Antenna systems

Abstract

An antenna can include a three-dimensional radiating element and a ground connection. The three-dimensional radiating element can include an upright portion, a head portion, a left arm, and a right arm. The head portion extends from a top side of the upright portion. The left arm extends from a left side of the upright portion. The right arm extends from a right side of the upright portion. The ground connection is configured to be coupled to the upright portion between a central vertical axis of the upright portion and the left side or the right side, such that the ground connection is not coupled at the central vertical axis.

Description

ANTENNA SYSTEMSINCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO ANY PRIORITY APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority benefit to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 778,284, filed March 26, 2025, entitled “ANTENNA SYSTEMS”, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 774,598, filed March 19, 2025, entitled “ANTENNA SYSTEMS”, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 680,045, filed August 6, 2024, entitled “ANTENNA SYSTEMS”, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 637,247, filed April 22, 2024, entitled “ANTENNA SYSTEMS”. The present application is also a continuation-in-part of PCT Application No. US2024 / 048229, filed September 24, 2024, entitled “ANTENNA SYSTEMS”, which claims priority benefit to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 680,045, filed August 6, 2024, entitled “ANTENNA SYSTEMS”. All of the above-mentioned applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the present application are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR 1.57 and made a part of this specification.BACKGROUNDField

[0002] The present disclosure relates to the field of wireless broadband communication, and more particularly to antenna systems and antennas that cover multiple frequency bands used in the telecommunication wireless spectrum.Description of the Related Art

[0003] Over the last few decades, 3GPP as a collaborative organization has developed protocols for mobile telecommunications. The latest operational standard is known as 5G. Wireless communication relies on a variety of radio components including radio antennas that are used for transmitting and receiving information via electromagnetic waves. To communicate to specific devices without interference from other devices, radio transceivers and receivers communicate within a dedicated frequency bandwidth and have associated antennas that are configured to electromagnetically resonate at frequencies within the dedicated bandwidth. As more wireless devices are used on a frequency bandwidth, a communication bottleneck occurs as wireless devicescompete for frequency channels within a dedicated bandwidth. 3GPP frequency bands range from 450 MHz to 8 GHz and beyond, however, antennas configured to resonate within this spectrum only resonate below 8 GHz for mobile 3 GPP telecommunication standards. To capture a greater portion of the 3 GPP or other telecommunication spectrum, either an antenna array of various antenna configurations is used, or a single geometrically complex antenna can be used. An antenna array, in most instances, takes up too much space and is therefore impractical for small devices, but employing a single antenna will have a useable bandwidth that is limited by its geometrical configuration. In one example, a known antenna configuration permits a 700 MHz - 2.7 GHz frequency band; however, a single antenna configuration that permits a wider frequency band is desired. Additionally, it can be difficult and expensive to manufacture, assemble, and procure materials for components of antenna array systems. This may result in a system with poor functionality and / or coverage.SUMMARY

[0004] This disclosure relates to antennas that cover multiple frequency bands that are prolific in today’s telecommunication wireless spectrum. The advances of telecommunications wireless devices have expanded the number of frequency bands that a radio can support for prolific coverage. For example, there are over 30 5G Bands that a radio may be asked to support if the radio is to provide ubiquitous coverage for a mobile device. While some of the LTE Bands overlap with one another, there are numerous gaps between the bands as well. A multi -band approach to the antenna’s frequency response provides a unique and novel radiating structure to support the numerous 5G bands.

[0005] According to some advantageous implementations, an antenna is disclosed. The antenna includes a three-dimensional radiating element and a ground connection. The three- dimensional radiating element includes an upright portion, a head portion, a left arm, and a right arm. The head portion extends from a top side of the upright portion. The left arm extends from a left side of the upright portion. The right arm extends from a right side of the upright portion. The ground connection is configured to be coupled to the upright portion between a central vertical axis of the upright portion and the left side or the right side, such that the ground connection is not coupled at the central vertical axis.

[0006] In some implementations, the upright portion has a height to width ratio of 2: 1 or greater. In some implementations, a ratio of the height of the upright portion to the length of the head portion is 2:1 or greater.

[0007] In some implementations, coupling the ground connection to the upright portion in an off-center position (e.g., between the central vertical axis of the upright portion and a side / edge of the upright portion) provides a benefit of allowing the ratios of the various components of the three-dimensional radiating element to be adjusted relative to each other without significant loss in performance. In some implementations, coupling the ground connection to the upright portion in an off-center position allows for improved assembly / manufacturing of an antenna system including the antenna.

[0008] According to some advantageous implementations, an antenna system is disclosed. The antenna system includes an electrically conductive base, a cover, and a multielement multi-band antenna. The cover is configured to be coupled to the electrically conductive base to define an internal volume therebetween. The multi-element multi-band antenna is housed within the internal volume and includes one or more multi-band radiator portions and one or more Wi-Fi radiating elements. Each multi-band radiator portion includes a three-dimensional radiating element and a ground connection. The ground connection is configured to electrically connect the three-dimensional radiating element to the electrically conductive base.

[0009] Some advantageous features have thus been outlined in order that the more detailed description that follows may be better understood and to ensure that the present contribution to the art is appreciated. Additional features will be described hereinafter and will form the subject matter of the claims that follow.

[0010] Many objects of the present application will appear from the following description and appended claims, reference being made to the accompanying drawings forming a part of this specification wherein like reference characters designate corresponding parts in the several views.

[0011] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the present invention in detail, it is to be understood that the embodiments are not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The embodiments are capable of being practiced and carried out invarious ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0012] As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception, upon which this disclosure is based, may readily be utilized as a basis for the designing of other structures, methods and systems for carrying out the various purposes of the present design. It is important, therefore, that the claims be regarded as including such equivalent constructions in so far as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present application.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The novel features believed characteristic of the application are set forth in the appended claims. However, the application itself, as well as a preferred mode of use, and further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0014] Figure 1 A illustrates a top perspective view of an antenna assembly, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0015] Figures 1B-1D illustrate a side view, a top view, and a bottom view respectively of the antenna assembly of Figure 1A, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0016] Figure 2A illustrates a top perspective view of the antenna assembly of Figure 1A with the cover removed, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0017] Figure 2B illustrates a top view of the antenna assembly of Figure 1A with the cover removed, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0018] Figures 3A-3J illustrate various views of components of an implementation of a multi-band radiator portion that can be included in the antenna assembly of Figure 1A, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0019] Figure 4A illustrates a side view of a first implementation of a Wi-Fi radiating element of the antenna system of Figure 1, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0020] Figure 4B illustrates a side view of a second implementation of a Wi-Fi radiating element of the antenna system of Figure 1, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0021] Figures 5A-5D illustrate various views of components of another implementation of a multi-band radiator portion that can be included in any of the antenna assemblies described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0022] Figures 6A-6D illustrate various views of components of another implementation of a multi-band radiator portion that can be included in any of the antenna assemblies described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0023] Figure 7A illustrates a top perspective view of another implementation of an antenna assembly, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0024] Figures 7B-7D illustrate a side view, a top view, and a bottom view respectively of the antenna assembly of Figure 7A, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0025] Figures 8A and 8B illustrate a top perspective view and a top view respectively of a first implementation of the antenna assembly of Figure 7A with the cover removed, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0026] Figures 9A-9C illustrate a top perspective view, a top view, and a side view respectively of a second implementation of the antenna assembly of Figure 7A with the cover removed, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0027] Figure 10A illustrates a top perspective view of another implementation of an antenna assembly, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0028] Figures 10B-10D illustrate a side view, a top view, and a bottom view respectively of the antenna assembly of Figure 10A, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0029] Figures 11A and 11B illustrate a top perspective view and a top view respectively of a first implementation of the antenna assembly of Figure 10A with the cover removed, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0030] Figures 12A-12B illustrate a top perspective view and a top view respectively of a second implementation of the antenna assembly of Figure 10A with the cover removed, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0031] Figures 13A-13C illustrate various views of an implementation of a multi-band antenna that can be included in any antenna assembly described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0032] Figures 14A-14B illustrate various views of another implementation of a multiband antenna that can be included in any antenna assembly described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0033] Figures 15A-15C illustrate various views of another implementation of a multiband antenna that can be included in any antenna assembly described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0034] Figures 16A-16D illustrate various views of another implementation of a multiband antenna that can be included in any antenna assembly described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0035] Figures 17A-17B illustrate various views of another implementation of a multiband antenna that can be included in any antenna assembly described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0036] Figure 18 illustrates a perspective view of a stacked patch antenna on a ground plane that can be included in any antenna assembly described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0037] Figures 19A-19D illustrate various implementations of millimeter wave radios with their antennas that can be included in the any antenna assembly described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0038] While the embodiments and method of the present application is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are herein described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the description herein of specific embodiments is not intended to limit the application to the particular embodiment disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the process of the present application as defined by the appended claims.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] Illustrative embodiments of the preferred embodiment are described below. In the interest of clarity, not all features of an actual implementation are described in this specification. It will of course be appreciated that in the development of any such actual embodiment, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve thedeveloper’s specific goals, such as compliance with system -related and business-related constraints, which will vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0040] In the specification, reference may be made to the spatial relationships between various components and to the spatial orientation of various aspects of components as the devices are depicted in the attached drawings. However, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art after a complete reading of the present application, the devices, members, apparatuses, etc. described herein may be positioned in any desired orientation. Thus, the use of terms to describe a spatial relationship between various components or to describe the spatial orientation of aspects of such components should be understood to describe a relative relationship between the components or a spatial orientation of aspects of such components, respectively, as the embodiments described herein may be oriented in any desired direction.

[0041] The system and method will be understood, both as to its structure and operation, from the accompanying drawings, taken in conjunction with the accompanying description. Several embodiments of the system may be presented herein. It should be understood that various components, parts, and features of the different embodiments may be combined together and / or interchanged with one another, all of which are within the scope of the present application, even though not all variations and particular embodiments are shown in the drawings. It should also be understood that the mixing and matching of features, elements, and / or functions between various embodiments is expressly contemplated herein so that one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate from this disclosure that the features, elements, and / or functions of one embodiment may be incorporated into another embodiment as appropriate, unless otherwise described. As used herein, “system” and “assembly” are used interchangeably. It should be noted that the articles “a”, “an”, and “the”, as used in this specification, include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. Dimensions provided herein provide for an exemplary embodiment, however, alternate embodiments having scaled and proportional dimensions of the presented exemplary embodiment are also considered. Additional features and functions are illustrated and discussed below.

[0042] The system and method in accordance with the present disclosure overcomes one or more of the above-discussed problems commonly associated with traditional antennasystems. In particular, the system of the present disclosure can be an antenna system having a radome, one or more formed three-dimensional multi-band radiating elements supported by printed circuit board (PCB) structures, sheet metal, or other conductive surfaces that hold their three-dimensional shape, configured and adapted to be housed within the radome along with other multi-band radiating elements. The three-dimensional multi-band radiating element portions can be paired with a ground plane (e.g., a base of the antenna assembly) that permits a frequency range of 450 MHz to 8 GHz, which provides a wider range of frequencies than antenna systems currently known in the art, with improved cost effectiveness and simplicity of manufacture. The three- dimensional multi -band radiating element portions allow for the antenna to be compact, making it ideal for compact 3 GPP or other telecommunication transmitters. These and other unique features of the system are discussed below and illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[0043] Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference characters identify corresponding or similar elements in form and function throughout the several views, Figures 1 A- 1D illustrate a top perspective view, a side view, a top view, and a bottom view respectively of an antenna assembly. Figures 2A and 2B illustrate a top perspective view and a top view respectively of the antenna assembly of Figures 1A-1D, with the non-conductive cover removed. Figures 3A- 3J illustrate various views of components of a multi-band radiator portion that can be included in any of the antenna assemblies described herein. Figures 4A and 4B illustrate side views of implementations of a radiating element that can be included in any of the antenna assemblies described herein. Figures 5 A-5D illustrate various views of components of another implementation of a multi-band radiator portion that can be included in any of the antenna assemblies described herein. Figures 6A-6D illustrate various views of components of another implementation of a multi-band radiator portion that can be included in any of the antenna assemblies described herein. Figures 7A-9C and 10A-12B illustrate various views of additional implementations of antenna assemblies.

[0044] According to some embodiments, features and aspects of this disclosure, a multi-band antenna system can be a multi-band monopole and three-dimensional inverted F antenna system that has a configuration that, when used in conjunction with high order electromagnetic modes generated or received by a transceiver and / or receiver, permit the multielement multi-band antenna system to have an operating frequency range of between about 450 MHz to about 8 GHz. According to some embodiments, the antenna system can include one ormore shorter radiating elements that can be configured and adapted to be used for communication between about 1 GHz to about 8 GHz. For example, in some embodiments, the antenna system can include four shorter radiating elements. The antenna system can include one or more radiating elements that can be configured and adapted to be used for communication between about 450 MHz to about 8 GHz. For example, the antenna system can include four tall, three-dimensional and similar in appearance radiating elements, in some embodiments. The shorter radiating elements can be similar in nature to what is commonly known as a monopole antenna. The taller radiating elements can be similar in nature to what is commonly known as a three-dimensional inverted F antenna. In some implementations, the three-dimensional inverted F antenna(s) can be configured to be formed out of one or more sheet metal potions. In other embodiments, the three- dimensional inverted F antenna(s) can be configured to be formed out of multiple PCB portions. According to some embodiments, the non-conductive support portions and / or PCB portions of the taller radiating elements, when included, can be made of FR4, fiberglass reinforced epoxy, polyester reinforced epoxy, or other similar PCB support material that can support electrically conductive surfaces and features that comprise of one or more radiating elements or radiating portions for one or more elements on its structure on one or both side or multiple layer on or imbedded in the support material.

[0045] According to some embodiments, a tab and slot configuration in the PCB material is used to mechanically locate the individual PCB portions. When appropriate, in some embodiments the tab and slot arrangements are then soldered. The soldering process can be used to provide a mechanical and / or electrical connection between the individual PCB portions or one or more sheet metal portions. In some embodiments, there are electrically conducting features on one surface of the PCB support material. In other embodiments, both sides of the PCB support material are used to for supporting the electrically conducting features. The same surface of any one particular surface of the PCB support material can have separate electrically conducting features that perform different functions for the multi-band antenna system or for an individual multi-band radiating element. In other embodiments, one or more sheet metal portions can be configured with optional portions of electrically non-conductive material to provide a similar form and function to that of a PCB portion. The use of mechanical threaded fasteners, heat stakes, keyhole slots, pressure sensitive adhesive, soldering, interlocking, and other coupling techniques may be exploited to couple portions of the multi-element multi-band antenna. These couplingtechniques can be used to firmly hold structures and components in place and / or in contact with one another. In some embodiments, the coupling techniques provide an important role in establishing and maintaining a direct electrical connection between two components. In other embodiments, the coupling techniques are used to establish firm contact between two surfaces that are electrically conductive. In some embodiments, the coupling techniques provide structural integrity between one or more components where one or more portions is electrically non- conductive. In some embodiments, one or more of the radiating elements are electromagnetically excited by an individual coaxial transmission line (e.g., one coaxial transmission line for each of the radiating elements). In other embodiments, the one or more of the radiating elements are electromagnetically excited by a microstrip, stripline, conductor backed coplanar waveguide, parallel plate, twin lead, wire above a groundplane, or other suitable microwave or telecommunication transmission line.

[0046] The following detailed description of certain embodiments presents various descriptions of specific embodiments. However, the innovations described herein can be embodied in a multitude of different ways, for example, as defined and covered by the claims. In this description, reference is made to the drawings where like reference numerals can indicate identical or functionally similar elements. It will be understood that elements illustrated in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. Moreover, it will be understood that certain embodiments can include more elements than illustrated in a drawing and / or a subset of the elements illustrated in a drawing. Further, some embodiments can incorporate any suitable combination of features from two or more drawings.

[0047] Objects that are coupled together can be permanently connected together or releasably connected together. Objects that are permanently connected together can be formed out of one sheet of material or multiple sheets of material. The type of connection can provide different means for the realization of particular advantages and / or convenience consistent with the suitable function and performance of the device. In some instances, object that have an electrical connection may also be mechanically connected as well due to the means by which the electrical connection is established.

[0048] With reference first to Figures 1A-1D, a top perspective view, a side view, a top view, and a bottom view are shown respectively of an antenna assembly 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The antenna assembly 100 may include a multi-element multi-band antenna 102 (see e.g., Figure 2A). The multi-element multi-band antenna 102 may be configured to provide wireless internet connectivity for a plurality of uses (e.g., data, voice communication, and / or the like).

[0049] In some implementations, the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 can be configured to provide high performance of 5G frequencies for both mobile and enterprise network applications. The antenna assembly 100 may have particular benefits when used in places such as kiosks and vehicles, however, the antenna assembly 100 including the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 may be used in a wide range of applications. For example, the antenna assembly 100 may be a fixed or transportable solution, such as a hot spot accessory. In another example, the antenna assembly 100 can be used to provide cellular backup for internet connectivity for server rooms. In another example, the antenna assembly 100 can be used for National Electrical Manufacturers Association (“NEMA”) enclosures and / or for fixed wireless applications. Additionally, the antenna assembly 100 can be used for utility monitoring, last mile wireless internet for homes, small offices, and courtyards, to fill a coverage hole in the WiFi network, as a portable or fixed WiFi hot spot for multiple IOT devices, and / or the like.

[0050] The components of the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 may be concealed and / or secured within and / or between a radome 104 (also referred to herein as “cover” 104 and “non-conducive cover” 104) and a base 106. The base 106 can be electrically conductive. Accordingly, the antenna system 100 can comprise an electrically conductive base 106, a cover 104 configured to be coupled to the electrically conductive base to define an internal volume therebetween, and a multi-element multi -band antenna 102. The multi-element multi -band antenna 102 can be positioned in the internal volume. The multi-element multi -band antenna 102 can include one or more antennas / radiating elements, as described further herein.

[0051] As shown and described further with reference to at least Figures 2A and 2B, the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 may include one or more of the following: one or more first antenna(s) / radiating element(s) 500, one or more second antenna(s) / radiating element(s) 200, and / or one or more GPS antenna(s) 116.

[0052] In some implementations, the multi-element multi-band antenna 102 can include radiating elements 500, 200 configured to radiate at specific frequency bands. For example, the radiating elements 500, 200 can be configured for one or more of: low-band operation (approximately 600 MHz to 1 GHz), mid-band operation (approximately 1.7 GHz to 2.7 GHz),CBRS-band (“C-band”) operation (approximately 3.4 GHz to 4.2 GHz), and / or tri-band Wi-Fi- band (“Wi-Fi-band”) operation (approximately 2.4 to 2.5 GHz, 4.8 GHz to 5.9 GHz, and 6 GHz to 7.25 GHz),), depending on the desired performance of the antenna assembly 100. In some implementations, the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 can have an operating frequency range of approximately 450 MHz to 8 GHz. In some cases, the multi-element multi-band antenna 102 can provide optimal performance with an operating frequency range of approximately 600 MHz to 7.25 GHz.

[0053] With continued reference to Figures 1 A-1D, the radome 104 may protect and / or provide mechanical support for the multi -element multi -band antenna 102. For example, the multielement multi-band antenna 102 can be enveloped by the radome 104. The radome 104 may be transparent to radiation from the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 and may serve as an environmental shield for the internal components of the antenna assembly 100, including the multielement multi-band antenna 102. The radome 104 may be made of a non-conductive material. The radome 104 may be generally rectangularly shaped, with an open bottom, in some configurations.

[0054] In the illustrated example, the side walls of the radome 104 taper upwardly and inwardly away from the base 106 such that the radome 104 resembles a pyramid shape with a generally flat top. For example, the top surface of the radome 104 can have a smaller area than the bottom perimeter of the radome 104. Other suitable shapes can be used for the radome 104.

