[0193] (Eighth Modification) Figure 31 is a plan view showing an antenna 10 in an eighth modification. In the fourth modification described above, an example was described in which the area S1 of the cell layer 42 in the first row 43A is different from the area S2 of the cell layer 42 in the second row 43B. In the eighth modification, an example is described in which the number N1 of the cell layers 42 in the first row 43A is different from the number N2 of the cell layers 42 in the second row 43B.

[0194] As shown in FIG. 31 , the number N1 of cell layers 42 in the first row 43A may be greater than the number N2 of cell layers 42 in the second row 43B. For example, the number N1 may be two or more times greater than the number N2. In the example shown in FIG. 31 , the first row 43A includes four cell layers 42, and the second row 43B includes two cell layers 42. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 31 , the number N1 is two times greater than the number N2. Furthermore, the greater the number N1 compared to the number N2, the higher the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself appears. Increasing the number N1 compared to the number N2 is particularly effective when the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself appears is higher than the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the patch layer 30 itself appears.

[0195] Although not shown, the number N2 of cell layers 42 in the second row 43B may be greater than the number N1 of cell layers 42 in the first row 43A. For example, the number N2 may be greater than the number N1 by two or more. Furthermore, the greater the number N2 compared to the number N1, the lower the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself appears. Increasing the number N2 compared to the number N1 is particularly effective when the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself appears is lower than the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the patch layer 30 itself appears.

[0196] When the numbers N1 and N2 are different, the interval between two peaks appearing in a spectrum such as the reflection spectrum of the antenna 10 becomes wider than when the numbers N1 and N2 are the same, and therefore the bandwidth of the antenna 10 is widened.

[0197] Both the number N1 and the number N2 may be even numbers. Both the number N1 and the number N2 may be odd numbers. When both the number N1 and the number N2 are even or odd, the difference between the number N1 and the number N2 is a multiple of 2. The difference between the number N1 and the number N2 may be 2, 4, or 6. Figure 32 is a plan view showing an example in which the number N1 of cell layers 42 in the first row 43A is 4 more than the number N2 of cell layers 42 in the second row 43B.

[0198] Although not shown, the cell units 41A, 41B of the antenna 10 of the eighth modified example may be located inside the first row 43A in the second direction D2 and further include a row of multiple cell layers 42 aligned in the first direction D1, as in the case of the fifth modified example described above. Although not shown, the cell units 41A, 41B of the antenna 10 of the eighth modified example may be located outside the second row 43B in the second direction D2 and further include a row of multiple cell layers 42 aligned in the first direction D1.

[0199] Although not shown, the patch layer 30 of the antenna 10 of the eighth modified example may be formed with two slits 35A and 35B, similar to the sixth modified example described above.

[0200] 33 is a plan view showing the antenna 10 according to a ninth modification. As shown in Fig. 33, the third dimension J3 of the cell layer 42 in the first direction D1 may be different from the fourth dimension J4 of the cell layer 42 in the second direction D2.

[0201] For example, the fourth dimension J4 of the cell layer 42 may be smaller than the third dimension J3 of the cell layer 42. The smaller the fourth dimension J4 is compared to the third dimension J3, the higher the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself appears. Reducing the fourth dimension J4 compared to the third dimension J3 is particularly effective when the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself appears is higher than the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the patch layer 30 itself appears.

[0202] The ratio J4 / J3 of the fourth dimension J4 to the third dimension J3 is, for example, less than 1.00, may be 0.90 or less, or may be 0.80 or less, and may be, for example, 0.50 or more, 0.60 or more, or 0.70 or more.

[0203] Although not shown, the fourth dimension J4 of the cell layer 42 may be larger than the third dimension J3 of the cell layer 42. The larger the fourth dimension J4 is compared to the third dimension J3, the lower the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself appears. Increasing the fourth dimension J4 compared to the third dimension J3 is particularly effective when the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself appears is lower than the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of the patch layer 30 itself appears.

[0204] The ratio J3 / J4 of the third dimension J3 to the fourth dimension J4 is, for example, less than 1.00, may be 0.90 or less, or may be 0.80 or less, and may be, for example, 0.50 or more, 0.60 or more, or 0.70 or more.

[0205] Although not shown, the patch layer 30 of the antenna 10 of the ninth modified example may be formed with two slits 35A and 35B, similar to the sixth modified example described above.

[0206] The present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to examples. The present disclosure is not limited to the following examples, as long as it does not depart from the gist of the disclosure.

[0207] Example 1 The characteristics of the antenna 10 of Example 1 were evaluated based on a simulation. The antenna 10 includes the patch layer 30 and wiring 39 shown in Fig. 17 and the cell structure 40 shown in Figs. 2 and 4. The dimensions of the antenna 10 of Example 1 are as follows: First dimension K1: 22.55 mm Second dimension K2: 30.00 mm Third dimension K3: 6.30 mm Fourth dimension K4: 1.50 mm Fifth dimension K5: 12.70 mm Eighth dimension K8: 3.80 mm Ninth dimension K9: 2.975 mm Tenth dimension K10: 1.50 mm Third dimension J3: 17.30 mm Fourth dimension J4: 17.30 mm Fifth dimension J5: 0.34 mm Sixth dimension J6: 0.34 mm Seventh dimension J7: 0.16 mm

[0208] The reflection coefficient of the antenna 10 was calculated by simulation. The simulation software used was the Femtet simulator manufactured by Murata Software Co., Ltd. FIG. 19A shows a reflection spectrum P1 of the antenna 10 of Example 1. The reflection spectrum P1 includes a first peak P11, a second peak P12, and a third peak P13. The first peak P11 is a peak based on the configuration of the patch layer 30 itself and the configuration of the slits 35. The second peak P12 is a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself. The third peak P13 is a peak based on the interaction between the cell structure 40 and the slits 35.

