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 upright portion has a width and a height, with the width being greater than the height. The head portion extends from a top side of the upright portion. The head portion has a length that is greater than the height of the upright portion. The left arm extends from the left side of the upright portion. The right arm extends from the right side of the upright portion. The ground connection is configured to be coupled to the upright portion. The antenna can be included in an antenna system and supported by one or more internal ground planes. The antenna system including one or more of the antennas can produce a directional radiation pattern.

Description

ANTENNA SYSTEMSINCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO ANY PRIORITY APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority benefit to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 778,314, filed March 26, 2025, entitled “ANTENNA SYSTEMS”, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 756,768, filed February 10, 2025, entitled “ANTENNA SYSTEMS”, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 676,268, filed July 26, 2024, entitled “ANTENNA SYSTEMS”, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 638,330, filed April 24, 2024, entitled “ANTENNA SYSTEMS”. The present application is also a continuation-in-part of PCT Application No. US2025 / 025639, filed April 21, 2025, entitled “ANTENNA SYSTEMS”. The present application is also a continuation-in-part of PCT Application No. US2024 / 048705, filed September 26, 2024, entitled “ANTENNA SYSTEMS”. The present application is also a continuation-in-part of PCT Application No. US2024 / 048461, filed September 25, 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”. 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, 3 GPP 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 fortransmitting 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 devices compete 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 upright portion has width and a height, with the width being greater than the height. Thehead portion extends from a top side of the upright portion. The head portion has a length that is greater than the height of the upright portion. The left arm extends from the left side of the upright portion. The right arm extends from the right side of the upright portion. The ground connection is configured to be coupled to the upright portion.

[0006] In some implementations, the antenna can be included in an antenna system. The antenna system can include one or more internal ground planes. The one or more internal ground planes can support one or more than one of the antennas. The antenna system can be configured to be mounted or deployed in a vertical position. The antenna system including one or more of the antennas can produce a directional radiation pattern. The antenna system can 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.

[0007] 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.

[0008] 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.

[0009] 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 in various 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.

[0010] 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

[0011] 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:

[0012] Figure 1A illustrates a front perspective view of an antenna assembly, in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure.

[0013] Figure IB illustrates a back perspective view of the antenna assembly of Figure 1A, in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure.

[0014] Figures 1C-1F illustrate a front view, a back view, a first side view, and a second side view respectively of the antenna assembly of Figure 1A, in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure.

[0015] Figure 2 A illustrates a front perspective view of the antenna assembly of Figure1A with the cover removed, in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure.

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

[0017] Figures 3A and 3B illustrate front and back isolation views respectively of a first ground plane of the antenna assembly of Figure 1A, in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure.

[0018] Figures 3C and 3D illustrate front and back isolation views respectively of a second ground plane of the antenna assembly of Figure 1A, in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure.

[0019] Figures 4A-4H illustrate various views of components of an implementation of an antenna that can be included in any antenna assembly described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0020] Figure 5A illustrates a detail view of an antenna on a ground plane of the antenna assembly of Figure 1A, in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure.

[0021] Figure 5B illustrates a front detail view of a portion of the ground plane and feed line structure of Figures 3A-3D, in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure.

[0022] Figures 6A-6J illustrate various views of antennas on a ground plane that can be included in the antenna assembly of Figure 1A, in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure.

[0023] Figures 7A and 7B illustrate a front perspective view and a front view respectively of another implementation of an antenna assembly with the cover removed, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0024] Figures 8A and 8B illustrate a perspective view and a partial exploded view of a stacked patch antenna on a ground plane that can form part of the antenna assembly of Figure 7A, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0025] Figures 9A and 9B illustrate a front perspective view and a front view respectively of another implementation of an antenna assembly with the cover removed, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0026] Figure 10A illustrates a perspective view of antennas on a ground plane of the antenna assembly of Figure 9A, in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure.

[0027] Figure 10B illustrates a front view of the ground plane of Figure 10A, in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure.

[0028] Figures 11 A-l 1C illustrate partial-exploded views of the multi-element multiband antennas of Figures 1A, 7A, and 9A respectively in antenna cases, in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure.

[0029] Figure 12A illustrates a front perspective view of another implementation of an antenna assembly, in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure.

[0030] Figures 12B-12D illustrate a front view, a back view, and a side view respectively of the antenna assembly of Figure 12A, in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure.

[0031] Figure 13 A illustrates a front perspective view of the antenna assembly of Figure 12A with the cover removed, in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure.

[0032] Figure 13B illustrates a front view of the antenna assembly of Figure 12A with the cover removed, in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure.

[0033] Figures 14A and 14B illustrate front and back isolation views respectively of a ground plane of the antenna assembly of Figure 12A, in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure.

[0034] Figure 15A illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the ground plane of Figures 14A and 14B, in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure.

[0035] Figure 15B illustrates a top view of cables of the antenna assembly of Figure 12A coupled to the ground plane, in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure.

[0036] Figures 16A and 16B illustrate a front perspective view and a front view respectively of another implementation of an antenna assembly with the cover removed, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0037] Figures 17A and 17B illustrate perspective views of a radiating element and a portion of the ground plane of the antenna assembly of Figure 16 A, in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure.

[0038] Figures 18A and 18B illustrate front and back isolation views respectively of a ground plane of the antenna assembly of Figure 16A, in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure.

[0039] Figure 18C illustrates a front view of a portion of the ground plane of Figures 18A and 18B, in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure.

[0040] Figures 19A and 19B illustrate a front perspective view and a front view respectively of another implementation of an antenna assembly with the cover removed, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0041] Figures 20A and 20B illustrate front and back isolation views respectively of a ground plane of the antenna assembly of Figure 19A, in accordance with some aspects of the disclosure.

[0042] 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

[0043] 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 the developer’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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] The system and method in accordance with the present disclosure overcomes one or more of the above-discussed problems commonly associated with traditional antenna systems. In particular, the system of the present disclosure can be an antenna system that can include a radome and one or more formed multi-band radiating elements supported on printed circuit board (PCB) structures, formed sheet metal, or a combination thereof. The one or more multi-band radiating elements can be configured and adapted to be housed within the radome such that they are supported above a groundplane that may provide mechanical support as well as a ground reference for the radiating structures of the multi -band radiating elements. The PCB and / or sheet metal portions of the radiating element can be paired with a ground plane that permits a frequency range of approximately 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. In some implementations, the antenna system can include two, four, six, eight and / or the like radiating elements housed under one radome and a back cover, and can allow forthe antenna system to be compact, making it ideal for compact 3GPP or other telecommunication transmitters. These and other unique features of the system are discussed below and illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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 and IB illustrate a top perspective view and a bottom perspective view respectively of an antenna assembly that can include a multi-element multi -band antenna enveloped by a cover. Figures 1C- 6J illustrate various views of the antenna assembly of Figure 1A or components that can be included in the antenna assembly of Figure 1 A, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure. Figures 7A-8B illustrate various views of another implementation of an antenna assembly and associated components, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure. Figures 9A-10B illustrate various views of another implementation of an antenna assembly and associated components, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure. Figures 11A-11C illustrate various implementations of case antennas, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure. Figures 12A-15B illustrate various views of another implementation of an antenna assembly andassociated components, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure. Figures 16A-18C illustrate various views of another implementation of an antenna assembly and associated components, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure. Figures 19A-20B illustrate various views of another implementation of an antenna assembly and associated components, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0048] According to some embodiments, features and aspects of this disclosure, a multi-band antenna system can be or can include a multi-band monopole and / or 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 or more radiating elements that can be configured and adapted to be used for communication between about 1 GHz to about 8 GHz. The antenna system can include one or more antennas / radiating elements that can be configured and adapted to be used for communication between about 450 MHz to about 8 GHz. The antenna assembly can include one or more radiating element(s) that can be configured and adapted to be used for communication between about 600 MHz to about 7.25 GHz. In some embodiments, one or more of the radiating elements can be similar in nature to what is commonly known as a monopole antenna. In some embodiments, the one or more of the radiating elements can be similar in nature to what is commonly known as a three-dimensional inverted F antenna. According to some embodiments, there may be two radiating elements, four radiating elements, six radiating elements, eight radiating elements, or some other number of radiating elements that can be configured and adapted, for instance by arraying together or some other RF technique, to be used for communication between about 450 MHz to about 8 GHz. The radiating elements may be similar in appearance and may be rotated in orientation to provide radiation in different polarizations with reference to the direction normal to the groundplane.

[0049] The components of the antenna system may be constructed and / or manufactured from various types of materials. The antennas may be constructed from one or more types of conductive and / or non-conductive materials. For example, the antennas may be constructed of PCB material, sheet metal, metalized plastic, or other such materials that can be configured and adapted to be used for communication between about 450 MHz to about 8 GHz.

[0050] The antenna system can include one or more groundplanes that may be constructed from one or more types of PCB material, sheet metal with non-conductive spacers of plastic, foam, ceramic, and / or metalized plastic. Transmission lines of the antenna system can be microstrip, stripline, conductor back co-planar waveguide, parallel plate waveguide, wire above a groundplane, coaxial cables or other such materials of construction that can be configured and adapted to be used for communication between about 450 MHz to about 8 GHz.

[0051] According to some embodiments, the non-conductive support portions and / or PCB portions of the groundplanes, radiating elements, and / or antennas can be made of FR4, fiberglass reinforced epoxy, polyester reinforced epoxy, or other similar PCB support material that can support electrically conductive features of one or more radiating portions for one or more elements on its structure on one or both side of the support material.

[0052] According to some embodiments, a tab and slot configuration in the PCB material can be used to mechanically locate the individual PCB portions, sheet metal portions, and / or other electromagnetic structures. When appropriate, in some embodiments, the tab and slot arrangements are then soldered. The soldering process can be used to provide a mechanical and electrical connection between the individual PCB portions. The sheet metal portion(s) may be supported with non-conductive material for the spacing and mechanical support between the sheet metal and the groundplane. In some embodiments, the etched electrically conducting features can be on one surface of the PCB support material. In other embodiments, both sides of the PCB support material are used for supporting the electrically conducting features. In other embodiments, sheet metal or other construction material that is electrically conductive that is supported by non-conductive material to support the electrically conducting features is used.

[0053] The antenna assembly can include a plurality of mechanical threaded fasteners that are not shown in all locations in the Figures for illustrative purposes. The fasteners can be used to firmly hold structures and components in place and in contact with one another. Some of the mechanical features of the antenna assembly can be formed with a heat staking process to couple different portions of the antenna system together. In some embodiments, the mechanical fasteners provide an important role in establishing and maintaining a direct electrical connection between two components. In other embodiments, the mechanical fasteners are used to establish firm contact between two surfaces that are electrically conductive. In some embodiments, the mechanical fasteners provide structural fastening between one or more components that havewholly non-conductive components. The use of mechanical threaded fasteners, heat stakes, keyhole slots, pressure sensitive adhesive, soldering, interlocking, and other coupling techniques may be utilized to couple portions of the multi-element multi-band antenna. These coupling techniques are used to firmly hold structures and components in place and in contact with one another.

[0054] In some embodiments, the radiating elements are electromagnetically excited by one or more coaxial transmission line(s) that are unique for each radiating element for its connection to the wireless radio. In other embodiments, the radiating elements are electromagnetically excited by one or more microstrip transmission lines, stripline transmission lines, conductor backed co-planar waveguide transmission lines, wires above a groundplane, or other suitable microwave or telecommunication transmission lines.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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, objects that have an electrical connection may also be mechanically connected as well due to the means by which the electrical connection is established.Dual-Internal Ground Plane Antenna Assemblies

[0057] With reference first to Figures 1A-1F, a front perspective view, a back perspective view, a front view, a back view, a first side view, and a second side view of an antennaassembly 100 are illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The antenna assembly can also be referred to herein as an “antenna system”. The antenna assembly 100 may include one or more antennas (e.g., antenna 1200). The antenna assembly 100 may include a multi-element multi-band antenna 102 (see e.g., Figure 2A). The multi-element multiband antenna 102 may be configured to provide wireless internet connectivity for a plurality of uses (e.g., data, voice communication, and / or the like).

[0058] The antenna assembly 100 may have particular benefits when used in places such as kiosks, exterior vertical surfaces of a building or structure, interior vertical surfaces of a building (e.g., an RF transparent window), roof top installations, 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. 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.

[0059] The antenna assembly 100 can include a first cover 104 and a second cover 106. The second cover 106 can be configured to be coupled to the first cover 104 to define an internal volume therebetween. The components of the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 may be concealed and / or secured within the internal volume between the first cover 104 and the second cover 106. The first cover 104 can be a radome, and may be referred to herein as “radome, “cover”, “front-cover” “non-conducive cover”, and / or the like. In the illustrated example, the second cover is configured as a back cover, and is referred to herein as such.

[0060] 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 antennas 1200. Each antenna 1200 can include a multi-band radiating element 1201 and a ground connection 1300, which are described further with reference to at least Figures 4A-4H. The antennas 1200 can be referred to herein as multi-band radiator portions.

[0061] In some implementations, the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 can include radiating elements / portions configured to radiate at specific frequency bands (e.g., including the antenna(s) 1200). For example, the radiating elements of the multi-element multi-band antenna 102 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.

[0062] With continued reference to Figures 1A-1F, 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. In the illustrated example, the side walls of the radome 104 include tapers and curves upwardly and away from the back cover 106 along the length of the back cover 106. Other suitable shapes can be used for the radome 104.

[0063] The radome 104 can be configured to be removably coupled to the back cover 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, in some use cases, the antenna assembly 100 can be mounted to a pole or vertical surface. Accordingly, the curved side walls of the radome 104 can encourage smooth airflow past the antenna assembly 100. For example, the antenna assembly 100 can have a low-profile design.

[0064] As shown in Figure ID, the back cover 106 of the antenna assembly 200 can have a substantially rectangular shape. The length and width of the back cover 106 can be variable, and can be selected for the desired use case, the expected operating conditions, the number of antennas / radiating elements included in the multi-element multi -band antenna 102, and / or the like.

[0065] In some implementations the back cover 106 and radome 104 can have a larger length than width. In some implementations, the back cover 106 can have a length of less than 24 inches (e.g., less than 24 inches, less than 22 inches, less than 20 inches, less than 18 inches, less than 16 inches, etc.). In some implementations the back cover 106 can have a width of less than 12 inches (e.g., less than 12 inches, less than 11 inches, less than 10 inches, less than 9 inches, etc ).

[0066] With reference to Figures IE and IF, 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 back cover 106 to the top of the radome 104 (e.g., not including the cable routing portions 108).

[0067] The antenna assembly 100 may have a smaller volume and profde when compared to other antenna systems. For example, antenna assembly 100 may have a cubic volume of about 480 cubic inches or less. In other examples, the antenna assembly 100 may have a cubic volume between 100 and 600 cubic inches (e.g., between 100 and 600 cubic inches, 200 and 550 cubic inches, 300 and 500 cubic inches, values between the foregoing, etc.).

[0068] The antenna assembly 100 can be an IP67-rated antenna. In some configurations, the antenna assembly 100 can be configured to be easy to install on kiosks, POTS replacement boxes, roof tops, and / or other equipment using a pole mount or wall mount.

[0069] As shown in at least Figures 1A and IB, in some implementations, the back cover 106 can be received within the radome 104 in the assembled antenna assembly 100, such that the back cover 106 is not visible or only a portion of the back cover 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 back cover 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.

[0070] As shown in Figures 1A-1F, the radome 104 can be positioned on the back cover 106 to secure the internal components of the antenna assembly 100, including the multielement multi -band 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 114 (see e.g., Figure IB) of the back cover 106 in the assembled configuration, and fasteners 116 (see e.g., Figure ID) can be positioned within the holes 114 to secure the radome 104 and the internal components of the multi-element multi-band antenna 102 to the back cover 106. For illustrative purposes, not all of the fastener holes 114 and fasteners 116 are shown and / or labeled in all Figures.

[0071] As shown in at least Figure IB, the back cover 106 can optionally include one or more cable routing portions 108. In the illustrated example, the back cover 106 includes two cable routing portions 108. The cable routing portions 108 can form part of the back cover 106 or can be coupled to the back cover 106.

[0072] Each cable routing portion 108 can include one or more cable openings 110. The cable openings 110 can be used to route cables (see e.g., coaxial cables 118 in at least Figures 2A and 2B) through the cable routing portions 108 and into the internal volume of the antenna assembly 100. The internal volume can be defined by the space between the radome 104 and back cover 106 that houses the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 and other components of the antenna assembly 100.

[0073] With continued reference to Figure IB, the antenna assembly 100 can optionally include one or more mounting portions 112. When included, the mounting portions 112 can be used to mount the antenna assembly 100 at a deployment location. Generally, the antenna assembly 100 is configured to be mounted in a vertical orientation (e.g., with a long axis of the back cover 106 being aligned with the vertical axis). For example, the back cover 106 can be coupled to a vertical support (e.g., via the mounting portions 112).

[0074] In the illustrated example, the mounting portions 112 are configured as worm clamps. For example, the clamps 112 can be used to mount the antenna assembly 100 to a pole. The mounting portions 112 can be coupled to the back cover 106. In other applications, the mounting portions 112 may be configured differently for different deployment sites. For example, fasters, hooks, threaded openings, and / or other conventional coupling mechanisms can be used to vertically or wall-mount the antenna assembly 100.

[0075] Referring now to Figures 2A and 2B, a front perspective view and a top view of an implementation of the antenna assembly 100 are shown respectively, with the radome 104 removed to expose the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 and the back cover 106. The antenna assembly 100 can include one or more internal ground planes 120. The one or more internal ground planes 120 can be supported by the back cover 106 within the internal volume of the antenna assembly 100.

[0076] In the illustrated configuration, the antenna assembly 100 includes a first internal ground plane 120A and a second internal ground plane 120B (collectively the “internal ground planes 120”). In other implementations, the antenna assembly 100 can include only thefirst internal ground plane 120A or only the second internal ground plane 120B and their associated components.

[0077] When two internal ground planes 120 are included, the internal ground planes 120 can be supported by the back cover 106. The first internal ground plane 120A can be positioned on a first side of the back cover 106 and the second internal ground plane 120B can be positioned on a second side of the back cover 106.

[0078] As shown in Figures 2A and 2B, in some implementations, a gap can be defined between the first internal ground plane 120A and the second internal ground plane 120B. The gap can be used to route coaxial cables 118 to the internal ground planes 120. For example, the coaxial cables 118 can extend through the cable routing portions 108 and into the internal volume to electrically connect to the multi-element multi-band antenna 102 via the internal ground planes 120.