[0055] The radome 104 can be configured to be removably coupled to the base 106. In some cases, the shape of the radome 104 can be selected based on the expected operating conditions for the antenna assembly 100. For example, the expected wind-load on the antenna assembly 100 when in use (e.g., when mounted to a vehicle) can impact the design of the radome 104. In some cases, the antenna assembly 100 may be deployed on a vehicle, as described above. Accordingly, it can be desirable for the antenna assembly 100, and the radome 104 in particular, to have a low-profile design. In some implementations, radome 104 can include sidewalls with curves or smooth tapers that can reduce the drag on the antenna assembly 100 when the antenna assembly 100 is deployed. When wind resistance is not an important consideration, a low-profile design may not be used for the radome 104.

[0056] As shown in Figure ID, the base 106 of the antenna assembly 100 can have a rectangular shape. The length and width of the base 106 can be variable, and can be selected forthe desired use case, the expected operating conditions, the number of radiating elements included in the multi-element multi-band antenna 102, and / or the like.

[0057] In some implementations the base 106 can have a length of less than 8 inches (e.g., less than 8 inches, less than 7.5 inches, less than 7 inches, less than 6.5 inches, etc.). In some implementations the base 106 can have a width of less than 5 inches (e.g., less than 5 inches, less than 4.5 inches, less than 4 inches, less than 3.5 inches, etc.). With reference to Figure IB, in some implementations, the antenna assembly 100 may have a total height of less than 4 inches (e.g., less than 4 inches, less than 3.5 inches, less than 3 inches, less than 2.5 inches, etc.) when measured from the base 106 to the top of the radome 104.

[0058] The antenna assembly 100 may have a smaller volume and profile when compared to other antenna systems. For example, the antenna assembly 100 can have a cubic volume of about 95 cubic inches or less. In other examples, the antenna assembly 100 may have a cubic volume between 30 and 200 cubic inches (e g., between 30 and 200 cubic inches, 50 and 150 cubic inches, 70 and 120 cubic inches, values between the foregoing, etc.).

[0059] The antenna assembly 100 can be an IP67-rated antenna. The antenna assembly 100 can be configured to be easy to install on kiosks, POTS replacement boxes, and / or other equipment using a magnetic base, adhesive base, threaded coupling, or other suitable coupling technique. In some implementations, the antenna assembly 100 can include a screw on option for secured mounting.

[0060] As shown in Figures 1 A and IB, in some implementations, the base 106 can be received within the radome 104 in the assembled antenna assembly 100, such that the base 106 is not visible or only a portion of the base 106 is visible from a side view of the antenna assembly 100. This design can minimize exposed edges and sharp transitions or protrusions between the base 106 and the radome 104. As a result, the antenna assembly 100 can have streamlined contours, which can reduce drag by minimizing turbulent airflow around the antenna assembly 100. Reducing drag can be particularly beneficial when operating in high wind-load conditions, such as on an emergency vehicle.

[0061] Referring now to Figures 2A and 2B, a top perspective view and a top view of the antenna assembly 100 are shown respectively, with the radome 104 removed to expose the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 and the base 106. The base 106 can provide mechanical support for the multi-element multi-band antenna 102.

[0062] The base 106 can also serve as the ground plane for the antenna assembly 100. For example, the base 106 can be electrically conductive. The base 106 can be made of a conductive material, such as a metal (e.g., aluminum).

[0063] In some embodiments, the base 106 can provide an electrical connection with a client ground plane, as described further below. In some implementations, the base 106 includes a plurality of small gaps (not shown) in the surface of the base 106, which may facilitate the use of non-conductive weather resistant material. In some implementations, the size and proximity of the base 106 may be selected to provide an electromagnetic connection with the client ground plane. The combination of at least the non-conductive radome 104 and the conductive base 106 provide mechanical and environmental protection for the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 as well as grounding for the electrically active, radiating portions of the multi-element multi-band antenna 102 that are internal to the antenna assembly 100.

[0064] In some embodiments, the antenna assembly 100 may be mounted on a client ground plane (not shown). The client ground plane may be in the form of conducting surfaces on vehicles, buildings, indoor or outdoor equipment enclosures (e.g., including NEMA enclosures), and other such customer premise equipment. Those skilled in the art would understand that the nature of the deployment of the antenna assembly 100 will change slightly in the deployed performance based on the type of structure the antenna assembly 100 is attached to, as well as the surroundings in which it is deployed. Those skilled in the art realize that the lower frequency bands of the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 may have optimal performance when placed on a client ground plane. When utilized, the client ground plane will be in close proximity to electrically conducting base 106. However, a client ground plane is not required for all applications, particularly where a reduction in the level of performance is acceptable. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the client ground plane is not required. For some deployments, an electrically non- conductive gasket is placed between base 106 and the client equipment or ground plane.

[0065] As shown in Figures 1A-1D, the radome 104 can be positioned on the base 106 to secure the internal components of the antenna assembly 100, including the multi-element multiband antenna 102. The radome 104 may include a plurality of fastener holes (not shown) which may extend up the side walls of the radome 104. In some implementations, the fastener holes may be tapered. In some implementations, the fastener holes may be threaded. These plurality of fastener holes may be aligned with fastener holes of the base 106 in the assembled configuration,and fasteners 112 can be positioned within the holes to secure the radome 104 and the internal components of the multi-element multi-band antenna 102 to the base 106.

[0066] Referring back to Figures 2A and 2B, the base 106 (also referred to herein as the “electrically conductive base”, “ground reference”, “ground plane”, or “internal ground plane”) is shown. The base 106 can serve as a ground plane or ground reference for the multi-element multi-band antenna 102. For example, the base 106 can serve as an electrical reference point for operation of the multi-element multi -band antenna 102.

[0067] In some embodiments, the base 106 establishes a surface for the coaxial cables 118 to use as a reference for continuation of the signal from the radio to the radiating elements 500, 200, and / or the GPS antenna 116. In other implementation, the base 106 may be non- conductive and can support an internal ground plane.

[0068] The radiating elements 500, 200 can be mechanically supported by and / or coupled to the base 106. For example, the base 106 can include mounting portions for supporting the radiating elements 500, 200 or can be configured to be coupled to removable mounting portions. For example, the base 106 can include mounting holes (not shown) for removably coupling mounting portions 114. The mounting portions 114 are configured to support the radiating element(s) 500, 200. For ease of illustration, not all of the mounting portions 114 are labeled in Figures 2A and 2B.

[0069] In the illustrated example of the antenna assembly 100 in Figures 2A and 2B, the base 106 is configured to support up to four first radiating elements 500 and up to four second radiating elements 200. In other implementations, more or less radiating elements 500, 200 can be included in the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 and the base 106 can include a same number of corresponding mounting holes for the mounting portions 114.

[0070] In some embodiments, the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 can be assembled without including the maximum number of radiating elements 500, 200. For example, the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 can include fewer than four first radiating elements 500 and / or fewer than four second radiating elements 200. In some cases, where fewer first radiating elements 500 are included in the antenna assembly 100, additional second radiating elements 200 may be included or vice versa.

[0071] As shown in Figure 2B, the base 106 can include a cable opening 110. The cable opening 110 can extend completely through the base 106 (e g., from the top side to the bottomside). The cable opening 110 can allow coaxial cables of the antenna assembly 100 to be routed from the radiating elements of the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 through the cable opening 110 to one or more transmitters / receivers of the antenna assembly 100.

[0072] As shown in Figure IB, the antenna assembly 100 can optionally include a coupling portion 108. The coupling portion 108 can form a portion of the base 106 or can be coupled to the base 106. The coupling portion 108 can include a threading. The coupling portion 108 can be a shaft with an opening extending through the coupling portion 108. The coupling portion 108 can extend from a bottom of the base 106 so that the coupling portion 108 aligns with the cable opening 110 to facilitate cable routing through the base 106. For example, the coupling portion 108 can be used to secure the antenna assembly 100 to an enclosure (e.g., to a threaded opening in the enclosure) while also allowing the cables of the antenna assembly 100 to be routed into an interior of the enclosure. In some implementations, the coupling portion 108 and the base 106 may be integrally formed. A washer, a nut (e.g., a hex nut), and / or any other fastener can be coupled to the threading of the coupling portion 108 to secure the antenna assembly 100 to a deployment surface. For example, the coupling portion 108 can be used to attach the antenna assembly 100 to a vehicle, a roof, an enclosure, or any other structure, etc. In some implementations, the antenna assembly 100 can be attached to a client ground plane. In some implementations, a gasket (not shown) may be coupled to the bottom surface of the base 106 before the antenna assembly 100 is deployed. The gasket can help prevent fluid ingress into the internal volume of the antenna assembly 100 and / or can provide separation between the base 106 and the deployment surface. Including a gasket on the base 106 can also increase the traction between the base 106 and the deployment surface.

[0073] Referring back to Figures 2A and 2B, in the illustrated example, the base 106 includes a peripheral rim 120. The rim 120 can extend upwardly from an inner surface of the base 106 near an edge of the perimeter of the base 106. In some implementations, a gasket (not shown) can be secured around an outer periphery of the rim 120 to prevent ingress (e.g., water, dust, etc.) into the internal volume of the antenna assembly 100. For example, when the radome 104 is coupled to the base 106, the gasket can create a seal or barrier to fluid ingress. As such, the antenna assembly 100 may be IP67 rated and the antenna assembly 100 may be able to operate in wet conditions (e.g., in the rain).

[0074] As described herein, the multi-element multi-band antenna 102 can include one or more first radiating element(s) 500, one or more second radiating elements 200, and / or one or more GPS antenna(s) 116. The radiating elements (e.g., radiating elements 200, 500) may also be referred to herein as “antennas”, “radiating antenna elements”, “antenna elements”, “radiating elements”, “radiators”, “radiating portions”, or “multi -band antennas”. The radiating elements can be constructed of any suitable antenna material, such as metal, PCB substrates with conductive surfaces or portions, dielectric materials, plastics with conductive coatings, ceramics, composite materials, formed sheet metal, planar sheet metal, sheet metal supported by electrically non- conductive portions, and / or the like.

[0075] In the illustrated example, the first radiating elements 500 of are formed of sheet metal portions and the second radiating elements 200 are formed of one or more PCB substrates with electrically conductive portions. For example, the second radiating elements 200 can include a PCB portion that has electrically conductive portion, as described further with reference to at least Figures 4A and 4B.

[0076] The multi-element multi -band antenna 102 may be a multi-band monopole or inverted F antenna or a combination of different antenna elements that has a configuration that, when used in conjunction with high order electromagnetic modes of the multi-element multi-band antenna 102 permit the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 to have an operating frequency range of 450 MHz to 8 GHz working in conjunction with the frequency bandwidth of the transceiver, transmitter, and / or receiver of the wireless telecommunication device or radio.

[0077] With continued reference to Figures 2A and 2B, the first radiating elements 500 can be multi-band radiator portions and can be used for wireless telecommunication purposes (e.g., cellular telecommunication). Each multi-band radiator portion 500 may be a dual-band monopole antenna, a multi-band 3D inverted F antenna, or a version of a 2D inverted F antenna similar to a PIFA. In the illustrated example, the multi-band radiator portions 500 are 3D inverted F antennas that have a configuration that, when used in conjunction with high order electromagnetic modes generated or received by a transceiver and / or receiver, permit the antenna to have an operating frequency range of approximately 450 MHz to 8 GHz. In some cases, the multi-band radiator portions 500 can provide optimal performance with an operating frequency range of approximately 600 MHz to 7.25 GHz.

[0078] Depending on the particular use, the number of multi-band radiator portions 500 can vary. In the illustrated example, the antenna assembly 100 includes four multi-band radiator portions 500; however, more or less multi-band radiator portions 500 are possible. The multi-band radiator portions 500 are described further herein with reference to Figures 3A-3J. Other implementations of multi-band radiator portions 500A and multi-band radiator portions 500B that can be included in the antenna assembly 100, or any other antenna assembly, are described further herein with reference to Figures 5A-5D and 6A-6D respectively.

[0079] In some implementations, the base 106 can promote isolation between the multi -band radiator portions 500. In some implementations, the length and width of the base 106 can be selected for the desired isolation between the multi-band radiator portions 500. For example, the base 106 can be sized to promote spacing between the components of the multielement multi -band antenna 102 for a desired performance.

[0080] Figure 2B shows one possible configuration for arranging the components of the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 on the base 106, where the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 includes four antennas 500. The four antennas can include a first antenna 500a, a second antenna 500b, a third antenna 500c, and a fourth antenna 500d, collectively referred to herein as the “antennas 500”.

[0081] In the illustrated example, the four antennas 500 are arranged along two sides / edges of the base 106. For example, the first antenna 500a and the second antenna 500b are positioned adjacent a first side / edge 106a of the base 106 (the left edge in the orientation of Figure 2B) and the third antenna 500c and the fourth antenna 500d are positioned adjacent a second side / edge 106b of the base 106 (the right edge in the orientation of Figure 2B). As shown, the first antenna 500a is offset along the first edge 106a of the base 106 relative to the second antenna 500b. Similarly, the third antenna 500c is offset along the second edge 106b of the base 106 relative to the fourth antenna 500d. The spacing between the four antennas 500 can provide greater RF isolation between the radiating portions of the antennas 500. The spacing can result in the four antennas 500 being positioned near the comers of the base 106.

[0082] In the example of Figure 2B, the base 106 is rectangular and the first edge 106a and the second edge 106b are the long edges of the base. In other examples, the first edge 106a and the second edge 106b can be the short edges of the base 106 or a long edge and a short edge. In other examples, the base 106 can be square.

[0083] In some implementations, the antennas 500 can be arranged on the base 106 such that at least one of the first antenna 500a or the second antenna 500b faces in a first direction away from the first edge 106a and towards the second edge 106b, and at least one of the third antenna 500c or the fourth antenna 500d faces in a second direction away from the second edge 106b and towards the first edge 106b. Here, the first direction is opposite the second direction.

[0084] In the illustrated example, the antennas 500 are arranged so that each antenna 500 faces another antenna 500. For example, the first antenna 500a faces the third antenna 500c, and the second antenna 500b faces the fourth antenna 500d.

[0085] In some implementations, the antennas 500 can be arranged on the base 106 without facing each other. For example, the first antenna 500a can be offset from the third antenna 500c along a long axis of the base 106 such that the first antenna 500a does not face the third antenna 500c. Similarly, the second antenna 500b can be offset from the fourth antenna 500d along a long axis of the base 106 such that the second antenna 500b does not face the fourth antenna 500d.

[0086] In other implementations, any of the antennas 500 can be arranged in different spatial and / or rotational positions on the base 106. For example, the antennas 500 can be arranged with one antenna 500 on each side of the base 106, in each corner on the base 106, and / or the like. Further, the antennas 500 can be in any rotational position to face in any direction on the base 106.

[0087] The second radiating elements 200 can be arranged on the base 106 in any configuration. In the illustrated example of Figure 2B, the second radiating elements 200 are positioned between adjacent antennas 500, with one second radiating element 200 positioned along each edge of the base 106. Other configurations are possible.

[0088] The multi-element multi -band antenna 102 can optionally include one or more GPS antennas 116. In the illustrated example, the multi-element multi-band antenna 102 includes a single GPS antenna 116 (also referred to herein as a “GPS radiating device”). The GPS antenna 116 can be used to collect signal(s) from geosynchronous satellites so that the GPS function of a radio including the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 can determine where the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 is positioned relative to a global coordinate system. The GPS antenna 116 may be positioned within the radome 104 and may be mounted to the base 106. The GPS antenna 116 may be electrically and / or mechanically coupled to the base 106. In some implementations, an adhesive or adhesive pad can be used to secure the GPS antenna 116 to the base 106.

[0089] As noted above, the multi-element multi-band antenna 102 can include one or more radiating elements in addition to the antennas 500. For example, the multi-element multiband antenna 102 can include one or more second radiating elements 200. The second radiating elements 200 can be monopole antennas. The second radiating elements 200 can be configured for operation at frequencies above approximately 1 GHz, in some implementations. In some implementations, the second radiating elements 200 can be configured to resonate at frequencies to support wireless communication protocols including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. For example, the second radiating elements 200 can be configured as multi -band Wi-Fi radios, 3 GPP radios, cellular radios, and / or the like.

[0090] In some advantageous embodiments, the second radiating elements 200 can be multi-band WiFi antenna devices. As such, the second radiating elements 200 can be configured for mid-band operation, CBRS-band operation, and Wi-Fi-band operation, depending on the specific radio or transceiver attached. In some cases, the radiating elements 200 can have an operating range of approximately 1.6 GHz to 8 GHz or higher. In some cases, the second radiating elements 200 can be configured to resonate at frequencies approximately between 2.3 GHz and 8 GHz during use.

[0091] The second radiating elements 200 can be constructed of any suitable material. In one example, the second radiating elements 200 can include one or more PCB portions. The PCB portions may be made of flexible substrate materials (e.g., polyimide). As such, the PCB portions may be a flex circuit. In some cases, the PCB portions may be fiberglass reinforced with epoxy (e.g., FR4). The PCB portions may provide structure for the radiating portions of the second radiating elements 200. The various conductive portions of the second radiating elements 200 may be etched into the structure of the PCB portions. Accordingly, the second radiating elements 200 can comprise a conductive portion formed on a PCB portion.

[0092] Figure 4A illustrates a first example of a second radiating element 200A in isolation. Figure 4B illustrates a second example of a second radiating element 200B in isolation. The antenna assembly 100 can include second radiating elements 200A, second radiating elements 200B, or a combination of both, depending on the configuration. The antenna assembly 100 can additionally or alternatively include one or more second radiating elements 200C, which can be larger versions of the second radiating element 200A. The second radiating element 200C is described further with reference to at least Figures 9A-9C.

[0093] Referring to Figure 4A first, the second radiating element 200A can include a conductive portion 202A formed on a PCB portion 204A. The conductive portion 202A can have a generally rectangular shape. The conductive portion 202A can extend from a feed point 206A. The feed point 206A is the location in the second radiating element 200A where the radio frequency (RF) signal is applied to or extracted from the second radiating element 200A.

[0094] The conductive portion 202A may taper at its lower end towards the feed point 206A. The feeding portion 206A can include a coaxial input 208A. The coaxial input 208A can be configured to receive the center conductor (not shown) of coaxial cables of the antenna assembly 100. In some cases, the center conductor can be soldered to the coaxial input 208 A, which results in the second radiating element 200A being electrically coupled to the coaxial cable.

[0095] The second radiating element 200A can advantageously be configured to work with a multitude of radios configured to operate above approximately 1 GHz. For example, if the operator of the antenna assembly 100 desires additional cellular radios above 1 GHz, the second radiating elements 200A can be utilized. The second radiating element 200A may have optimal electrical properties from approximately 1.6 GHz to 8 GHz when used with a ground reference, such as the base 106, as in the antenna assembly 100.

[0096] Referring now to Figure 4B, the second radiating element 200B can include a conductive portion 202B formed on PCB portion 204B. The conductive portion 202B can include a central conductive portion 210B and a first arm 212B and a second arm 214B, all etched into the PCB portion 204B. The central conductive portion 210B can be generally T-shaped.

[0097] In some implementations, the second radiating element 200B can be configured for mid-band and Wi-Fi-band operation. In some cases, the central conductive portion 210B can be used for the 2.4 GHz to 2.5 GHz portion of the mid-band. In some cases, the first arm 212B and the second arm 214B can be used to cover the 4.8 GHz to 7.25 GHz of the Wi-Fi-band. In some cases, the height and width of the central element of the central conductive portion 210B (e.g., between the two arms of the “T”) can be selected for the impedance matching of the two bands. The conductive portion 202B can extend from a feed point 206B. The feeding portion 206B can include a coaxial input 208B. The coaxial input 208 A can be configured to receive the center conductor of coaxial cables of the antenna assembly 100.

[0098] In some implementations, the PCB portion 204B can include one or more holes 220B. The holes 220B can extend through the PCB portion 204B without contacting theconductive portion 202B. The holes 220B can be tooling holes utilized when manufacturing the PCB portion 204B and are not required. For example, the holes 220B do not impact the electrical performance of the second radiating element 200B and are not required.