[0209] The first frequency F11 of the first peak P11 was 3.678 GHz. The second frequency F12 of the second peak P12 was 3.953 GHz. The third frequency F13 of the third peak P13 was 4.280 GHz. The minimum value V11 of the first peak P11, the minimum value V12 of the second peak P12, and the minimum value V13 of the third peak P13 were -10 dB or less. The reflection spectrum P1 had a reflection coefficient of -10 dB or less throughout the entire section between the first frequency F11 and the second frequency F12. The difference between the peak height H1 of the first peak P11 and the peak height H2 of the second peak P12 was 15 dB or less.

[0210] The front gain of the antenna 10 was calculated by simulation. The simulation software used was the Femtet simulator manufactured by Murata Software Co., Ltd. FIG. 19B shows the front gain spectrum P2 of the antenna 10 of Example 1. The front gain spectrum P2 has a first front gain G21 at a first frequency F11, a second front gain G22 at a second frequency F12, and a third front gain G23 at a third frequency F13. The first front gain G21 and the second front gain G22 were 9.0 dBi or more and less than 10.0 dBi. The third front gain G23 was −5.0 dBi or less. The third frequency F13 was lower than the frequency at which the first minimum point Pm appeared. The bandwidth BW of the effective section having a front gain of 5.0 dBi or more was 0.50 GHz or more and less than 0.60 GHz.

[0211] The radiation pattern of the antenna 10 was calculated by simulation. The simulation software used was the Femtet simulator manufactured by Murata Software Co., Ltd. FIG. 19C is a diagram showing a first radiation pattern E11 of the antenna 10 of Example 1. FIG. 19D is a diagram showing a second radiation pattern E12 of the antenna 10 of Example 1. FIG. 19E is a diagram showing a third radiation pattern E13 of the antenna 10 of Example 1. The first radiation pattern E11 and the second radiation pattern E12 had high intensity in the front direction. The third radiation pattern E13 had almost no intensity in the front direction.

[0212] Example 2 The characteristics of the antenna 10 of Example 2 were evaluated based on simulation. Like the antenna 10 of Example 1, the antenna 10 of Example 2 includes the patch layer 30 and wiring 39 shown in Fig. 17 and the cell structure 40 shown in Figs. 2 and 4. The dimensions of the antenna 10 of Example 2 are as follows: 1st dimension K1: 21.95 mm 2nd dimension K2: 30.00 mm 3rd dimension K3: 6.30 mm 4th dimension K4: 1.50 mm 5th dimension K5: 12.70 mm 8th dimension K8: 3.80 mm 9th dimension K9: 2.675 mm 10th dimension K10: 1.50 mm 3rd dimension J3: 17.10 mm 4th dimension J4: 17.10 mm 5th dimension J5: 0.36 mm 6th dimension J6: 0.36 mm 7th dimension J7: 0.16 mm The 1st dimension J1 is the sum of the 3rd dimension J3 and the 5th dimension J5. The 2nd dimension J2 is the sum of the 4th dimension J4 and the 6th dimension J6.

[0213] The reflection coefficient of the antenna 10 was calculated by simulation. Fig. 20A is a diagram showing the reflection spectrum P1 of the antenna 10 of Example 2. The reflection spectrum P1 includes a first peak P11, a second peak P12, and a third peak P13. The first peak P11 is a peak based on the configuration of the patch layer 30 itself and the configuration of the slits 35. The second peak P12 is a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself. The third peak P13 is a peak based on the interaction between the cell structure 40 and the slits 35.

[0214] The first frequency F11 of the first peak P11 was 3.740 GHz. The second frequency F12 of the second peak P12 was 4.010 GHz. The third frequency F13 of the third peak P13 was 4.360 GHz. The minimum value V11 of the first peak P11, the minimum value V12 of the second peak P12, and the minimum value V13 of the third peak P13 were -10 dB or less. The reflection spectrum P1 had a reflection coefficient of -10 dB or less throughout the entire section between the first frequency F11 and the second frequency F12. The difference between the peak height H1 of the first peak P11 and the peak height H2 of the second peak P12 was 15 dB or less.

[0215] The front gain of the antenna 10 was calculated by simulation. FIG. 20B is a diagram showing the front gain spectrum P2 of the antenna 10 of Example 2. The front gain spectrum P2 has a first front gain G21 at a first frequency F11, a second front gain G22 at a second frequency F12, and a third front gain G23 at a third frequency F13. The first front gain G21 and the second front gain G22 were equal to or greater than 9.0 dBi and less than 10.0 dBi. The third front gain G23 was equal to or less than -5.0 dBi. The third frequency F13 was lower than the frequency at which the first minimum point Pm appeared. The bandwidth BW of the effective section having a front gain of 5.0 dBi or more was equal to or greater than 0.50 GHz and less than 0.60 GHz.