[0079] In some implementations, the antenna assembly 100 can be deployed in a substantially vertical orientation, with the second internal ground plane 120B positioned above the first internal ground plane 120A relative to the vertical axis. As shown in Figure 2B, a central axis A-A of the first internal ground plane 120A and the second internal ground plane 120B can also define a central axis of the antenna assembly 100. When deployed in a vertical orientation, the central axis A-A can be aligned with the vertical axis.

[0080] The internal ground planes 120 can be constructed or configured in different manners, depending on the application. Each internal ground plane 120 can include a top side 122 and a bottom side 124. The top side 122 can be configured to support one or more antennas 1200 (e.g., which can form part of the multi-element multi-band antenna 102). For example, the antenna assembly 100 can include at least the first internal ground plane 120A supporting at least one antenna 1200.

[0081] In some implementations, the top side 122 can be a non-conductive surface and the bottom side 124 can be a conductive surface. The top surface can support at least one antenna 1200, which can be electrically connected to the bottom conductive surface.

[0082] In the illustrated example, the internal ground planes 120 comprises printed circuit board structures / portions (“PCBs”). A conductive ground plane can be defined on the front side 122 of the PCB, the back side 124 of the PCB, or both sides of the PCB. In this example, the conductive surface defining the ground reference is on the front side 122 and the back side 124 ofthe PCB structure with a transmission line formed into the PCB using standard practices by those skilled in the art. In other implementations, the internal ground planes 120 can be one or more portions of sheet metal or other suitable electrically conducting structures for the antenna assembly 100.

[0083] The multi-element multi -band antenna 102 of the antenna assembly 100 can include one or more radiating elements / portions. In the illustrated example, the multi-element multi-band antenna 102 includes eight antennas 1200. In other implementations, the multi-element multi-band antenna 102 can include more than or less than eight antennas 1200. For example, the antenna assembly 100 can be configured to function with as few as a single antenna 1200 or more than the eight antennas 1200 that are shown in Figures 2A and 2B. The antennas 1200 are described further below with reference to Figures 4A-4H.

[0084] In the illustrated example, the antenna assembly 100 includes eight antennas 1200 that are similar or identical to each other. In other implementations, different antennas can be included in the antenna assembly 100.

[0085] The antennas 1200 can be mechanically and electrically supported by the internal ground planes 120. The internal ground planes 120 in turn can be supported by the back cover 106. For example, the back cover 106 can include internal ribs or other structures (not shown) that support the internal ground planes 120. The back cover 106 can be constructed of a non-conductive material, in part due to the engagement between the back cover 106 and the internal ground planes 120.

[0086] As shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the antennas 1200 can have different rotational positions with respect to the internal ground planes 120. For example, the antennas 1200 may be rotated in orientation to provide radiation in different polarizations with reference to the direction normal to the ground planes 120. The orientation of the antennas 1200 may correspond with a 45- degree polarization with respect to vertical (or other types of polarizations as applicable).

[0087] Including the antennas 1200 in the multi -element multi -band antenna 102 can result in the multi-element multi-band antenna 102 having a directional radiation pattern. For example, the multi-element multi-band antenna 102 can be configured to produce a radiation pattern perpendicular to the internal ground planes 120. The directional radiation pattern can be desirable for wall mounted / vertically oriented antenna systems.

[0088] As shown in Figure 2B, the first internal ground plane 120A can support a first antenna 1200a, a second antenna 1200b, a third antenna 1200c, and a fourth antenna 1200d. The first antenna 1200a, the second antenna 1200b, the third antenna 1200c, and the fourth antenna 1200d are collectively referred to as the antennas 1200. The antennas 1200 can be supported by the top side 122 of the first internal ground plane 120A. In some cases, where the antenna assembly 100 only includes one internal ground plane (e.g., the first internal ground plane 120A), the four antennas 1200 supported by the first internal ground plane 120A can form the multi-element multiband antenna 102.

[0089] With continued reference to Figure 2B, the first antenna 1200a can be positioned in a first corner of the first internal ground plane 120A, the second antenna 1200b can be positioned in a second comer of the first internal ground plane 120A, the third antenna 1200c can be positioned in a third corner of the first internal ground plane 120A, and the fourth antenna 1200d can be positioned in a fourth corner of the first internal ground plane 120A. In the illustrated example, each of the antennas 1200 face inwardly towards a center of the first internal ground plane 120 A.

[0090] In other implementations, different rotational positions are possible. For example, the rotational positions of the antennas 1200 can be defined relative to the central axis A-A of the first internal ground plane 120A. For example, the first antenna 1200a can have a first rotational position, the second antenna 1200b can have a second rotational position, the third antenna 1200c can have a third rotational position, and the fourth antenna 1200d can have a fourth rotational position relative to the central axis A-A. In the illustrated example, the first, second, third, and fourth rotational positions are all different from each other, but this is not required.

[0091] In the illustrated example, the four rotational positions are all at 45-degrees relative to the central axis A-A of the internal ground plane. In other implementations, different rotational positions are utilized.

[0092] As noted above, the polarizations of the antennas 1200 can be defined by their rotational position relative to the central axis A-A. Different rotational positions can provide radiation in different polarizations with reference to the direction normal to the first internal ground plane 120A. Accordingly, the first antenna 1200a has a first polarization, the second antenna 1200b has a second polarization, the third antenna 1200c has a third polarization, and the fourth antenna 1200d have a fourth polarization.

[0093] In the illustrated example, the first antenna 1200a is cross polarized with the fourth antenna 1200d. Similarly, the second antenna 1200b is cross polarized with the third antenna 1200c. In other implementations, any or none of the antennas 1200 can be cross polarized with each other. In some cases, one or more of the antennas 1200 can be arrayed with each other, as described further herein, but such an arrangement is not required. In the illustrated example, the first antenna 1200a is co-polarized with the third antenna 1200c and the second antenna 1200b is co-polarized with the fourth antenna 1200d.

[0094] In some implementations, the energy emitted from antennas 1200 that are slanted clockwise 45 degrees relative to the vertical axis A-A (e.g., the first antenna 1200a and the third antenna 1200c) have very low correlation with the antennas 1200 that are slanted counterclockwise 45 degrees (e.g., second antenna 1200b and fourth antenna 1200d). This can be true of the basestation antennas as well. As such, the multi-element multi-band antenna 102 can perform at a very high level for connectivity and data rate.

[0095] In the example implementation, the antenna assembly 100 includes the second internal ground plane 120B, which can support four antennas 1200. For example, the antenna assembly 100 can include, and the second internal ground plane 120B can support, a fifth antenna 1200e, a sixth antenna 1200f, a seventh antenna 1200g, and an eighth antenna 1200h. The fifth antenna 1200e, the sixth antenna 1200f, the seventh antenna 1200g, and the eighth antenna 1200h are collectively referred to as the antennas 1200. The antennas 1200 can be supported by the top side 122 of the second internal ground plane 120B.

[0096] With continued reference to Figure 2B, the fifth antenna 1200e can be positioned in a first comer of the second internal ground plane 120B, the sixth antenna 1200f can be positioned in a second corner of the second internal ground plane 120B, the seventh antenna 1200g can be positioned in a third corner of the second internal ground plane 120B, and the eighth antenna 1200h can be positioned in a fourth corner of the second internal ground plane 120B. In the illustrated example, each of the antennas 1200 face inwardly towards a center of the second internal ground plane 120B.

[0097] In other implementations, different rotational positions are possible. For example, the rotational positions of the antennas 1200 supported by the second internal ground plane 120B can be defined relative to the central axis A-A of the second internal ground plane 120B. For example, the fifth antenna 1200e can have a fifth rotational position, the sixth antenna1200f can have a sixth rotational position, the seventh antenna 1200g can have a seventh rotational position, and the eighth antenna 1200h can have an eighth rotational position relative to the central axis A-A. In the illustrated example, the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth rotational positions are all different from each other, but this is not required. Due to the rotational positions, the fifth antenna 1200e has a fifth polarization, the sixth antenna 1200f has a sixth polarization, the seventh antenna 1200g has a seventh polarization, and the eighth antenna 1200h have an eighth polarization.

[0098] In the illustrated example, the four rotational positions are all at 45-degrees relative to the central axis A-A of the internal ground plane. In other implementations, different rotational positions are utilized.

[0099] In the illustrated example, the rotational positions of the antennas 1200 on the first internal ground plane 120A correspond to the rotational positions of the antennas 1200 on the second internal ground plane 120B. For example, the first rotational position is the same as the fifth rotational position, the second rotational position is the same as the sixth rotational position, the third rotational position is the same as the seventh rotational position, and the fourth rotational position is the same as the eighth rotational position. Accordingly, the first polarization is the same as the fifth polarization, the second polarization is the same as the sixth polarization, the third polarization is the same as the seventh polarization, and the fourth polarization is the same as the eighth polarization.

[0100] In the illustrated example, the fifth antenna 1200e is cross polarized with the eighth antenna 1200h. Similarly, the sixth antenna 1200f is cross polarized with the seventh antenna 1200g. In other implementations, any or none of the antennas 1200 can be cross polarized with each other. In some cases, one or more of the antennas 1200 can be arrayed with each other, as described further herein, but such an arrangement is not required.

[0101] In the illustrated example, the eight antennas 1200 form the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 of the antenna assembly 100. As discussed herein, the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 is configured to produce a radiation pattern perpendicular to the first internal ground plane 120A and the second internal ground plane 120B. In some implementations, the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 is configured 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.

[0102] In the illustrated example of Figures 2 A and 2B, each antenna 1200 is positioned near or adjacent the four corners of the ground planes 120. In this position, the antennas 1200 face inwardly. For example, antennas 1200 in opposite corners face each other. For example, each of the antennas 1200 may align with a degree of rotation to have each antenna 1200 facing a central point on the respective internal ground plane 120A, 120B. For example, the antennas 1200 may be positioned such that an axis normal to an upright portion (see e.g., upright portion 1225 in at least Figure 4B) points to the central point of the respective internal ground plane 120.

[0103] In the illustrated example, a substantial portion of each antenna 1200 may be positioned at an angle with respect to the other antennas 1200 on a respective ground plane 120. For example, each of the antennas 1200 may have an orientation at some angle different than the other antennas 1200 on the same ground plane 120. The orientation may be between approximately 0-15-degrees, 15-30-degrees, 30-45-degrees, 45-60-degrees, 60-75-degrees, 75-90-degrees, 90- 105-degrees, 105-120-degrees, 120-135-degrees, 135-150-degrees, 150-165-degrees, 165-180- degrees, 180-195-degrees, 195-210-degrees, 210-225-degrees, 225-240-degrees, 240-255- degrees, 255-270-degrees, 270-285-degrees, 285-300-degrees, 300-315-degrees, 315-330- degrees, 330-345-degrees, 345-360-degrees, or any angle at a degree within the angles disclosed herein, from any of the other antennas 1200.

[0104] Referring now to Figures 3A and 3B, a top view and a back view respectively of the first internal ground plane 120A are shown. Figures 3C and 3D illustrate a top view and a back view respectively of the second internal ground plane 120B. The ground planes 120 can serve as the ground reference(s) for the multi-element multi -band antenna 102. For example, the internal ground planes 120 can serve as electrical reference points for operation of the multi-element multiband antenna 102. In the illustrated configuration, the internal ground planes 120 establish surfaces for the telecommunication transmission lines from the radio to use it as a reference for continuation of the signal to the antennas 1200. The radio frequency transmission line technology that is used to establish the final portion of the RF transmission to the antennas 1200 may take many forms as described herein. In the illustrated implementation, the radio frequency transmission line can be incorporated into the construction of internal ground planes 120.

[0105] The internal ground planes 120 of the antenna assembly 100 can be constructed from PCB portions. The PCB portions can be square or rectangular shaped, in some implementations. In the illustrated example, the internal ground planes 120 are substantially squareshaped. In other implementations, such as when a single internal ground plane 120 is included, the internal ground plane 120 can be rectangularly shaped.

[0106] The internal ground planes 120 can include one or more than one feed lines / strips 126. In some cases, each of the ground planes 120 may include a feed strip 126 for each of the antennas 1200. In this manner, the feed strips 126 may take various paths to go from a feed port (e.g., an RF port 128) to the feed point for the antenna 1200. For example, where the internal ground plane 120 supports four antenna 1200, the internal ground plane 120 may include four feed strips 126.

[0107] Each of the feed strips 126 may travel from a feed port 128 positioned along an edge of the ground plane 120 to a feed point for a corresponding multi -band radiating element 1201 of the antenna 1200. The path each of the feed strips 126 travels may correspond with a placement of the radiating element 1201 and position of feeds. For example, the feed strips 126 may be positioned along a single edge of the ground planes 120.

[0108] In some implementations, the ground planes 120 can be rigid PCBs with independent conductor back co-planar waveguide transmission lines that are electrically coupled to individual multi-band radiating elements 1201 of the antennas 1200.

[0109] In some implementations, the multi-band radiating elements 1201 can be mechanically coupled to internal ground planes 120 through a plurality of electrically non- conductive connector / support portions (see e.g., the mounting portions 1202 and / or supports 1270 of Figures 4A and 4H). The connector / support portions 1202, 1270 can be secured with a heat staking process, in one example. The coupling of the connector / support portions 1202, 1270 may be accomplished with other manufacturing processes such as a snapping process, a threaded fastener process, a key hole process, an interference staking process, or other suitable mechanical coupling process.

[0110] With reference first to Figures 3 A and 3B, the first internal ground plane 120A is shown. Figure 3A shows a top side 122 of the first internal ground plane 120A and Figure 3B shows a bottom side 124 of the first internal ground plane 120A. The first internal ground plane 120A can be constructed from PCB. The top side 122 can be non-conductive (e.g., FR4). The bottom side 124, can be conductive (e.g., copper). The top side 122 can support the antennas 1200.[OHl] The first internal ground plane 120A can be supported by the back cover 106. In the illustrated embodiment, the first internal ground plane 120A includes a plurality of mountingholes 135, for coupling the first internal ground plane 120A to the back cover 106. For ease of illustration, not all mounting holes 135 are labeled in Figures 3 A and 3B. The mounting holes 135 can be positioned on both sides of the central axis A-A of the first internal ground plane 120A.

[0112] In one example, a heat staking process can be used to couple the first internal ground plane 120A to the back cover 106. In other example, a different coupling process can be used. For example, the coupling process could also be accomplished by a snapping process, a keyhole process, a threaded fastener process, an interference staking process, an adhesive process, or other suitable mechanical coupling process.

[0113] The first internal ground plane 120A can include one or more open reliefs 138. The open reliefs 138 can be cutouts or openings extending along the edges of the first internal ground plane 120A. The open reliefs 138 can allow for interference mitigation with the back cover 106. For example, the open reliefs 138 can allow the fasteners 116 to extend through the back cover 106 and into the radome 104 without contacting the first internal ground plane 120A (see e.g., Figure 2A). When the metallic fasteners 116 are used, it can be desirable to prevent contact between the fasteners 116 and the first internal ground plane 120A. In other examples, the first internal ground plane 120A may not include the open reliefs 138. For example, the back cover 106 could be made larger to mitigate the necessity for open reliefs 138. In another example, the first internal ground plane 120A could be made smaller such that the fasteners 116 do not need to partially extend through the first internal ground plane 120A.

[0114] With continued reference to Figure 3 A, the first internal ground plane 120A can include a plurality of feed lines 126. The feed lines can extend along relieved portions 127 of the top side 122. The feed lines 126 can be microstrip transmission lines formed, etched, or otherwise disposed on the top side 122.

[0115] The conductive bottom side 124 can serve as the reference conductor for the feed lines 126. In the illustrated example, the first internal ground plane 120A includes four feed lines 126, one for each of the antennas 1200 supported by the first internal ground plane 120A. In other implementations, fewer feeds lines 126 can be included where fewer antennas 1200 are supported or when one radio is connected to multiple antennas 1200 (e.g., when multiple antennas 1200 are arrayed together).

[0116] Each feed line 126 can extend between an RF port 128 and a feed point 130. The RF port 128 serves as the interface between a coaxial cable (e.g., coaxial cables 118 of Figure2A) and the PCB-based feed network of the first internal ground plane 120A. The RF ports 128 facilitate the transfer of RF energy from the attached radio to the antennas 1200. Various connecting means can be used to connect the coaxial cables 118 to the RF ports 128, as described further herein (e.g., a soldered or connectorized junction, ensuring impedance matching and minimal signal loss).

[0117] Each feed point 130 is configured to be electrically coupled to a feed portion of the antennas 1200 (see e.g., feed portion 1219 in Figure 4B). The feed points 130 can be conductive holes or openings in the first internal ground plane 120A (e.g., plated openings, through-holes, or slots). The feed points 130 can extend from the top side 122 to the bottom side 124. When the feed portion 1219 is electrically connected to the feed line 126 at the feed point 130, the feed line 126 routes the RF signal from the RF port 128 to the multi-band radiating element 1201 of the antennas 1200, where energy is efficiently radiated as electromagnetic waves.

[0118] The coupling of the multi -band radiating elements 1201 to the first internal ground plane 120A can provide a secure connection that enables a reliable mechanical connection to facilitate a stable electrical connection between the multi -band radiating elements 1201 and their associated transmission line excitations, as well as a defined and controlled spacing and orientation to the internal ground planes 120A and 120B. The controlled spacing and orientation can assist in providing definable radiation patterns, return loss, isolation, and other key RF antenna related performance criteria.

[0119] In the illustrated example, each feed point 130 is positioned near a pair of openings or slots 132. The slots 132 can be conductive (e.g., plated slots, openings, or through- holes). The slots 132 can extend from the top side 122 to the bottom side 124. The slots 132 can be used to electrically and / or mechanically couple a ground connection of the antenna 1200 to the first internal ground plane 120A (see e.g., the ground connection 1300 of Figure 4G). When a different ground connection is used, only one slot 132 may be required. In such an implementation, the slot 132 can be configured differently to facilitate connection to the ground connection.

[0120] The first internal ground plane 120A can include one or more first openings 134 and / or one or more second openings 136. In the illustrated example, a pair of openings 134 are positioned adjacent each feed point 130. For ease of illustration, not all openings 134 and 136 are labeled in the Figures. The openings 134 can be used to couple a stand or mounting portion of the antennas 1200 to the first internal ground plane 120A (see e.g., mounting portion 1202 of Figure4A). The second openings 136 can be used to couple non-conductive supports for the antennas 1200 (see e.g., support portions 1270 of Figure 4H) to the first internal ground plane 120A. For example, as described further herein, in some implementations, the portion 1229 of the multi -band radiating element 1201 can be supported by one or more non-conductive supports 1270.