[0099] As shown in Figures 2A and 2B, each radiating element 500, 200 and the GPS antenna 116 can be connected to a coaxial cable 118. The coaxial cables 118 are shown as terminated for illustrative purposes. The coaxial cables 118 are the transmission lines that allow for the radio frequency “RF” signal to travel from the output of the radio used to establish the wireless link from the base station to the mobile radio of the users of the wireless network. The coaxial cables 118 may require proper connection to the particular components of the multielement multi-band antenna 102 so that it can function properly. The coaxial cables 118 may each include a center conductor (not shown) positioned within an outer conductor (not shown). The outer conductors can be mechanically and electrically connected to the base 106. For example, the outer conductor can be positioned in cable grooves in the mounting portions 114, when included, and coupled to the base 106 at the mounting portions 114 using a bracket, in some implementations.

[0100] The number of coaxial cables 118 included in the antenna assembly 100 can be determined by the number of radiating elements included in the multi-element multi-band antenna 102. In the illustrated example, the multi-element multi-band antenna 102 includes nine radiating portions (e.g., four first radiating elements 500, four second radiating elements 200, and the GPS antenna 116). As such, the antenna assembly 100 can include nine coaxial cables 118. For illustrative purposes, not all of the terminated coaxial cables 118 are labeled.

[0101] Figures 3A-3J illustrate various views of components of an example implementation of an antenna / multi-band radiator portion 500, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure. While the multi-band radiator portions 500 are described for use with the antenna assembly 100, it is recognized that the multi-band radiator portion 500 can be used in any antenna assembly.

[0102] Each multi-band radiator portion 500 can include a multi-band radiating element 501. Each multi-band radiator portion 500 can include a ground connection 503 (also referred to herein as a “grounding portion”). The ground connection can be electrically and mechanically coupled to the radiating element 501. The ground connection 503 is configured tocouple multi -band radiating element 501 to a ground plane / ground reference, such as the base 106 of the antenna assembly 100.

[0103] Figure 3 A shows a perspective view of the multi -band radiating element 501 and the ground connection 503 coupled together and secured to the mounting portion 114. As shown in Figure 3 A, fasteners 505 can be used to secure the multi -band radiating element 501 to the mounting portion 114. The fasteners 505 can also be used to secure the mounting portion 502 and the ground connection 503 to the base 106.

[0104] Figures 3B-3F illustrate assorted views of the multi -band radiating element 501.Figures 3G-3J illustrate assorted views of the ground connection 503. It is recognized that the multi-band radiator portion 500 described herein is just one example of multi-band radiator portions that can be included in the antenna assembly 100. In other implementations, different multi-band radiator portions (e.g., the multi-band radiator portion 500A of Figures 5A-5D, the multi -band radiator portions 500B of Figures 6A-6D, and / or the like) can be included.

[0105] Referring first to Figures 3B-3F, various views of the multi-band radiating element 501 are shown. The multi-band radiating element 501 can define a three-dimensional radiating portion that includes several unique portions. The geometry of these unique portions can be configured in a way such that the radio frequency energy that is radiated by the multi-band radiator portion 500 has an intended direction that is nearly parallel to a groundplane that the multiband radiator portion 500 is coupled to (e.g., the base 106).

[0106] When one or more multi-band radiator portions 500 are incorporated into the multi -band multi-element antenna 102, a radiation intensity that is somewhat stable around its perimeter is a typical requirement for the radiation profile for antennas servicing customer premises equipment. This is radiation that is in the same plane or only slightly above the plane of the base 106 and of somewhat equal intensity at a fixed distance away from multi-element multiband antenna 102 of Figure 2A in the plane of the base 106. This type of radiation pattern is known as omni-directional for those familiar with wireless telecommunication technology.

[0107] With continued reference to Figures 3B-3F, the geometry of the multi-band radiator portion 500 can allow for close proximity spacing of other radiating elements of the multiband multi-element antenna 102 on the base 106. To accommodate this close spacing, the height of the multi -band radiating element 501 can be greater than other three-dimensional inverted F antennas. To obtain close proximity spacing between the radiating elements of the multi-bandmulti-element antenna 102 on the base 106, the geometry of the multi-band radiating element 501 has several unique features.

[0108] A perspective view of the multi -band radiating element 501 of the antenna 500 is shown in Figure 3B in isolation. The radiating element 501 can include an upright portion 525. As shown in Figure 3 A, the ground connection 503 can be configured to be coupled to the radiating element 501 at the upright portion 525.

[0109] The upright portion 525 is a resonating component of the radiating element 501. When the radiating element 501 has a three-dimensional structure, the upright portion 525 can be configured as a first resonating component. The upright portion 525 can be configured to resonate within a low-frequency band approximately between 600 MHz and 1 GHz during use. Accordingly, the upright portion 525 can be a first low-band radiating portion of the radiating element 501 and is referred to herein as such.

[0110] A back view of the radiating element 501 is shown in Figure 5C. The upright portion 525 has a height H and a width W. The upright portion 525 can have a greater height H than width W. For example, the upright portion 525 can have a height H to width W ratio of 1 : 1 or greater. In the illustrated example, the upright portion 525 has a height H to width W ratio of at least 2: 1. In other implementations, different ratios are possible.

[0111] In some implementations, the upright portion 525 has a height H to width W ratio of 1.5 : 1 or greater. In some implementations, the upright portion 525 has a height H to width W ratio 2: 1 or greater. In some implementations, the upright portion 525 has a height H to width W ratio 2.5: 1 or greater. In some implementations, the upright portion 525 has a height H to width W ratio 3: 1 or greater.

[0112] As shown in at least Figures 3B and 3D, the radiating element 501 can include a head portion 529. The head portion 529 can extend from a top side or top edge of the upright portion 525. In the illustrated example, the head portion 529 extends substantially perpendicularly to the upright portion 525. For example, an angle of approximately 90-degrees can be defined between the head portion 529 and the upright portion 525. In other implementations, the head portion 529 can extend at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the upright portion 525 (e.g., an angle between 0-degrees and 180-degrees).

[0113] The head portion 529 can have a length L. The upright portion 525 can have a greater height H than the length L of the head portion 529. For example, the upright portion 525and the head portion 529 can have a height H to length L ratio of 1 : 1 or greater. In the illustrated example, the height H to length L ratio is at least 2: 1. In other implementations, different ratios are possible.

[0114] In some implementations, the ratio of the height H of the upright portion 525 to the length L of the head portion 529 is 1.5: 1 or greater. In some implementations, the ratio of the height H of the upright portion 525 to the length L of the head portion 529 is 2: 1 or greater. In some implementations, the ratio of the height H of the upright portion 525 to the length L of the head portion 529 is 2.5: 1 or greater. In some implementations, the ratio of the height H of the upright portion 525 to the length L of the head portion 529 is 3: 1 or greater.

[0115] The head portion 529 can have the same width W as the upright portion 525, as shown in Figure 3C. In other implementations, the head portion 529 and the upright portion 525 can have different widths.

[0116] The head portion 529 is a resonating component of the radiating element 501. When the radiating element 501 has a three-dimensional structure, the head portion 529 can be configured as a second resonating component. The head portion 529can be configured to resonate within a low-frequency band approximately between 600 MHz and 1 GHz during use. Accordingly, the head portion 529 can be a second low-band radiating portion of the radiating element 501 and is referred to herein as such.

[0117] As shown in at least Figure 3C, the multi-band radiating element 501 of the multi -band radiator portion 500 can include a feed portion 519. For example, the radiating element 501 can include the feed portion 519, the first low-band radiating portion 525 and / or the second low-band radiating portion 529. The feed portion 519 can extend from the bottom of the first low band radiating portion 525.

[0118] The multi-band radiating element 501 can also include one or more arms 527, as described further herein. The low-band portions (e.g., upright low-band radiation portion 525, the second low-band radiation portion 529, and any additional low-band radiation portions) can be configured for radiation in the low-band (e.g., approximately 600 MHz to 1 GHz), including low- band odd multiples, in some implementations.

[0119] The first low band radiating portion 525 can include one or more coupling points or mounting features 517a (e.g., holes) to facilitate mounting the multi-band radiating element 501 to the base 106. For example, as shown in Figure 3A, the coupling points 517a canreceive fasteners 505 to couple the multi-band radiating element 501 to the mounting portion 114. The mounting portion 114 can then be coupled to the base 106 (e.g., using additional fasteners).

[0120] When utilized in an antenna assembly, such as the antenna assembly 100, the first low band radiating portion 525 can extend substantially vertically from the base 106. Accordingly, in some implementations, the first low band radiating portion 525 can be an upright portion / body portion of the radiating element 501.

[0121] As noted here, the upright portion 525 can have a smaller width than other antennas. The upright portion 525 can have a larger height than width. In some implementations, the upright portion 525 can have a height to width ratio that is 2: 1 or greater.

[0122] The upright portion 525 can include at least one coupling point 531. The coupling point 531 can be used to couple the radiating element 501 to the ground portion 503, as described further herein. The coupling point 531 can be configured as a slot.

[0123] In the example of Figures 3C and 3F, a coupling point 531 is shown. In other examples, the radiating element 501 can include multiple coupling points 531. The number of coupling points 531 included in the upright portion 525 can depend on the type of ground connection 503 utilized and the number of tabs 583 included in the ground connection 503. The upright portion 525 can be used for all portions of the desired frequency band of operation to support the radio frequency requirements for the desired frequency band of operation.

[0124] The multi -band radiating element 501 can also include additional portions configured for radiation above the low-band. For example, as noted above, the multi-band radiating element 501 can include one or more arms 527. The one or more arms 527 can be configured to radiate above the low-band. Accordingly, the arms 527 may be referred to as “high- band radiating portions”. For example, the one or more arms 527 can be configured for radiation in the mid-band (e.g., approximately 1.7 GHz to 2.7 GHz) and / or in the C-band (e.g., approximately 3.4 GHz to 4.2 GHz), which can include higher even order resonances.

[0125] In the illustrated example, the multi-band radiating element 501 includes two arms 527, a left arm 527 and a right arm 527. In other implementations, more or less arms 527 are possible.

[0126] In other implementations, the arms 527 or additional / alternative arms can be included in the radiating element 501 and configured for radiation in the Wi-Fi band (e.g., approximately 4.8 GHz to 7.25 GHz). The illustrated example of the multi-band radiating element501 does not include secondary arms. However, in some implementations, the multi-band radiating element 501 may include additional arms that may extend from the first low-band radiating portion 525, the arms 527, and / or the second low band radiating portion 529 of the radiating element 501. In some implementations, additional arm portions can be added or formed at selected locations to add coverage for additional high frequency bandwidth areas (e.g., the high band Wi-Fi band). For example, in some implementations, portions of the arms 527 may be slit, extended, angled, bent, modified, and / or otherwise connected to provide improved coverage areas.

[0127] The arms 527 can extend from or be coupled to the upright portion 525. For example, a right arm 527 can extend from a right side or a right edge of the upright portion 525 and a left arm 527 can extend from a left side or a left edge of the upright portion 525.

[0128] The arms 527 can be resonating components of the radiating element 501. For example, the left arm 527 can be configured as a third resonating component and the right arm 527 can be configured as a fourth resonating component. In use, the arms 527 can be configured to resonate within a mid-frequency band approximately between 1.7 GHz and 2.7 GHz.

[0129] In the illustrated example, the radiating element 501 includes connecting portions 541 for connecting the upright portion 525 to the arms 527. For example, the radiating element 501 can include a first connecting portion 541 for connecting the left arm 527 to the upright portion 525 and a second connecting portion 541 for connecting the right arm 527 to the upright portion 525.

[0130] With reference to Figure 3E, the connecting portions 541 can extend a short distance from the upright portion 525 to reduce the overall width of the radiating element 501. In the illustrated example, the arms 527 extend away from the upright portion 525. For example, a greater than 90-degree angle (e.g., an angle between 90-degrees and 180-degrees) is defined between each arm 527 and a front face of the upright portion 525 in the illustrated example. In other implementations, the arms 527 may extend perpendicularly from the upright portion 525 at an angle of approximately 90-degrees.

[0131] The arms 527 can extend in substantially the same direction that the upright portion 525 faces. In some implementations, the arms 527 can extend at an angle away from the upright portion 525. The arms 527 can initially extend substantially horizontally from the upright portion 525.

[0132] The arms 527 can include one or more bend portions. For example, as shown in Figure 3D, each arm 527 can include a first arm portion 533 that extends from the upright portion 525 (e.g., via the connecting portion 541) and a second arm portion 535 that extends from the first arm portion 533.

[0133] The first arm portions 533 can extend from the upright portion 525 at a nonzero angle relative to the horizontal. For example, as shown in Figure 3D, the first arm portions 533 can extend in a direction towards the head portion 529. As such, the first arm portions 533 can extend from the upright portion 525 at an angle relative to the horizontal of between 0-degree and 90-degrees. In the illustrated example, the second arm portion 535 can extend approximately vertically from the first arm portion 533. Other angles are possible between the first arm portions 533 and the second arm portion 535.

[0134] When multiple arms 527 are included, as in the illustrated example, the arms 527 can be similar or identical except that the left arm 527 extends from the left side / left edge of the upright portion 525 and the right arm 527 extends from the right side / right edge of the upright portion 525.

[0135] The arms 527 may have a shorter height than the upright portion 525. In other examples, the arms may have a height such that they extend near or beyond the height of the second low band radiating portion 529.

[0136] The second arm portion 535 of the arms 527 can be used to collectively support radiation in the 1.6 GHz to 8 GHz frequency band for the arms 527. In some implementations, including the illustrated example, the arms 527 can have the same height. In other implementations, the arms 527 can have different heights. In the illustrated example, the second arm portion 535 and the first arm portion 533 have substantially equal thickness and width. In some implementations, the second arm portions 535 can have a different width, thickness, length, and / or bend angle compared to the first arm portions 533.

[0137] As noted above, the radiating element 501 can optionally include the second low band radiator portion 529 to aid in accomplishing radiation in the low-band (e.g., approximately 600 MHz to 1 GHz). The second low band radiating portion 529 can extend from the top of the upright portion 525. In some implementations, the second low band radiating portion 529 can be a head radiating portion / element and can extend at a substantially perpendicular angle from the upright portion 525. In some implementations, the head portion 529 can be orthogonal tothe upright portion 525 (e.g., not coplanar). Tn other implementations, the head portion 529 may extend from and be coplanar to the upright portion 525.

[0138] In some cases, the head portion 529 can be defined by a bend in the material forming the upright portion 525. In some implementations, advantages of a bend can include having two distinct low-band radiating portions, reducing the total height of the system to be more compact and conserve space, and configuring the system to be able to easily cover and provide protection for the system in a compact configuration with multi-band coverage (e.g., in the antenna assembly 100). Having a compact radiating element 501 (e.g., in part due to the bend between the upright low-band radiation portion 525 and the second low-band radiation portion 529) can allow the multi-band radiator portions 500 to be utilized in antenna assemblies where a low profile is required or desired. For example, in some applications, it can be desirable for the antenna assembly 100 to have as low a profile as possible, to allow the antenna assembly 100 to be used in high wind operating conditions or applications that require low visual impact. Accordingly, as the multi-band radiator portions 500 represent the limiting factor in terms of total height of the antenna assembly 100, the low-profile multi -band radiator portions 500 can be advantageous.

[0139] In some implementations, the multi-band radiator portions 500 can have a total height (e.g., from the bottom of the feed point 519 to the top of the second low-band radiation portion 529) of between 0.75 inch and 3.75 inches. For example, the multi-band radiator portions 500 may have a total height of less than 3.75 inches, less than 3.5 inches, less than 3 inches, less than 2.5 inches, less than 2 inches, less than 1.5 inches, less than 1 inches, and / or the like.

[0140] The length of low band radiator portion 529 can be significantly shorter than other radiating structures to accommodate the closer spacing of neighboring antenna elements. The additional height of upright portion 525 allows for a shorter than typical second low band radiating portion 529. The ratio and orientation of all portions of radiating element 501 allow for both dominate and higher order modes to support a somewhat omni-directional radiation characteristic for the multi-band radiator portion 500.

[0141] In some other implementations, the second low-band radiation portion 529 can be coupled to a third low-band radiation portion, a fourth low-band radiation portion, and / or other radiation portions. In some implementations, material forming the second low-band radiation portion 529 can extend in a direction further away from the upright low-band radiation portion 525 and comprise a slit between the material such that portion of material on each side of the slit mayform a third low-band radiation portion and a fourth low-band radiation portion respectively, that may be coplanar with and extend beyond the second low-band radiation portion 529. In some implementations the third and fourth low-band radiation portions can be the same length and width. In some implementations, the length and / or width of the third low-band radiation portion may be different from the length and / or width of the fourth low-band radiation portion. In some implementations, one or more of the third low-band radiation portion and the fourth low-band radiation portion may be angled or bent or attached such that it is not coplanar with the second low-band radiation portion 529. Adding variations in radiation portions can provide advantageous coverage in different areas of bandwidth, in some implementations.

[0142] In some cases, the multi-band radiating element 501 is a modified printed inverted-F antenna (PIFA) modified to have three bent arm members that make the radiating element 501 a three-dimensional antenna as opposed to a two-dimensional antenna generally practiced in the art for printed inverted-F antennas. Furthermore, the multi-band radiating element 501 can be a dual -band monopole antenna, a multi-band 3D inverted F antenna, or a version of a 2D inverted F antenna similar to a PIFA that has a configuration that, when used in conjunction with high order electromagnetic modes generated or received by a transceiver and / or receiver (as is typically performed for PIFA antennas), permit the multi-band radiating element 501 to have an operating frequency range of 450 MHz to 8 GHz.

[0143] As described above, the radiating element 501 can include an upright portion 525, a head portion 529, a left arm 527, and a right arm 527. The head portion 529 can extend from a top side or edge of the upright portion 525. The left arm 527 can extend from a left side or edge of the upright portion 525. The right arm 527 can extend from a right side or edge of the upright portion 525.

[0144] Figures 5D-5F provide additional views of the radiating element 501. As shown in Figures 4E and 4F, the second low-band radiation portion 529 can include one or more clearances. For example, the second low-band radiation portion 529 can include one or more first clearances 557a and / or one or more second clearances 557b. The clearances 557a, 557b can be holes or openings formed in the second low-band radiation portion 529. The clearances 557a, 557b may allow for ease of assembly of the completed multi-band radiator portions 500, but are not required.

[0145] Referring now to Figures 3C and 3F, the radiating element 501 can include a coupling point 531 in the upright portion 525 for electrically and mechanically coupling the radiating element 501 to the ground connection 503. The coupling point 531 can be an opening in the upright portion 525 for receiving a portion of the ground connection 503 (e.g., the tab 583). In the illustrated example, the coupling point 531 is configured as a slot, and is referred to herein as such. In the illustrated example, the slot 531 is a horizontal slot. In other examples, the slot 531 can be a vertical slot.

[0146] In the illustrated example, the slot 531 is below the vertical center of the upright portion 525. The vertical position of the slot 531 on the upright portion 525 is related to the height or length of the first arm portion 573. In other implementations, the slot 531 can be located higher or lower on upright portion 525 relative to the vertical axis.

[0147] In some implementations, the slot 531 is located on a lower third of the upright portion 525. In some implementations, the slot 531 is located on a lower half of the upright portion 525. In some implementations, the slot 531 is located along a central horizontal axis of the upright portion 525. In some implementations, the slot 531 is located on an upper half of the upright portion 525.

[0148] The location of the slot 531 (e.g., where the ground connection 503 attaches) relative to the height H of the upright portion 525 can be selected for impedance matching and the desired behavior of the higher order modes (e.g., where the higher order modes occur). The relative dimensions are also selected so that the radiation patterns come off of the radiating element 501 in the desired shape and / or direction. When multiple slots 531 are included, the width between the slots 531 can also be variable. For example, when two slots 531 are included, each slot 531 can located approximately centrally between the central vertical axis A-A (see Figure 3F) of the upright portion 525 and an outside edge of the upright low-band radiation portion 525. In other examples, the slots 531 can be closer or further apart from each other. In some cases, decreasing the width between the slots 531 can require the height of the slots 531 to also be reduced relative to the upright low-band radiation portion 525 for optimal performance of the multi-band radiator portion 500.