[0216] The radiation patterns of the antenna 10 were calculated by simulation. Fig. 20C is a diagram showing a first radiation pattern E11 of the antenna 10 of Example 2. Fig. 20D is a diagram showing a second radiation pattern E12 of the antenna 10 of Example 2. Fig. 20E is a diagram showing a third radiation pattern E13 of the antenna 10 of Example 2. The first radiation pattern E11 and the second radiation pattern E12 had high intensity in the front direction. The third radiation pattern E13 had almost no intensity in the front direction.

[0217] Example 3 The characteristics of the antenna 10 of Example 3 were evaluated based on simulation. Like the antenna 10 of Example 1, the antenna 10 of Example 3 includes the patch layer 30 and wiring 39 shown in Fig. 17 and the cell structure 40 shown in Figs. 2 and 4. The dimensions of the antenna 10 of Example 3 are as follows:・1st dimension K1: 22.55 mm ・2nd dimension K2: 30.00 mm ・3rd dimension K3: 6.60 mm ・4th dimension K4: 1.50 mm ・5th dimension K5: 12.50 mm ・8th dimension K8: 3.80 mm ・9th dimension K9: 2.975 mm ・10th dimension K10: 1.50 mm ・3rd dimension J3: 16.90 mm ・4th dimension J4: 16.90 mm ・5th dimension J5: 0.40 mm ・6th dimension J6: 0.40 mm ・7th dimension J7: 0.16 mm

[0218] The reflection coefficient of the antenna 10 was calculated by simulation. Fig. 21A is a diagram showing a reflection spectrum P1 of the antenna 10 of Example 3. The reflection spectrum P1 includes a first peak P11, a second peak P12, and a third peak P13. The first peak P11 is a peak based on the configuration of the patch layer 30 itself and the configuration of the slits 35. The second peak P12 is a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself. The third peak P13 is a peak based on the interaction between the cell structure 40 and the slits 35.

[0219] The first frequency F11 of the first peak P11 was 3.694 GHz. The second frequency F12 of the second peak P12 was 4.067 GHz. The third frequency F13 of the third peak P13 was 4.309 GHz. The minimum value V11 of the first peak P11, the minimum value V12 of the second peak P12, and the minimum value V13 of the third peak P13 were each -10 dB or less. The reflection spectrum P1 was located between the first frequency F11 and the second frequency F12 and included a section having a reflection coefficient greater than -10 dB. The width of the section having a reflection coefficient greater than -10 dB was 0.10 GHz or more and less than 0.20 GHz. The difference between the peak height H1 of the first peak P11 and the peak height H2 of the second peak P12 was 15 dB or less.

[0220] The front gain of the antenna 10 was calculated by simulation. FIG. 21B is a diagram showing the front gain spectrum P2 of the antenna 10 of Example 3. The front gain spectrum P2 has a first front gain G21 at a first frequency F11, a second front gain G22 at a second frequency F12, and a third front gain G23 at a third frequency F13. The first front gain G21 was equal to or greater than 9.0 dBi and less than 10.0 dBi. The second front gain G22 was equal to or greater than 8.0 dBi and less than 9.0 dBi. The third front gain G23 was equal to or less than -5.0 dBi. The third frequency F13 was lower than the frequency at which the first minimum point Pm appeared. The bandwidth BW of the effective section having a front gain of 5.0 dBi or more was equal to or greater than 0.60 GHz and less than 0.70 GHz.

[0221] The radiation patterns of the antenna 10 were calculated by simulation. Fig. 21C is a diagram showing a first radiation pattern E11 of the antenna 10 of Example 3. Fig. 21D is a diagram showing a second radiation pattern E12 of the antenna 10 of Example 3. Fig. 21E is a diagram showing a third radiation pattern E13 of the antenna 10 of Example 3. The first radiation pattern E11 and the second radiation pattern E12 had high intensity in the front direction. The third radiation pattern E13 had almost no intensity in the front direction.

[0222] Example 4 The characteristics of the antenna 10 of Example 4 were evaluated based on simulation. Like the antenna 10 of Example 1, the antenna 10 of Example 4 includes the patch layer 30 and wiring 39 shown in Fig. 17 and the cell structure 40 shown in Figs. 2 and 4. The dimensions of the antenna 10 of Example 4 are as follows:・1st dimension K1: 22.75 mm ・2nd dimension K2: 30.00 mm ・3rd dimension K3: 6.30 mm ・4th dimension K4: 1.50 mm ・5th dimension K5: 12.70 mm ・8th dimension K8: 3.80 mm ・9th dimension K9: 3.075 mm ・10th dimension K10: 1.50 mm ・3rd dimension J3: 18.70 mm ・4th dimension J4: 18.70 mm ・5th dimension J5: 0.34 mm ・6th dimension J6: 0.34 mm ・7th dimension J7: 0.16 mm

[0223] The reflection coefficient of the antenna 10 was calculated by simulation. Fig. 22A is a diagram showing a reflection spectrum P1 of the antenna 10 of Example 4. The reflection spectrum P1 includes a first peak P11, a second peak P12, and a third peak P13. Unlike the antenna 10 of Example 1, the first peak P11 is a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself. The second peak P12 is a peak based on the configuration of the patch layer 30 itself and the configuration of the slits 35. The third peak P13 is a peak based on the interaction between the cell structure 40 and the slits 35.