[0121] In some implementations, the top side 122 of the first internal ground plane 120A can include one or more thermal reliefs 140 (see e.g., Figure 5A). The thermal reliefs 140 can be lines or openings where a portion of the ground plane on one or both sides of the PCB has been cut or otherwise at least partially removed. The thermal reliefs 140 can be positioned around locations where a soldered connection can occur (e.g., the RF ports 128, the feed points 130, the slots 132, and / or the like). The thermal reliefs 140 can provide for ample electrical continuity in the conducting surfaces of first internal ground plane 120A in its PCB configuration. The thermal reliefs 140 can allow for a manufacturing process that reduces labor costs and / or improves production yield in a quality -controlled environment. The thermal reliefs 140 are not required in some applications to meet the overall performance criteria for the multi-element multi-band antenna 102.

[0122] Figure 3B shows the bottom-side 124 of the first internal ground plane 120A. As shown, the various features described with reference to the top side 122 that extend through the first internal ground plane 120A are visible on the bottom side 124. For example, the feed points 130 and the slots 132. In some implementations, the components of the antennas 1200 can be coupled to the top side 122 and soldered to the bottom side 124. Coupling techniques for the antennas 1200 and the internal ground planes 120 are described further with reference to at least Figures 5 A and 5B.

[0123] In some implementations, the first internal ground plane 120A and the second internal ground plane 120B can be similar or identical to each other. For example, the antenna assembly 100 can include two internal ground planes 120 configured as the first internal ground plane 120A or two internal ground planes 120 configured as the second internal ground plane 120B.

[0124] Referring now to Figures 3C and 3D, a top view and a bottom view respectively of an implementation of the second internal ground plane 120B are shown. Some of the features of the second internal ground plane 120B are similar to features of the first internal ground plane 120A described in at least Figures 3A and 3B. Thus, the reference numerals used to designate thevarious features or components of the second internal ground plane 120B are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding features or components of the first internal ground plane 120A in at least Figures 3 A and 3B. Therefore, the structure and description for the various features of the first internal ground plane 120A and how they operate in at least Figures 3 A and 3B are understood to also apply to the corresponding features of the second internal ground plane 120B, except as described below.

[0125] In the illustrated example, the second internal ground plane 120B differs from the first internal ground plane 120A primarily in the paths of the feed lines 126. For example, as shown in Figure 3A, the first internal ground plane 120A includes two longer feed lines 126 that extend adjacent to the outside edges of the first internal ground plane 120A, while the second internal ground plane 120B includes two longer feed lines 126 that meander more centrally along the top side 122 of the second internal ground plane 120B. Various other feed line 126 paths can be utilized in the internal ground planes 120.

[0126] In one example, the routing of the feed lines 126 on the internal ground planes 120 can allow for the feeding of the multi-band radiating elements 1201 in a configuration that allows for easy grouping of cross-polarized elements for connecting to the radio when specified by the radio manufacturer. Transmission line / feed line 126 routing may be changed to accommodate the connection to the radio without being detrimental to the performance of the multi-element multi -band antenna 102.

[0127] Figures 4A-4H illustrate various views of components of an example implementation of an antenna 1200, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure. While the antenna 1200 is described with particular reference to the antenna assembly 100, it is recognized that the antennas 1200 can be included in any of the antenna assemblies / sy stems described herein. Further, the antennas 1200 may provide improved performance when incorporated into or for use with other antenna system / assemblies.

[0128] With continued reference to Figures 4A-4H, each antenna 1200 can include a multi-band radiating element 1201. Each antenna 1200 can also include a ground connection 1300 (also referred to herein as a “grounding portion”). The ground connection 1300 can be electrically and mechanically coupled to the radiating element 1201. The ground connection 1300 is configured to couple the multi -band radiating element 1301 to a ground plane (e.g., one of the internal ground planes 120).

[0129] In the illustrated example, the multi-band radiating element 1201 comprises metal (e.g., sheet metal) and the ground connection 1300 comprises conductive surfaces formed on a PCB structure. In other implementations, different materials can be used for the antennas 1200, as described herein.

[0130] Figure 4A shows a perspective view of the multi-band radiating element 1201 and the ground connection 1300 coupled together and secured to an example mounting portion 1202. Figures 4B-4E illustrate assorted views of the multi-band radiating element 1201. Figures 4F and 4G illustrate a first side view and a second side view of the ground connection 1300. Figure 4H illustrates a perspective view of the antenna 1200 and support portions 1270, which can optionally be utilized with the antenna 1200.

[0131] Referring first to Figures 4B-4E, various views of the multi-band radiating element 1201 are shown. The multi-band radiating element 1201 can define a three-dimensional radiating portion that includes several unique portions. The geometry of these unique portions are configured in a way such that the radio frequency energy that is radiated by the multi-band radiating element 1201 has an intended direction that is normal / perpendicular to ground plane the multi-band radiating element 1201 is coupled to (e.g., the internal ground planes 120). Accordingly, for some applications and / or implementations, it may be desirable to mount one or more of the antennas 1200 to a generally vertically oriented ground plane. For example, the antenna assembly 100 can be deployed on wall, a pole, or otherwise in vertical orientation such that the internal ground planes 120 are aligned with a vertical axis of the supporting structure.

[0132] Having this normal / perpendicular predominate radiation direction or orientation for the antennas 1200 may provide certain benefits and differs from traditional multiband multi-element antennas. For many traditional multi-band multi-element antennas, the typical radiation direction is in a direction that is the same as, co-planar, or only slightly above the plane of the ground plane. As such, these traditional antennas are usually deployed on a horizontal surface such that the ground plane is aligned perpendicularly to the vertical axis of the supporting structure. To obtain the radio frequency radiation direction that is normal to the groundplane or otherwise, known as a directional radiation pattern, the geometry of the multi-band radiating element 1201 has been adjusted compared to the other three-dimensional inverted F antennas / multi-band radiating elements described in, for example, PCT Application No. US2024 / 048229, fded September 24, 2024, entitled “ANTENNA SYSTEMS.”

[0133] A back view, a side view, and a top view of the multi-band radiating element 1201 in isolation are shown in Figures 4B-4D. The radiating element 1201 can include an upright portion 1225. As shown in Figure 4A, the ground connection 1300 can be configured to be coupled to the radiating element 1201 at the upright portion 1225. The ground connection 1300 can also couple the multi-band radiating element 1201 to the internal ground plane 120.

[0134] The upright portion 1225 is a resonating component of the radiating element 1201. When the radiating element 1201 has a three-dimensional structure, the upright portion 1225 can be configured as a first resonating component. The upright portion 1225 (along with, in some instances, a head portion 1229) can be configured to resonate within a low-frequency band approximately between 600 MHz and 1 GHz during use. Accordingly, the upright portion 1225 can be a first low-band radiating portion of the radiating element 1201 and is referred to herein as such.

[0135] As shown in Figure 4B, the upright portion 1225 has a height H and a width W. The upright portion 1225 can have a greater width W than height H. For example, the upright portion 1225 can have a width W to height H to ratio of 1 : 1 or greater. In the illustrated example, the upright portion 1225 has a width W to height H ratio of approximately 1.5: 1. In other implementations, different ratios are possible.

[0136] In some implementations, the upright portion 1225 has a width W to height ratio of 1 : 1 or greater. In some implementations, the upright portion 1225 has a width W to height ratio of 1.25: 1 or greater. In some implementations, the upright portion 1225 has a width W to height ratio of 1.5 : 1 or greater. In some implementations, the upright portion 1225 has a width W to height ratio of 1.75: 1 or greater. In some implementations, the upright portion 1225 has a width W to height ratio of 2: 1 or greater.

[0137] In some implementations, the upright portion 1225 can have a consistent width W along its height H. In other implementations, the upright portion 1225 can have a top edge with a greater width than its bottom edge, or vice versa.

[0138] As shown in at least Figures 4B-4D, the radiating element 1201 can include a head portion 1229. The head portion 1229 can extend from a top side or top edge of the upright portion 1225. In the illustrated example, the head portion 1229 extends substantially perpendicularly to the upright portion 1225. For example, an angle of approximately 90-degrees can be defined between the head portion 1229 and the upright portion 1225. In otherimplementations, the head portion 1229 can extend at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the upright portion 1225 (e.g., an angle between 0-degrees and 180-degrees).

[0139] The head portion 1229 can have a length L. The head portion 1229 can have a greater length L than the height H of the upright portion 1225. For example, the head portion 1229 and the upright portion 1225 can have a length L to height H ratio of 1 : 1 or greater. In the illustrated example, the length L to height H ratio is at approximately 2: 1. In other implementations, different ratios are possible.

[0140] In some implementations, the ratio of the length L of the head portion 1229 to the height H of the upright portion 1225 is 1 : 1 or greater. In some implementations, the ratio of the length L of the head portion 1229 to the height H of the upright portion 1225 is 1.5: 1 or greater. In some implementations, the ratio of the length L of the head portion 1229 to the height H of the upright portion 1225 is 1.75: 1 or greater. In some implementations, the ratio of the length L of the head portion 1229 to the height H of the upright portion 1225 is 2: 1 or greater. In some implementations, the ratio of the length L of the head portion 1229 to the height H of the upright portion 1225 is 2.25: 1 or greater. In some implementations, the ratio of the length L of the head portion 1229 to the height H of the upright portion 1225 is 2.5: 1 or greater.

[0141] In some implementations, the head portion 1229 can have the same width as the upright portion 1225. In other examples, the head portion 1229 can have a varying width along its length L. In such an implementation, the head portion 1229 can have an average width that is equal or greater than a maximum width of the upright portion 1225.

[0142] As shown in Figure 4D, the illustrated example of the head portion 1229 has a width that changes along its length L. For example, the head portion 1229 can have a first width W1 at the top side or top edge of the upright portion 1225 and a second width W2 at the end of its length L (e.g., at the maximum distance away from the 1225). In the illustrated example, the second width W2 is greater than the first width Wl. In the illustrated example, a maximum width MW of the head portion 1229 is defined along its length L between the first width Wl and the second width W2. In other implementations, the second width W2 may be the maximum width of the head portion 1229.

[0143] The head portion 1229 is a resonating component of the radiating element 1201 as presented. When the radiating element 1201 has a three-dimensional structure, the head portion 1229 can be configured as a second resonating component. The head portion 1229, along withother portions, can be configured to allow the structure to resonate within a low-frequency band approximately between 600 MHz and 1 GHz during use. Accordingly, the head portion 1229 can be a second low-band radiating portion of the radiating element 1201 and is referred to herein as such.

[0144] As shown in at least Figure 4B, the multi-band radiating element 1201 of the antenna 1200 can include a feed portion 1219. For example, the multi-band radiating element 1201 can include the feed portion 1219, an upright portion 1225 and / or the head portion 1229. The feed portion 1219 can extend from the bottom (e.g., the bottom edge) of the upright portion 1225.

[0145] The multi-band radiating element 1201 may also include one or more arms 1227, as described further herein. The low-band portions (e.g., upright portion 1225, the head portion 1229, and any additional low-band radiation portions) of the multi -band radiating element 1201 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.

[0146] The feed portion 1219 can extend from the bottom (e.g., a bottom edge) of the upright portion 1225. In the illustrated implementation, the feed portion 1219 has been adjusted to accommodate the transmission line feed (e.g., the feed line 126) from a conductor backed coplanar waveguide (e.g., the internal ground planes 120). In the illustrated implementation, the feed portion 1219 comprises a tab / proj ection.

[0147] To electrically and mechanically couple the multi -band radiating element 1201 to the internal ground plane 120, the feed portion 1219 can be inserted in the feed point 130 via the top side 122. In some cases, the feed portion 1219 can then be soldered on the bottom side 124 of the internal ground plane 120. In other cases, different coupling techniques can be used. In some implementations, the feed portion 1219 can be adjusted to accommodate the feed from a microstrip, coax, stripline, parallel plate, a waveguide of various cross sections, twin lead, wire above a groundplane, and / or other transmission line structures in the telecommunications and microwave industries, depending on the desired application.

[0148] As shown in at least Figure 4B, the upright portion 1225 can include optionally one or more coupling points or mounting features 1217a (e.g., holes) to facilitate mounting the multi -band radiating element 1201 to the internal ground planes 120. For example, as shown in Figure 4A, the coupling points 1217a can receive fasteners 1205 to couple the multi-band radiatingelement 1201 to the mounting portion 1202. The mounting portion 1202 can then be coupled to the internal ground planes 120 (see e.g., fasteners 142 of Figure 5B).

[0149] When the antenna 1200 is coupled to the internal ground plane 120, the first low band radiating portion 1225 can extend substantially vertically / normal / perpendicularly from the internal ground plane 120. Accordingly, in some implementations, the first low band radiating portion 1225 can be an upright portion / body portion of the radiating element 1201. The upright portion 1225 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.

[0150] As noted above, the upright portion 1225 can have a greater width than height. For example, the upright portion 1225 can have a width to height ratio of 1.5 : 1 or greater and may be a compact radiating structure when compared to other embodiments of three-dimensional inverted F antennas. For example, many three-dimensional inverted F antennas include upright portions with greater height than width. Constructing the multi -band radiating element 1201 to have a compact radiating structure can provide numerous advantages. In one example, the short compact multi-band radiating element 1201 can reduce the overall height / thickness of an antenna assembly incorporating the antenna 1200, as the height of the antenna 1200 can be a limiting factor in terms of total assembly height. Reduced height can be desirable for visual appearance, operations in high wind loads, incorporation into compact assemblies and deployments, and / or the like.

[0151] The upright portion 1225 can include at least one coupling point 1231. The coupling point 1231 can be used to couple the radiating element 1201 to the ground portion 1300, as described further herein. The coupling point 1231 can be an opening in the upright portion 1225. In some implementations, the coupling point 1231 can be configured as a slot (e.g., a horizontal or vertical slot).

[0152] In the illustrated example, the coupling point 1231 comprises a single vertical slot 1231. In the illustrated example, the slot 1231 is substantially aligned with the vertical axis of the upright portion 1225. In other implementations, the slot 1231 can be positioned off the vertical axis. In some implementations, the coupling point 1231 can be configured as multiple slots, threaded openings, holes, and / or the like, depending on the type of ground connection used to form the antennas 1200.

[0153] The coupling point 1231 can be located near the top of the upright portion 1225. For example, as shown in Figure 4B, the coupling point 1231 can be positioned above the horizontal axis HA of the upright portion 1225. In some cases, the coupling point 1231 is located on an upper half of the upright portion 1225. In some cases, the coupling point 1231 is located on an upper third of the upright portion 1225.

[0154] The multi -band radiating element 1201 can also include additional portions configured for radiation above the low-band. For example, as noted above, the multi-band radiating element 1201 can include one or more arms 1227. The one or more arms 1227 can be configured to radiate above the low band. Accordingly, the arms 1227 may be referred to as “high- band radiating portions”. For example, the one or more arms 1227 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), including higher even order resonances.

[0155] In the illustrated example, the multi -band radiating element 1201 includes two arms 1227, a left arm 1227 and a right arm 1227. In other implementations, more or less arms 1227 are possible.

[0156] The arms 1227 can extend from or be coupled to the upright portion 1225. For example, a right arm 1227 can extend from a right side or a right edge of the upright portion 1225 and a left arm 1227 can extend from a left side or a left edge of the upright portion 525.

[0157] The arms 1227 can be resonating components of the radiating element 1201. For example, the left arm 2127 can be configured as a third resonating component and the right arm 1227 can be configured as a fourth resonating component. In use, the arms 1227 can be configured to resonate within a mid-frequency band approximately between 1.7 GHz and 2.7 GHz, in one example.

[0158] The arms 1227 can be coupled to a lower portion of the upright portion 1225. For example, the arms may be positioned near or at the horizontal axis HA of the upright portion 1225.

[0159] In the illustrated example, the arms 1227 can include main arm portions 1235 and connecting portions 1233. The connecting portions 1233 can provide coupling between the upright portion 1225 and the main arm portions 1235 to assist in radiation in the 1 GHz to 8 GHz frequency band, for example. The radiating element 1201 can include a first connecting portion 1233 for connecting the left arm 1227 to the upright portion 1225 and a second connecting portion1233 for connecting the right arm 1227 to the upright portion 1225. With reference to Figure 4D, the connecting portions 1233 can extend a short distance from the upright portion 1225 to reduce the overall width of the radiating element 1201.

[0160] In the illustrated example, the arms 1227 extend away from the upright portion 1225 (e.g., in the same direction as the front face of the upright portion 1225). In some cases, the arms can extend substantially perpendicularly away from the upright portion 1225. For example, as shown in Figure 4D, an approximately 90-degree angle can be defined between each arm 1227 and the upright portion 1225 in the illustrated example.

[0161] In other implementations, the left arm 1227 extends from the upright portion 1225 at a first angle between 90 degrees and 180 degrees relative to the front face and the right arm 1227 extends from the upright portion 1225 at a second angle between 90 degrees and 180 degrees relative to the front face.

[0162] The arms 1227 can extend in substantially the same direction that the upright portion 1225 faces. In some implementations, the arms 1227 can extend at an angle away from the internal ground planes 120. For example, the arms 1227 can extend at an angle away from the upright portion 1225 in the direction of the head portion 1229. The angle can be less than 90 degrees.

[0163] As shown in at least Figures 4C and 4D, the main arm portions 1235 can have a significantly shorter length and can be positioned closer to the ground plane 120 than the in other antennas. For example, the main arm portions 1235 of the arms 1227 can have a length less than the length of the head portion 1229. In one example, the main arm portions 1235 of the arms 1227 can have a length of approximately half the length of the head portion 1229.

[0164] In the illustrated example, the main arm portions 1235 have a length L2. As shown in Figure 4C, the length L2 of the main arm portions 1235 is less than the length L of the head portion 1229. In the illustrated example, a ratio between the length L of the head portion 1225 and the length L2 of the main arm portions 1235 is approximately 2: 1. In other implementations, different ratios are possible.

[0165] In some implementations, the ratio between the length L of the head portion 1229 and the length L2 of the arms 1227 (e.g., the main arm portions 1235) is 1 :1 or greater. In some implementations, the ratio between the length L of the head portion 1229 and the length L2 of the arms 1227 is 1.5:1 or greater. In some implementations, the ratio between the length L ofthe head portion 1229 and the length L2 of the arms 1227 is 2: 1 or greater. Tn some implementations, the ratio between the length L of the head portion 1229 and the length L2 of the arms 1227 is 2.5: 1 or greater.