[0149] With refence to Figure 3F, the central vertical axis A-A is shown. In some implementations, the slot 531 can be located along the central vertical axis A-A. However, in the illustrated example, the slot 531 is positioned between the central vertical axis A-A and anedge / side of the upright portion 525. The slot 531 can be positioned between the central vertical axis A-A and a left-side edge or a right-side edge of the upright portion 525.

[0150] One advantage of positioning the coupling point / slot 531 off-center from the vertical axis A-A is that this configuration allows room for the coaxial cable 118 to centrally connect to the feed portion 519. As shown in Figure 3F, the feed portion 519 is located on the vertical axis A-A of the upright portion 525 in the illustrated example. Accordingly, the off-center coupling point 531 provides for easier assembly / manufacturing of the antenna assembly 100.

[0151] Providing the coupling point 531 along the central vertical axis A-A generally provides for more balanced radiation patterns from the antenna 500, which can be desirable. However, for ease of manufacturing, the coupling point 531 is provided off center from the central vertical axis A-A in the antenna 500. While testing the radiation patterns generated with the off- center coupling point 531, it was determined that this arrangement provides a surprising benefit of allowing the ratios of the various components of the radiating element 501 (e.g., the upright portion 525, the head portion 529, and / or the arms 527) to be adjusted without significant loss in performance from the antenna 500. For example, as shown in Figures 5A-6D, the ratio of the height of the upright portion 525 and the length of the head portion 529 can be adjusted without significant loss in performance from the antenna 500. Because of this result, the size of the antenna 500 can be adjusted to fit into a variety of different sized antenna assemblies, which is desirable. For example, different applications require different sized antennas 500. In some cases, lower profile antennas are required. As such, being able to resize the antenna 500 with predicable results and without a significant loss of performance is beneficial.

[0152] In one example, the antenna 500 can be re-sized by having a shorter upright portion 525 and a longer head portion 529. Usually, such changes result in significant changes in the performance of the antenna; however, in the case of the antenna 500, these negative performance changes are not produced when re-sizing the antenna 500.

[0153] One possible reason for this beneficial result is that the off-center coupling between the radiating element 501 and the ground connection 503 (e.g., the asymmetric coupling point 531), creates a small imbalance in the resonances. However, based on testing, the imbalance broadens the resonances as two resonances are stacked on top of each other. With two stacked resonances, the bandwidth is not as variable for the higher order resonances, particularly forresonances above 1 GHz. Accordingly, this arrangement can double the number of higher order resonances for the antenna 500.

[0154] While it is generally desirable for the radiation pattems / resonances to be balanced, the off-center coupling point 531 appears to broaden out all of the higher order resonances for the antenna 500, which makes it easier to adjust the ratios of the radiating element 501. Where multiple antennas 500 are included in an assembly (e.g., the multi -band radiator portion 500), the crowding of the antennas 500 generally creates some level of imbalance, even when the radiation pattern for an individual antenna is balanced. Accordingly, the antenna 500 provides a benefit of being customizable, without negative consequences or in-line with the consequences generally provided in multi-element antennas.

[0155] The substantially vertical nature of the arms 527 (e.g., the second arm portions 535) may also contribute to the robustness of the antenna 500 design. For example, the vertical arms 527 can contribute to mutual coupling.

[0156] Additionally, as noted above, there are other benefits associated with the off- center coupling point 531. For example, a simpler ground connection 503 can be used, which can require only a single tap point with only one twist point, as described further below. This ground connection 503 and radiating element 501 arrangement can allow for improved manufacturing tolerances, which is desirable.

[0157] In other implementations, where a single slot 531 is included, the single slot 531 can be centrally located on the upright portion 525. In some cases, it can be desirable for the slot 531 to be located as high on the upright low-band radiation portion 525 as possible for improved structural benefits. However, the height of the slot 531 is generally selected for an acceptable balance of good structural support and performance of the multi-band radiator portion500 across all desired bands.

[0158] Referring back to Figure 3C, the coupling points 517 of the radiating element501 are shown. As described herein, the twin coupling points 517 can be used to attach the multiband radiator portion 500 to a non-conductive structural stand, such as the mounting portions 114, which can in turn be coupled to the base 106. More isolation can be created from the base 106 by expanding the space 513 and / or the space 511 between the twin coupling points 517 and the feed point location 519.

[0159] The feed point location 519 is configured to receive an electrical connection to excite the radiating element 501. For example, the center conductor of the coaxial cable 118 can be electrically and mechanically coupled to the feed point 519 with the outer conductor being electrically and mechanically coupled to the base 106. The space 511 can be selected primarily for impedance matching purposes and may vary depending on the particular implementation of the multi-band radiator portion 500 and the antenna assembly 100. For example, changing the dimensions or structure of the base 106 can result in a variation in the size of the space 511. In some implementations, the feed point 519 can be twice the height (e.g., space 511 can be doubled) or greater and / or the feed point 519 can be twice the width or greater.

[0160] In other implementations, a feed point 519 with different structural features can be used. In one example, the radiating element 501 can include a feed point that includes a spacer with a push rivet or established via a heat stake operation. In some implementations, the feed point of the radiating element 501 can be configured to be snap fit into a slot or configured as a push pass connection.

[0161] Referring now to Figures 3G-3J, various views of the ground connection 503 of the multi-band radiator portion 500 are shown. In the illustrated examples, the grounding portion 503 is made of sheet metal. In other implementations, one or more PCB portions with electrically conducting surfaces on one or more sides or layers may be used for the ground connection 503. As shown in Figure 3A, the ground connection 503 is configured to couple the radiating element 501 with a ground reference, such as the base 106.

[0162] The ground connection 503 can include a face plate 571 that is configured to be coupled to a ground plane (e.g., the base 106). For example, the coupling points 571 can be a first coupling point of the ground connection 503. The ground connection 503 can include a first arm portion 573 and a second arm portion 575. The first arm portion 573 can extend from or be coupled to the face plate 571. The second arm portion 575 can extend from or be coupled to the first arm portion 573. The width of first arm portion 573 can be adjusted to accommodate clearance for transmission lines, such as coaxial cables of antenna assembly 100, which can be used to excite the radiating element 501. For example, the illustrated width of the first arm portion 573 allows the coaxial cables to extend past the first arm portion 573 and to be positioned adjacent the first arm portion 573 when coupled to the multi-band radiating element 501 (see e.g., Figure 2A).

[0163] Low-band operation of the multi-band radiator portion 500 can be enhanced and can be adjusted by the length and width of upright portion 525 and head portion 529 as well as the location, placement, and configuration of the coupling point 531 in upright portion 525. In some instances, for example, the height of upright portion 525 can be half the height as demonstrated in Figure 3B and head portion 529 will be increased in length and the coupling point 531, second arm 575, first arm portion 573, and coupling point 571 maybe be adjusted to impedance match as well as align the higher order resonant frequencies to specific radio frequency bands to accommodate a radome 104 that has a smaller distance between its top surface and base 106. One example of such an implementation is the antenna 500A shown in Figures 5A-5D, for example. Another example is the antenna 500B shown in Figures 6A-6D.

[0164] The second arm portion 575 extends from the first arm portion 573 and can include an engagement portion 577. The engagement portion 577 can be adapted and configured to be positioned against the upright portion 525 of the radiating element 501. For example, the engagement portion 577 can be positioned against the upright low-band radiation portion 525 such that the second arm portion 575 is substantially orthogonal to the upright portion 525. The engagement portion 577 can include one or more tabs 583.

[0165] In the illustrated example, the engagement portion 577 includes a single tab 583. The tab 583 can be a twist tab. The tab 583 can be received within the coupling point 531 when configured as a slot in the upright low-band radiation portion 525. As such, the extension of the tab 583 through the slot 531 can be a point of coupling, creating a ground connection for the multi-band radiator portion 500.

[0166] Use of the tab 583 and the slot 531 for the ground connection can improve grounding, reduce the part count, and / or reduce assembly time, compared to other coupling means such as a nut and threaded fastener. For example, to couple the ground connection 503 to the radiating element 501, the tab 583 can be inserted into the slot 531 and twisted (e.g., with pliers) to create the connection. This type of connection can be completed more quickly than other connections (such as soldering, nut and fastener, etc.) and can provide a secure connection. In some cases, solder can optionally be used to improve the electrical connection between the ground connection 503 and the radiating element 501; however, the solder is generally not required for the mechanical or electrical connection to be established.

[0167] The lateral position of the first arm portion 573 relative to second arm portion 575 can also be selected to accommodate clearance for transmission lines. For example, while the second arm portion 575 can have a larger width than the first arm portion 573 in some implementations, and the first arm portion 573 can extend from a side or a central portion of the second arm portion 575. The position and width of the first arm portion 573 can also impact the performance of the multi-band radiator portion 500 across the various bands.

[0168] In some implementations, the ground connection 503 can be elevated relative to the feed location 519 of the radiating element 501 in the assembled antenna assembly 100. For example, the face plate 571 can be coupled to a portion of the base 106 that is higher than the feed point 519 in the assembled antenna assembly 100. Such a raised connection provides advantages to achieve the multi-band coverage. Dimensions can be selected to provide harmonic resonance at higher odd orders in some implementations. The ground connection 503 provides advantages for achieving multiple advantageous resonances.

[0169] The selection of the dimensions for radiating portion 500 may also be adjusted to impact the radiation patterns of the fundamental mode as well as the higher order modes. For example, in some implementations, the height, width, and clearance provided for by the size of first arm portion 573 can be advantageously selected. Additionally, the length and width of second arm portion 575 can also be advantageously selected. For example, the width and length of the first arm portion 573 and second arm portion 575 can be adjusted for impedance matching as well as to achieve a desired radiation pattern for the multi-band radiator portion 500. The locations of the one or more slots 531 and one or more tabs 583, when coupled together for the grounding connection 503 create a symbiotic connection to provide a resonance of desired impedance to match a desired frequency and bandwidth and radiation pattern for a low-band frequency configuration in some implementations.

[0170] In the illustrated example, coupling points 571 and 583 are present to electrically couple to the ground plane (e.g., the base 106) and radiating element 501, respectively. The width, thickness and height of portions 573 and 575 are selected so that the desired radiation pattern characteristics are maintained while providing an impedance match between the multiband radiating element 501 and the characteristic impedance of the radio frequency transmission lines that connect the radio that is part of the 5G wireless communication link to the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 of Figure 2A.

[0171] In some other implementations, features and aspects of the multi -band radiator portions 500 can be further described as follows. Figure 5C illustrates the radiating element 501 that can be coupled to the base 106 of the antenna assembly 100 shown in at least Figure 1A, and electrically excited at the feed point 519. For example, as described above, the center conductor of the coaxial cable 118 can be coupled to the feed point 519 with the outer conductor being coupled to the base 106. The feed point 519 can extend from or be coupled to the upright low-band radiation portion 525 with what can be a narrow width tab. Additional isolation between the upright low- band radiation portion 525 and the base 106 can be obtained by adjusting space 511 and consequently the coupling location reference 513.

[0172] For additional mechanical support, the upright low-band radiation portion 525 can have a non-conductive coupling mechanism (e.g., the mounting portions 114) to the base 106. The upright low-band radiation portion 525 can have a coupling point (e.g., one or more slots 531) for attaching the grounding portion 503 with via the one or more tabs 583. As noted above, extending from / coupled to the upright low-band radiation portion 525 can be one or more arms 527. The arms 527 can assist with the dominate radiation in the mid-band and C-band for the multiband radiator portion 500. One or more portions similar to the arms 527 may be used for assisting in the high band portion of the radiation are realizable in the implementation of this approach. Higher even order resonances may radiate from portions similar to the arms 527 of the radiating element 501 to assist in the multi -band properties of the device. Furthermore, there can be the additional head portion 529 coupled to the upright low-band radiation portion 525 that may be perpendicular in nature for its orientation. Though it is not necessary for the second low-band radiation portion 529 to be bent near 90-degrees as depicted in this illustration and can be shown to be perceptibly straight in other implementations. By bending the low-band radiation portion of the radiating element 501 to realize two distinct portions (e.g., the upright low-band radiation portion 525 and the second low-band radiation portion 529), the total height of the radiating element 501 is reduced and as such the total volume of the antenna assembly 100 to most likely provide environmental protection is consequently reduced.

[0173] The low-band operation of the radiating element 501 is determined by several factors. Some of the factors are the length and width of the first low-band radiation portion 525 and of the second low-band radiation portion 529, the location of opening one or more slots 531, and / or the grounding portion 503.

[0174] Figure 3G shows a perspective view of the grounding portion of the ground connection 503. The face plate 571 can extend from or be coupled to the first arm portion 573. The width of the first arm portion 573 can be adjusted to accommodate clearance for assembly purposes for a transmission line of the antenna assembly 100 that may be used for excitation of the multiband radiator portion 500. The second arm portion 575 can extend from or be coupled to first arm portion 573. The engagement portion 577 can be coupled to or form a portion of the second arm portion 575. The engagement portion 577 can also have one or more coupling points (e.g., one or more tabs 583) that are configured to couple to the opening one or more slots 531 of the radiating element 501 in the assembled multi -band radiator portion 500. The height of the first arm portion 573, the width of the first arm portion 573, the clearance provided for in the first arm portion 573, the length of second arm portion 575, and the symbiotic location of slots 531 and / or tabs 583 can provide for a reactance that counterbalances the reactance of the low-band impedance to provide a resonance of desired impedance match for the desired frequency and bandwidth for the low-band radiation. The location of the coupling points (e.g., one or more tabs 583) and the length and width of the grounding portion 503 are also chosen to provide higher odd order resonant harmonics at the desired locations to cover a portion of the frequency band of the multi-band performance of the antenna assembly 100. Further, the relative dimensions described above also influence the radiation pattern generated by the radio frequency excitation of the multi-band radiator portion 500.

[0175] In the illustrated implementation, the radiating element 501 and the ground connection 503 are constructed of metal (e.g., a conductive sheet). In some cases, the conductive sheet can have a thickness between 0.01 inches and 0.03 inches. In some cases, the conductive sheet(s) forming the radiating element 501 or the ground connection 503 can have a thickness less than 0.01 inches or greater than 0.03 inches.

[0176] In other implementations, the radiating element 501 and / or ground connection 503 could be constructed out of several rigid PCB portions or a single flex circuit PCB (e.g., supported by the radome 104 or another RF -transparent supporting structure). For example, the formed three-dimensional multi-band radiator portions 500 described with reference to Figures 3 A-3 J can be supported by PCB structures, sheet metal, or other conductive surfaces that hold their three-dimensional shape, configured and adapted to be housed within the radome 104 along with other multi-band radiator portions (e.g., other multi-band radiator portions 500).

[0177] The three-dimensional multi -band radiator portions 500 can be paired with one or more formed ground plane(s), such as the base 106, that can permit a frequency range of 450 MHz to 8 GHz, which can provide an advantageously wide range of frequencies compared with some other antenna systems, with improved cost effectiveness and simplicity of manufacture. The multi -band radiator portions 500 allow for the antenna 100 to be compact, making it ideal for compact 3GPP or other telecommunication transmitters, in some implementations. In some implementations, multi-band radiator portions 500 can provide optimal performance with an operating frequency range of approximately 600 MHz to 7.25 GHz.

[0178] According to some implementations, when the multi-band radiator portion 500 are configured as PCB portions, a tab and slot configuration in the PCB material is used to mechanically locate the individual PCB portions. When appropriate, in some implementations the tab and slot arrangements are then soldered. The soldering process can be used to provide a mechanical and / or electrical connection between the individual PCB portions or one or more sheet metal portions. In some implementations, there are electrically conducting features on one surface of the PCB support material. In other implementations, both sides of the PCB support material are used to for supporting the electrically conducting features. The same surface of any one particular surface of the PCB support material can have separate electrically conducting features that perform different functions for the multi-band antenna system or for an individual multi-band radiating element.

[0179] In some implementations, one or more sheet metal portions can be configured with optional portions of electrically non-conductive material to provide a similar form and function to that of a PCB portion. The use of mechanical threaded fasteners, heat stakes, keyhole slots, pressure sensitive adhesive, soldering, interlocking, and other coupling techniques may be exploited to couple portions of the multi-element multi-band antenna 102. These coupling techniques are used to firmly hold structures and components in place and / or in contact with one another. In some implementations, the coupling techniques provide an important role in establishing and maintaining a direct electrical connection between two components. In other implementations, the coupling techniques are used to establish firm contact between two surfaces that are electrically conductive. In some implementations, the coupling techniques provide structural integrity between one or more components where one or more portions is electrically non-conductive. In some implementations, one or more of the radiating elements 500 areelectromagnetically excited by an individual coaxial transmission line (e g., one coaxial transmission line for each of the radiating elements). In other implementations, the one or more of the radiating elements 500 are electromagnetically excited by a microstrip, stripline, conductor backed coplanar waveguide, parallel plate, twin lead, wire above a groundplane, or other suitable microwave or telecommunication transmission line.

[0180] Figures 5A-5D illustrate an implementation of an antenna / multi-band radiator portion 500A and components thereof and Figures 6A-6D illustrate another implementation of an antenna / multi-band radiator portion 500B and components thereof. Some of the features of the multi-band radiator portions 500A, 500B are similar to features of the multi-band radiator portion 500 described in at least FIGS. 3A-3J. Thus, reference numerals used to designate the various features or components of the multi-band radiator portions 500A, 500B are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding features or components of the multi-band radiator portion 500 in at least FIGS. 3A-3 J except that the numerical identifiers for components of the multi-band radiator portion 500A end with an “A” and the numerical identifiers for components of the multi-band radiator portion 500B end with a “B”. Therefore, the structure and description for the various features of the multi-band radiator portion 500 and how it operates in at least FIGS. 3A-3J are understood to also apply to the corresponding features of the multi-band radiator portions 500A, 500B except as described below.

[0181] As shown in Figures 5A-5D, the antenna / multi-band radiator portion 500A can include a radiating element 501 A and a ground connection 503 A. The radiating element 501 A can include an upright portion 525 A, a head portion 529A, a feed point 519A, and / or one or more arms 527A.

[0182] The arms 527A can be configured as having first portions 533A and second portions 535A. The arms 527A can extend from connecting portions 541A or directly from the upright portion 525A. The upright portion 525A can include a coupling point 531 A for coupling the upright portion 525A to the ground connection 503 A. The coupling point 531 A can be configured as a slot. The coupling point 531 A can be off-center from the central vertical axis of the upright portion 525 A. The upright portion 525 A may include mounting features 517aA. The head portion 529A may optionally include clearances 557aA and / or clearances 557bA.

[0183] The multi-band radiator portion 500A can differ from the multi-band radiator portion 500 in that the overall height of the upright portion 525A. For example, the upright portion525A can be approximately half the height of the upright portion 525 of Figures 3 A-3E. The multiband radiator portion 500A may also include a head portion 529A with an increase in length compared to the second low-band radiation portion 529 of Figures 3A-3E.

[0184] In some implementations, the length of the head portion 529A can be selected for optimized performance for the low band portion of the telecommunications bands between 600 and 900 MHz. For example, the length of the head portion 529A in Figures 5A-5D can provide improved performance in the 700 MHz to 900 MHz bands or the antenna 500A may favor the 700 MHz to 900 MHz bands in operation.

[0185] In some implementations, the coupling point 531 A, second arm 575A, first arm portion 573 A and coupling point 571 A of the ground connection 503 A maybe be adjusted to impedance match as well as align the higher order resonant frequencies to specific radio frequency bands to accommodate a radome 104 that has a smaller distance between its top surface and base 106 than those shown in Figures 1A.

[0186] In some implementations, the upright portion 525A can have a height to width ratio of greater than 1 : 1 but less than 2: 1. In some implementations, the upright portion 525A can have a height to width ratio of greater than 1.5: 1 but less than 2: 1. In some implementations, the ratio of the height of the upright portion 525A to the length of the head portion 529A can be greater than 1 : 1 but less than 2: 1.

[0187] As shown in Figures 6A-6D, the antenna / multi-band radiator portion 500B can include a radiating element 501B and a ground connection 503B. The radiating element 501B can include an upright portion 525B, a head portion 529B, a feed point 519B, and / or one or more arms 527B.