[0224] The first frequency F11 of the first peak P11 was 3.575 GHz. The second frequency F12 of the second peak P12 was 3.766 GHz. The third frequency F13 of the third peak P13 was 4.050 GHz. The minimum value V11 of the first peak P11 was −5 dB or less but greater than −10 dB. The minimum value V12 of the second peak P12 and the minimum value V13 of the third peak P13 were −10 dB or less. The difference between the peak height H1 of the first peak P11 and the peak height H2 of the second peak P12 exceeded 15 dB.

[0225] The front gain of the antenna 10 was calculated by simulation. FIG. 22B is a diagram showing the front gain spectrum P2 of the antenna 10 of Example 4. The front gain spectrum P2 has a first front gain G21 at a first frequency F11, a second front gain G22 at a second frequency F12, and a third front gain G23 at a third frequency F13. The first front gain G21 and the second front gain G22 were equal to or greater than 9.0 dBi and less than 10.0 dBi. The third front gain G23 was equal to or less than 1.0 dBi. The third frequency F13 was higher than the frequency at which the first minimum point Pm appeared. The bandwidth BW of the effective section having a front gain of 5.0 dBi or more was equal to or greater than 0.40 GHz and less than 0.50 GHz.

[0226] The radiation patterns of the antenna 10 were calculated by simulation. Fig. 22C is a diagram showing a first radiation pattern E11 of the antenna 10 of Example 4. Fig. 22D is a diagram showing a second radiation pattern E12 of the antenna 10 of Example 4. Fig. 22E is a diagram showing a third radiation pattern E13 of the antenna 10 of Example 4. The first radiation pattern E11 and the second radiation pattern E12 had high intensity in the front direction. The third radiation pattern E13 had almost no intensity in the front direction.

[0227] Example 5 The characteristics of the antenna 10 of Example 5 were evaluated based on simulation. Like the antenna 10 of Example 1, the antenna 10 of Example 5 includes the patch layer 30 and wiring 39 shown in Fig. 17 and the cell structure 40 shown in Figs. 2 and 4. The dimensions of the antenna 10 of Example 5 are as follows:・1st dimension K1: 22.55 mm ・2nd dimension K2: 30.00 mm ・3rd dimension K3: 6.30 mm ・4th dimension K4: 1.50 mm ・5th dimension K5: 12.70 mm ・8th dimension K8: 3.80 mm ・9th dimension K9: 2.975 mm ・10th dimension K10: 1.50 mm ・3rd dimension J3: 20.00 mm ・4th dimension J4: 20.00 mm ・5th dimension J5: 0.34 mm ・6th dimension J6: 0.34 mm ・7th dimension J7: 0.16 mm

[0228] The reflection coefficient of the antenna 10 was calculated by simulation. Fig. 23A is a diagram showing a reflection spectrum P1 of the antenna 10 of Example 5. The reflection spectrum P1 includes a first peak P11, a second peak P12, and a third peak P13. As in the case of the antenna 10 of Example 4, the first peak P11 is a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself. The second peak P12 is a peak based on the configuration of the patch layer 30 itself and the configuration of the slits 35. The third peak P13 is a peak based on the interaction between the cell structure 40 and the slits 35.

[0229] The first frequency F11 of the first peak P11 was 3.400 GHz. The second frequency F12 of the second peak P12 was 3.620 GHz. The third frequency F13 of the third peak P13 was 3.820 GHz. The minimum value V11 of the first peak P11 was greater than -5 dB. The minimum value V12 of the second peak P12 was -10 dB or less. The minimum value V13 of the third peak P13 was greater than -10 dB. The difference between the peak height H1 of the first peak P11 and the peak height H2 of the second peak P12 exceeded 15 dB. Because the minimum value V11 of the first peak P11 was large, it is expected that a sufficient bandwidth BW will not be obtained in the front gain spectrum P2.

[0230] The radiation pattern of the antenna 10 was calculated by simulation. Fig. 23B is a diagram showing a first radiation pattern E11 of the antenna 10 of Example 5. Fig. 23C is a diagram showing a second radiation pattern E12 of the antenna 10 of Example 5. Fig. 23D is a diagram showing a third radiation pattern E13 of the antenna 10 of Example 5.

[0231] Example 6 The characteristics of the antenna 10 of Example 6 were evaluated based on simulation. Unlike the antenna 10 of Example 1, the antenna 10 of Example 6 includes the patch layer 30 and wiring 39 shown in Fig. 16 and the cell structure 40 shown in Figs. 2 and 4. The dimensions of the antenna 10 of Example 6 are as follows:・1st dimension K1: 22.55 mm ・2nd dimension K2: 30.00 mm ・3rd dimension K3: 6.30 mm ・4th dimension K4: 1.50 mm ・5th dimension K5: 12.70 mm ・6th dimension K6: 11.275 mm ・7th dimension K7: 3.00 mm ・10th dimension K10: 1.50 mm ・3rd dimension J3: 17.30 mm ・4th dimension J4: 17.30 mm ・5th dimension J5: 0.34 mm ・6th dimension J6: 0.34 mm ・7th dimension J7: 0.16 mm

[0232] The reflection coefficient of the antenna 10 was calculated by simulation. Fig. 24A is a diagram showing the reflection spectrum P1 of the antenna 10 of Example 6. The reflection spectrum P1 includes a first peak P11, a second peak P12, and a third peak P13. The first peak P11 is a peak based on the configuration of the patch layer 30 itself and the configuration of the slits 35. The second peak P12 is a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself. The third peak P13 is a peak based on the interaction between the cell structure 40 and the slits 35.