[0166] In some implementations, the arms 1227 can include one or more bend portions. For example, each arm 1227 can include a first arm portion that extends from the connecting portion 1233 and a second arm portion that extends from the first arm portion.

[0167] In some implementations, including the illustrated example, the arms 1227 can have the same height. In other implementations, the arms 1227 can have different heights.

[0168] In the illustrated example, the main arm portions 1235 have substantially equal thickness and width along their lengths and to each other. In some implementations, the arm portions 1235 can have a different width, thickness, length, and / or bend angle to each other.

[0169] In the illustrated example, the main arm portions 1235 have a width AW and the connecting portions 1233 have a width CW. The width AW of the main arm portions 1235 can be greater than the width CW of the 1233.

[0170] In some implementations, the arms 1227 or additional / alternative arms can be included in the radiating element 1201 and configured for radiation in the Wi-Fi-band (approximately 2.4 to 2.5GHz, 4.8 GHz to 5.9 GHz, and 6 GHz to 7.25 GHz), The illustrated example of the multi-band radiating element 1201 does not include secondary arms. However, in some implementations, the multi-band radiating element 1201 may include additional arms that may extend from the upright portion 1225, the arms 1227, and / or the head portion 1229 of the radiating element 1201. 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 WiFi band). For example, in some implementations, portions of the arms 1227 may be slit, extended, angled, bent, modified, and / or otherwise connected to provide improved coverage areas. Additionally, in some implementations, portions of low band radiation elements can include winglet portions that may extend from the one or more lateral sides of the multi-band radiating element 1201 to provide improved coverage areas.

[0171] In some cases, the head portion 1229 can be defined by a bend in the material forming the upright portion 1225. 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 provideprotection for the system in a compact configuration with multi-band coverage (e.g., in the antenna assembly 100).

[0172] Having a compact radiating element 1201 (e.g., in part due to the bend between the upright portion 1225 and the head portion 1229) can allow the antenna 1200 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 antenna 1200 represents the limiting factor in terms of total height of the antenna assembly 1200, the low-profile antenna 1200 can be advantageous. In some implementations, the antenna 1200 can have a total height (e.g., from the bottom of the feed point 1219 to the top of the second low-band radiation portion 529) of between 0.5 inch and 3 inches. For example, the antenna 1200 may have a total height of less than 3 inches, less than 2.5 inches, less than 2 inches, less than 1.5 inches, less than 1 inches, less than 0.5 inches, and / or the like.

[0173] The length of head portion 1229 can be longer than other radiating structures (e.g., in proportion to the other dimensions of these other radiating structures). The head portion 1229 can also be closer to the internal ground planes 120 in the assembled antenna assembly 100 compared to conventional antennas. The additional length of the head portion 1229 can allow the upright portion 1225 to be shorter than typical upright portions, while still allowing for the desired performance of the antenna 1200. The ratio and orientation of all portions of radiating element 1201 allow for both dominate and higher order modes to support the directional radiation characteristics for the antenna 1200. As noted above, such directional radiation characteristics are desirable for vertically oriented / wall-mounted antenna systems.

[0174] In some other implementations, the head portion 1229 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 head portion 1229 can extend in a direction further away from the upright portion 1225 and comprise a slit between the material such that portion of material on each side of the slit may form a third low-band radiation portion and a fourth low-band radiation portion respectively, that may be coplanar with and extend beyond the head portion 1229. 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. Insome 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 head portion 1229. Adding variations in radiation portions can provide advantageous coverage in different areas of bandwidth, in some implementations.

[0175] In some cases, the multi-band radiating element 1201 is a modified printed inverted-F antenna (PIFA) modified to have three bent arm members that make the radiating element 1201 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 1201 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 1201 to have an operating frequency range of 450 MHz to 8 GHz. In some implementations, the multi-band radiating element 1201 can have optimal performance when operating at a frequency range of approximately 600 MHz to 7.25 GHz.

[0176] Figures 4D and 4E provide additional views of the radiating element 1201. As shown, the head portion 1229 can optionally include one or more clearances. For example, the head portion 1229 can include one or more first clearances 1257a and / or one or more second clearances 1257b. The clearances 1257a, 1257b can be holes or openings formed in the head portion 1229. The clearances 1257a, 1257b may allow for ease of assembly of the completed antennas 1200.

[0177] In some implementations, the head portion 1229 can optionally include one or more openings 1259. The openings 1259 can be configured to receive supports for the head portion 1229. For example, due to the length of the head portion 1229 relative to the upright portion 1225, it can be desirable in some applications to provide additional support for the multi -band radiating element 1201 to ensure the desired orientation of the components of the multi-band radiating element 1201 maintain set positions within the antenna assembly 100. Figure 4H shows example support portions 1270 that can support the head portion 1229 and can be received within the openings 1259, in some use cases.

[0178] Referring now to Figures 4F and 4G, side views of an implementation of the ground connection 1300 are shown. In illustrated implementation, the ground connection 1300 isa PCB 1320 with electrically conducting surfaces 1340 on both sides. For example, the first side shown in Figure 4F includes conducting surface 1340A and the second side shown in Figure 4G includes conducting surface 1340B (collectively referred to as conducting surfaces 1340). Accordingly, the ground connection 1300 can be a double layer PCB.

[0179] In other implementations, only one side of the PCB 1320 might have an electrically conducting surface 1340 to realize a single layer PCB or the PCB 1320 could be a multi-layer PCB with two or more conducting surfaces 1340. In some implementations, the conducting surface 1340 could be a sheet metal portion that may or may not be supported by a non-conducting portion. For example, depending on the particular ground plane the antenna 1200 is utilized with, it may be desirable for the ground connection 1300 to be constructed wholly of sheet metal.

[0180] In the illustrated implementation, a plurality of plated through holes 1380 are present to electrically connect the two conducting surfaces 1340A, 1340B of the ground portion 1300. For example, the plated through holes 1380 can extend through both conducting surfaces 1340A, 1340B. However, the holes 1380 are not required. The ground connection 1300 can also include coupling points 1301 and 1302 that can be used to establish electrical connection between ground portion 1300 and the associated ground plane (e.g., the internal ground planes 120). The coupling points 1301 and 1302 can be tabs / proj ections of the PCB 1320. In some implementations, the coupling points 1301, 1302 may extend through the associated ground plane 120 (e.g., via slots 132) and an electrical connection may be established between one or both sides of the ground plane 120 and the coupling points 1301, 1302.

[0181] The ground connection 1300 can include a coupling point 1303 that can be used to establish an electrical connection between ground portion 1300 and multi -band radiating element 1201. For example, the coupling point 1303 can be received within slot 1231 of the multiband radiating element 1201. The coupling point 1303 can be a tab or projection of the PCB 1320.

[0182] In some examples, the coupling points 1301, 1302 and / or the coupling point 1303 may be of a size and shape to pass buss wire through. In this manner, the buss wire may pass through one or more of the coupling points 1301, 1302, 1303 to provide electrical connection and / or structural support.

[0183] In the illustrated example, the projections of the PCB portion 1320 include openings (e.g., 1301, 1302, 1303). The openings can extend through the plated portion of theprojections or otherwise be surrounded by a conductive material. When included, these openings can be soldering holes. The soldering holes can provide certain benefits when assembling or coupling the PCB portions together or to other structures. For example, the soldering holes can allow solder to be placed on one side of a PCB portion and the soldering iron to be placed on the opposite side of the PCB portion. This arrangement can allow both sides of the PCB portions to be soldered at the same time, which can improve the manufacturability / assembly of the PCB portions of the antenna assembly 100. For example, this arrangement can reduce the total amount of time required to solder the various PCB portions, which can be time consuming where the soldering holes are not included. While various PCB portions are shown as including soldering holes, it is recognized that neither solder nor soldering holes are required to form mechanical or electrical connections between the PCB portions.

[0184] In part due to the PCB construction of the ground connection 1300, the ground connection 1300 can be thinner, rotated in orientation, and / or further away from the ground plane 120 than the ground connection in other antennas. Constructing the ground connection 1300 in this manner can facilitate the excitation of modes that support radiation normal to the ground plane 120, which can be desirable for the vertically oriented antenna assembly 100. These arrangements can contribute to accomplishing the change in predominate radiation direction.

[0185] As noted above, the multi -band radiating element 1201 can include different geometries compared to conventional antennas. This change in the ratio of lengths between the high band (e.g., the arms 1227) and low band portions (e.g., the upright portion 1225 and / or the head portion 1229) can impact the higher order mode radiation from the portions of the three- dimensional radiating element 1201 and can allow for the dramatic change in the direction of predominate radio frequency radiation. In this manner, when one or more antennas 1200 are incorporated into an antenna assembly (e.g., the antenna assembly 100), the antenna assembly may be configured to produce a radiation pattern perpendicular to the ground plane. In some examples, such an implementation of the antenna assembly 100 may produce a radiation pattern that is either omni-directional or directional when the antenna assembly is configured in accordance with a desired radiation performance criterion based on the geometry considerations of the multi-band radiating element 1201 and ground connection 1300.

[0186] Referring back to Figures 4F and 4G, the width, length and height of conductive surfaces 1340 are selected to provide an impedance match and also to assist with the radiationcharacteristics of the fundamental resonance as well as the higher order modes for the multi-band radiating element 1201 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 including the antenna 1200 as well as the individual radiation elements for desirable modes with the desirable radiation pattern characteristics.

[0187] In some implementations, the width of the conductive surfaces 1340 may include a first width and a second width. The first width may be positioned along a length portion of the conductive surfaces 1340. The second width may be positioned along the height portion of the conductive surfaces 1340. Each of the first width and the second width may be between about 0.01 centimeters (cm) and about 10.0 cm, in some implementations. The first width and the second width each may be equal to or smaller than about 10 cm.

[0188] In some implementations, the first width and the second width may be between approximately 0.0 cm and approximately 10.0 cm, for example, between approximately 0.5 cm and approximately 9.5 cm, between approximately 1.0 cm and approximately 9.0 cm, between approximately 1.5 cm and approximately 8.5 cm, between approximately 2.0 cm and approximately 8.0 cm, between approximately 2.5 cm and approximately 7.5 cm, between approximately 3.0 cm and approximately 7.0 cm, between approximately 3.5 cm and approximately 6.5 cm, between approximately 4.0 cm and approximately 6.0 cm, between approximately 4.5 cm and approximately 5.5 cm, between approximately 5.0 cm and approximately 5.0 cm, or any value or range between any of these values or ranges or any value or range bounded by any combination of these values, although values or ranges outside these values or ranges can be used in some cases. In some examples, the first width may be a different value than the second width. For example, the first width may be wider than the second width.

[0189] A ratio of the first width to the second width (or of the second width to the first width) can be between approximately 1 and approximately 5, for example, between approximately1.5 and approximately 4.5, between approximately 2 and approximately 4, between approximately2.5 and approximately 3.5, between approximately 2 and approximately 2.5, or between approximately 3.5 and approximately 4, or any value or range between any of these values or ranges or any value or range bounded by any combination of these values, although values or ranges outside these values or ranges can be used in some cases.

[0190] In some implementations, the height and the length of the conductive surfaces 1340 may be between about 0.0 cm and about 10.0 cm. The height and the length may be equal to or smaller than about 10 cm. In some implementations, the height and the length of the conductive surfaces 1340 may be between approximately 0.0 cm and approximately 10.0 cm, for example, between approximately 0.5 cm and approximately 9.5 cm, between approximately 1.0 cm and approximately 9.0 cm, between approximately 1.5 cm and approximately 8.5 cm, between approximately 2.0 cm and approximately 8.0 cm, between approximately 2.5 cm and approximately 7.5 cm, between approximately 3.0 cm and approximately 7.0 cm, between approximately 3.5 cm and approximately 6.5 cm, between approximately 4.0 cm and approximately 6.0 cm, between approximately 4.5 cm and approximately 5.5 cm, between approximately 5.0 cm and approximately 5.0 cm, or any value or range between any of these values or ranges or any value or range bounded by any combination of these values, although values or ranges outside these values or ranges can be used in some cases. In some examples, the length and the height of the conductive surfaces 1340 may be different values. For example, the height may be greater than the length.

[0191] A ratio of the height to the length (or of the length to the height) of the conductive surfaces 1340 can be between approximately 1 and approximately 5, for example, between approximately 1.5 and approximately 4.5, between approximately 2 and approximately 4, between approximately 2.5 and approximately 3.5, between approximately 2 and approximately 2.5, or between approximately 3.5 and approximately 4, or any value or range between any of these values or ranges or any value or range bounded by any combination of these values, although values or ranges outside these values or ranges can be used in some cases.

[0192] In some instances, the plated through holes 1380 may be configured to equalize electrical potential across both sides of the ground connection 1300. For example, the ground connection 1300 may include conductive material on both sides (e.g., conducting surface 1340A on the first side shown in Figure 4F and conducting surface 1340B on the second side shown in Figure 4G). In this manner, the conductive material forming the conducting surfaces 1340 may direct a current. When the current flows along the conductive material of the conducting surfaces 1340 of the ground connection 1300, there may be potential difference between both sides of the ground connection 1300. The plated through holes 1380 may allow for the current to pass through for any potential difference to equalize.

[0193] In some implementations, when multiple antennas 1200 are included in an antenna assembly, one or more of the antennas 1200 can be arrayed together (see e.g., the antenna assembly 300 of Figure 9A). In such a configuration, fewer RF ports may be required, and this arrangement allows for the possibility of a higher antenna gain for the remaining ports. For example, if eight antennas 1200 were included in an antenna assembly and are arrayed in pairs, the antenna assembly can include four RF ports instead of the eight RF ports 128 included in the illustrated example of the antenna assembly 100. Such a configuration can also result in enhanced performance in a desired direction, in some implementations.

[0194] Referring back to Figure 4A, the mounting portion 1202 can be used to mount the multi-band radiating element 1201 to the internal ground planes 120. The mounting portion 1202 can be constructed of a non-conductive material. As shown in Figure 4A, fasteners 1205 can be used to secure the multi-band radiating element 1201 to the mounting portion 1202. The fasteners 1205 can be non-conductive. As shown in Figure 4B, the multi-band radiating element 1201 can include mounting features 1217a for receiving the fasteners 1205. Fasteners can also be used to secure the mounting portion 1202 to the associated ground plane (e.g., the internal ground planes 120). The mounting portion 1202 can include one or more openings 1203 for receiving fasteners to mechanically couple the mounting portion 1202 to the ground plane 120. As shown in Figure 5B, fasteners 142 can extend through openings 134 in the bottom side 124 of the internal ground plane 120 and into the openings 1203 of the mounting portion 1202 to complete the mechanical coupling.

[0195] With reference to Figures 4B-4E, in the illustrated implementation, the radiating element 1201 is constructed of metal (e.g., one or more conductive sheet(s)). In some cases, the conductive sheet(s) can have a thickness between 0.01 inches and 0.03 inches. In some cases, the conductive sheet(s) forming the radiating element 1201 can have a thickness less than 0.01 inches or greater than 0.03 inches.

[0196] In other implementations, the radiating element 1201 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 antenna 1200 described with reference to Figures 4A-4H 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 antennas (e.g., other antennas 1200).

[0197] The three-dimensional antenna 1200 can be paired with one or more formed ground plane(s), such as the internal ground planes 120, 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 antenna 1200 allows for the antenna system 100 to be compact, making it ideal for compact 3GPP or other telecommunication transmitters, in some implementations.

[0198] As noted above, the antenna 1200 can be configured for use with a ground plane, such as the internal ground planes 120. In some implementations, the associated ground plane can be constructed from one or more types of PCB material, sheet metal with non-conductive spacers of plastic, foam, ceramic, and metalized plastic. Transmission lines utilized with the antenna 1200 can be microstrip, strip line, conductor back co-planar waveguide, parallel plate waveguide, wire above a groundplane, coaxial cables and / or other such materials of construction that can be configured and adapted to be used for communication between about 450 MHz to about 8 GHz. According to some implementations, the non-conductive support portions and / or PCB portions of the ground planes 120 and / or radiating element 1201 can be made of FR4, fiberglass reinforced epoxy, polyester reinforced epoxy, or other similar PCB support material that may have high performance radio frequency properties and that can support electrically conductive features of one or more radiating portions for one or more elements on its structure on one or both side of the support material.

[0199] According to some implementations, when at least one component of the antenna 1200 is configured as a PCB portion, a tab and slot configuration in the PCB material can be used to mechanically locate the individual PCB portions, sheet metal portions, and / or other electromagnetic structures of the antenna 1200. 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 an electrical connection between the individual PCB portions and / or PCB portions and other structures, such as sheet metal portions. Any sheet metal portion(s) of the antenna 1200 may be supported with non-conductive material for the spacing and mechanical support between the sheet metal and the groundplane. In some implementations, the etched electrically conducting features can be on one surface of the PCB support material. In other implementations, both sides of the PCB support material are used for supporting the electrically conducting features. In other implementations, sheet metal or other construction material that iselectrically conductive that is supported by non-conductive material to support the electrically conducting features is used in the antenna 1200.

[0200] In some implementations, mechanical threaded fasteners can be used with the antenna 1200 or to couple the antenna 1200 to another structure. The fasteners can be used to firmly hold structures and components in place and in contact with one another. Some of the mechanical features of the antenna assemblies described herein can be formed with a heat-staking process to couple different portions together. In some implementations, the mechanical fasteners provide an important role in establishing and maintaining a direct electrical connection between two components. In other implementations, the mechanical fasteners are used to establish firm contact between two surfaces that are electrically conductive. In some implementations, the mechanical fasteners provide structural fastening between one or more components that have wholly non-conductive components. The use of mechanical threaded fasteners, heat stakes, keyhole slots, pressure sensitive adhesive, soldering, interlocking, and other coupling techniques may be utilized to couple portions of the multi-element multi-band antennas described herein (e.g., the multi-element multi -band antenna 102). These coupling techniques can be used to firmly hold structures and components in place and in contact with one another.

[0201] When multiple antennas 1200 are included in an antenna assembly (e.g., the antenna assembly 100), the various antennas 1200 may be rotated in orientation to provide radiation in different polarizations with reference to the direction normal to the groundplane (e.g., the internal ground planes 120). For example, the orientation of the antennas 1200 may correspond with a 45-degree polarization with respect to a vertical axis once deployed (or other types of polarizations as applicable).

[0202] In some implementations, the antenna 1200 can be configured to be utilized with one or more ground planes that can be rigid PCBs with independent conductor back co-planar waveguide transmission lines that are electrically coupled to individual antennas 1200.