[0188] The arms 527B can be configured as having first portions 533B and second portions 535B. The arms 527B can extend from connecting portions 541B or directly from the upright portion 525B. The upright portion 525B can include a coupling point 53 IB for coupling the upright portion 525B to the ground connection 503B. The coupling point 53 IB can be configured as a slot. The coupling point 53 IB can be off-center from the central vertical axis of the upright portion 525B. The upright portion 525B may include mounting features 517aB. The head portion 529B may optionally include clearances 557aB and / or clearances 557bB.

[0189] The multi-band radiator portion 500B can differ from the multi-band radiator portion 500 in that the overall height of the upright portion 525B. For example, the upright portion525B can be approximately half the height of the upright portion 525 of Figures 3 A-3E. The multiband radiator portion 500B may also include a head portion 529B with an increase in length compared to the second low-band radiation portion 529 of Figures 3A-3E.

[0190] In some implementations, the length of the head portion 529B can be selected for optimized performance for the low-band portion of the telecommunications bands between 600 and 900 MHz. For example, the length of the head portion 529B in Figures 6A-6D can provide improved performance in the 600 MHz to 700 MHz bands or the antenna 500B may favor the 600 MHz to 700 MHz bands in operation.

[0191] In some implementations, the coupling point 53 IB, second arm 575B, first arm portion 573B and coupling point 57 IB of the ground connection 5O3B maybe be adjusted to impedance match as well as align the higher order resonant frequencies to specific radio frequency bands to accommodate a radome 104 that has a smaller distance between its top surface and base 106 than those shown in Figures 1A.

[0192] In some implementations, the upright portion 525A can have a height to width ratio of greater than 1 :1 but less than 2: 1. In some implementations, the upright portion 525B can have a height to width ratio of greater than 1.5: 1 but less than 2: 1. In some implementations, the ratio of the height of the upright portion 525B to the length of the head portion 529B can be greater than 1 : 1 but less than 1.5:1. In some implementations, the height of the upright portion 525B can be substantially equal to the length of the head portion 529B.

[0193] While the antenna assembly 100 is shown as including the antennas 500, it is recognized that the antenna assembly 100 can include one or more antennas 500A and / or one or more antennas 500B in addition to or alternatively to the antennas 500. Further, the antenna assembly 100 can include any combination of one or more antennas 500, one or more antennas 500 A, and / or one or more antennas 500B.

[0194] Figures 7A-9C illustrate an implementation of an antenna assembly 300 and components thereof. Some of the features of the antenna assembly 300 are similar to features of the antenna assembly 100 and associated components described in at least FIGS. 1-6D. Thus, reference numerals used to designate the various features or components of the antenna assembly 300 are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding features or components of the antenna assembly 100 and associated components described in at least FIGS. 1-6D except that the numerical identifiers for components of the antenna assembly 300 begin with a “3”. Therefore, thestructure and description for the various features of the antenna assembly 100 and how it operates in at least FIGS. 1-6D are understood to also apply to the corresponding features of the antenna assembly 300, except as described below.

[0195] Figures 7A-7D show a top perspective view, a side view, a top view, and a bottom view respectively of the antenna assembly 300. The antenna assembly 300 can include a radome 304 and a base 306. The base 306 can be electrically conductive. The cover 304 can be configured to be coupled to the electrically conductive base 306 to define an internal volume therebetween. As shown in Figure 8A and 9A, the antenna assembly 300 includes a multi-element multi-band antenna 302. The multi-element multi-band antenna 302 can be positioned in the internal volume. Figures 8A and 8B show select components that can be included in the multielement multi-band antenna 302 in a first example. Figures 9A-9C show select components that can be included in the multi-element multi-band antenna 302 in a second example. The multielement multi -band antenna 302 can include one or more antennas / radiating elements, as described further herein.

[0196] The antenna assembly 300 can include a coupling portion 308 and a cable opening 310, in some implementations. The coupling portion 308 can facilitate coupling the antenna assembly 300 to another structure. The cable opening 310 can allow cables (e.g., coaxial cables 318) to be routed through the base 106.

[0197] In some implementations the base 306 can have a length of less than 8 inches (e g., less than 8 inches, less than 7.5 inches, less than 7 inches, less than 6.5 inches, etc ). In some implementations the base 306 can have a width of less than 5 inches (e.g., less than 5 inches, less than 4.5 inches, less than 4 inches, less than 3.5 inches, etc.). With reference to Figure 7B, in some implementations, the antenna assembly 300 may have a total height of less than 4 inches (e.g., less than 4 inches, less than 3.5 inches, less than 3 inches, less than 2.5 inches, less than 2 inches, etc.) when measured from the base 306 to the top of the radome 304.

[0198] The antenna assembly 300 may have a smaller volume and profde when compared to other antenna systems. For example, the antenna assembly 300 can have a cubic volume of about 75 cubic inches or less. In other examples, the antenna assembly 300 may have a cubic volume between 30 and 200 cubic inches (e.g. between 30 and 200 cubic inches, 50 and 150 cubic inches, 70 and 120 cubic inches, values between the foregoing, etc.).

[0199] Referring now to Figures 8A and 8B, a first example of the multi -element multiband antenna 302 of the antenna assembly 300 is shown. The multi-element multi-band antenna 302 can include one or more antennas / radiating elements. For example, the multi-element multiband antenna 302 can include one or more antennas 500, one or more antennas 500A, one or more antennas 500B, and / or one or more radiating elements 200. When included, the radiating elements 200 can be configured as any combination of second radiating elements 200A, second radiating elements 200B, and / or second radiating elements 200C.

[0200] In the illustrated example, the multi-element multi -band antenna 302 includes four antennas 500A. The antennas 500A can be coupled to the base 306 using mounting portions (e.g., the mounting portions 114), which are not shown for illustrative purposes. In this example, the antennas 500A are arranged in the same manner as the antennas 500 in the antenna assembly 100 as shown and described with reference to Figure 2B. In other implementations, the antennas 500A can be arranged in different spatial and / or rotational positions on the base 306.

[0201] While not shown in Figures 8A and 8B, in some implementations, the multielement multi-band antenna 302 can include one or more radiating elements 200, which can be coupled to the base 306. When included, the second radiating elements 200 can be configured to resonate at frequencies to support wireless communication protocols (e.g., including Wi-Fi and / or Bluetooth) for the antenna assembly 300.

[0202] In some implementations the multi-element multi -band antenna 302 can include a GPS antenna (e.g., similar or identical to the GPS antenna 116 of Figure 2A). As shown in Figure 9B, the base 306 can optionally include a recessed portion 317 for receiving the GPS antenna.

[0203] In some implementations, the multi-element multi-band antenna 302 can include both antennas 500A and antennas 500B. In one example, the multi-element multi-band antenna 302 includes two antennas 500A and two antennas 500B. For example, the antennas 500A can be positioned along one side of the base 306 and the antennas 500B can be positioned along the opposite side of the base 306. In other examples, one antenna 500A and one antenna 500B can be positioned along one side of the base 306 and one antenna 500A and one antenna 500B can be positioned on the opposite side of the base 306. As noted above, the antennas 500A and the antennas 500B can have head portions 529A, 529B with different lengths. Accordingly, including both antennas 500A and antennas 500B in the multi-element multi-band antenna 302 can allow foroptimized performance for the sub-bands of the low band portion of the 600 MHz to 1 GHz low band spectrum.

[0204] Referring now to Figures 9A-9C, a second example of the multi-element multiband antenna 302 of the antenna assembly 300 is shown. In the example of Figures 9A-9C, the multi-element multi-band antenna 302 includes two antennas 500B.

[0205] Figure 9B shows one possible configuration for arranging the components of the multi-element multi-band antenna 302 on the base 306, where the multi-element multi-band antenna 302 includes two antennas 500B. The two antennas can include a first antenna 500Ba and a second antenna 500Bb, collectively referred to herein as the antennas 500B.

[0206] In the illustrated example, the two antennas 500B are arranged along two sides / edges of the base 306. For example, the first antenna 500Ba is positioned adjacent a first side / edge 306a of the base 306 (the bottom edge in the orientation of Figure 9B) and the second antenna 500Bb is positioned adjacent a second side / edge 306b of the base 306 (the top edge in the orientation of Figure 9B). As shown, the first antenna 500Ba is offset along a longitudinal axis of the base 306 relative to the second antenna 500Bb.

[0207] In the example of Figure 9B, the base 306 is rectangular and the first edge 306a and the second edge 306b are the long edges of the base. In other examples, the first edge 306a and the second edge 306b can be the short edges of the base 306 or a long edge and a short edge. In other examples, the base 306 can be square.

[0208] In some implementations, the antennas 500B can be arranged on the base 306 such that the first antenna 500Ba faces in a first direction away from the first edge 306a and towards the second edge 306b, and at second antenna 500Bb faces in a second direction away from the second edge 306b and towards the first edge 306b. Here, the first direction is opposite the second direction.

[0209] In the illustrated example, the antennas 500 are arranged so that they are not facing each other. In other implementations, the first antenna 500Ba can face the second antenna 500Bb.

[0210] In other implementations, any of the antennas 500B can be arranged in different spatial and / or rotational positions on the base 306. In some cases, the multi-element multi-band antenna 302 can include four antennas 500B. In such an example, the antennas 500B can be arranged with two antennas 500B on both sides 306a, 306b, with one antenna 500B on each sideof the base 306, in each corner on the base 306, and / or the like. Further, the antennas 500B can be in any rotational position and face in any direction on the base 306.

[0211] The multi-element multi -band antenna 302 can include any number of radiating elements 200, which can be arranged on the base 306 in any configuration. In the illustrated example, the multi-element multi -band antenna 302 includes two radiating elements 200 configured as radiating elements 200A and two radiating elements 200 configured as radiating elements 200C. In the illustrated example, one radiating element 200A and one radiating element 200C are positioned beside each antenna 500B along both the first edge 306a and the second edge 306b.

[0212] As shown in Figure 9C, the radiating element 200C can be similar in structure and design as the radiating element 200A. The radiating element 200C differs from the radiating element 200A in that the radiating element 200C is taller. When configured in this manner, the radiating element 200C can have improved performance to have an operating range of approximately 1.4 GHz to 8 GHz or higher.

[0213] Figures 10A-12B illustrate an implementation of an antenna assembly 400 and components thereof. Some of the features of the antenna assembly 400 are similar to features of the antenna assembly 100 and associated components described in at least FIGS. 1-6D. Thus, reference numerals used to designate the various features or components of the antenna assembly 400 are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding features or components of the antenna assembly 100 and associated components described in at least FIGS. 1-6D except that the numerical identifiers for components of the antenna assembly 400 begin with a “4”. Therefore, the structure and description for the various features of the antenna assembly 100 and how it operates in at least FIGS. 1-6D are understood to also apply to the corresponding features of the antenna assembly 400, except as described below.

[0214] Figures 10A-10D show a top perspective view, a side view, a top view, and a bottom view respectively of the antenna assembly 400. The antenna assembly 400 can include a radome 404 and a base 406. The base 406 can be electrically conductive. The cover 404 can be configured to be coupled to the electrically conductive base 406 to define an internal volume therebetween. As shown in Figure 11A and 12B, the antenna assembly 400 includes a multielement multi-band antenna 402. The multi-element multi-band antenna 402 can be positioned in the internal volume. Figures 11A and 11B show select components that can be included in themulti-element multi-band antenna 402 in a first example. Figures 12A and 12B show select components that can be included in the multi-element multi -band antenna 402 in a second example. The multi-element multi-band antenna 402 can include one or more antennas / radiating elements, as described further herein.

[0215] The antenna assembly 400 can include a coupling portion 408 and a cable opening 410, in some implementations. The coupling portion 408 can facilitate coupling the antenna assembly 400 to another structure. The cable opening 410 can allow cables (e.g., coaxial cables 418) to be routed through the base 406.

[0216] In some implementations the base 406 can have a length of less than 18 inches (e.g., less than 18 inches, less than 17 inches, less than 16 inches, less than 15 inches, etc.). In some implementations the base 406 can have a width of less than 6 inches (e.g., less than 6 inches, less than 5.5 inches, less than 5 inches, less than 4.5 inches, etc.). With reference to Figure 10B, in some implementations, the antenna assembly 400 may have a total height of less than 4 inches (e.g., less than 4 inches, less than 3.5 inches, less than 3 inches, less than 2.5 inches, less than 2 inches, etc.) when measured from the base 406 to the top of the radome 404.

[0217] The antenna assembly 400 may have a smaller volume and profde when compared to other antenna systems. For example, the antenna assembly 400 can have a cubic volume of about 195 cubic inches or less. In other examples, the antenna assembly 400 may have a cubic volume between 100 and 300 cubic inches (e.g., between 100 and 300 cubic inches, 150 and 250 cubic inches, 175 and 200 cubic inches, values between the foregoing, etc.).

[0218] Referring now to Figures 11 A-12B, examples of the multi-element multi-band antenna 402 of the antenna assembly 400 are shown. The multi-element multi-band antenna 402 can include one or more antennas / radiating elements. For example, the multi-element multi-band antenna 402 can include one or more antennas 500, one or more antennas 500A, one or more antennas 500B, and / or one or more radiating elements 200. When included, the radiating elements 200 can be configured as any combination of second radiating elements 200A, second radiating elements 200B, and / or second radiating elements 200C.

[0219] In the example of Figures HA and 1 IB, the multi-element multi-band antenna 402 does not include radiating elements 200. In the example of Figures 12A and 12B, the multielement multi-band antenna 402 includes a plurality of radiating elements 200. When included, the radiating elements 200 can be configured to resonate at frequencies to support wirelesscommunication protocols (e.g., including Wi-Fi and / or Bluetooth) for the antenna assembly 400. In some implementations, the multi-element multi-band antenna 402 can include a GPS antenna (e.g., similar or identical to the GPS antenna 116 of Figure 2A).

[0220] In the illustrated examples, the multi-element multi-band antenna 402 includes four antennas 500A and four antennas 500B. The antennas 500A, 500B can be coupled to the base 406 using mounting portions 414. In this example, four antennas 500A, 500B are arranged along two sides / edges of the base 406. For example, the four antennas 500A, 500B are positioned adjacent a first side / edge 406a of the base 406 (the left edge in the orientation of Figures 1 IB and 12B) and four antennas 500A, 500B are positioned adjacent a second side / edge 406b of the base 406 (the right edge in the orientation of Figures 1 IB and 12B).

[0221] As shown, the four antennas 500A, 500B along the first edge 406a are offset along a longitudinal axis of the base 406 relative to the four antennas 500A, 500B along the second edge 406b. For example, the antennas 500 A, 500B are arranged in a zig-zag pattern along the base 406.

[0222] In the illustrated example, the base 406 is rectangular and the first edge 406a and the second edge 406b are the long edges of the base. In other examples, the first edge 406a and the second edge 406b can be the short edges of the base 406 or a long edge and a short edge. In other examples, the base 406 can be square.

[0223] As shown in Figures 11A-12B, the antennas 500A, 500B of the multi-element multi -band antenna 402 are arranged in an alternating arrangement along the edges. For example, each antenna 500A is positioned next to at least one antenna 500B. Other configurations are possible. As the antennas 500A are optimized for different low band portions than the antennas 500B, including both can provide improved coverage of the low band. For example, covering many different telecommunication bands can be desirable. Additionally, this arrangement can provide greater RF isolation between the radiating portions of similar head portion 529A, 529B lengths. The greater isolation can allow for higher data rates and larger coverage areas for the multi-band radiator portion 500.

[0224] In some implementations, the four antennas 500A, 500B along the first edge 406a can be arranged on the base 406 such that they face in a first direction away from the first edge 406a and towards the second edge 406b, and the four antennas 500A, 500B along the secondedge 406b can face in a second direction away from the second edge 406b and towards the first edge 406b. Here, the first direction is opposite the second direction.

[0225] In the illustrated example, the antennas 500A, 500B are arranged so that they are not facing each other. In other implementations, one or more of the antennas 500A, 500B on the first edge 406a can face one or more of the antennas 500 A, 500B on the second edge 406b. In other implementations, any of the antennas 500A, 500B can be arranged in different spatial and / or rotational positions on the base 406.

[0226] The multi-element multi-band antenna 402 can include any number of radiating elements 200, which can be arranged on the base 406 in any configuration. In the example of Figures 14A and 14B, the multi-element multi-band antenna 402 includes six radiating elements 200. The radiating elements 200 can be positioned between antennas 500A, 500B along the sides 406a, 406b. In other implementations, more than six or less than six radiating elements 200 can be included in the multi-element multi-band antenna 402.

[0227] Figures 13A-17B illustrate various views of different multi -band antennas that can form part of any of the multi-band multi-element antennas described herein (e.g., the multielement multi -band antenna 102 of the antenna assembly 100, the multi-element multi -band antenna 302 of the antenna assembly 300, the multi-element multi-band antenna 402 of the antenna assembly 400, etc.). In Figures 13A-17B, particular reference is made to various components of the antenna assembly 100 and how those components interact with the various multi -band antennas. However, it is recognized that multi-band antennas of Figures 13A-17B may be integrated into either of the antenna assembly 300 or the antenna assembly 400. In particular, one or more of the multi-band radiator portions 500, 500 A, and / or 500B may be replaced with one or more of multi-band antennas of Figures 13A-17B.

[0228] Figures 13A-13C illustrate various views of a multi-band antenna 600 that can be included in any of the antenna assemblies described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure. The multi -band antenna 600 can be mounted to the base 106. The multi-band antenna 600 can be a 3D or 2.5D inverted F antenna configured to be utilized with a ground reference, such as the base 106. The multi-band antenna 600 can include a first radiating portion 602 and a second radiating portion 604. In the illustrated example, the first radiating portion 602 is in the form of a first conductive portion 608 etched onto a first PCB portion 606. In other implementations, the first radiating portion 602 and / or the second radiating portion 604 can besheet metal (e.g., with plastic supports). The multi-band antenna 600 can include a grounding portion configured to connect the first radiating portion 602 to the base 106. The grounding portion can be defined by a first grounding portion 612 that extends from the first conductive portion 608 in the horizontal direction and a second grounding portion 614 that extends from the first grounding portion 612 in the vertical direction along the first PCB portion 606 to the base 106. As such, the grounding portions 612, 614 can electrically connect the first conductive portion 608 to the groundplane 412.

[0229] As shown in at least Figure 13B, the second radiating portion 604 can be in the form of a plurality of conductive portions 624, 626, 628, and 630 etched onto a second PCB portion 622. The conductive portions 624 and 630 of the second radiating portion 604 can be electrically connected to the first conductive portion 608 of the first radiating portion 602. For example, shorting pins 632 can be used to establish the electrical connection from the first PCB portion 606 to the second PCB portion 622 (see e.g., Figure 13C). The shorting pins 632 can be in the form of electrically conductive cylinders. The additional conductive portions 626 and 628 can be electromagnetically coupled to their neighboring conductive portions, for example, the conductive portion 630 and the conductive portions 624 respectively. The conductive portions 626, 628 can provide additional radiation that may not always be required.

[0230] Referring back to Figure 13 A, the multi-band antenna 600 can include a feed arm 616. The feed arm 616 can be in the form of an electrically conductive sheet metal portion, that forms the initial portion of the radiating portion of the multi-band antenna 600. The feed arm 616 can be electrically connected to the first conductive portion 608 of the first radiating portion 602 via feed line 610. The multi -band antenna 600 can be configured to connect to a coaxial cable 618. For example, the center conductor of the coaxial cable 618 can be electrically coupled to the multi-band antenna 600 via the feed arm 616. The outer conductor of the coaxial cable 618 can be electrically connected to a coax feed point of the base 106. In the illustrated example, the multiband antenna 600 is supported by a non-conductive support portion 620, which can be mechanically coupled to the base 106.