[0233] The first frequency F11 of the first peak P11 was 3.660 GHz. The second frequency F12 of the second peak P12 was 3.990 GHz. The third frequency F13 of the third peak P13 was 4.280 GHz. The minimum value V11 of the first peak P11, the minimum value V12 of the second peak P12, and the minimum value V13 of the third peak P13 were -10 dB or less. The reflection spectrum P1 was located between the first frequency F11 and the second frequency F12 and included a section having a reflection coefficient greater than -10 dB. The width of the section having a reflection coefficient greater than -10 dB was 0.10 GHz or more and less than 0.20 GHz. The difference between the peak height H1 of the first peak P11 and the peak height H2 of the second peak P12 was 15 dB or less.

[0234] The front gain of the antenna 10 was calculated by simulation. FIG. 24B is a diagram showing the front gain spectrum P2 of the antenna 10 of Example 6. The front gain spectrum P2 has a first front gain G21 at a first frequency F11, a second front gain G22 at a second frequency F12, and a third front gain G23 at a third frequency F13. The first front gain G21 and the second front gain G22 were equal to or greater than 8.0 dBi and less than 9.0 dBi. The third front gain G23 was equal to or less than -5.0 dBi. The third frequency F13 was lower than the frequency at which the first minimum point Pm appeared. The bandwidth BW of the effective section having a front gain of 5.0 dBi or more was equal to or greater than 0.60 GHz and less than 0.70 GHz.

[0235] The radiation patterns of the antenna 10 were calculated by simulation. Fig. 24C is a diagram showing a first radiation pattern E11 of the antenna 10 of Example 6. Fig. 24D is a diagram showing a second radiation pattern E12 of the antenna 10 of Example 6. Fig. 24E is a diagram showing a third radiation pattern E13 of the antenna 10 of Example 6. The first radiation pattern E11 and the second radiation pattern E12 had high intensity in the front direction. The third radiation pattern E13 had almost no intensity in the front direction.

[0236] Example 7 The characteristics of the antenna 10 of Example 7 were evaluated based on simulation. The antenna 10 of Example 7 has the cell structure 40 shown in Figures 2 and 4, but similar to the first comparative embodiment of Figure 15, no slits 35 are formed in the patch layer 30. The dimensions of the antenna 10 of Example 7 are the same as the dimensions of the antenna 10 of Example 1, except that no slits 35 are formed in the patch layer 30.

[0237] The reflection coefficient of the antenna 10 was calculated by simulation. Fig. 25A is a diagram showing a reflection spectrum P1 of the antenna 10 of Example 7. The reflection spectrum P1 includes a first peak P11 and a second peak P12. The first peak P11 is a peak based on the configuration of the patch layer 30 itself. The second peak P12 is a peak based on the configuration of the cell structure 40 itself.

[0238] The first frequency F11 of the first peak P11 was 3.630 GHz. The second frequency F12 of the second peak P12 was 3.830 GHz. The minimum value V11 of the first peak P11 and the minimum value V12 of the second peak P12 were −10 dB or less.

[0239] The front gain of the antenna 10 was calculated by simulation. Fig. 25B is a diagram showing the front gain spectrum P2 of the antenna 10 of Example 7. The front gain spectrum P2 has a first front gain G21 at a first frequency F11 and a second front gain G22 at a second frequency F12. The first front gain G21 and the second front gain G22 were equal to or greater than 10.0 dBi and less than 11.0 dBi. The bandwidth BW of the effective section having a front gain of 5.0 dBi or more was equal to or greater than 0.40 GHz and less than 0.50 GHz.

[0240] The radiation pattern of the antenna 10 was calculated by simulation. Fig. 25C is a diagram showing a first radiation pattern E11 of the antenna 10 of Example 7. Fig. 25D is a diagram showing a second radiation pattern E12 of the antenna 10 of Example 7.

[0241] Example 8 The characteristics of the antenna 10 of Example 8 were evaluated based on a simulation. The antenna 10 of Example 8 includes a patch layer 30 in which slits 35 are formed, but does not include a cell structure 40. The dimensions of the antenna 10 of Example 8 are the same as the dimensions of the antenna 10 of Example 1, except that it does not include the cell structure 40.

[0242] The reflection coefficient of the antenna 10 was calculated by simulation. Fig. 26A is a diagram showing the reflection spectrum P1 of the antenna 10 of Example 8. The reflection spectrum P1 includes a first peak P11 and a peak P1s. The first peak P11 is a peak due to the configuration of the patch layer 30 itself. The peak P1s is a peak due to the slits 35.

[0243] The first frequency F11 of the first peak P11 was 3.544 GHz. The frequency F1s of the peak P1s was 3.613 GHz. The minimum value V11 of the first peak P11 and the minimum value of the peak P1s were −10 dBi or less.

[0244] The front gain of the antenna 10 was calculated by simulation. Fig. 26B is a diagram showing the front gain spectrum P2 of the antenna 10 of Example 8. The front gain spectrum P2 has a first front gain G21 at a first frequency F11 and a front gain G2s at a frequency F1s. The first front gain G21 was equal to or greater than 6.0 dBi and less than 7.0 dBi. The front gain G2s was equal to or greater than 7.0 dBi and less than 8.0 dBi. The bandwidth BW of the effective section having a front gain of 5.0 dBi or more was equal to or greater than 0.10 GHz and less than 0.20 GHz.