[0203] In some implementations, the antennas 1200 can be mechanically coupled to the associated ground plane (e.g., the internal ground planes 120) through a plurality of electrically non-conductive connector portions or support portions. For example, as shown in Figure 4H, support portions 1270 can be used to provide mechanical support for the head portion 1229. As shown in Figure 4D, the multi -band radiating element 1201 can include one or more openings 1259 in the head portion 1229 configured to receive the non-conductive support portions 1270 orprovide assembly access during the manufacturing process. The support portions 1270 can be secured to the multi-band radiating element 1201 with a heat staking process, in one example. The coupling of the support portions 1270 may be accomplished with other manufacturing processes such as a snapping process, threaded fastener process, a key-hole process, an interference staking process, or other suitable mechanical coupling process. The coupling of multi-band radiating element 1201 to the ground planes 120 (e.g., via the support portions 1270) provides a secure connection that enables a reliable mechanical connection to facilitate a stable electrical connection between the antennas 1200 and their associated transmission line excitations.

[0204] The ground connection 1300 may function as an impedance matching component and assist with the radiation characteristics of the fundamental resonance as well as higher order modes. The ground connection 1300 may provide one portion of a multi -portion structure for the antenna 1200.

[0205] In some implementations, a sheet metal portion may be used to realize the ground connection 1300. For example, in some implementations, the ground connections described in PCT Application No. US2024 / 048229, fded September 24, 2024, entitled “ANTENNA SYSTEMS,” can be used with the multi-band radiating element 1201 to form the antenna 1200.

[0206] In some implementations, one or more features can contribute to the antenna 1200 having efficient direction performance. These features can include the relatively short overall height of the multi-band radiating element 1201, the thin and relatively tall ground connection 1300, the relatively short arms 1227, and / or the relatively long head portion 1229.

[0207] In some implementations, the antenna 1200 is configured to produce a directional radiation pattern in a range of 450 MHz to 8 GHz. In some implementations, the antenna 1200 has optimal performance when operating in a frequency range of approximately 600 MHz to 7.25 GHz. In some implementations, the antenna 1200 produces a directional radiation pattern from 600 MHz to 4.5 GHz.

[0208] Referring now to Figures 5A and 5B, example implementations of one antenna 1200 on the internal ground plane 120 are shown. Figure 5A shows a detailed view of the antenna 1200 and a portion of the top side 122 the internal ground plane 120. Figure 5B shows a detailed view of the corresponding portion of the bottom side 124 of the internal ground planes 120.

[0209] As described herein, the antenna 1200 can be mechanically and electrically coupled to the internal ground plane 120. For example, the multi-band radiating element 1201 can be coupled to the mounting portion 1202 via fasteners 1205 received within mounting features 1217a in the upright portion 1225. The mounting portion 1202 can be mechanically coupled to the internal ground plane 120 with fasteners 142 extending through the openings 134 and into the mounting portion 1202. The multi-band radiating element 1201 can be electrically coupled to internal ground plane 120 by inserting the feed portion 1219 into the feed point 130. The feed portion 1219 may be soldered at the feed point 130 on the bottom side 124 of the internal ground plane 120. As shown in Figure 5A, this arrangement electrically connects the multi-band radiating element 1201 to the feed line 126, which is electrically connected to the RF port 128.

[0210] The ground connection 1300 can be coupled to the multi-band radiating element 1201 by inserting the coupling point 1303 into the slot 1231 in the upright portion 1225. Solder may be used to improve / facilitate this connection. The ground connection 1300 can be electrically connected to the internal ground plane 120 by inserting the coupling points 1301, 1302 into the slots 132 of the internal ground plane 120. The coupling points 1301, 1302 may be soldered at the slots 132 on the bottom side 124 of the internal ground plane 120. When multiple antennas 1200 are included in the antenna assembly 100, these antennas 1200 can be coupled to the internal ground planes 120 in the same manner to create the multi-element multi -band antenna 102 of the antenna assembly 100.

[0211] Referring back to Figures 2A-3D, the antenna assembly 100 can include eight antennas 1200, in some implementations. Four antennas 1200 can be mounted to the first internal ground plane 120A and four antennas 1200 can be mounted to the second internal ground plane 120B. In such a configuration, the antenna assembly 100 can include eight RF ports 128. For example, the antenna assembly 100 can include four RF ports 128 for the first internal ground plane 120A and four RF ports 128 for the second internal ground plane 120B.

[0212] In other implementations, one or more of the antennas 1200 can be arrayed together. In such a configuration, fewer RF ports 128 may be required. For example, if the eight antennas 1200 are arrayed in pairs, the antenna assembly 100 can include four RF ports 128 instead of eight. Such a configuration can also result in enhanced performance in a desired direction. Such a configuration can also improve the interference rejection from neighboring cell sites, in some implementations.

[0213] Advantageously, the RF ports 128 can be disposed on the internal sides of the internal ground planes 120 (e.g., the sides positioned adjacent the gap between the internal ground planes 120). In this arrangement, coaxial cables 118 can be coupled to the RF port 128, routed through the gap, and into the cable routing portions 108.

[0214] FIGS. 6A-6J illustrate implementations of an antenna assembly 100A and components thereof. Some of the features of the antenna assembly 100A are similar to features of the antenna assembly 100 described in at least FIGS. 1A-5B. Thus, certain reference numerals used to designate the various features or components of the antenna assembly 100A are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding features or components of the antenna assembly 100 in at least FIGS. 1A-5B except that the certain numerical identifiers for components of the antenna assembly 100A end with an “A”. Therefore, the structure and description for the various features of the antenna assembly 100 and how it operates in at least FIGS. 1A-5B are understood to also apply to the corresponding features of the antenna assembly 100A, except as described below.

[0215] The antenna assembly 100A differs from the antenna assembly 100 in that the antenna assembly 100A is configured as a four RF antenna assembly. For example, the antenna assembly 100 A can include one or more pairs of antennas 1200 that are arrayed together. The pairs of antennas 1200 can be arrayed together using a feed network in some implementations. Such a configuration is shown in FIG. 6A, which illustrates a top perspective view of four antennas 1200 coupled to the ground plane 120AA in isolation. In FIG. 6A, the antennas 1200 are shown without mounting components for illustrative purposes.

[0216] In the configuration of FIG. 6A, the ground plane 120AA supports two pairs of antennas 1200. A first antenna pair 190 A includes the first antenna 1200a and the second antenna 1200b and a second element pair 192A includes the third antenna 1200c and the fourth antenna 1200d. Each antenna 1200 in the pair are arrayed together such that the pair of associated radiating elements function as a single entity. Such an arrangement can compress the vertical or elevation beamwidth of the radiation pattern. In doing so, the gain of the radiating structure increases by decreasing the coverage in the elevation or vertical plane. Increasing the gain can provide certain advantages. For example, increasing the gain can help to expand the coverage area of each basestation (comprising or including the antenna assembly 100A), increase the data rate of theantenna assembly 100 A, increase the call quality associated with the antenna assembly 100A, and / or improve other cellular performance metrics associated with the antenna assembly 100A.

[0217] FIG. 6B shows the ground plane 120AA and associated antennas 1200. In FIG. 6B, the first antenna pair 190A is shown as highlighted and the second antenna pair 192A is shown as transparent for illustrative purposes.

[0218] In the configuration of FIGS. 6A-6C, the first antenna pair 190Ais at a polarization that is cross-polarized to the second antenna pair 192A. In the illustrated configuration, both the first antenna pair 190A and the second antenna pair 192A are at the polarizations that are rotated 45 degrees to the y-axis (in opposite directions). The y-z plane is the same plane as the plane for the vertical or elevation pattern at boresight.

[0219] While the two antenna pairs 190A, 192A are shown as cross polarized in the illustrated implementation, such a configuration is not required. For example, in other implementations of the antenna assembly 100A, the two antenna pairs 190 A, 192A may not be cross-polarized. Further, the polarizations of the antenna pairs 190A, 192A do not have to be at + / - 45 degrees to the y-z plane. For example, in other implementations of the antenna assembly 100A, one of the first antenna pair 190A or the second antenna pair 192A could have polarization the y-z plane and the other pair in the x-z plane. Further, in other implementations, the polarization could be the same for both antenna pairs 190A, 192 A and / or in any plane.

[0220] With reference now to FIG. 6C, the ground plane 120AA can include one or more microstrip transmission lines for connecting the four antennas 1200 to the radios (e g., via one or more coaxial cables) of the antenna assembly 100A. In the illustrated example, the ground plane 120AA includes a first microstrip transmission line 214A and a second microstrip transmission line 228A. The first microstrip transmission line 214A can be configured to connect the first antenna pair 190A to a first radio and the second microstrip transmission line 228A can be configured to connect the second antenna pair 192A to a second radio.

[0221] The first microstrip transmission line 214A can include a feed line 216A that extends from a junction 218A. The junction 218A can be the RF port for connection to the first radio via a coaxial cable (not shown). In some configurations, the feed line 216A can be a 50 ohm transmission line. In such a configuration, a 50 ohm coaxial cable can be used. In other implementations, different configurations are possible. The feed line 216A can extend to a broadband impedance transformer 220 A. At the connection between the feed line 216A and thebroadband impedance transformer 220 A, the first microstrip transmission line 214A tapers from the impedance of the coaxial cable (e.g., 50 ohms) to a value that is half the impedance of the radiator elements in the first antenna pair 190A (e.g., the first antenna 1200a and the second antenna 1200b). The broadband impedance transformer 220A can extend to a T-junction 222A. At the T-junction 222A, the first microstrip transmission line 214A is split into a first element feed 224A and a second element feed 226A. Then, the first element feed 224A can extend to and connect to the feed portion 1219 of the first antenna 1200a. The second element feed 226A can extend to and connect to the feed portion 1219 of the second antenna 1200b. The second microstrip transmission line 228A can be configured in the same manner as the first microstrip transmission line 214A to connect the second antenna pair 192A to the second radio.

[0222] FIG. 6D illustrates an example implementation of the bottom side of the ground plane 120AA. In some implementations, the ground plane 120AA can include reliefs / slots I 30A. In the illustrated example, the ground plane 120AA includes four slots 130A, one for each of the feed portion 1210 of the four antennas 1200 mounted on the ground plane 120AA. When the antenna assembly 100A includes fewer antennas 1200, the ground plane 120AA may include fewer slots 130A. The ground plane 120BA can be configured in the same manner as the ground plane 120AA and can operate in a similar relationship with the associated antennas 1200 mounted to it.

[0223] FIGS. 6E and 6F illustrate top views of the ground plane 120AA and the associated four antennas 1200 with the antennas 1200 arrayed in a different configuration. As shown in FIGS. 6E and 6F, in some implementations, the antenna assembly 100 A can include antennas 1200 arrayed in non-standard configurations.

[0224] With reference first to FIG. 6E, in the illustrated implementation, the first antenna pair 190A can include the first antenna 1200a and the second antenna 1200b, which can be located on opposite corners of the ground plane 120AA. Similarly, the second antenna pair 192A can include the third antenna 1200c and the fourth antenna 1200d, which can be located on opposite corners of the ground plane 120AA.

[0225] In the configuration of FIGS. 6E and 6F, the first antenna pair 190A is at a polarization that is cross-polarized to the second antenna pair 192A. In the illustrated configuration, both the first antenna pair 190A and the second antenna pair 192A are at the polarizations that are rotated 45 degrees to the y axis (in opposite directions). The y-z plane is the same plane as the plane for the vertical or elevation pattern at boresight.

[0226] While the two antenna pairs 190 A, 192A are shown as cross polarized in the illustrated implementation, such a configuration is not required. For example, in other implementations of the antenna assembly 100A, the two antenna pairs 190 A, 192A may not be cross-polarized. Further, the polarizations of the two antenna pairs 190 A, 192A do not have to be at + / - 45 degrees to the y-z plane. For example, in other implementations of the antenna assembly 100A, one of the first antenna pair 190A or the second antenna pair 192A could have polarization in the y-z plane and the other pair in the x-z plane. Further, in other implementations, the polarization could be the same for both antenna pairs 190A, 192A and / or in any plane.

[0227] With reference now to FIG. 6F, the ground plane 120AA can include one or more microstrip transmission lines for connecting the four antennas 1200 to the radios (e.g., via one or more coaxial cables) of the antenna assembly 100 A. In the diagonal configuration of FIG. 6F, the ground plane 120AA can include a different feed network than the implementation shown in FIG. 6C. In the illustrated example, the ground plane 120AA includes a first microstrip transmission line 234A and a second microstrip transmission line 236A. The first microstrip transmission line 234A can be configured to connect the first antenna pair 190A to a first radio and the second microstrip transmission line 236A can be configured to connect the second antenna pair 192A to a second radio. In such a diagonal feeding configuration, the ground plane 120AA can include two tapered microstrip feed transformers because there is not a single transformer between the feed line to the connector and the “T” junction.

[0228] FIG. 6G illustrates another implementation of the antenna assembly 100A that includes three antennas 1200 per ground plane. For example, the ground plane 120AA can support the first antenna 1200a, the second antenna 1200b, and the third antenna 1200c, and the ground plane 120BA can support a fourth antenna 1200e, a fifth antenna 1200f, and a sixth antenna 1200g. For example, one antenna can be depopulated from each ground plane 120AA, 120BA compared to the eight element configurations described herein (e.g., the antenna assembly 100).

[0229] The six-element antenna assembly 100A can be configured for six RF ports in some implementations. In such a configuration, each antenna 1200 can be connected to an individual RF port via a microstrip transmission line, for example.

[0230] FIGS. 6H and 61 illustrate further examples of how the antennas 1200 can be arranged on the ground planes 120AA and / or the 120BA, depending on the implementation. Otherimplementations of the antenna assembly 100A can include one or two antennas 1200 per ground plane or more than four antennas 1200 per ground plane.

[0231] FIG. 6J illustrates another implementation of the ground plane 120AA that includes four antennas 1200 with two antennas arrayed together. For example, the first antenna 1200a and the second antenna 1200b can be arrayed together to form the first antenna pair 190A, which can function as a single antenna of the antenna assembly 100A. Such a configuration can allow the implementation of the antenna assembly 100A including the ground plane 120AA to be used in a three RF port configuration or a six RF port configuration when the ground plane 120BA is configured in the same manner. In such a configuration the first antenna pair 190A can have higher gain, which can provide one or more of the advantages described above.

[0232] FIGS. 7A-8B illustrate an implementation of an antenna assembly 200 and components thereof. Some of the features of the antenna assembly 200 are similar to features of the antenna assembly 100 described in at least FIGS. 1A-5B. Thus, reference numerals used to designate the various features or components of the antenna assembly 200 are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding features or components of the antenna assembly 100 in at least FIGS. 1A-5B except that the numerical identifiers for components of the antenna assembly 200 begin with a “2”. Therefore, the structure and description for the various features of the antenna assembly 100 and how they operate in at least FIGS. 1A-5B are understood to also apply to the corresponding features of the antenna assembly 200, except as described below.

[0233] Referring first to Figures 7A and 7B, a front perspective view and a front view respectively of the antenna assembly 200 are shown with the radome removed. The radome can be similar or identical to the radome 104 of the antenna assembly 100 of Figure 1A. The antenna assembly 200 differs from the antenna assembly 100 in that the antenna assembly 200 includes a stacked patch antenna 1100. The stacked patch antenna 1100 can be supported by and electrically connected to the second internal ground plane 220B. The antenna assembly 200 can include one or more antennas 1200 supported by and electrically connected to the first internal ground plane 220B. The second internal ground plane 220B can be configured in the same manner as either the first internal ground plane 120A or the second internal ground plane 120B of the antenna assembly 100 of Figure 1A.

[0234] In the illustrated example, the antenna assembly 200 includes four antennas 1200. For example, the multi-element multi-band antenna 202 of the antenna assembly 200 caninclude the first antenna 1200a, the second antenna 1200b, the third antenna 1200c, and the fourth antenna 1200d. The multi-element multi-band antenna 202 can also include the stacked patch antenna 1100.

[0235] In the illustrated example, the four antennas 1200 are arranged in the same manner on the first internal ground plane 220 A as the four antennas 1200 are arranged on the first internal ground plane 120A in Figure 2B. In other implementations, differ spatial and rotational positions can be utilized. The first internal ground plane 220A and the second internal ground plane 220B can be supported by the back cover 206.

[0236] In other implementations, more or less antennas 1200 can be included in the antenna assembly 200. For example, the first internal ground plane 220A can support, one, two, three, four, and / or more than four antennas 1200.

[0237] Figure 8A shows a perspective view of the stacked patch antenna 1100 on the second internal ground plane 220B that can be included in the antenna assembly 200. Figure 8B shows a partial-exploded view of the stacked patch antenna 1100 and the second internal ground plane 220B. The combination of the stacked patch antenna 1100 and the second internal ground plane 220B can be housed in one half of the enclosure defined by the radome and the back cover 206. While the stacked patch antenna 1100 is described with particular reference to the antenna assembly 200, it is recognized that the stacked patch antenna 1100 or a similar stacked patch antenna 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 and / or incorporated by reference herein. 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.

[0238] With continued reference to Figures 8A and 8B, the stacked patch antenna 1100 can be formed on and / or supported by the second internal ground plane 220B. Including the stacked patch antenna 1100 in an antenna assembly can provide certain advantages. For example, the stacked patch antenna 1100 may enhance the performance of the antenna assembly 200 in terms of beamwidth, gain, spatial filtering, and / or efficiency in a particular band of interest.

[0239] The stacked patch antenna 1100 can be configured as a highly directional antenna. As such, it can be desirable to include the stacked patch antenna 1100 in vertically oriented antenna systems, such as the antenna assembly 200. In some implementations, includingthe stacked patch antenna 1100 can provide higher gain for the antenna assembly 200 compared to configurations where two or four antennas 1200 are arrayed. However, such a configuration can result in impedance and gain bandwidth of the stacked patch antenna 1100 that is significantly less than that of the antennas 1200.

[0240] In some implementations, the antenna assembly 200 may include two stacked patch antenna 1100 and may not include any antennas 1200. In some configurations, the two stacked patch antenna 1100 could be arrayed together within the enclosure of the antenna assembly 200 to attain an even higher gain antenna compared to the configurations that include only one stacked patch antenna 1100.

[0241] 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 an antenna assembly can provide more impedance bandwidth than a single layer patch antenna of comparable thickness.

[0242] 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 second internal ground plane 220B with the bottom patch element 1104 positioned therebetween in the orientation of the stacked patch antenna 1100 relative to the second internal ground plane 220B shown in Figure 8B. 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 second internal ground plane 220B.

[0243] The antenna assembly 200 can include one or more support posts 1108 that extend between the second internal ground plane 220B 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.