[0231] Figures 14A-14B illustrate various views of a multi-band antenna 700 that can be included in any of the antenna assemblies described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure. The multi-band antenna 700 can be a bent monopole antenna configured to be mounted to a ground plane (e.g., the base 106). The multi-band antenna 700 includes a radiatingelement 702. The radiating element 702 can be bent to define an upright portion 704 and a head portion 706. The bend in the radiating element 702 can allow the multi-band antenna 700 to fit under a fixed radome height. When the multi-band antenna 700 is incorporated into the multi-band multi-element antenna 102, the base 106 may be modified to accommodate the multi -band antenna 700. For example, the base 106 may include openings configured to receive mechanical supports 710. As such, the openings in the base 106 can have a similar shape to the mechanical supports 710 (e.g., circular). The mechanical supports 710 can be non-conductive. The mechanical supports 710 can be coupled to a lower edge of the upright portion 704 of the radiating element 702 to electrically insulate the radiating element 702 from the base 106. The multi-band antenna 700 can be configured to connect to a coaxial cable 718. For example, the center conductor of the coaxial cable 718 can be electrically coupled to the radiating element 702. The outer conductor of the coaxial cable 718 can be electrically connected to a coax feed point of the base 106. In the illustrated example, the multi-band antenna 700 is further supported by a non-conductive support portion 708, which can be mechanically coupled to the base 106.

[0232] Figures 15A-15C illustrate various views of a multi-band antenna 800 that can be included in any of the antenna assemblies described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure. The multi -band antenna 800 can be mounted to the base 106. The multi-band antenna 800 can be a printed inverted F antenna (“PIFA”). The multi-band antenna 800 can include a first radiating portion 802 and a second radiating portion 804. In the illustrated example, the first radiating portion 802 is in the form of a first conductive portion 808 etched onto a first PCB portion 806. In other implementations, the first radiating portion 802 and / or the second radiating portion 804 can be sheet metal (e.g., with plastic supports). The first radiating portion 802 can be the directly fed portion of the PIFA. For example, a grounding portion 814 can extend from the first conductive portion 808 to electrically connect the first conductive portion 808 to the base 106. A microstrip line 816 can extend from the radio attaching the grounding portion 814 to the multiband antenna 800. The first radiating portion 802 can include a top portion 820. The top portion 820 can extend orthogonally to the first PCB portion 806. A lower surface (not shown) of the top portion 820 can include a conductive portion that, along with the unequal length arms of the first conductive portion 808 along the first PCB portion 806, can allow for increased impedance bandwidth by having complementary higher order mode performance due to the unequal length arms of the first conductive portion 808.

[0233] The second radiating portion 804 can be electromagnet cally coupled to the first radiating portion 802. In the illustrated example, the second radiating portion 804 is in the form of a second conductive portion 812 etched onto a second PCB portion 810. The second conductive portion 812 can be electrically coupled to the base 106 at the ground connection 818. The second conductive portion 812 of the second radiating portion 804 can be orthogonal to both the first conductive portion 808 and the top portion 820 of the first radiating portion 802. The second conductive portion 812 can assist with the high-band performance of the multi-band antenna 800.

[0234] Figures 16A-16D illustrate various views of a multi-band antenna 900 that can be included in any of the antenna assemblies described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure. The multi-band antenna 900 can be a bent monopole antenna configured to be mounted to a ground plane (e.g., the base 106). The multi-band antenna 900 includes a radiating element 902. The radiating element 902 can be bent to define an upright portion 904 and a head portion 906. The bend in the radiating element 902 can allow the multi-band antenna 900 to fit under a fixed radome height. The bend can still allow the radiating element 902 to resonate down to 600 MHz. The radiating element 902 can include one or more first arms 908. The first arms 908 can extend from or form part of the upright portion 904. In some implementations, the first arms 908 can be co-planar to the upright portion 904. The radiating element 902 can include one or more second arms 910. The second arms 910 can extend from or form part of the head portion 906. As shown in Figure 16D, in the illustrated example, the one or more second arms 910 can extend parallel to the upright portion 904 and may be at an angle and / or orthogonal to the head portion 906. The first arm 908 and the second arms 910 can assist with the input impedance at higher portions of the frequency band. The multi-band antenna 900 can be configured to connect to a coaxial cable 918. For example, the center conductor of the coaxial cable 918 can be electrically coupled to the radiating element 902 at its feed point. The outer conductor of the coaxial cable 918 can be electrically connected to a coax feed point of the base 106. In the illustrated example, the multi-band antenna 900 is supported by a non-conductive support portion 920, which can be mechanically coupled to the base 106. The support portion 920 can include heat stake posts that extend into corresponding openings in the upright portion 904.

[0235] Figures 17A-17B illustrate various views of a multi-band antenna 1000 that can be included in any of the antenna assemblies described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure. The multi-band antenna 1000 can be mounted to the base 106. The multi-bandantenna 1000 can comprise two 3D inverted F antennas. For example, the multi -band antenna 1000 can include a first inverted F antenna 1002 and a second inverted F antenna 1004. The first inverted F antenna 1002 and the second inverted F antenna 1004 can be similar or substantially identical to each other. The multi -band antenna 1000 can include a PCB support 1006 that can be coupled to the tops of and provide mechanical support for both inverted F antennas 1002, 1004. The first inverted F antenna 1002 can be further supported by a non-conductive support 1008a. Similarly, the second inverted F antenna 1004 can be further supported by a non-conductive support 1008b. The multi-band antenna 1000 can be configured to connect to coaxial cables 1018. For example, the center conductor of a first coaxial cable 1018a can be electrically coupled to the first inverted F antenna 1002 at its feed point and the center conductor of a second coaxial cable 1018b can be electrically coupled to the second inverted F antenna 1004 at its feed point. The outer conductors of the coaxial cables 1018a, 1018b can be electrically connected to coax feed points of the base 106. Each of the inverted F antennas 1002, 1004 can include a grounding point 1010a, 1010b respectively that can be electrically connected to the base 106.

[0236] Figure 18 illustrates a perspective view of a stacked patch antenna 1100 on a ground plane 1130 that can be included in any antenna assembly described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure. For example, stacked patch antenna 1100 can form part of any of the multi-band multi-element antennas described herein (e.g., the multi-element multi-band antenna 102 of the antenna assembly 100, the multi-element multi-band antenna 302 of the antenna assembly 300, the multi-element multi-band antenna 402 of the antenna assembly 400, etc.). In other examples, the stacked patch antenna 1100 may be incorporated into an antenna assembly described herein but may operate separately from the corresponding stacked patch antenna 1100.

[0237] In Figure 18, particular reference is made to various components of the antenna assembly 100 and how those components interact with the stacked patch antenna 1100. However, it is recognized that one or more stacked patch antenna 1100 may be integrated into either of the antenna assemblies 300 or 400’.

[0238] With continued reference to Figure 18, the stacked patch antenna 1100 can be formed on and / or supported by the ground plane 1130. Including the stacked patch antenna 1100 in an antenna assembly, such as the antenna assembly 100 can provide certain advantages. For example, the stacked patch antenna 1100 may enhance the performance of the antenna assembly100 in terms of beamwidth, gain, spatial filtering, and / or efficiency. The stacked patch antenna 1100 can be configured as a highly directional antenna.

[0239] The stacked patch antenna 1100 can include a first or top patch element 1102 and a second or bottom patch element 1104. The patch elements 1102, 1104 may also be referred to herein as “patch antenna radiators”, “patch antenna elements”, and / or “patch radiating elements”. Including a stacked patch antenna 1100 in the antenna assembly 100 can provide more impedance bandwidth than a single layer patch antenna of comparable thickness.

[0240] The top patch element 1102 and the bottom patch element 1104 can each be considered an electrically conductive structure. In some implementations, the top patch element 1102 and the bottom patch element 1104 can comprise sheet metal, PCBs with an electrically conductive coating, and / or the like. The top patch element 1102 can be positioned above the ground plane 1130 with the bottom patch element 1104 positioned therebetween in the orientation of the stacked patch antenna 1100 relative to the ground plane 1130 shown in Figure 18. A first gap or physical space can be maintained between the top patch element 1102 and the bottom patch element 1104 and a second gap can be maintained between the bottom patch element 1104 and the ground plane 1130. The antenna assembly 100B can include one or more support posts 1108 that extend between the ground plane 1130 and the bottom patch element 1104 and / or between the bottom patch element 1104 and the top patch element 1102. The support posts 1108 can be configured to support the top patch element 1102 and the bottom patch element 1104 and maintain the first and second gaps. The support posts 1108 can extend through the bottom patch element 1104 in some configurations. The support posts 1108 can be non-conductive. For example, the support posts 1108 are configured such that there is not a conductive path between the ground plane 1130 and either to the top patch element 1102 or the bottom patch element 1104 or between the top patch element 1102 and the bottom patch element 1104.

[0241] In some implementations, the stacked patch antenna 1100 can include a conductive post 1112. The conductive post 1112 can provide mechanical support for the top patch element 1102 and / or the bottom patch element 1104. The conductive post 1112 can also be electrically connected to the ground plane 1130 and the patch elements 1102, 1104. The gain and bandwidth performance of the stacked patch antenna 1100 will not change in a significant fashion if post 1112 is constructed of non-conductive material.

[0242] In the illustrated configuration, the bottom patch element 1 104 includes a matching circuit 1106. The matching circuit 1106 can allow for a transmission line 1114 (e.g., a 50 ohm microstrip transmission line) to be matched to the input impedance of the stacked patch antenna 1100. The matching circuit 1106 can be T-shaped. The matching circuit 1106 can extend from the bottom patch element 1104. While a majority of the bottom patch element 1104 may be positioned directly below the top patch element 1102, the matching circuit 1106 may extend outwardly from the bottom patch element 1104 such that the matching circuit 1106 is not positioned directly below the top patch element 1102. The matching circuit 1106 can be mechanically supported by one or more support posts 1110. The one or more support posts 1110 can be configured in a similar manner as the support posts 1108 (e.g., to provide non-conductive mechanical support).

[0243] The matching circuit 1106 can be electrically connected to the transmission line 1114 via a feed post 1116. The feed post 1116 provides the electrical connection between the transmission line 1114 and the bottom patch element 1104. In some configurations, the feed post 1116 serves an additional function of providing mechanical support for the matching circuit 1106 in addition to or alternatively to the one or more support posts 1110. The transmission line 1114 can include a junction or attachment point 1118. The attachment point 1118 is where a coaxial cable could attach to the ground plane 1130 to connect the stacked patch antenna 1100 to a radio. The ground plane 1130 can include heat relief sections 1120 in the ground plane 1130 (e.g., in the PCB structure when formed as such) at the attachment point 1118. The transmission line 1114 can extend along the non-conductive side of the ground plane 1130 between the attachment point 1118 and the feed post 1116. In some configurations, the transmission line 1114 could include an impedance transformer or reactive matching components along the transmission line 1114.

[0244] In some implementations, any of antenna assemblies described herein can include one or more millimeter wave radios. For example, the one or more millimeter wave radios can form part of the associated multi-element multi -band antenna. Figures 19A-19D illustrate four example millimeter wave radios 250A, 250B, 250C, 250D respectively (collectively millimeter wave radios 250), any of which can be included in any antenna assembly described herein (e.g., the antenna assembly 100, the antenna assembly 300, the antenna assembly 400, etc.). While particular reference is made to the antenna assembly 100 and its components, it is recognized that the millimeter wave radios 250 of Figures 19A-19D can form part of any of the other antennasassemblies. While four example millimeter wave radios 250 are provided, in other implementations, different or modified millimeter wave radios 250 can be included in the antenna assemblies described herein. The millimeter wave radios 250 can be included in addition to or alternatively to the other antennas included in the antenna assembly 100. The millimeter wave radios 250 can operated in the millimeter wave frequency spectrum (approximately between 30 GHz and 300 GHz), with wavelengths ranging from 1 to 10 millimeters approximately. The millimeter wave radios 250 can be used for high-frequency communication. Including one or more millimeter wave radios 250 can improve or support high data transfer rates of the antenna assembly 100 over short distances. For example, the millimeter wave radios 250 can be configured to transmit large amounts of data, which can be ideal for 5G network applications and high-speed wireless communication for the antenna assembly 100. In some implementations, the millimeter wave radios 250 can be mounted to the base 106.

[0245] Figure 19A illustrates a first example of a millimeter wave radio 250A that can be included in the antenna assembly 100. The millimeter wave radio 250A can be a slotted waveguide array millimeter wave radio. The millimeter wave radio 250A can include a millimeter wave radio 252A and one or more waveguides 254A. In the illustrated example, three waveguides 254A are included. The waveguides 254A can be hollow metallic structures that direct electromagnetic waves. Each waveguide 254A can include slots 256A cut into its surface to allow for controlled radiation. For ease of illustration, not all slots 256A in Figure 19A are labeled. The waveguides 254A can serve as a conduit for the millimeter-wave signals, efficiently transmitting them along its length with minimal loss. The slots 256A can act as the radiating elements for the millimeter wave radio 250A, emitting the millimeter wave signals. The position and size of the slots 256A can be selected to achieve a highly directional beam. In some implementations, the waveguides 254A can be configured to create an array of slots 256A. Such an array can be used to form a high-gain, highly directional antenna, which can be ideal for focusing energy in a specific direction or scanned along a portion of the horizon, which may be desirable.

[0246] Figure 19B illustrates a second example of a millimeter wave radio 250B that can be included in the antenna assembly 100. The millimeter wave radio 250B can be a dipole array millimeter wave radio. The millimeter wave radio 250B can include a millimeter wave radio 252B, a microwave grade PCB portion 254B, and a plurality of dipole antennas 256B. The dipole antennas 256B can be arranged in an array on the PCB portion 254B. The PCB portion 254B caninclude a ground plane (not shown) on its back side (e.g., the side closest to the millimeter wave radio 252B). For ease of illustration, not all of the dipole antennas 256B in Figure 9B are labeled. The dipole antennas 256B can be substantially smaller compared to other antennas of the antenna assembly 100 because of the short wavelength of the millimeter wave radio 250B. Arranging the dipole antennas 256B in an array can enhance the gain, directivity, and / or beamforming capabilities of the millimeter wave radio 250B. The phase and amplitude of signals fed to each dipole antenna 256B can be selected to focus the energy in a specific direction. For example, highly directional and scannable radiation patterns can be generated by the millimeter wave radio 250B.

[0247] Figure 19C illustrates a third example of a millimeter wave radio 250C that can be included in the antenna assembly 100. The millimeter wave radio 250C can be a microstrip patch array millimeter wave radio. The millimeter wave radio 250C can include a millimeter wave radio 252C, a microwave grade PCB portion 254C, and a plurality of microstrip patch antennas 256C. The microstrip patch antennas 256C can be flat rectangular antennas comprising a conductive material (e.g., a metal). The microstrip patch antennas 256C can be arranged in an array on the PCB portion 254C. The PCB portion 254C can include a ground plane (not shown) on its back side (e.g., the side closest to the millimeter wave radio 252C). For ease of illustration, not all of the microstrip patch antennas 256C in Figure 9C are labeled. The microstrip patch antennas 256C can be substantially smaller compared to other antennas of the antenna assembly 100 because of the short wavelength of the millimeter wave radio 250C. Arranging the microstrip patch antennas 256C in an array can enhance the gain, directivity, and / or beamforming capabilities of the millimeter wave radio 250C. The feed network of the microstrip patch antenna array can be controlled to allow for precise beamforming and higher directional accuracy. Alternatively, elements can be individually fed as opposed to serially fed to form a highly scannable array in both azimuth and elevation.

[0248] Figure 19D illustrates a fourth example of a millimeter wave radio 250D that can be included in the antenna assembly 100. The millimeter wave radio 250D can be a coplanar waveguide feed cylindrical dielectric resonator array millimeter wave radio. The millimeter wave radio 250D can include a millimeter wave radio 252D, a microwave grade PCB portion 254D, a plurality of dielectric resonator antennas 256D, and a ground plane 258D. The dielectric resonator antennas 256D can be constructed of a non-metallic materials (e.g., dielectrics) and can be the radiating elements of the millimeter wave radio 250D. The dielectric resonator antennas 256D canbe cylindrically shaped, which can help confine and radiate electromagnetic energy effectively at millimeter-wave frequencies. The dielectric resonator antennas 256D can be arranged in an array on the PCB portion 254D. For ease of illustration, not all of the dielectric resonator antennas 256D in Figure 19D are labeled. The dielectric resonator antennas 256D can be substantially smaller compared to other antennas of the antenna assembly 100 because of the short wavelength of the millimeter wave radio 250D. Arranging the dielectric resonator antennas 256D in an array can enhance the gain, directivity, and / or beamforming capabilities of the millimeter wave radio 250D.

[0249] The particular implementations disclosed above are illustrative only, as the application may be modified and practiced in different but equivalent manners apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein. It is therefore evident that the particular implementations disclosed above may be altered or modified, and all such variations are considered within the scope and spirit of the application. Accordingly, the protection sought herein is as set forth in the description. It is apparent that an application with significant advantages has been described and illustrated. Although the present application is shown in a limited number of forms, it is not limited to just these forms, but is amenable to various changes and modifications without departing from the spirit thereof.Example Clauses

[0250] Various examples of systems relating to an antenna system are found in the following clauses:

[0251] Clause 1. An antenna system, comprising: a multi-element multi-band antenna.

[0252] Clause 2. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the multi-element multi-band antenna comprises: one or more first radiating elements; and one or more second radiating elements.

[0253] Clause 3. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the first radiating elements comprise monopole antennas and / or the second radiating elements comprise inverted F antennas.

[0254] Clause 4. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the multi-element multi-band antenna is configured and adapted to have an operating frequency range of between about 450 MHz to about 8 GHz when used in conjunction with high order electromagnetic modes generated or received by a transceiver and / or a receiver.

[0255] Clause 5. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the one or more first radiating elements can be configured and adapted to be used for communication between about 1 GHz to about 8 GHz.

[0256] Clause 6. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the one or more second radiating elements can be configured and adapted to be used for communication between about 450 MHz to about 8 GHz.

[0257] Clause 7. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the one or more first radiating elements comprise four first radiating elements.

[0258] Clause 8. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the one or more second radiating elements comprise four second radiating elements.

[0259] Clause 9. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the one or more first radiating elements and / or the one or more second radiating elements are constructed from one or more types of PCB material.

[0260] Clause 10. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the one or more first radiating elements and / or the one or more second radiating elements are constructed from sheet metal.

[0261] Clause 11. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, further comprising: a radome; a base; and an internal ground plane, wherein the multielement multi-band antenna is positioned between the radome and the internal ground plane.

[0262] Clause 12. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, further comprising a GPS antenna.

[0263] Clause 13. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the one or more first radiating elements are configured for WiFi and / or Bluetooth operations.

[0264] Clause 14. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein each of the one or more second radiating elements comprises a radiating portion coupled to a ground portion.

[0265] Clause 15. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the radiating portion comprises: one or more low band radiating portions; and one or more high band radiating portions.

[0266] Clause 16. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the one or more low band radiating portions comprise an upright radiating portion and a head radiating portion.

[0267] Clause 17. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the head radiating portion extends orthogonally from the upright radiating portion.

[0268] Clause 18. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the one or more high band radiating portions comprise arms extending from the upright radiating portion.

[0269] Clause 19. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the one or more high band radiating portions comprise a left arm and a right arm.

[0270] Clause 20. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the left arm comprises a first left arm portion and a second left arm portion, the first left arm portion extending from the upright radiating portion, the second left arm portion extending from the first left arm portion.

[0271] Clause 21. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the second left arm portion extends substantially vertically from the first left arm portion relative to the internal ground plane.

[0272] Clause 22. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the right arm comprises a first right arm portion and a second right arm portion, the first right arm portion extending from the upright radiating portion, the second right arm portion extending from the first right arm portion.

[0273] Clause 23. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the second right arm portion extends substantially vertically from the first right arm portion relative to the internal ground plane.

[0274] Clause 24. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the left arm portion and right arm portion are coupled to the upright radiating portion by one or more connecting portions.

[0275] Clause 25. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the upright radiating portion has a greater height than width.

[0276] Clause 26. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the upright radiating portion has a height to width ratio of 2: 1 or greater.

[0277] Clause 27. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the upright radiating portion includes one or more mounting features, the one or more mounting features configured to allow the upright radiating portion to be coupled to the internal ground plane.