[0245] The radiation pattern of the antenna 10 was calculated by simulation. Fig. 26C is a diagram showing a first radiation pattern E11 at a first frequency F11 of the antenna 10 of Example 8. Fig. 26D is a diagram showing a radiation pattern E1s at a frequency F1s of the antenna 10 of Example 8.

[0246] (Examples 11 to 20) The characteristics of the antennas 10 of Examples 11 to 20 were evaluated based on simulations. The antennas 10 of Examples 11 to 20 include the patch layer 30, wiring 39, and cell structure 40 shown in FIG. 27. The antennas 10 of Examples 11 to 20 each have a different value of S2 / S1. S2 / S1 is the ratio of the area S2 of the cell layer 42 in the second row 43B to the area S1 of the cell layer 42 in the first row 43A.

[0247] The reflection coefficients of the antennas 10 in Examples 11 to 20 were calculated by simulation. FIG. 34 shows the reflection spectra of the antennas 10 in Examples 11 to 20. "Ex. 11 to Ex. 20" refer to "Examples 11 to 20." The numbers next to Ex. 11 to Ex. 20 represent the value of the ratio S2 / S1 in each example. That is, the values ​​of the ratio S2 / S1 in Examples 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, and 20 were 0.00, 0.10, 0.18, 0.29, 0.42, 0.57, 0.65, 0.84, 0.94, and 1.00, respectively.

[0248] As can be seen from the reflection spectra of Examples 15 to 20, as the ratio S2 / S1 decreased, the frequency at which the peak due to the configuration of cell structure 40 itself appeared increased. On the other hand, when the ratio S2 / S1 was less than 0.40, the height of the peak due to the configuration of cell structure 40 itself became similar to when the ratio S2 / S1 was 0.00. A ratio S2 / S1 of 0.00 means that the second column 43B was not present. From these results, it can be said that the ratio S2 / S1 is preferably equal to or greater than 0.40 and less than 1.00.

[0249] (Examples 21 to 37) The characteristics of the antennas 10 of Examples 21 to 37 were evaluated based on simulations. The antennas 10 of Examples 21 to 37 include the patch layer 30, wiring 39, and cell structure 40 shown in FIG. 30. The antennas 10 of Examples 21 to 37 each have a different J52 / J51 value. J52 / J51 is the ratio of the spacing J52 between the cell layers 42 in the second row 43B to the spacing J51 between the cell layers 42 in the first row 43A.

[0250] The reflection coefficients of the antennas 10 in Examples 21 to 37 were calculated by simulation. FIG. 35 shows the reflection spectra of the antennas 10 in Examples 21 to 37. "Ex. 21 to Ex. 37" refer to "Examples 21 to 37." The numbers next to Ex. 21 to Ex. 37 represent the ratio J52 / J51 values ​​in each example. That is, the ratio J52 / J51 values ​​in Examples 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, and 37 were 1.0, 1.3, 1.5, 1.8, 2.0, 2.3, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, 5.5, 6.0, 6.5, 7.5, and 8.8, respectively.

[0251] As can be seen from the reflection spectra of Examples 21 to 34, as the ratio J52 / J51 increased, the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of cell structure 40 itself appeared increased. On the other hand, when the ratio J52 / J51 increased beyond 6.0, the distance between the two peaks converged to a constant value. In this case, the effect of widening the bandwidth of antenna 10 was limited, and no design advantage was found. From these results, it can be said that the ratio J52 / J51 is preferably greater than 1.0 and not greater than 6.0.

[0252] (Examples 41 to 45) The characteristics of the antennas 10 of Examples 41 to 45 were evaluated based on simulations. The antennas 10 of Examples 41 to 45 include a patch layer 30, wiring 39, and a cell structure 40 as shown in Figures 31 and 32. That is, in the antennas 10 of Examples 41 to 45, the number N1 of cell layers 42 in the first row 43A is different from the number N2 of cell layers 42 in the second row 43B.

[0253] The reflection coefficients of the antennas 10 of Examples 41 to 45 were calculated by simulation. FIG. 36 is a diagram showing the reflection spectra of the antennas 10 of Examples 41 to 43. FIG. 37 is a diagram showing the reflection spectra of the antennas 10 of Examples 41, 44, and 45. "Ex. 41 to Ex. 45" means "Examples 41 to 45." The two numbers connected by the symbol "-" next to Ex. 41 to Ex. 45 represent N1 and N2. That is, (N1-N2) in Examples 41, 42, 43, 44, and 45 were (4-2), (4-4), (4-6), (6-2), and (8-2), respectively.

[0254] As can be seen from the reflection spectra of Examples 41 to 43, when the number N1 is greater than the number N2, the distance between two peaks appearing in a spectrum such as the reflection spectrum of antenna 10 is wider than when the number N1 and the number N2 are the same.

[0255] As can be seen from the reflection spectra of Examples 41, 44 to 45, the two peaks had appropriate heights and appropriate intervals when the difference between the number N1 and the number N2 was 2. From this result, it can be said that it is preferable that the difference between the number N1 and the number N2 is 2.

[0256] (Examples 51 to 57) The characteristics of the antennas 10 of Examples 51 to 57 were evaluated based on simulation. The antennas 10 of Examples 51 to 57 include the patch layer 30, wiring 39, and cell structure 40 shown in FIG. 33. The antennas 10 of Examples 51 to 57 each have a different value of J4 / J3. J4 / J3 is the ratio of the fourth dimension J4 of the cell layer 42 to the third dimension J3 of the cell layer 42.