[0244] 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 second internalground plane 220B and either to the top patch element 1 102 or the bottom patch element 1 104 or between the top patch element 1102 and the bottom patch element 1104.

[0245] In some implementations, the support posts 1108 can comprise two components configured to be removably coupled to each other. A first component of the support posts 1108 can be positioned on one side of a surface (such as the top patch element 1102) and the second component of the support posts 1108 can be positioned on an opposite side of the surface and coupled together through the surface.

[0246] 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 second internal ground plane 220B 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.

[0247] In the illustrated configuration, the bottom patch element 1104 includes a matching circuit 1106. The matching circuit 1106 can allow for a feed / 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.

[0248] 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).

[0249] 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 (e.g., coaxial cables 218) could attach to the second internal ground plane 220B to connectthe stacked patch antenna 1100 to a radio. The second internal ground plane 220B can include heat relief sections 1120 in the second internal ground plane 220B (e.g., in the PCB structure when formed as such) at the attachment point 1118. The transmission line 1114 can extend along the top side of the second internal ground plane 220B 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.

[0250] The antenna assembly 200 can differ from the antenna assembly 100 in the number of RF ports included. For example, because the antenna assembly 200 includes the stacked patch antenna 1100, the second internal ground plane 220B can include a single RF port 118. As such, the antenna assembly 200 may require only five coaxial cables 218 as opposed to the eight coaxial cables 118 included in the antenna assembly 100 of Figure 1A in the illustrated configured. It is recognized that both the antenna assembly 100 and the antenna assembly 200 may include fewer than eight and fewer than four antennas 1200 respectively. In such cases, fewer RF ports and coaxial cables can be utilized.

[0251] FIGS. 9A-10B illustrates 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 described in at least FIGS. 1A-5B. 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 in at least FIGS. 1A-5B except that the numerical identifiers for components of the antenna assembly 300 begin with a “3”. Therefore, the structure and description for the various features of the antenna assembly 100 and how they operate in at least FIGS. 1A-5B are understood to also apply to the corresponding features of the antenna assembly 300, except as described below.

[0252] Figures 9A and 9B show a front perspective view and a front view of the antenna assembly 300 respectively with the radome removed to expose the multi-element multiband antenna 302. The radome can be similar or identical to the radome 104 of the antenna assembly 100 of Figure 1A. The antenna assembly 300 can include the multi-element multi-band antenna 302 positioned within the internal volume between the radome and the back cover 306.

[0253] The antenna assembly 300 can differ from the antenna assembly 100 in that one or more of the antennas 1200 included in the multi-element multi -band antenna 302 can be arrayed together. For example, pairs of antennas 1200 can be arrayed together using feed networks on theinternal ground planes 320. When antennas 1200 are arrayed together, the pair of arrayed antennas 1200 can be connected to the same RF port 328. Accordingly, the antenna assembly 300 can include fewer RF ports and fewer coaxial cables compared to the antenna assembly 100.

[0254] As shown in Figures 9A and 9B, the antenna assembly 300 can include the first internal ground plane 320A. In some implementations, the first internal ground plane 320A is the only internal ground plane of the antenna assembly 300. The first internal ground plane 320A can support one or more antennas 1200. In the illustrated example, the first internal ground plane 320A supports the first antenna 1200a, the second antenna 1200b, the third antenna 1200c, and the fourth antenna 1200d.

[0255] The first antenna 1200a and the second antenna 1200b can be arrayed together to form a first antenna pair. The third antenna 1200c and the fourth antenna 1200d can be arrayed together to form a second antenna pair. Example methods of arraying the antennas 1200 together are described further herein.

[0256] In the illustrated example, the first antenna pair (e.g., the first antenna 1200a and the second antenna 1200b) are at a first rotational position relative to the central axis A-A of the first internal ground plane 320A. Similarly, the second antenna pair (e.g., the third antenna 1200c and the fourth antenna 1200d) are at a second rotational position relative to the central axis A-A. In this example, both the first rotational position and the second rotational position are at 45- degree angles relative to the central axis A-A. In other example, different rotational positions for the antenna pairs can be implemented.

[0257] With continued reference to Figures 9A and 9B, the antenna assembly 300 can include the second internal ground plane 320B. The second internal ground plane 320B can support one or more antennas 1200. In the illustrated example, the second internal ground plane 320B supports the fifth antenna 1200e, the sixth antenna 1200f, the seventh antenna 1200g, and the eighth antenna 1200h.

[0258] The fifth antenna 1200e and the sixth antenna 1200f can be arrayed together to form a third antenna pair. The seventh antenna 1200g and the eighth antenna 1200h can be arrayed together to form a fourth antenna pair.

[0259] In the illustrated example, the third antenna pair (e.g., the fifth antenna 1200e and the sixth antenna 12001) are at a third rotational position relative to the central axis A-A of the second internal ground plane 320B. Similarly, the fourth antenna pair (e.g., seventh antenna 1200gand the eighth antenna 1200h) are at a third rotational position relative to the central axis A-A. In this example, both the third rotational position and the fourth rotational position are at 45-degree angles relative to the central axis A-A. In other example, different rotational positions for the antenna pairs can be implemented.

[0260] As shown in Figures 9A and 9B, in the example orientations, the first antenna pair (e.g., the first antenna 1200a and the second antenna 1200b) is cross polarized with the second antenna pair (e.g., the third antenna 1200c and the fourth antenna 1200d). Similarly, the fourth antenna pair (e.g., seventh antenna 1200g and the eighth antenna 120011) is cross polarized with the third antenna pair (e.g., the fifth antenna 1200e and the sixth antenna 12001). In other implementations, different cross polarizations between the antenna pairs can be realized.

[0261] In the illustrated example, the eight antennas 1200 form the multi-element multi-band antenna 302 of the antenna assembly 300. As discussed herein, the multi-element multi-band antenna 302 is configured to produce a radiation pattern perpendicular to the first internal ground plane 320A and the second internal ground plane 320B. In some implementations, the multi-element multi-band antenna 302 is configured 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.

[0262] Figure 10A shows a perspective view of the antennas 1200 and one internal ground plane 320 of the antenna assembly 300. The antenna assembly 300 can include the first internal ground plane 320A and the second internal ground plane 320B. The first internal ground plane 320A can be similar or identical to the second internal ground plane 320B and are referred to collectively or individually herein as the internal ground plane(s) 320. Figure 10B shows a top view of the internal ground plane 320 with the antennas 1200 not shown to illustrate the example feed structure.

[0263] With continued reference to Figures 10A and 10B, each internal ground plane 320 of the antenna assembly 300 can support two pairs of antennas 1200. In some implementations, only a single pair of antennas 1200 may be supported by each internal ground plane 320. The pairs of antennas 1200 are arrayed together such that the pair of multi -band radiating elements 1201 function as a single entity. Such an arrangement can compress the vertical or elevation beamwidth of the radiation pattern generated by the multi-element multi-band antenna 302. In doing so, the gain of the antennas 1200 increases by decreasing the coverage in the elevation or vertical plane.Increasing the gain can provide certain advantages. For example, increasing the gain can help to expand the coverage area of each base station (comprising or including the antenna assembly 300), can increase the data rate of the antenna assembly 300, can increase the call quality associated with the antenna assembly 300, and / or can improve other cellular performance metrics associated with the antenna assembly 300.

[0264] As shown in Figure 10B, the top side 322 of the internal ground plane 320 can include two feed lines 326. A first feed line 326 can connect a first pair of antennas 1200 to a first RF port 328 for a first radio (e.g., on the left side of the internal ground plane 320 as illustrated). A second feed line 326 can connect a second pair of antennas 1200 to a second RF port 328 for a second radio (e.g., on the right side of the internal ground plane 320 as illustrated).

[0265] In some configurations, the feed lines 326 can be 50-ohm transmission lines. In such a configuration, 50-ohm coaxial cables 318 can be used. In other implementations, different configurations are possible.

[0266] The feed lines 326 can extend or transition to become broadband impedance transformers as the feed lines 326 move away from the same RF ports 328 along the top side 322 of the internal ground plane 320 and towards the antennas 1200. For example, the feed lines 326 can taper from the impedance of the coaxial cable (e.g., 50 ohms) to a value that is half the impedance of the multi-band radiating element 1201 in the pair of antennas 1200.

[0267] As shown in Figure 10B, the feed lines 326 (e.g., broadband impedance transformer portions) can each extend to a T-junction 344. At the T-junction 344, the feed lines 326 can each split into a two element feed lines 346. Each element feed line 346 can extend / continue to a feed point 330. As described herein, each feed point 330 can be electrically coupled to the feed portion 1219 of a multi-band radiating element 1201. Accordingly, arranging the feed lines 326 in the configuration of Figure 10B allows two multi-band radiating elements 1201 to be arrayed together and connected to a single radio.

[0268] As shown in Figure 10B, the internal ground plane 320 can include slots 332 for coupling the ground connections 1300 to the internal ground plane 320. The internal ground plane 320 may also include openings 334, second openings 336, and / or open reliefs 338.

[0269] Referring back to Figure 10A, the antenna assembly 300 can differ from the illustrated example of the antenna assembly 100 in that the antennas 1200 of the antenna assembly 300 can be orientated in a different manner than those in the antenna assembly 100. For example,each pair of antennas 1200 that are arrayed together can face in the same direction as each other. On each internal ground plane 320, the pairs of antennas 1200 can be oriented at 90-degree angles relative to each other.

[0270] As shown in Figure 9 A, the antennas 1200 on the first internal ground plane 320A can also face in a different direction than the antennas 1200 on the second internal ground plane 320B. For example, when the antenna assembly 300 is mounted vertically, the antennas 1200 on the second internal ground plane 320B face in a direction that includes a positive vertical component and the antennas 1200 on the first internal ground plane 320A can face in a direction that includes a negative vertical component. Accordingly, each pair of antennas 1200 that are arrayed together can be at angles of approximately 45-degrees relative to the vertical axis, with the antennas 1200 of the second internal ground plane 320B facing in the positive vertical direction and the antennas 1200 of the first internal ground plane 320A facing in the negative vertical direction.

[0271] Arranging the arrayed pairs of antennas 1200 in this manner allows each pair of antennas 1200 to be at a polarization that is cross polarized to the corresponding pair of antennas 1200 on the same internal ground plane 320, which can be desirable.Additional Antenna Assemblies for Case Configurations

[0272] In some implementations, the multi-element multi-band antennas described with reference to Figures 1A-10B, and further herein with reference to Figures 12A-20B, can be incorporated into other devices or enclosures. In such implementations, the radomes and back covers may not be required. Instead, the multi-element multi-band antennas and their associated internal ground plane(s) can be mounted into the other device or enclosure, such as an antenna case. In such implementations, the feeding structure for the antenna assembly will conform to the requirement of the installation. Those skilled in the art would understand that the nature of the deployment of the antenna assembly incorporating the multi-element multi-band antennas will change slightly in the deployed performance based on type of structure the antenna assembly is attached to as well as the surroundings in which it is deployed.

[0273] The multi-element multi-band antennas and / or the antennas 1200 described herein can also be used in other antenna assemblies or systems. Additional disclosure regarding antenna systems and assemblies including the antennas 1200 and case antenna systems andconfigurations are further described in PCT Application No. PCT / US2024 / 048705, filed September 26, 2024, entitled “ANTENNA SYSTEMS.” Some example systems that can utilize the multi-element multi-band antennas and / or the antennas 1200 described herein are further described in PCT Application No. US2025 / 025639, filed April 21, 2025, entitled “ANTENNA SYSTEMS”, PCT Application No. US2024 / 048461, filed September 25, 2024, entitled “ANTENNA SYSTEMS”, and PCT Application No. US2024 / 048229, filed September 24, 2024, entitled “ANTENNA SYSTEMS”. The entire contents of all of these PCT applications and any provisional applications these PCT applications claim priority to are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties, and the disclosure and Figures therein can be used in connection with the disclosure and Figures described and shown herein.

[0274] Referring back to figures 11A-11C, partial exploded views of example antenna cases 700A, 700B, 700C, respectively, that incorporate one or more of the multi-element multiband antennas described with reference to Figures 1A-10B are shown. While case systems are shown for example, it is recognized that the multi-element multi-band antennas described with reference to Figures 1A-10B can be incorporated into any other antenna structure, system, or assembly. Further, while the multi-element multi -band antennas described with reference to Figures 12A-20B are not shown in Figures 11A-11C, it is recognized that the example antenna cases 700 could incorporate these multi-element multi-band antennas in addition to or alternatively to the multi-element multi -band antennas 102, 202, 302 shown.

[0275] Figure 11A shows a partial exploded view of a case system 700A. The case system 700A can include the multi-element multi-band antenna 102 and associated internal ground planes 120 of the antenna assembly 100 of Figure 1A. Some features of the antenna unit 700A are similar or identical to features of antenna units disclosed herein and / or incorporated by reference herein. Therefore, the structure and description for the various features and operations of the other antenna units are understood to also apply to the corresponding features of the antenna unit 700 A, except as shown differently and / or described differently herein.

[0276] Figure 11 A demonstrates the use of multiport directional antennas for high port count systems. Figure 11A defines a case system that utilizes a multi-port directional antenna 102 compared to the omni directional antennas installed into other case systems. The directional antenna system 700A may also utilize polarization diversity to improve data rates and signal to noise ratio. The directional antenna 102 allows for an increased signal to noise ratio for the radiolink when pointed toward to the direction of the incoming signal. The higher signal to noise ratio most often allows for higher data rates and extended battery life. When used at the edges of the communication coverage area, the directional antenna 102 most often will establish a usable radio link while the omnidirectional antennas may not be able to establish a useable radio link. The omni directional antenna most often is used with the lid closed or close to being closed for terrestrial communication while the directional antenna 102 presented in this configuration would most likely be used with the lid open for typical terrestrial communication. The reversed configurations are true when establishing satellite telecommunication links.

[0277] Figure 1 IB demonstrates the use of multiport directional antennas as well as narrow band directional antennas that can be used with high power user equipment (HPUE). Figure 1 IB defines a case system 700B that utilizes a multi-port directional antenna 202 compared to the omni directional antennas installed into other case systems. The directional antenna system 700B may also utilize polarization diversity to improve data rates and signal to noise ratio. The directional antenna 202 allows for an increased signal to noise ratio for the radio link when pointed toward to direction of the incoming signal. The higher signal to noise ratio most often allows for higher data rates and extended battery life. When used at the edges of the communication coverage area, the directional antenna 202 most often will establish a usable radio link while the omnidirectional antennas may not be able to establish a useable radio link. The omni directional antenna most often is used with the lid closed or close to being closed for terrestrial communication while the directional antenna 202 presented in this configuration would most likely be used with the lid open for typical terrestrial communication. The reversed configurations are true when establishing satellite telecommunication links.

[0278] In some implementations, an antenna unit 700B incorporates the multi-element multi-band antenna 202 that can be configured to be supported by one or more ground planes 220 in an arrangement with the one or more ground planes 220 positioned below the lid of the antenna unit 700B, (e.g., on a horizontal surface during use). In some implementations, the ground planes 220 and / or antenna case unit 700B can be configured to be mounted vertically, and / or coupled to a vertical surface (e.g., a wall, a side of a compartment, a pole, etc.). Mounting the antenna assembly vertically (e.g., directly and / or by an additional component) can provide certain advantages, particularly when the antenna is configured as a directional antenna, as described herein. In some cases, the multi -element multi-band antenna 202 can be configured as a directionalantenna, such as when one or more antennas 1200 of Figures 4A-4H and / or one or more stacked patch antennas 1100 of Figures 8A and 8B are included in the antenna assembly 700B. When the antenna assembly 700B is configured as a directional antenna, mounting the antenna assembly 700B on the wall can provide certain advantages. For example, a wall-mounted antenna assembly 700B can allow for an elevated position, which can provide a clearer line of sight to the device or networks the antenna assembly 700B is intending to communicate with (e.g., by reducing obstructions such as furniture, people, other objects) compared to if the antenna assembly 700B was positioned on a table. The wall-mounting of the antenna assembly 700B can also reduce potential interferences from other electronic devices positioned near the antenna assembly 700B, which can improve signal quality and consistency in some cases. A wall-mounted antenna assembly 700B configured as a directional antenna can be aimed in a specific direction. For example, by wall-mounting, the antenna assembly 700B can be strategically pointed towards an area or device.

[0279] In some implementations, when the antenna assembly 700B is configured as a directional antenna (e.g., including one or more stacked patch antennas 1100 and / or antennas 1200) it can be advantageous to position the base of the antenna unit 700B on a horizontal surface in some cases (e.g., to point vertically). For example, such an arrangement can be desirable when the antenna assembly 700B is configured to communicate with a satellite. In this example, the vertical direction of the antenna assembly 700B can provide improved line of sight to the satellite(s). For example, pointing the antenna assembly 700B vertically toward the satellite ensures the strongest possible signal is directed at the target. Misalignment could result in signal loss or weak reception. In some cases, satellite communication systems often require precise alignment in both azimuth (horizontal) and elevation (vertical) to maintain an optimal connection. A vertically oriented antenna assembly 700B configured as a directional antenna can be aimed at a specific elevation angle that matches the satellite's position relative to the ground station. An additional advantage of pointing the antenna assembly 700B vertically can include minimizing interference from terrestrial signals and reflections from the ground or nearby objects, which can be especially important when communicating with high-altitude satellites.

[0280] Figure 11C shows a case system 700C that incorporates the multi-element multi-band antenna 302. Figure 11C illustrates a perspective view of an antenna unit 700C. Some features of the antenna unit 700C are similar or identical to features of other antenna units disclosedherein and / or incorporated by reference herein. Therefore, the structure and description for the various features and operations of the other antenna units are understood to also apply to the corresponding features of the antenna unit 700C, except as shown differently and / or described differently herein.