[0278] Clause 28. The antenna system, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the upright radiating portion includes a slot, the slot configured to receive a mounting feature of the grounding portion.

[0279] Clause 29. An antenna, comprising: a three-dimensional radiating element comprising: an upright portion; a head portion extending from a top side of the upright portion; a left arm extending from a left side of the upright portion; and a right arm extending from a right side of the upright portion; and a ground connection configured to be coupled to the upright portion between a central vertical axis of the upright portion and the left side or the right side, such that the ground connection is not coupled at the central vertical axis.

[0280] Clause 30. The antenna of clause 29, wherein the upright portion comprises a slot extending through the upright portion, the slot configured to receive a projection of the ground connection, wherein an electrical connection is created between the three-dimensional radiating element and the ground connection when the projection is received within the slot.

[0281] Clause 31. The antenna of clause 29, wherein the upright portion is configured as a first resonating component, the head portion is configured as a second resonating component, the left arm is configured as a third resonating component, and the right arm is configured a fourth resonating component.

[0282] Clause 32. The antenna of clause 31, wherein the first resonating component and the second resonating component are configured to resonate within a low-frequency band approximately between 600 MHz and 1 GHz during use, and the third resonating component and the fourth resonating component are configured to resonate within a mid-frequency band approximately between 1.7 GHz and 2.7 GHz during use.

[0283] Clause 33. The antenna of clause 31, wherein the left arm comprises a first left arm portion and a second left arm portion and the right arm comprises a first right arm portion and a second right arm portion, the first left arm portion extending from the left side of the upright portion and the second left arm portion extending from the first left arm portion, the first right armportion extending from the right side of the upright portion and the second right arm portion extending from the first right arm portion.

[0284] Clause 34. The antenna of clause 33, wherein the second left arm portion extends substantially vertically from the first left arm portion and the second right arm portion extends substantially vertically from the first right arm portion.

[0285] Clause 35. The antenna of clause 31, wherein the left arm and right arm are coupled to the upright portion by one or more connecting portions.

[0286] Clause 36. The antenna of clause 31, wherein the upright portion comprises a front face, wherein the left arm extends from the upright portion at a first angle between 90 degrees and 180 degrees relative to the front face, wherein the right arm extends from the upright portion at a second angle between 90 degrees and 180 degrees relative to the front face.

[0287] Clause 37. The antenna of clause 29, wherein the upright portion has a height to width ratio of 2: 1 or greater.

[0288] Clause 38. The antenna of clause 29, wherein a height of the upright portion is greater than a length of the head portion.

[0289] Clause 39. An antenna system, comprising: a base; a cover configured to be coupled to the base to define an internal volume therebetween; and a multi-element multi-band antenna housed within the internal volume and comprising: a first antenna as defined by the antenna of clause 29.

[0290] Clause 40. The antenna system of clause 39, wherein the multi-element multiband antenna further comprises one or more radiating elements configured to resonate at frequencies to support wireless communication protocols including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

[0291] Clause 41. The antenna system of clause 39, wherein the multi-element multiband antenna further comprises: a second antenna as defined by the antenna of clause 29; a third antenna as defined by the antenna of clause 29; and a fourth antenna as defined by the antenna of clause 29, wherein the first antenna and the second antenna are positioned adjacent a first edge of the base and the third antenna and the fourth antenna are positioned adjacent a second edge of the base, wherein the first antenna is offset along the first edge relative to the second antenna, and wherein the third antenna is offset along the second edge relative to the fourth antenna.

[0292] Clause 42. The antenna system of clause 41, wherein at least one of the first antenna or the second antenna faces in a first direction away from the first edge and towards thesecond edge, and wherein at least one of the third antenna or the fourth antenna faces in a second direction away from the second edge and towards the first edge, the first direction opposite the second direction.

[0293] Clause 43. The antenna system of clause 41, wherein the first antenna faces the third antenna, and the second antenna faces the fourth antenna.

[0294] Clause 44. An antenna system, comprising: an electrically conductive base; a cover configured to be coupled to the electrically conductive base to define an internal volume therebetween; and a multi-element multi-band antenna comprising: one or more multi-band radiator portions, each multi-band radiator portion comprising: a three-dimensional radiating element; and a ground connection, the ground connection configured to electrically connect the three-dimensional radiating element to the electrically conductive base; and one or more Wi-Fi radiating elements.

[0295] Clause 45. The antenna system of clause 44, wherein the one or more Wi-Fi radiating elements comprise monopole antennas and the one or more multi-band radiator portions comprise three-dimensional inverted F antennas.

[0296] Clause 46. The antenna system of clause 44, wherein each three-dimensional radiating element comprises: an upright portion; a head portion extending from a top side of the upright portion; a left arm extending from a left side of the upright portion; and a right arm extending from a right side of the upright portion.

[0297] Clause 47. The antenna system of clause 46, wherein the upright portion is configured as a first resonating component, the head portion is configured as a second resonating component, the left arm is configured as a third resonating component, and the right arm is configured a fourth resonating component.

[0298] Clause 48. The antenna system of clause 47, wherein the first resonating component and the second resonating component are configured to resonate within a low- frequency band approximately between 600 MHz and 1 GHz during use, and the third resonating component and the fourth resonating component are configured to resonate within a mid-frequency band approximately between 1.7 GHz and 2.7 GHz during use.

[0299] Clause 49. The antenna system of clause 46, wherein the upright portion comprises a slot extending through the upright portion, the slot configured to receive a projection of the ground connection, wherein an electrical connection is created between the three-dimensional radiating element and the ground connection when the projection is received within the slot.

[0300] Clause 50. The antenna system of clause 46, wherein the left arm comprises a first left arm portion and a second left arm portion and the right arm comprises a first right arm portion and a second right arm portion, the first left arm portion extending from the left side of the upright portion and the second left arm portion extending from the first left arm portion, the first right arm portion extending from the right side of the upright portion and the second right arm portion extending from the first right arm portion.

[0301] Clause 51. The antenna system of clause 50, wherein the second left arm portion extends substantially vertically from the first left arm portion relative to the electrically conductive base and the second right arm portion extends substantially vertically from the first right arm portion relative to the electrically conductive base.

[0302] Clause 52. The antenna system of clause 46, wherein the left arm and right arm are coupled to the upright portion by one or more connecting portions.

[0303] Clause 53. The antenna system of clause 46, wherein the upright portion comprises a front face, wherein the left arm extends from the upright portion at a first angle between 90 degrees and 180 degrees relative to the front face, wherein the right arm extends from the upright portion at a second angle between 90 degrees and 180 degrees relative to the front face.

[0304] Clause 54. The antenna system of clause 46, wherein the upright portion has a height to width ratio of 2:1 or greater.

[0305] Clause 55. The antenna system of clause 46, wherein a height of the upright portion is greater than a length of the head portion.

[0306] Clause 56. The antenna system of clause 44, wherein each Wi-Fi radiating element of the one or more Wi-Fi radiating elements comprises a conductive portion formed on a PCB portion.

[0307] Clause 57. The antenna system of clause 56, wherein the conductive portion has a generally rectangular shape and extends to a feed point at a bottom of the conductive portion.

[0308] Clause 58. The antenna system of clause 56, wherein the conductive portion comprises: a central conductive portion being generally T-shaped; a first arm; and a second arm.

[0309] Clause 59. The antenna system of clause 58, wherein the central conductive portion is configured to resonate within a mid-frequency band of approximately between 2.4 GHzand 2.5 GHz during use and the first arm and second arm are configured to resonate within a Wi- Fi-frequency band of approximately between 4.8 GHz and 7.25 GHz during use.

[0310] Clause 60. An antenna comprising a three-dimensional radiating element, the three-dimensional radiating element comprising: an upright portion; a head portion extending from a top side of the upright portion; a left arm comprising: a first left arm portion extending directly or indirectly from a left side of the upright portion; and a second left arm portion extending vertically from the first left arm portion; and a right arm comprising: a first right arm portion extending directly or indirectly from a right side of the upright portion; and a second right arm portion extending vertically from the first right arm portion.

[0311] Clause 61. The antenna of clause 60, wherein the upright portion and the head portion are configured to resonate within a low-frequency band approximately between 600 MHz and 1 GHz during use, and the left arm and the right arm are configured to resonate within a midfrequency band approximately between 1.7 GHz and 2.7 GHz during use.

[0312] Clause 62. The antenna of clause 60, wherein the upright portion has a height to width ratio of 2: 1 or greater.

[0313] Clause 63. The antenna of clause 60, wherein a height of the upright portion is greater than a length of the head portion.

[0314] Clause 64. An antenna comprising a multi-band radiating element.

[0315] Clause 65. The antenna of clause 64, further comprising a ground connection configured to be electrically and mechanically coupled to the multi-band radiating element.

[0316] Clause 66. The antenna of clause 64 or clause 65, wherein the multi-band radiating element comprises an upright portion.

[0317] Clause 67. The antenna of clause 66, wherein the ground connection is configured to be coupled to the upright portion along a central vertical axis of the upright portion.

[0318] Clause 68. The antenna of clause 66, wherein the ground connection is configured to be coupled to the upright portion between a central vertical axis of the upright portion and a left-side edge or a right-side edge of the upright portion.

[0319] Clause 69. The antenna of clause 67 or clause 68, wherein the upright portion comprises an opening for receiving a portion of the ground connection.

[0320] Clause 70. The antenna of clause 69, wherein the opening is a horizontal slot or a vertical slot.

[0321] Clause 71 . The antenna of clause 69 or clause 70, wherein the opening is located on a lower third of the upright portion.

[0322] Clause 72. The antenna of clause 69 or clause 70, wherein the opening is located on a lower half of the upright portion.

[0323] Clause 73. The antenna of clause 69 or clause 70, wherein the opening is located along a central horizontal axis of the upright portion.

[0324] Clause 74. The antenna of clause 69 or clause 70, wherein the opening is located on an upper half of the upright portion.

[0325] Clause 75. The antenna of any of clauses 66 to 74, wherein the upright portion has a height to width ratio of greater than 1 : 1.

[0326] Clause 76. The antenna of any of clauses 66 to 74, wherein the upright portion has a height to width ratio of 1.5 : 1 or greater.

[0327] Clause 77. The antenna of any of clauses 66 to 74, wherein the upright portion has a height to width ratio of 2: 1 or greater.

[0328] Clause 78. The antenna of any of clauses 66 to 74, wherein the upright portion has a height to width ratio of 2.5: 1 or greater.

[0329] Clause 79. The antenna of any of clauses 66 to 74, wherein the upright portion has a height to width ratio of 3 : 1 or greater.

[0330] Clause 80. The antenna of any of clauses 66 to 79, wherein the multi-band radiating element further comprises a head portion extending from a top side or a top edge of the upright portion.

[0331] Clause 81. The antenna of clause 80, wherein the head portion extends substantially perpendicularly to the upright portion.

[0332] Clause 82. The antenna of clause 80, wherein the head portion extends at a nonperpendicular angle relative to the upright portion.

[0333] Clause 83. The antenna of any of clauses 80 to 82, wherein a ratio between a height of the upright portion to a length of the head portion is 1 : 1 or greater.

[0334] Clause 84. The antenna of any of clauses 80 to 82, wherein a ratio between a height of the upright portion to a length of the head portion is 1.5:1 or greater.

[0335] Clause 85. The antenna of any of clauses 80 to 82, wherein a ratio between a height of the upright portion to a length of the head portion is 2: 1 or greater.

[0336] Clause 86. The antenna of any of clauses 80 to 82, wherein a ratio between a height of the upright portion to a length of the head portion is 2.5: 1 or greater.

[0337] Clause 87. The antenna of any of clauses 80 to 82, wherein a ratio between a height of the upright portion to a length of the head portion is 3 : 1 or greater.

[0338] Clause 88. The antenna of any of clauses 80 to 87, wherein the upright portion has a same width as the head portion.

[0339] Clause 89. The antenna of any of clauses 66 to 88, wherein the upright portion is configured as a first resonating component configured to resonate within a low-frequency band approximately between 600 MHz and 1 GHz during use.

[0340] Clause 90. The antenna of any of clauses 80 to 89, wherein the head portion is configured as a second resonating component configured to resonate within a low-frequency band approximately between 600 MHz and 1 GHz during use.

[0341] Clause 91. The antenna of any of clauses 66 to 90, wherein the multi-band radiating element further comprises one or more arms.

[0342] Clause 92. The antenna of clause 91, wherein the one or more arms are configured to resonate within a mid-frequency band approximately between 1.7 GHz and 2.7 GHz during use.

[0343] Clause 93. The antenna of clause 91 or clause 92, wherein the one or more arms comprise a right arm and a left arm, the right arm extending from a right side or a right edge of the upright portion, the left arm extending from a left side or a left edge of the upright portion.

[0344] Clause 94. The antenna of clause 93, wherein the left arm is configured as a third resonating component of the multi-band radiating element and the right arm is configured as a fourth resonating component of the multi-band radiating element.

[0345] Clause 95. The antenna of clause 93 or clause 94, wherein the left arm comprises a first left arm portion and a second left arm portion, the second left arm portion extending from the first left arm portion, and wherein the right arm comprises a first right arm portion and a second right arm portion, the second right arm portion extending from the first right arm portion.

[0346] Clause 96. The antenna of clause 95, wherein the first left arm portion extends from the left edge of the upright portion and the first right arm portion extends from the right edge of the upright portion.

[0347] Clause 97. The antenna of clause 95, wherein the first left arm portion extends from a first connecting portion extending from the left edge of the upright portion and the first right arm portion extends a second connecting portion extending from the right edge of the upright portion.

[0348] Clause 98. The antenna of any of clauses 95 to 97, wherein the second left arm portion extends substantially vertically from the first left arm portion and the second right arm portion extends substantially vertically from the first right arm portion.

[0349] Clause 99. The antenna of any of clauses 93 to 98, wherein the upright portion comprises a front face, wherein the left arm extends from the upright portion at a first angle between 90 degrees and 180 degrees relative to the front face, wherein the right arm extends from the upright portion at a second angle between 90 degrees and 180 degrees relative to the front face.

[0350] Clause 100. The antenna of any of clauses 93 to 98, wherein the upright portion comprises a front face, wherein the left arm and the right arm extend at 90-degree angles relative to the front face.

[0351] Clause 101. The antenna of any of clauses 95 to 100, wherein the first left arm portion and the first right arm portion extend at an angle less than 90 degrees from the upright portion in a direction towards the head portion.

[0352] Clause 102. The antenna of any of clauses 64 to 101, wherein the antenna comprises a three-dimensional inverted F antenna.

[0353] Clause 103. An antenna system comprising: a base; a cover configured to be coupled to the base to define an internal volume therebetween; and a first antenna comprising the antenna as defined by any of clauses 64 to 102 housed within the internal volume.

[0354] Clause 104. The antenna system of clause 103, wherein the base is electrically conductive.

[0355] Clause 105. The antenna system of clause 103 or clause 104, further comprising one or more radiating elements.

[0356] Clause 106. The antenna system of any of clauses 103 to 105, further comprising: a multi-element multi-band antenna housed within the internal volume, the multielement multi-band antenna comprising: the first antenna; and a second antenna comprising the antenna as defined by any of clauses 64 to 102.

[0357] Clause 107. The antenna system of clause 106, wherein the first antenna is positioned adjacent a first edge of the base and the second antenna is positioned adjacent a second edge of the base, the first antenna facing in a first direction away from the first edge and towards the second edge, the second antenna facing in a second direction away from the second edge and towards the first edge, the first direction opposite the second direction.

[0358] Clause 108. The antenna system of clause 107, wherein the first antenna is offset from the second antenna along a long axis of the base such that the first antenna does not face the second antenna.

[0359] Clause 109. The antenna system of clause 106, wherein the multi-element multi-band antenna further comprises: a third antenna comprising the antenna as defined by any of clauses 64 to 102; and a fourth antenna comprising the antenna as defined by any of clauses 64 to 102.

[0360] Clause 110. The antenna system of clause 109, wherein the first antenna and the second antenna are positioned adjacent a first edge of the base and the third antenna and the fourth antenna are positioned adjacent a second edge of the base, the first antenna offset along the first edge relative to the second antenna, the third antenna offset along the second edge relative to the fourth antenna.

[0361] Clause 111. The antenna system of clause 110, wherein at least one of the first antenna or the second antenna faces in a first direction away from the first edge and towards the second edge, and wherein at least one of the third antenna or the fourth antenna faces in a second direction away from the second edge and towards the first edge, the first direction opposite the second direction.

[0362] Clause 112. The antenna system of clause 110 or clause 111, wherein the first antenna faces the third antenna, and the second antenna faces the fourth antenna.

[0363] Clause 113. The antenna system of clause 110 or clause 111, wherein the first antenna is offset from the third antenna along a long axis of the base such that the first antenna does not face the third antenna, and wherein the second antenna is offset from the fourth antenna along a long axis of the base such that the second antenna does not face the fourth antenna.

[0364] Clause 114. The antenna system of any of clause 103 to 105, further comprising: a multi-element multi-band antenna housed within the internal volume, the multi-element multi-band antenna comprising eight antennas, each antenna of the eight antennas comprising the antenna as defined by any of clauses 64 to 102, the eight antennas including the first antenna.

[0365] Clause 115. The antenna system of clause 114, wherein four antennas of the eight antennas are positioned adjacent a first edge of the base and four antennas of the eight antennas are positioned adjacent a second edge of the base.

[0366] Clause 116. The antenna system of clause 115, wherein the four antennas adjacent the first edge face in a first direction away from the first edge and towards the second edge, and wherein four antennas adjacent the second edge face in a second direction away from the second edge and towards the first edge, the first direction opposite the second direction.

[0367] Clause 117. The antenna system of clause 115 or clause 116, wherein the four antennas adjacent the first edge face the four antennas adjacent the second edge.

[0368] Clause 118. The antenna system of clause 115 or clause 116, wherein the four antennas adj cent the first edge are offset along a long axis of the base relative to the four antennas adjacent the second edge such that the four antennas adjacent the first edge do not face the four antennas adjacent the second edge.

[0369] Clause 119. The antenna system of any of clauses 106 to 118, wherein the multielement multi-band antenna further comprises a first radiating element.

[0370] Clause 120. The antenna system of clause 119, wherein the first radiating element is a monopole antenna.

[0371] Clause 121. The antenna system of clause 119 or clause 120, wherein the first radiating element is configured to resonate at frequencies above approximately 1 GHz.

[0372] Clause 122. The antenna system of any of clauses 119 to 121, wherein the first radiating element is configured to resonate at frequencies to support wireless communication protocols including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

[0373] Clause 123. The antenna system of any of clauses 119 to 122, wherein the first radiating element is configured to resonate at frequencies approximately between 2.3 GHz and 8 GHz during use.

[0374] Clause 124. The antenna system of any of clauses 119 to 123, wherein the first radiating element comprises a conductive portion formed on a PCB portion.

[0375] Clause 125. The antenna system of clause 124, wherein the conductive portion has a generally rectangular shape and extends to a feed point at a bottom of the conductive portion.

[0376] Clause 126. The antenna system of clause 124, wherein the conductive portion comprises: a central conductive portion being generally T-shaped; a first arm; and a second arm.

[0377] Clause 127. The antenna system of clause 126, wherein the central conductive portion is configured to resonate within a mid-frequency band of approximately between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz during use and the first arm and second arm are configured to resonate within a Wi- Fi-frequency band of approximately between 4.8 GHz and 7.25 GHz during use.

[0378] Clause 128. The antenna system of any of clauses 106 to 118, the multi-element multi-band antenna further comprises a plurality of radiating elements.

[0379] Clause 129. The antenna system of clause 128, wherein each radiating element of the plurality of radiating elements comprises the first radiating element as defined by any of clauses 76 to 82.

[0380] Clause 130. The antenna system of any of clauses 103 to 129, further comprising a GPS antenna housed within the internal volume.