[0257] The reflection coefficients of the antennas 10 of Examples 51 to 57 were calculated by simulation. FIG. 38 shows the reflection spectra of the antennas 10 of Examples 51 to 57. "Ex. 51 to Ex. 57" refer to "Examples 51 to 57." The numbers next to Ex. 51 to Ex. 57 represent the value of the ratio J4 / J3 in each example. That is, the values ​​of the ratio J4 / J3 in Examples 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, and 57 were 0.48, 0.54, 0.65, 0.75, 0.86, 0.97, and 1.00, respectively.

[0258] As can be seen from the reflection spectra of Examples 52 to 57, as the ratio J4 / J3 decreased, the frequency at which a peak based on the configuration of cell structure 40 itself appeared increased. On the other hand, when the ratio J4 / J3 was less than 0.50, the distance between the two peaks became excessively large. In this case, the S11 value at the frequency between the two peaks became greater than -7 dB, and the effect of widening the bandwidth of antenna 10 was not achieved. From these results, it can be said that the ratio J4 / J3 is preferably greater than or equal to 0.50 and less than 1.00.

[0259] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 10 Antenna 20 Base material 21 First surface 22 Second surface 30 Patch layer 31 First end 32 Second end 33 Third end 34 Fourth end 35 Slit 35A First slit 35B Second slit 361 First side edge 362 Second side edge 363 Third side edge 371 Convex portion 372 Concave portion 38 Feeding point 39 Wiring 40 Cell structure 41 Cell portion 41A First cell portion 41B Second cell portion 42 Cell layer 50 Ground layer 60 First conductive layer 61 Third surface 62 Fourth surface 63 First adhesive layer 70 Second conductive layer 71 Fifth surface 72 Sixth surface 73 Second adhesive layer P11 First peak P12 Second peak P13 Third peak F11 First frequency F12 2nd frequency F13 3rd frequency D1 1st direction D2 2nd direction

Claims

1. An antenna comprising: a substrate including a first surface and a second surface located opposite the first surface; a patch layer located on the first surface and having conductivity; wiring connected to the patch layer at a feed point and extending from the feed point in a first direction; a cell structure located on the first surface, having conductivity, and including a plurality of periodically arranged cell layers; and a ground layer located on the second surface and having conductivity, wherein the cell structure includes two cell portions, and the patch layer is located between the two cell portions in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and the two cell portions each include a first row including a plurality of cell layers lined up in the first direction, and a second row located outside the first row in the second direction and including a plurality of cell layers lined up in the first direction, wherein the cell layers of the first row differ from the cell layers of the second row in at least one of the dimensions, area, spacing, arrangement pitch, and number of the cell layers.

2. The antenna of claim 1, wherein the area of ​​the cell layer in the first row is different from the area of ​​the cell layer in the second row.

3. The antenna according to claim 2, wherein the ratio of the area of ​​the cell layer in the second row to the area of ​​the cell layer in the first row is equal to or greater than 0.40 and less than 1.

00.

4. The antenna of claim 1, wherein the spacing in the first direction between the cell layers of the first row is different from the spacing in the first direction between the cell layers of the second row.

5. The antenna of claim 4, wherein the ratio of the spacing in the first direction between the cell layers of the second row to the spacing in the first direction between the cell layers of the first row is greater than 1.0 and not greater than 6.

0.

6. The antenna of claim 1, wherein the number of said cell layers in said first row is different from the number of said cell layers in said second row.

7. The antenna of claim 6, wherein the number of said cell layers in said first row is two more than the number of said cell layers in said second row.

8. An antenna comprising: a substrate including a first surface and a second surface located opposite the first surface; a patch layer located on the first surface and having conductivity; wiring connected to the patch layer at a feed point and extending from the feed point in a first direction; a cell structure located on the first surface and having conductivity, including a plurality of periodically arranged cell layers; and a conductive ground layer located on the second surface, wherein the cell structure includes two cell portions, each of the two cell portions including the plurality of periodically arranged cell layers, the patch layer being located between the two cell portions in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and the dimension of the cell layer in the first direction differs from the dimension of the cell layer in the second direction.

9. The antenna of claim 8, wherein the ratio of the dimension of said cell layer in said second direction to the dimension of said cell layer in said first direction is greater than or equal to 0.50 and less than 1.

00.

10. An antenna as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the patch layer includes two slits, the feed point is located between the two slits in the second direction, and each of the two slits includes an outline including a first side edge and a second side edge facing each other in the second direction, and a third side edge extending from the tip of the first side edge to the tip of the second side edge.

11. An antenna comprising: a substrate including a first surface and a second surface located opposite the first surface; a conductive patch layer located on the first surface; a wiring connected to the patch layer at a feed point and extending from the feed point in a first direction; a cell structure located on the first surface, being conductive, and including a plurality of periodically arranged cell layers; and a conductive ground layer located on the second surface, wherein the patch layer includes two slits, and in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the feed point is located between the two slits, and each of the two slits has an outline including a first side edge and a second side edge facing each other in the second direction, and a third side edge extending from a tip of the first side edge to a tip of the second side edge, and the cell structure includes two cell portions, and each of the two cell portions includes the plurality of periodically arranged cell layers, and the patch layer is located between the two cell portions in the second direction.