[0281] Figure 11C demonstrates the use of multiport directional antennas 302. Figure 11C defines a case system 700C that utilizes a multi-port directional antenna 302 compared to the omni directional antennas installed into other case systems. The directional antenna system 302 may also utilize polarization diversity to improve data rates and signal to noise ratio. The directional antenna 302 allows for an increased signal to noise ratio for the radio link when pointed toward to direction of the incoming signal. The higher signal to noise ratio most often allows for higher data rates and extended battery life. When used at the edges of the communication coverage area, the directional antenna 302 most often will establish a usable radio link while the omnidirectional antennas may not be able to establish a useable radio link. The omni directional antenna most often is used with the lid closed or close to being closed for terrestrial communication while the directional antenna 302 presented in this configuration would most likely be used with the lid open for typical terrestrial communication. The reversed configurations are true when establishing satellite telecommunication links. In other implementations, the antenna PCB portion assemblies can be rotated 90 degrees so that the connectors point towards the case and not towards the neighboring PCB antenna assembly portion for advantageous benefits.Single Internal Ground Plane Antenna Assemblies

[0282] Figures 12A-15B illustrate an implementation of an antenna assembly 400 and components thereof. Figures 16A-18C illustrate an implementation of an antenna assembly 500 and components thereof. Figures 19A-20B illustrate an implementation of an antenna assembly 600 and components thereof. Some of the features of the antenna assemblies 400, 500, and 600 are similar to features of the antenna assembly 100 described in at least FIGS. 1A-5B. Thus, reference numerals used to designate the various features or components of the antenna assemblies 400, 500, and 600 are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding features or components of the antenna assembly 100 in at least FIGS. 1A-5B except that the numerical identifiers for components of the antenna assemblies 400, 500, and 600 begin with a “4”, a “5”, and a “6” respectively. Therefore, the structure and description for the various features of theantenna assembly 100 and how they operate in at least FIGS. 1 A-5B are understood to also apply to the corresponding features of antenna assemblies 400, 500, and 600, except as described differently below.

[0283] The antenna assemblies 400, 500, and 600 differ from the antenna assembly 100 in part because the antenna assemblies 400, 500, and 600 each include a single internal ground plane instead of a pair of internal ground planes 120.

[0284] Because there is only one internal ground plane in the antenna assemblies 400, 500, and 600, cables can be routed through the bottoms of the antenna assemblies 400, 500, and 600, instead of through the back cover 106 as in the antenna assembly 100.

[0285] Figures 12A-12D illustrate a perspective view, a front view, a back view, and a side view respectively of the antenna assembly 400. The antenna assembly 400 can include a multielement multi-band antenna 402 (see e.g., Figure 13A) housed between the front cover / radome 404 and a back cover 406. The front cover 404 and the back cover 406 can be electrically non- conductive enclosures. In one example, the two portions 404, 406 can be held together with fasteners 416.

[0286] In some implementations, the antenna assembly 400 can include one or more suction cup portions 412. The suction cup portions 412 can be coupled to the radome 404 or the back portion 406. In the illustrated example, the radome 404 includes the suction cup portions 412, which can allow for the affixing the antenna assembly 400 to a smooth RF transparent surface, such as glass or some other mechanically smooth, electrically non-conductive, surface. Alternative mounting schemes such as keyhole mounts could be used to secure it to a rough electrically non- conductive surface.

[0287] The antenna assembly 400 can include a plurality of RF transmission lines, such as coaxial cables 418. In the illustrated example of Figures 13A and 13B, the antenna assembly 400 includes six coaxial cables 418 to electrically connect each antenna 1200 to a separate radio. In other implementations, more than six or less than six coaxial cables 418 could be used for the antenna assembly 400. For example, the antenna assembly 600 includes two antennas 1200 arrayed together. Accordingly, the antenna assembly 600 only includes five coaxial cables.

[0288] The coaxial cables 418 can be environmentally sealed to the covers 404, 406 with one or more grommet portions 410. The holes formed by grommet portions 410 are generally environmentally plugged when less than six coaxial cables 418 in the antenna assembly 400.

[0289] As shown in Figure 12D, the radome 404 can include an arrow that is utilized to convey the primary direction of the radiation to the installer of the antenna assembly 400.

[0290] As shown in Figure 12C, the back cover 406 can include one or more mounting features 411. In one example, the mounting features 411 can be threaded, to allow for a pole or bracket mount when the suction cup portions 412 are not used to install the antenna assembly 400 for use in a wireless network.

[0291] Figures 13 A and 13B show a front perspective view and top view respectively of the antenna assembly 400 with the radome 404 removed to show an implementation of the multi-element multi -band antenna 402.

[0292] The multi-element multi-band antenna 402 can include one or more antennas 1200. For example, the multi-element multi-band antenna 402 can include the first antenna 1200a, the second antenna 1200b, the third antenna 1200c, and the fourth antenna 1200d.

[0293] In some implementations, the multi-element multi-band antenna 402 may only include the four antennas 1200a-1200d. In the illustrated example, the multi-element multi -band antenna 402 includes the fifth antenna 1200e and the sixth antenna 1200f. For example, the multielement multi-band antenna 402 can include six antennas 1200.

[0294] The antennas 1200 are supported by and electrically connected to the internal ground plane 420. In the illustrated example, the internal ground plane 420 has a substantially rectangular shape. The internal ground plane 420 can have a first side 421a, a second side 421b, a third side 421c, and a fourth side 421d. The second side 421b is opposite the first side 421a and the third side 421c is opposite the fourth side 42 Id.

[0295] As described above, the internal ground plane 420 can be configured as a conductor back co-planar waveguide, that can be used to provide a radio frequency friendly connection to multi-band radiating elements 1201 of the antennas 1200.

[0296] As shown in Figures 13A and 13B, four antennas 1200 (e.g., the first antenna 1200a, the second antenna 1200b, the third antenna 1200c, and the fourth antenna 1200d) can be grouped together on the lower portion of the internal ground plane 420. The lower portion of the internal ground plane 420 can be the first side 421a. For example, the antenna assembly 400 can be configured to be vertically oriented, with the second side 421b positioned above the first side 421a.

[0297] The rotational positions of the antennas 1200 can be defined relative to the central axis A-A of the internal ground plane 420. For example, the first antenna 1200a can have a first rotational position, the second antenna 1200b can have a second rotational position, the third antenna 1200c can have a third rotational position, and the fourth antenna 1200d can have a fourth rotational position relative to the central axis. In the illustrated example, the first, second, third, and fourth rotational positions are all different from each other, but this is not required.

[0298] In the illustrated example, the four rotational positions are all at 45-degrees relative to the central axis of the internal ground plane. In other implementations, different rotational positions are utilized.

[0299] As noted above, the polarizations of the antennas 1200 can be defined by their rotational positions relative to the central axis. Different rotational positions can provide radiation in different polarizations with reference to the direction normal to the internal ground plane 420. Accordingly, the first antenna 1200a has a first polarization, the second antenna 1200b has a second polarization, the third antenna 1200c has a third polarization, and the fourth antenna 1200d have a fourth polarization.

[0300] In the illustrated example, the first antenna 1200a is cross polarized with the fourth antenna 1200d. Similarly, the second antenna 1200b is cross polarized with the third antenna 1200e. In other implementations, any or none of the antennas 1200 can be cross polarized with each other. In some cases, one or more of the antennas 1200 can be arrayed with each other, as described further herein, but such an arrangement is not required.

[0301] In the group of four antennas 1200, two antennas 1200 can be of similar polarization and are demonstrated as being cross polarized to the two other antennas 1200. For example, the first antenna 1200a and the third antenna 1200c can be of similar polarization but can face in different directions. Similarly, the second antenna 1200b and the fourth antenna 1200d can be of similar polarization but can face in different directions. It is not required for these antennas 1200 to be co-polarized and / or cross polarized in pairs as demonstrated.

[0302] As shown in Figure 13B, the first antenna 1200a can be positioned in a first corner of the internal ground plane 420 (e.g., defined by the first side 421a and the third side 421c), and the fourth antenna 1200d can be positioned in a fourth comer of the internal ground plane 420 (e.g., defined by the first side 421a and the fourth side 42 Id).

[0303] In this example, the second antenna 1200b and the third antenna 1200c are not positioned in the corners of the internal ground plane 420. For example, the second antenna 1200b and the third antenna 1200c can be positioned between the first side 421a and the second side 421b.

[0304] The antenna assembly 400 can include two antennas 1200 (e.g., the fifth antenna 1200e and the sixth antenna 12001) positioned at the top of the internal ground plane 420. For example, the fifth antenna 1200e and the sixth antenna 1200f can be positioned along the second side 421b of the internal ground plane 420.

[0305] These two antennas 1200 can be directed towards the group of four antennas 1200, in some implementations. For example, the fifth antenna 1200e and the sixth antenna 1200f can face in a direction that is aligned with the central axis of the internal ground plane 420.

[0306] The top pair of antennas 1200 can be co-polarized as a matter of packaging convenience in some embodiments. The top pair of antennas 1200 could also be rotated 90 degrees from their present orientation or any other polarization of choice. Given that most 3GPP base stations are utilizing cross polarized antennas, having some of the antennas 1200 cross polarized allows for some conformity with acceptable practices in the industry.

[0307] The top two antennas 1200 can be configured in any polarization that is desired and do not have to be the same polarization. In the configuration shown, the two vertically polarized elements advantageously are configured to have the smallest amount of space required for acceptable performance. Other alternative selections can also be accommodated.

[0308] In the illustrated example of the antenna assembly 400, the antenna assembly 400 can be configured with six cellular ports that can be independent of one another and provide six unique radiating portions for a radio that has up to six independent RF ports. For example, each antenna 1200 of the multi-element multi -band antenna 402 can be electrically connected to an individual RF port 428.

[0309] Figures 14A and 14B illustrate a top view and a bottom view respectively of the internal ground plane 420. As described herein, the internal ground plane 420 can be constructed of PCB and can include a plurality of feed lines 426. The feed lines 426 can be etched into the top side 422 (e.g., can form one or more microstrip lines).

[0310] In other examples, the feed lines 426 can be one or more conductor backed coplanar waveguides, one or more multilayer striplines, one or more coaxial cable feeds with a sheetmetal backing for a groundplane, and / or one or more other types of RF transmission lines that provide a connection to the feed point 1219 for each of the radiating elements 1201. According to some embodiments, antennas 1200 can be in the same and / or similar configurations as described previously herein and / or incorporated by reference.

[0311] As shown in Figure 14A, each feed line 426 can extend between a RF port 428 and a feed point 430. The internal ground plane 420 can also include slots 432 and / or openings 434, 436, as described herein.

[0312] As shown in Figure 15B, the internal ground plane 420 can include one or more thermal relief features 440. The thermal relief features 440 can surround any portion of the internal ground plane 420 where an electrical connection is made. For example, at the RF ports 428, the feed point 430, the slots 432, and / or the like.

[0313] The internal ground plane 420 can include opening 413 to allow the mounting features 411 to extend through the internal ground plane 420. In other implementations, different mounting features may be included for different mounting techniques.

[0314] Figures 15A and 15B show detailed views of example portions of the top side 422 and the bottom side 424 of the internal ground plane 420 respectively to illustrate the connection of the internal ground plane 420 to the coaxial cables 418.

[0315] In the illustrated example, each coaxial cable 418 can include a connector end 450. The connector end 450 can be configured to be electrically and mechanically coupled to the internal ground plane 420 at the RF port 428. The connector end 450 can include a center conductor 454. The center conductor 454 can be connected to a feed line 426 at the RF port 428. The connector end 450 can include two or more ground legs 452. The ground legs 452 can be mechanically coupled to the internal ground plane 420. As shown in Figures 15A and 15B, two ground legs 452 can be connected at the top side 422 and two ground legs 452 can be connected at the bottom side 424 to ground the coaxial cables 418.

[0316] The RF ports 428 of the internal ground plane 420 can include one or more plated-through holes 462. The ground legs 452 can be coupled to the RF port 428 as the plated- through holes 462. The RF port 428 can be at least partially surrounded by one or more thermal relief features 440. The thermal relief features 440 provide thermal resistance during the connection process of the ground legs 454 to the internal ground plane 420. The thermal relieffeatures 440 are oriented in such a way that the radio frequency performance of a conductor backed co-planar waveguide, such as the feed lines 426, are not negatively affected.

[0317] Figures 16A and 16B illustrate a front perspective view and a front view respectively of an implementation of the multi-element multi-band antenna 502 of the antenna assembly 500. The multi-element multi-band antenna 502 can be housed in a similar or identical antenna assembly including a front cover and a back cover as the antenna assembly 400.

[0318] The antenna assembly 500 can differ from the antenna assembly 400 in that the example multi-element multi-band antenna 502 includes four antennas 1200. The four antennas 1200 can also be positioned in the comers of the internal ground plane 520. For example, the first antenna 1200a can be positioned in a first comer defined by the first side 521a and the third side 521c, the second antenna 1200b can be positioned in a second corner defined by the second side 521b and the third side 521c, the third antenna 1200c can be positioned in a third corner defined by the second side 521b and the fourth side 521d, and the fourth antenna 1200d can be positioned in a fourth corner defined by the first side 521a and the fourth side 52 Id.

[0319] The antenna assembly 500 can differ from the antenna assembly 400 in that the antenna assembly 500 can include one or more additional antennas. For example, the additional antennas can be configured to be coupled to / supported by the top side of the internal ground plane 520. In other examples, the additional antenna(s) can be coupled to, etched into, or disposed on one or more surfaces of the internal ground plane 520.

[0320] In some implementations, the additional antennas can include one or more antennas 580 and / or one or more antennas 1000. As described herein, the antenna(s) 580 can be configured as tri-band Wi-Fi elements / antennas, and can be referred to herein as such. In some implementations, the antennas 1000 can be configured as dipole antennas (e.g., CBRS dipole antennas), and can be referred to herein as such. In some implementations, the antenna assembly 500 can be configured so that either the tri-band Wi-Fi antenna(s) 580 are utilized or the dipole antenna(s) 1000 are utilized.

[0321] As shown in Figures 16A and 16B, the antennas 1200 can have two copolarized pairs that are cross polarized to one another. For example, the first antenna 1200a and the third antenna 1200c can be co-polarized, and the second antenna 1200b and the fourth antenna 1200d can be co-polarized. These co-polarized pairs can be cross polarized with each other. Each co-polarized pair has increased vertical separation between one another, compared to the antennaassembly 400, which may reduce the mutual coupling between the co-polarized pairs of antennas 1200.

[0322] The two pairs of antennas 1200 can be separated from one another to increase the isolation between elements of similar polarization. In other embodiments, the antennas 1200 can be positioned closer together. Factors in selecting positioning can include symmetry and reducing the transmission line losses for the tri-band Wi-FI elements 580 in some embodiments. The configuration shown in at least Figures 16A and 16B advantageously has four cellular elements and two tri-band Wi-Fi elements 580. Other configurations are also contemplated. For example, the one or more antennas 1000 may be utilized instead of or in addition to the tri-band Wi-Fi elements 580, in some implementations. Further, the tri-band Wi-Fi elements 580 can be configured as different antennas, in other implementations.

[0323] As noted above, the four antennas 1200 of the multi-element multi-band antenna 502 can be positioned in the corners of the internal ground plane 520. In some implementations, the antennas 1200 may operate with greater efficiency when positioned in corners of the internal ground plane 520. However, this arrangement can result in a loss of a clean ground plane (e.g., ground integrity) in the center of the internal ground plane 520. Accordingly, it can be desirable that any additional antennas be positioned along or adjacent the long edges of the internal ground plane 520 (e.g., the third side 521c and / or the fourth side 521d). A particular benefit in such positioning may be achieved when the additional antennas are configured to resonate at frequencies that support wireless communication protocols (e.g., Wi-Fi and / or Bluetooth). For example, when the additional antennas are configured in this manner, omnidirectional radiation patterns are desirable. As the antennas 1200 are configured to produce a directional radiation pattern, the long edges of the internal ground plane 520 are desirable positions to allow both the antennas 1200 to produce a directional radiation pattern and the additional antennas (e.g., the tri-band Wi-Fi elements 580) to produce an omni-directional radiation pattern, while minimizing interference losses.

[0324] As noted above, the antenna assembly 500 can optionally include one or more antennas / radiating elements 1000. When included, the radiating element 1000 can be configured as a dipole antenna. In some implementations, the radiating element 1000 can be configured for CBRS-band operation (approximately 3.4 GHz to 4.2 GHz). For example, the radiating element1000 can be a CBRS dipole antenna. In other implementations, the radiating element 1000 can be configured for additional or alternative bands of operation.

[0325] In the present example, the two radiating elements 1000 are cross polarized to one another. In other implementations, two, or more than two radiating elements 1000 can be included that are not cross polarized to one another.

[0326] When included, the radiating element 1000 can be positioned adjacent the third side 521c and / or fourth side 521 d. For example, a first radiating element 1000 may be positioned between the first antenna 1200a and the second antenna 1200b and / or a second radiating element 1000 may be positioned between the fourth antenna 1200d and the third antenna 1200c.

[0327] Figures 17A and 17B show a detailed view of both sides of an example implementation of the radiating element 1000 on the top side 522 of the internal ground plane 520. The radiating element 1000 can be formed of one or more conductive surfaces on a PCB portion. For example, the radiating element 1000 can include a first conductive portion 1004 on a first side of a PCB portion 1002 and a second conductive portion 1006 on an opposite second side of the PCB portion 1002.

[0328] The conductive portions 1004, 1006 can be inverted “L” shapes, in some implementations. In some implementations, the radiating element 1000 can be configured for operation in at least the C-band.

[0329] The PCB portion 1002 can include a first projection 1012 and a second projection 1014. The projections 1012, 1014 can be inserted into a slot 532 and a feed point 530 of the internal ground plane 520 respectively, to mechanically and electrically connect the radiating element 1000 to the internal ground planes 120. The first conductive portion 1004 can extend along the PCB portion 1002 to a grounding portion 1010 formed on the first projection 1012. The second conductive portion 1006 can extend along the PCB portion 1002 to a grounding portion 1016 formed on the second projection 1014.

[0330] The first conductive portion 1004 can be connected to a balun 1008. The balun 1008 can be formed on the front side of the PCB portion 1002. The balun 1008 can extend along the front side of the second projection 1014.

[0331] As shown in Figure 17A and 18C, the feed line 546 for the radiating element 1000 and the radiating portion 580 on one side of the internal ground plane 520 can include a multi-line split 544. The split 544 can be a portion of separation between the feed line 526 and afeed line 546 that extends to the feed point 530 for the radiating element 1000 and a feed line 548 that extends to the tri-band Wi-Fi element 580. The split 544 is not required. However, when included, the split 544 can allow the internal ground plane 520 to be used for either or both of the tri-band Wi-Fi elements 580 and the radiating element 1000. For example, when including the radiating element 1000, the split 544 can be connected (e.g., soldered) to the feed line 546. Similarly, when the tri-band Wi-Fi element580 is included, the split 544 can be connected (e.g., soldered) to the feed line 548.

[0332] In some implementations, both the radiating element 1000 and the tri-band WiFi elements 580 can be utilized in the antenna assembly 500. Including splits (such as the split 544) in the internal ground plane 520 can allow the internal ground plane 520 to be configured differently for different applications while reducing manufacturing costs associated with producing ground planes with different feed structures. Where only one of the radiating element 1000 or the Wi-Fi elements 580 is desired, such a split 544 may generally not be included in the internal ground plane 520. For example, the internal ground plane 520 could be configured only to connect the radiating element(s) 1000 or only to connect the Wi-Fi element(s) 580.