[0381] Clause 131. An antenna system comprising: any of the features of any of clauses 1 to 130.Additional Considerations and Terminology

[0382] Features, materials, characteristics, or groups described in conjunction with a particular aspect, implementation, or example are to be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, implementation or example described herein unless incompatible therewith. All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features or steps are mutually exclusive. The protection is not restricted to the details of any foregoing implementations. The protection extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

[0383] While certain implementations have been described, these implementations have been presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection. Indeed, the novel methods and systems described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions and changes in the form of the methods andsystems described herein may be made. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that in some implementations, the actual steps taken in the processes illustrated or disclosed may differ from those shown in the figures. Depending on the implementation, certain of the steps described above may be removed, others may be added. For example, the actual steps or order of steps taken in the disclosed processes may differ from those shown in the figure. Depending on the implementation, certain of the steps described above may be removed, others may be added. Furthermore, the features and attributes of the specific implementations disclosed above may be combined in different ways to form additional implementations, all of which fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0384] Although the present disclosure includes certain implementations, examples and applications, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present disclosure extends beyond the specifically disclosed implementations to other alternative implementations or uses and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof, including implementations which do not provide all of the features and advantages set forth herein. Accordingly, the scope of the present disclosure is not intended to be limited by the described implementations, and may be defined by claims as presented herein or as presented in the future.

[0385] Conditional language, such as “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain implementations include, while other implementations do not include, certain features, elements, or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, or steps are in any way required for one or more implementations or that one or more implementations necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements, or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular implementation. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and the like are synonymous and are used inclusively, in an open-ended fashion, and do not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations, and so forth. Also, the term “or” is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list. Likewise, the term “and / or” in reference to a list of two or more items, covers all of the following interpretations of the word: any one of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list. Further, the term “each,” as used herein, in addition to having its ordinarymeaning, can mean any subset of a set of elements to which the term “each” is applied.Additionally, the words “herein,” “above,” “below,” and words of similar import, when used in this application, refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular portions of this application.

[0386] Conjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may be either X, Y, or Z. Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certain implementations require the presence of at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z.

[0387] Language of degree used herein, such as the terms “approximately,” “about,” “generally,” and “substantially” as used herein represent a value, amount, or characteristic close to the stated value, amount, or characteristic that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the terms “approximately”, “about”, “generally,” and “substantially” may refer to an amount that is within less than 10% of, within less than 5% of, within less than 1% of, within less than 0.1% of, and within less than 0.01% of the stated amount. As another example, in certain implementations, the terms “generally parallel” and “substantially parallel” refer to a value, amount, or characteristic that departs from exactly parallel by less than or equal to 15 degrees, 10 degrees, 5 degrees, 3 degrees, 1 degree, or 0.1 degree.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An antenna, comprising: a three-dimensional radiating element comprising: an upright portion; a head portion extending from a top side of the upright portion; a left arm extending from a left side of the upright portion; and a right arm extending from a right side of the upright portion; and a ground connection configured to be coupled to the upright portion between a central vertical axis of the upright portion and the left side or the right side, such that the ground connection is not coupled at the central vertical axis.

2. The antenna of claim 1, wherein the upright portion comprises a slot extending through the upright portion, the slot configured to receive a projection of the ground connection, wherein an electrical connection is created between the three-dimensional radiating element and the ground connection when the projection is received within the slot.

3. The antenna of claim 1, wherein the upright portion is configured as a first resonating component, the head portion is configured as a second resonating component, the left arm is configured as a third resonating component, and the right arm is configured a fourth resonating component.

4. The antenna of claim 3, wherein the first resonating component and the second resonating component are configured to resonate within a low-frequency band approximately between 600 MHz and 1 GHz during use, and the third resonating component and the fourth resonating component are configured to resonate within a mid-frequency band approximately between 1.7 GHz and 2.7 GHz during use.

5. The antenna of claim 3, wherein the left arm comprises a first left arm portion and a second left arm portion and the right arm comprises a first right arm portion and a second right arm portion, the first left arm portion extending from the left side of the upright portion and the second left arm portion extending from the first left arm portion, the first right arm portion extending from the right side of the upright portion and the second right arm portion extending from the first right arm portion.

6. The antenna of claim 5, wherein the second left arm portion extends substantially vertically from the first left arm portion and the second right arm portion extends substantially vertically from the first right arm portion.

7. The antenna of claim 3, wherein the left arm and right arm are coupled to the upright portion by one or more connecting portions.

8. The antenna of claim 3, wherein the upright portion comprises a front face, wherein the left arm extends from the upright portion at a first angle between 90 degrees and 180 degrees relative to the front face, wherein the right arm extends from the upright portion at a second angle between 90 degrees and 180 degrees relative to the front face.

9. The antenna of claim 1, wherein the upright portion has a height to width ratio of 2: 1 or greater.

10. The antenna of claim 1, wherein a height of the upright portion is greater than a length of the head portion.

11. An antenna system, comprising: a base; a cover configured to be coupled to the base to define an internal volume therebetween; and a multi-element multi-band antenna housed within the internal volume and comprising: a first antenna as defined by the antenna of claim 1.

12. The antenna system of claim 11, wherein the multi-element multi-band antenna further comprises one or more radiating elements configured to resonate at frequencies to support wireless communication protocols including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

13. The antenna system of claim 11, wherein the multi-element multi -band antenna further comprises: a second antenna as defined by the antenna of claim 1; a third antenna as defined by the antenna of claim 1; and a fourth antenna as defined by the antenna of claim 1, wherein the first antenna and the second antenna are positioned adjacent a first edge of the base and the third antenna and the fourth antenna are positioned adjacent a second edge of the base, wherein the first antenna is offset along the first edge relative to the secondantenna, and wherein the third antenna is offset along the second edge relative to the fourth antenna.

14. The antenna system of claim 13, wherein at least one of the first antenna or the second antenna faces in a first direction away from the first edge and towards the second edge, and wherein at least one of the third antenna or the fourth antenna faces in a second direction away from the second edge and towards the first edge, the first direction opposite the second direction.

15. The antenna system of claim 13, wherein the first antenna faces the third antenna, and the second antenna faces the fourth antenna.

16. An antenna system, comprising: an electrically conductive base; a cover configured to be coupled to the electrically conductive base to define an internal volume therebetween; and a multi-element multi-band antenna comprising: one or more multi-band radiator portions, each multi-band radiator portion comprising: a three-dimensional radiating element; and a ground connection, the ground connection configured to electrically connect the three-dimensional radiating element to the electrically conductive base; and one or more Wi-Fi radiating elements.

17. The antenna system of claim 16, wherein the one or more Wi-Fi radiating elements comprise monopole antennas and the one or more multi-band radiator portions comprise three- dimensional inverted F antennas.

18. The antenna system of claim 16, wherein each three-dimensional radiating element comprises: an upright portion; a head portion extending from a top side of the upright portion; a left arm extending from a left side of the upright portion; and a right arm extending from a right side of the upright portion.

19. The antenna system of claim 18, wherein the upright portion is configured as a first resonating component, the head portion is configured as a second resonating component, the leftarm is configured as a third resonating component, and the right arm is configured a fourth resonating component.

20. The antenna system of claim 19, wherein the first resonating component and the second resonating component are configured to resonate within a low-frequency band approximately between 600 MHz and 1 GHz during use, and the third resonating component and the fourth resonating component are configured to resonate within a mid-frequency band approximately between 1.7 GHz and 2.7 GHz during use.

21. The antenna system of claim 18, wherein the upright portion comprises a slot extending through the upright portion, the slot configured to receive a projection of the ground connection, wherein an electrical connection is created between the three-dimensional radiating element and the ground connection when the projection is received within the slot.

22. The antenna system of claim 18, wherein the left arm comprises a first left arm portion and a second left arm portion and the right arm comprises a first right arm portion and a second right arm portion, the first left arm portion extending from the left side of the upright portion and the second left arm portion extending from the first left arm portion, the first right arm portion extending from the right side of the upright portion and the second right arm portion extending from the first right arm portion.

23. The antenna system of claim 22, wherein the second left arm portion extends substantially vertically from the first left arm portion relative to the electrically conductive base and the second right arm portion extends substantially vertically from the first right arm portion relative to the electrically conductive base.

24. The antenna system of claim 18, wherein the left arm and right arm are coupled to the upright portion by one or more connecting portions.

25. The antenna system of claim 18, wherein the upright portion comprises a front face, wherein the left arm extends from the upright portion at a first angle between 90 degrees and 180 degrees relative to the front face, wherein the right arm extends from the upright portion at a second angle between 90 degrees and 180 degrees relative to the front face.

26. The antenna system of claim 18, wherein the upright portion has a height to width ratio of 2: 1 or greater.

27. The antenna system of claim 18, wherein a height of the upright portion is greater than a length of the head portion.

28. The antenna system of claim 16, wherein each Wi-Fi radiating element of the one or more Wi-Fi radiating elements comprises a conductive portion formed on a PCB portion.

29. The antenna system of claim 28, wherein the conductive portion has a generally rectangular shape and extends to a feed point at a bottom of the conductive portion.

30. The antenna system of claim 28, wherein the conductive portion comprises: a central conductive portion being generally T-shaped; a first arm; and a second arm.

31. The antenna system of claim 30, wherein the central conductive portion is configured to resonate within a mid-frequency band of approximately between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz during use and the first arm and second arm are configured to resonate within a Wi-Fi -frequency band of approximately between 4.8 GHz and 7.25 GHz during use.

32. An antenna comprising a three-dimensional radiating element, the three-dimensional radiating element comprising: an upright portion; a head portion extending from a top side of the upright portion; a left arm comprising: a first left arm portion extending directly or indirectly from a left side of the upright portion; and a second left arm portion extending vertically from the first left arm portion; and a right arm comprising: a first right arm portion extending directly or indirectly from a right side of the upright portion; and a second right arm portion extending vertically from the first right arm portion.

33. The antenna of claim 32, wherein the upright portion and the head portion are configured to resonate within a low-frequency band approximately between 600 MHz and 1 GHz during use, and the left arm and the right arm are configured to resonate within a mid-frequency band approximately between 1.7 GHz and 2.7 GHz during use.

34. The antenna of claim 32, wherein the upright portion has a height to width ratio of 2: 1 or greater.

35. The antenna of claim 32, wherein a height of the upright portion is greater than a length of the head portion.

36. An antenna comprising a multi-band radiating element.

37. The antenna of claim 36, further comprising a ground connection configured to be electrically and mechanically coupled to the multi-band radiating element.

38. The antenna of claim 36 or claim 37, wherein the multi -band radiating element comprises an upright portion.

39. The antenna of claim 38, wherein the ground connection is configured to be coupled to the upright portion along a central vertical axis of the upright portion.

40. The antenna of claim 38, wherein the ground connection is configured to be coupled to the upright portion between a central vertical axis of the upright portion and a left-side edge or a right-side edge of the upright portion.

41. The antenna of claim 39 or claim 40, wherein the upright portion comprises an opening for receiving a portion of the ground connection.

42. The antenna of claim 41, wherein the opening is a horizontal slot or a vertical slot.

43. The antenna of claim 41 or claim 42, wherein the opening is located on a lower third of the upright portion.

44. The antenna of claim 41 or claim 42, wherein the opening is located on a lower half of the upright portion.

45. The antenna of claim 41 or claim 42, wherein the opening is located along a central horizontal axis of the upright portion.

46. The antenna of claim 41 or claim 42, wherein the opening is located on an upper half of the upright portion.

47. The antenna of any of claims 38 to 46, wherein the upright portion has a height to width ratio of greater than 1 : 1.

48. The antenna of any of claims 38 to 46, wherein the upright portion has a height to width ratio of 1.5 : 1 or greater.

49. The antenna of any of claims 38 to 46, wherein the upright portion has a height to width ratio of 2: 1 or greater.

50. The antenna of any of claims 38 to 46, wherein the upright portion has a height to width ratio of 2.5 : 1 or greater.

51. The antenna of any of claims 38 to 46, wherein the upright portion has a height to width ratio of 3 : 1 or greater.

52. The antenna of any of claims 38 to 51, wherein the multi -band radiating element further comprises a head portion extending from a top side or a top edge of the upright portion.

53. The antenna of claim 52, wherein the head portion extends substantially perpendicularly to the upright portion.

54. The antenna of claim 52, wherein the head portion extends at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the upright portion.

55. The antenna of any of claims 52 to 54, wherein a ratio between a height of the upright portion to a length of the head portion is 1 : 1 or greater.

56. The antenna of any of claims 52 to 54, wherein a ratio between a height of the upright portion to a length of the head portion is 1.5: 1 or greater.

57. The antenna of any of claims 52 to 54, wherein a ratio between a height of the upright portion to a length of the head portion is 2: 1 or greater.

58. The antenna of any of claims 52 to 54, wherein a ratio between a height of the upright portion to a length of the head portion is 2.5: 1 or greater.

59. The antenna of any of claims 52 to 54, wherein a ratio between a height of the upright portion to a length of the head portion is 3: 1 or greater.

60. The antenna of any of claims 52 to 59, wherein the upright portion has a same width as the head portion.

61. The antenna of any of claims 38 to 60, wherein the upright portion is configured as a first resonating component configured to resonate within a low-frequency band approximately between 600 MHz and 1 GHz during use.

62. The antenna of any of claims 52 to 61, wherein the head portion is configured as a second resonating component configured to resonate within a low-frequency band approximately between 600 MHz and 1 GHz during use.

63. The antenna of any of claims 38 to 62, wherein the multi -band radiating element further comprises one or more arms.

64. The antenna of claim 63, wherein the one or more arms are configured to resonate within a mid-frequency band approximately between 1.7 GHz and 2.7 GHz during use.

65. The antenna of claim 63 or claim 64, wherein the one or more arms comprise a right arm and a left arm, the right arm extending from a right side or a right edge of the upright portion, the left arm extending from a left side or a left edge of the upright portion.

66. The antenna of claim 65, wherein the left arm is configured as a third resonating component of the multi-band radiating element and the right arm is configured as a fourth resonating component of the multi-band radiating element.

67. The antenna of claim 65 or claim 66, wherein the left arm comprises a first left arm portion and a second left arm portion, the second left arm portion extending from the first left arm portion, and wherein the right arm comprises a first right arm portion and a second right arm portion, the second right arm portion extending from the first right arm portion.

68. The antenna of claim 67, wherein the first left arm portion extends from the left edge of the upright portion and the first right arm portion extends from the right edge of the upright portion.

69. The antenna of claim 67, wherein the first left arm portion extends from a first connecting portion extending from the left edge of the upright portion and the first right arm portion extends a second connecting portion extending from the right edge of the upright portion.

70. The antenna of any of claims 67 to 69, wherein the second left arm portion extends substantially vertically from the first left arm portion and the second right arm portion extends substantially vertically from the first right arm portion.

71. The antenna of any of claims 65 to 70, wherein the upright portion comprises a front face, wherein the left arm extends from the upright portion at a first angle between 90 degrees and 180 degrees relative to the front face, wherein the right arm extends from the upright portion at a second angle between 90 degrees and 180 degrees relative to the front face.

72. The antenna of any of claims 65 to 70, wherein the upright portion comprises a front face, wherein the left arm and the right arm extend at 90-degree angles relative to the front face.

73. The antenna of any of claims 67 to 72, wherein the first left arm portion and the first right arm portion extend at an angle less than 90 degrees from the upright portion in a direction towards the head portion.

74. The antenna of any of claims 36 to 73, wherein the antenna comprises a three- dimensional inverted F antenna.

75. An antenna system comprising: a base; a cover configured to be coupled to the base to define an internal volume therebetween; and a first antenna comprising the antenna as defined by any of claims 36 to 74 housed within the internal volume.

76. The antenna system of claim 75, wherein the base is electrically conductive.

77. The antenna system of claim 75 or claim 76, further comprising one or more radiating elements.

78. The antenna system of any of claims 75 to 77, further comprising: a multi-element multi-band antenna housed within the internal volume, the multielement multi-band antenna comprising: the first antenna; and a second antenna comprising the antenna as defined by any of claims 36 to 74.

79. The antenna system of claim 78, wherein the first antenna is positioned adjacent a first edge of the base and the second antenna is positioned adjacent a second edge of the base, the first antenna facing in a first direction away from the first edge and towards the second edge, the second antenna facing in a second direction away from the second edge and towards the first edge, the first direction opposite the second direction.

80. The antenna system of claim 79, wherein the first antenna is offset from the second antenna along a long axis of the base such that the first antenna does not face the second antenna.

81. The antenna system of claim 78, wherein the multi-element multi -band antenna further comprises: a third antenna comprising the antenna as defined by any of claims 36 to 74; and a fourth antenna comprising the antenna as defined by any of claims 36 to 74.

82. The antenna system of claim 81, wherein the first antenna and the second antenna are positioned adjacent a first edge of the base and the third antenna and the fourth antenna arepositioned adjacent a second edge of the base, the first antenna offset along the first edge relative to the second antenna, the third antenna offset along the second edge relative to the fourth antenna.

83. The antenna system of claim 82, wherein at least one of the first antenna or the second antenna faces in a first direction away from the first edge and towards the second edge, and wherein at least one of the third antenna or the fourth antenna faces in a second direction away from the second edge and towards the first edge, the first direction opposite the second direction.

84. The antenna system of claim 82 or claim 83, wherein the first antenna faces the third antenna, and the second antenna faces the fourth antenna.

85. The antenna system of claim 82 or claim 83, wherein the first antenna is offset from the third antenna along a long axis of the base such that the first antenna does not face the third antenna, and wherein the second antenna is offset from the fourth antenna along a long axis of the base such that the second antenna does not face the fourth antenna.

86. The antenna system of any of claim 75 to 77, further comprising: a multi-element multi-band antenna housed within the internal volume, the multielement multi-band antenna comprising eight antennas, each antenna of the eight antennas comprising the antenna as defined by any of claims 36 to 74, the eight antennas including the first antenna.

87. The antenna system of claim 86, wherein four antennas of the eight antennas are positioned adjacent a first edge of the base and four antennas of the eight antennas are positioned adjacent a second edge of the base.

88. The antenna system of claim 87, wherein the four antennas adjacent the first edge face in a first direction away from the first edge and towards the second edge, and wherein four antennas adjacent the second edge face in a second direction away from the second edge and towards the first edge, the first direction opposite the second direction.

89. The antenna system of claim 87 or claim 88, wherein the four antennas adjacent the first edge face the four antennas adjacent the second edge.

90. The antenna system of claim 87 or claim 88, wherein the four antennas adjacent the first edge are offset along a long axis of the base relative to the four antennas adjacent the second edge such that the four antennas adjacent the first edge do not face the four antennas adjacent the second edge.

91. The antenna system of any of claims 78 to 90, wherein the multi-element multi-band antenna further comprises a first radiating element.

92. The antenna system of claim 91, wherein the first radiating element is a monopole antenna.

93. The antenna system of claim 91 or claim 92, wherein the first radiating element is configured to resonate at frequencies above approximately 1 GHz.

94. The antenna system of any of claims 91 to 93, wherein the first radiating element is configured to resonate at frequencies to support wireless communication protocols including WiFi and Bluetooth.

95. The antenna system of any of claims 91 to 94, wherein the first radiating element is configured to resonate at frequencies approximately between 2.3 GHz and 8 GHz during use.

96. The antenna system of any of claims 91 to 95, wherein the first radiating element comprises a conductive portion formed on a PCB portion.

97. The antenna system of claim 96, wherein the conductive portion has a generally rectangular shape and extends to a feed point at a bottom of the conductive portion.

98. The antenna system of claim 96, wherein the conductive portion comprises: a central conductive portion being generally T-shaped; a first arm; and a second arm.

99. The antenna system of claim 98, wherein the central conductive portion is configured to resonate within a mid-frequency band of approximately between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz during use and the first arm and second arm are configured to resonate within a Wi-Fi -frequency band of approximately between 4.8 GHz and 7.25 GHz during use.

100. The antenna system of any of claims 78 to 90, the multi-element multi -band antenna further comprises a plurality of radiating elements.

101. The antenna system of claim 100, wherein each radiating element of the plurality of radiating elements comprises the first radiating element as defined by any of claims 76 to 82.

102. The antenna system of any of claims 75 to 101, further comprising a GPS antenna housed within the internal volume.

103. An antenna system comprising: any of the features of any of claims 1 to 102.

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