12. The antenna described in claim 11, wherein the patch layer includes a first end and a second end facing each other in the first direction, the wiring extends from the feed point in a direction from the second end toward the first end, and the two slits are each formed in the first end.

13. The antenna according to claim 12, wherein the feed point is located outside the first end in the first direction.

14. The antenna according to claim 12, wherein the feed point is located more inward than the first end in the first direction.

15. An antenna according to any one of claims 1 to 9 and 11 to 14, wherein the ground layer overlaps the patch layer and the two cell portions in the normal direction of the first surface.

16. An antenna as set forth in any one of claims 1 to 9 and 11 to 14, wherein the arrangement pitch of the periodically arranged multiple cell layers is 1 mm or more and 30 mm or less.

17. An antenna according to any one of claims 1 to 9 and 11 to 14, wherein the reflection spectrum relating to the reflection coefficient of the antenna includes a first peak having a minimum value of the reflection coefficient at a first frequency, a second peak having a minimum value of the reflection coefficient at a second frequency higher than the first frequency, and a third peak having a minimum value of the reflection coefficient at a third frequency higher than the second frequency, wherein the minimum values ​​of the first peak, the second peak, and the third peak are -10 dB or less, and the front gain spectrum relating to the front gain of the antenna is located between the first frequency and the second frequency and includes an effective interval having a front gain of 5.0 dBi or more, and the front gain of the antenna at the third frequency is 0.0 dBi or less.

18. An antenna as claimed in claim 17, wherein the difference between the front gain of said antenna at said first frequency and the front gain of said antenna at said second frequency is 2.0 dBi or less.

19. The antenna of claim 17, wherein the front gain spectrum includes a first minimum point, the front gain spectrum monotonically decreases between an upper limit of an effective range and the first minimum point, and the third frequency is located between the upper limit and the first minimum point.

20. The antenna of claim 17, wherein the ratio of the difference between the first frequency and the second frequency to the center frequency is greater than or equal to 0.05 and less than or equal to 0.15, and the center frequency is the average value of the first frequency and the second frequency.

21. The antenna described in claim 17, wherein the ratio of the difference between the second frequency and the third frequency to the center frequency is greater than or equal to 0.05 and less than or equal to 0.15, and the center frequency is the average value of the first frequency and the second frequency.

22. The antenna of claim 17, wherein the minimum value of the second peak is less than the minimum value of the third peak.

23. The antenna of claim 17, wherein the minimum value of the first peak is less than the minimum value of the second peak.

24. The antenna of claim 17, wherein the minimum value of the first peak is greater than the minimum value of the second peak.

25. The antenna of claim 24, wherein the difference between the peak height of the first peak and the peak height of the second peak is 15 dB or less.

26. The antenna of claim 17, wherein the reflection spectrum includes a section located between the first frequency and the second frequency and having a reflection coefficient greater than -10 dB.

27. The antenna of claim 17, wherein the first frequency, the second frequency, and the third frequency are between 3.0 GHz and 5.0 GHz.

28. A method for manufacturing an antenna, comprising: a step of preparing a laminate including a substrate having a first surface and a second surface located opposite the first surface, a first conductive layer located on the first surface, and a second conductive layer located on the second surface; and an etching step of partially removing the first conductive layer by etching, wherein the etched first conductive layer comprises a patch layer, wiring connected to the patch layer at a feed point and extending from the feed point in a first direction, and a cell structure including a plurality of periodically arranged cell layers, wherein the cell structure includes two cell portions, and the patch layer is located between the two cell portions in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and each of the two cell portions includes a first row including a plurality of cell layers lined up in the first direction, and a second row located outside the first row in the second direction and including a plurality of cell layers lined up in the first direction, wherein the cell layers of the first row differ from the cell layers of the second row in at least one of the dimensions, area, intervals, arrangement pitch, and number of the cell layers.

29. A method for manufacturing an antenna, comprising: a step of preparing a laminate including a substrate having a first surface and a second surface located opposite the first surface, a first conductive layer located on the first surface, and a second conductive layer located on the second surface; and an etching step of partially removing the first conductive layer by etching, wherein the etched first conductive layer comprises a patch layer, wiring connected to the patch layer at a feed point and extending from the feed point in a first direction, and a cell structure including a plurality of periodically arranged cell layers, wherein the cell structure includes two cell portions, each of the two cell portions including the plurality of periodically arranged cell layers, the patch layer being located between the two cell portions in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and a dimension of the cell layer in the first direction different from a dimension of the cell layer in the second direction.

30. A method for manufacturing an antenna, comprising: a step of preparing a laminate including a substrate having a first surface and a second surface located opposite the first surface, a first conductive layer located on the first surface, and a second conductive layer located on the second surface; and an etching step of partially removing the first conductive layer by etching, wherein the etched first conductive layer comprises a patch layer, a wiring connected to the patch layer at a feed point and extending from the feed point in a first direction, and a cell structure including a plurality of periodically arranged cell layers, wherein the patch layer includes two slits, and in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the feed point is located between the two slits, and each of the two slits has an outline including a first side edge and a second side edge facing each other in the second direction, and a third side edge extending from a tip of the first side edge to a tip of the second side edge, and the cell structure includes two cell portions, and each of the two cell portions includes the plurality of periodically arranged cell layers, A method for manufacturing an antenna, wherein in the second direction, the patch layer is positioned between the two cell portions.

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