[0333] Figures 18A and 18B show a top side view and back side view respectively of the internal ground plane 520. Figure 18C shows a detailed view of a portion of the top side 522 of the internal ground plane 520 including an example implementation of the tri-band Wi-Fi element 580.

[0334] In some implementations, the multi-element multi-band antenna 502 can include a first tri-band Wi-Fi antenna 580. In some implementations, the first tri-band Wi-Fi antenna 580 can be positioned along the third side 521c of the internal ground plane 520. In some implementations, the multi-element multi-band antenna 502 can include a second tri-band Wi-Fi antenna 580. In some implementations, the second tri-band Wi-Fi antenna 580 can be positioned along the fourth side 52 Id of the internal ground plane 520.

[0335] As shown in Figure 18C, the ground plane of 520 can be relieved around these tri-band Wi-Fi elements 580. The tri-band Wi-Fi element 580 can comprise a driven portion and its corresponding counter-pose. Each tri-band Wi-Fi element 580 can include a balun portion 588, a conductor backed co-planar waveguide portion 582, an upper frequency radiating portion 586, and a lower frequency radiating portion 584. The shape of the lower frequency radiating portion 584 allows for constructive radiation in the upper frequencies to work in concert with the radiationfrom the upper frequency radiating portion 586. These portions can be formed on one or both sides of the internal ground plane 520.

[0336] In the illustrated example, the structure of the tri-band Wi-Fi elements 580 are formed on both sides of the internal ground plane 520. The width of the upper frequency radiating portions 586 has an impact on the impedance bandwidth of the upper two frequency bands of the tri-band Wi-Fi elements 580. The length of upper frequency radiating portions 584 contribute to the frequency band of operation for the upper two bands. The lower frequency band of radiating portions 580 is dominated by the length of radiating portions 584. These arms 584 bend and turn at its ends so as to constructively contribute and assist with the radiating portions 586 in the highest third band of operation of the tri-band Wi-Fi elements 580. As such all four arms of the two dipoles with a common feed point are providing a coordinated effort to contribute to the performance of the third upper frequency band.

[0337] It is recognized that the tri-band Wi-Fi element 580 is just one example of an additional antenna that can be included in the multi-element multi-band antenna 502. In other implementations, alternative antennas configured to resonate at frequencies that support wireless communication protocols (e.g., Wi-Fi and / or Bluetooth) can be included in the multi-element multi-band antenna 502.

[0338] As shown in Figures 18A and 18B, the internal ground plane 520 can be configured in a similar manner as the internal ground plane 420. For example, the internal ground plane 520 can include feed lines 526 that connect RF ports 528 to feed points 530. The internal ground plane 520 can include slot 532 for connecting the ground connections 1300 and / or openings 534 / 536.

[0339] In some implementations, the internal ground plane 520 includes a first feed line 526 with a multi-line split 544, where the multi-line split 544 defines a first break in the first feed line 526 with a second feed line 546 and a second break in the first feed line 526 with a third feed line 548, the first feed line extending to an RF port 528.

[0340] In some implementations, the second feed line 546 extends to a feed point 530 for a fifth antenna and the third feed line 548 extends to a sixth antenna. For example, the fifth antenna can be the radiating element 1000 and / or the sixth antenna can be the Wi-Fi element 580.

[0341] In some implementation, soldering the first break electrically connects the first feed line 526 and the second feed line 546 such that the feed point 530 for the fifth antenna 1000is electrically connected to the RF port 528, and / or soldering the second break electrically connects the first feed line 526 and the third feed line 548 such that the sixth antenna 580 is electrically connected to the RF port 528.

[0342] In some implementations, the internal ground plane 520 can include a second multi-line split 544 configured in a similar manner as the first multi-line split 544 for connecting to a seventh antenna and / or an eighth antenna. For example, the seventh antenna can be the radiating element 1000 and / or the eighth antenna can be the Wi-Fi element 580.

[0343] Figures 19A and 19B illustrate a front perspective view and front view respectively of the antenna assembly 600 with the radome removed to show the multi-element multi-band antenna 602. The multi-element multi-band antenna 602 can be housed in a similar or identical antenna assembly including a front cover and a back cover as the antenna assembly 400.

[0344] The antenna assembly 600 can differ from the antenna assembly 400 in that the antenna assembly 600 can include two antennas 1200 that are arrayed together. Accordingly, the antenna assemblies 600 may be a five-port antenna and may include only five RF ports 628.

[0345] In the illustrated example, the fifth antenna 1200e and the sixth antenna 1200f are arrayed together to form an antenna pair. Example methods of arraying the antennas 1200 are described herein.

[0346] Figures 20A and 20B show a front and back view of the internal ground plane 620 respectively. As shown in Figures 19A and 20A, the two antennas 1200 (e.g., the fifth antenna 1200e and the sixth antenna 1200f) at the top of the internal ground plane 620 share a common feed line 626 with an impedance transformer 629 providing the connection mechanism.

[0347] In the illustrated example, the common feed line 626 is off-center from the central axis of the internal ground plane 620. This arrangement can allow the internal ground plane 620 to be coupled to the back cover 606 along its central axis A-A without impacting the feed line 626. Where an alternative coupling location is used, the common feed line 626 need not be off- center.

[0348] The impedance transformer 629 can extend to a T-junction 644 which separates into feed lines 646. Each feed line 646 can extend to a feed point 630 that is electrically connected to the feed portions 1219 of the arrayed antennas 1200. This common feed line 626 allows for an arrayed configuration where the top antennas 1200 are fed in a way that the gain is higher, and the radiated beam is narrower, in the common axis for the two radiating portions 1200, due to the factthat the two radiating portions 1200 are co-polarized, in this example. The increased gain and narrower radiation patterns allows for increased link margin and improved spatial filtering, which improves the signal to noise ratio and improves data rates in the desired direction according to some implementations. The implementation of a single stage impedance transformer 629 limits the bandwidth of the arrayed pair of antennas 1200. If a broad band impedance transformer is desired, multistage transformers or the use of one or more electrically long tapered transformers can be utilized for radio frequency feed networks.

[0349] As shown in Figure 20A, one feed line 646 can include a portion 647 that meanders before extending to the feed point 630. This portion 647 accommodates the different lengths in the feed lines 646 that result from the common feed line 626 being off center from the central axis of the internal ground plane 620.

[0350] In some configurations the two antennas 1200 at the top of the internal ground plane 620 are arrayed together to realize a single radiation portion. According to some configurations, a quarter wave impedance transformer can be provided for accomplishing the impedance matching at approximate 775 MHz. This allows for a narrowing of the antenna pattern left to right and the appropriate increase in antenna gain due to the focusing of the antenna pattern which also allows for spatial filtering of possible interfering sources. This can also allow for increased path loss to allow for a larger coverage area or a higher signal to noise ratio for the possibility of higher data rates in areas that are not interference limited, in some embodiments.

[0351] The arraying of the two antennas 1200 reduces the number of ports 628 that can be accommodated on a radio to five. In some embodiments, a tuning tab 633 on the microstrip line and / or conductor backed co-planar waveguide is used to provide a narrow band improvement in the impedance match for the radiation portion. According to some implementations, this is due to the fact that the application for this port is narrow band as well.

[0352] The impedance transformer 629 demonstrates a single stage impedance transformer. Depending on the desired impedance bandwidth of the arrayed antennas 1200, multiple stage impedance transformers as well as one or more electrically long tapered transformers can be utilized to obtain the required impedance match over the desired frequency band. According to some embodiments, tuning tabs 633 are utilized at the feed points 630 of the arrayed antennas 1200 to improve the impedance match over the desired frequency band due tothe mutual coupling of the two radiating portions 1201 over the desired frequency band of operation.

[0353] The particular embodiments 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 embodiments 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

[0354] Various examples of systems relating to an antenna system are found in the following clauses:

[0355] Clause 1. An antenna assembly, comprising: a multi-element multi-band antenna coupled to a ground plane; and a plurality of impedance matching components coupled to one or more portions of the multi-element multi-band antenna and the ground plane.

[0356] Clause 2. The antenna assembly, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the multi-element multi-band antenna includes one or more radiating elements, each radiating element comprising an upright portion, a low band radiator portion, and one or more high band portions.

[0357] Clause 3. The antenna assembly, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein a first high band portion of one or more high band portions is coupled to a connecting portion extending from the upright portion.

[0358] Clause 4. The antenna assembly, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the connecting portion extends at a first angle from the upright portion, and wherein the first high band portion extends from the connecting portion in a substantially parallel direction relative to the ground plane.

[0359] Clause 5. The antenna assembly, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein each impedance matching component of the one or more impedance matchingcomponents is coupled to the upright portion and the ground plane, wherein the impedance matching component is positioned substantially perpendicular to the ground plane.

[0360] Clause 6. The antenna assembly, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the antenna assembly may be configured to produce a radiation pattern perpendicular to the ground plane.

[0361] Clause 7. The antenna assembly, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein a radiation pattern of the antenna assembly is either omni-directional or directional when the antenna assembly is configured in accordance with a desired radiation performance criterion.

[0362] Clause 8. The antenna assembly, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the multi-element multi-band antenna comprises at least one inverted F antenna.

[0363] Clause 9. The antenna assembly, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the antenna assembly 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.

[0364] Clause 10. The antenna assembly, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the one or more high band portions can be configured and adapted to be used for communication between about 1 GHz to about 8 GHz.

[0365] Clause 11. The antenna assembly, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the multi-element multi-band antenna can be configured and adapted to be used for communication between about 450 MHz to about 8 GHz.

[0366] Clause 12. The antenna assembly, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the one or more high band portions comprises two high band portions.

[0367] Clause 13. The antenna assembly, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein at least some of the multi-element multi-band antenna are constructed of one or more types of PCB material.

[0368] Clause 14. The antenna assembly, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the multi-element multi-band antenna is constructed substantially from sheet metal.

[0369] Clause 15. The antenna assembly, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the low band radiator portion extends substantially perpendicular from the upright portion.

[0370] Clause 16. The antenna assembly, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the upright portion has a greater width than height.

[0371] Clause 17. The antenna assembly, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the upright portion has a width to height ratio of 2: 1 or greater.

[0372] Clause 18. The antenna assembly, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the upright portion includes one or more mounting features, the one or more mounting features configured to allow the upright portion to be coupled to the ground plane.

[0373] Clause 19. The antenna assembly, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the upright portion includes a slot, the slot configured to receive the impedance matching component.

[0374] Clause 20. The antenna assembly, according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein a first radiating element of the one or more radiating elements is rotated at least 15-degrees from a second radiating element of the one or more radiating elements.

[0375] Clause 21. An antenna comprising: a ground plane; and one or more multi-band radiating elements electrically connected to the ground plane.

[0376] Clause 22. The antenna of clause 21, wherein the ground plane comprises one or more transmission lines, each transmission line of the one or more transmission lines connecting one first multi-band radiating element of the one or more multi-band radiating elements to an RF port.

[0377] Clause 23. The antenna of clause 21, wherein the one or more multi-band radiating elements comprise a first radiating element, a second radiating element, a third radiating element, and a fourth radiating element.

[0378] Clause 24. The antenna of clause 23, wherein each of the first radiating element, the second radiating element, the third radiating element, and the fourth radiating element comprise a three-dimensional radiator portion and a grounding portion.

[0379] Clause 25. The antenna of clause 23 or clause24, wherein the first radiating element is arrayed with the second radiating element to form a first element pair and the third radiating element is arrayed with the fourth radiating element to form a second element pair.

[0380] Clause 26. The antenna of clause 25, wherein the first element pair is electrically connected to a first RF port via a first microstrip transmission line in the ground plane and the second element pair is electrically connected to a second RF port via a second microstrip transmission line in the ground plane.

[0381] Clause 27. The antenna of clause 26, wherein the first element pair is at a polarization that is cross-polarized to the second element pair.

[0382] Clause 28. The antenna of any of clauses 25 to 27, wherein the first element pair is mounted to the ground plane on a first side of the ground plane and the second element pair is mounted to the ground plane on a second side of the ground plane, the first side opposite the second side, a first axis dividing the first side and the second side, the first axis extending in a first plane defined by the ground plane.

[0383] Clause 29. The antenna of clause 28, wherein the first element pair is at a polarization that is rotated 45-degress relative to the first axis and the second element pair is at a polarization that is rotated 45-degress relative to the first axis in an opposite direction than the first element pair.

[0384] Clause 30. The antenna of clause 25 or clause26, wherein the ground plane defines a first plane, wherein one of the first element pair or the second element pair is at a polarization relative to a second plane orthogonal to the first plane, wherein one of the first element pair or the second element pair is at a polarization relative to a third plane orthogonal to the first plane and the second plane.

[0385] Clause 31. The antenna of clause 26, wherein the first element pair has the same polarization as the second element pair.

[0386] Clause 32. The antenna of clause 26, wherein the first radiating element is positioned in a first corner of the ground plane, the second radiating element is positioned in a second comer of the ground plane, the third radiating element is positioned in a third corner of the ground plane, and the fourth radiating element is positioned in a fourth corner of the ground plane, the first corner opposite the second corner, the third corner opposite the fourth corner, wherein the first corner and the third comer are on a first side of the ground plane and the second corner and the fourth corner are on a second opposite side of the ground plane, a first axis dividing the first side and the second side, the first axis extending in a first plane defined by the ground plane.

[0387] Clause 33. The antenna of clause 32, wherein the first element pair is at a polarization that is rotated 45-degress relative to the first axis and the second element pair is at a polarization that is rotated 45-degress relative to the first axis in an opposite direction that the first element pair.

[0388] Clause 34. The antenna of clause 21, wherein the one or more multi-band radiating elements comprise a first radiating element, a second radiating element, and a third radiating element.

[0389] Clause 35. The antenna of clause 34, wherein the first radiating element and the second radiating element are arrayed other.

[0390] Clause 36. The antenna of clause 34 or clause35, wherein each of the first radiating element, the second radiating element, and the third radiating element comprise a three- dimensional radiator portion and a grounding portion.

[0391] Clause 37. A stacked patch antenna comprising: a ground plane; a bottom patch element positioned above the ground plane with a first gap therebetween; and a top patch element positioned above the bottom patch element with a second gap therebetween.

[0392] Clause 38. The stacked patch antenna of clause 37, further comprising one or more support posts positioned between the ground plane and the bottom patch element, the one or more support posts supporting the bottom patch element above the ground plane.

[0393] Clause 39. The stacked patch antenna of clause 38, wherein the one or more support posts extend through the bottom patch element to support the top patch element above the bottom patch element.

[0394] Clause 40. The stacked patch antenna of clause 38 or clause39, wherein the one or more support posts comprise a non-conductive material.

[0395] Clause 41. The stacked patch antenna of any of clauses 37 to 40, wherein the bottom patch element further comprises a bottom plate and a matching circuit, the matching circuit extending from the bottom plate in a plane defined by the bottom plate.

[0396] Clause 42. The stacked patch antenna of clause 41, wherein the matching circuit is T-shaped.

[0397] Clause 43. The stacked patch antenna of clause 41 or clause42, wherein the ground plane comprises a microstrip transmission line extending from an attachment point to afeed post, the feed post comprising a conductive material, the feed post electrically connecting the matching circuit to the microstrip transmission line.

[0398] Clause 44. The stacked patch antenna of clause 43, wherein the attachment point is configured to allow a coaxial cable to connect the stacked patch antenna to a radio.

[0399] Clause 45. The stacked patch antenna of any of clauses 37 to 44, further comprising a conductive post, the conductive post extending between the ground plane and the top patch element through the bottom patch element, the conductive post electrically connecting the ground plane to the top patch element and the bottom patch element.

[0400] Clause 46. An antenna assembly comprising: a base; a radome configured to be coupled to the base to define an internal volume; a first stacked patch antenna defined by any of clauses 37 to 45 positioned on a first side of the internal volume; and a second stacked patch antenna defined by any of clauses 37 to 45 positioned on a second side of the internal volume.

[0401] Clause 47. An antenna assembly comprising: a base; a radome configured to be coupled to the base to define an internal volume; the stacked patch antenna of any of clauses 37 to 45 positioned on a first side of the internal volume; and the antenna of any of clauses 21-36 positioned on a second side of the internal volume.

[0402] Clause 48. An antenna, comprising: a three-dimensional radiating element comprising: an upright portion, the upright portion having a width and a height, the width greater than the height; a head portion extending from a top side of the upright portion, the head portion having a length that is greater than the height 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.

[0403] Clause 49. The antenna of clause 48, wherein a ratio of the width of the upright portion to the height of the upright portion is 1.25: 1 or greater.

[0404] Clause 50. The antenna of clause 48 or clause 49, wherein a ratio of the length of the head portion to the height of the upright portion is 1.75 : 1 or greater.

[0405] Clause 51. The antenna of any of clauses 48 to 50, wherein a ratio of the length of the head portion to a length of the left arm or a length of the right arm is 1.5: 1 or greater.

[0406] Clause 52. The antenna of any of clauses 48 to 51, wherein the antenna comprises metal.

[0407] Clause 53. The antenna of any of clauses 48 to 52, wherein the ground connection comprises one or more conducting surfaces formed or etched onto a PCB support.

[0408] Clause 54. The antenna of clause 53, wherein the one or more conducting surfaces comprise a first conducting surface on a first side of the PCB support and a second conducting surface on a second side of the PCB support.

[0409] Clause 55. An antenna system, comprising: a plurality of antennas, each antenna of the plurality of antennas defined by any of clauses 48 to 54; and one or more internal ground planes, the plurality of antennas supported by the one or more internal ground planes.

[0410] Clause 56. The antenna system of clause 55, wherein the one or more internal ground planes comprises a first internal ground plane, wherein the plurality of antennas comprises four antennas, wherein the four antennas are oriented at 45-degree angles relative to a central axis of the first internal ground plane.

[0411] Clause 57. The antenna system of clause 56, wherein each antenna of the four antennas is positioned in a corner of the first internal ground plane.

[0412] Clause 58. The antenna system of clause 56 or clause 57, further comprising a first tri-band Wi-Fi antenna and a second tri-band Wi-Fi antenna, the first tri-band Wi-Fi antenna positioned along a first long side of the first internal ground plane, the second tri-band Wi-Fi antenna positioned along a second long side of the first internal ground plane.

[0413] Clause 59. The antenna system of clause 56, wherein the plurality of antennas further comprises a fifth antenna and a sixth antenna, the fifth antenna and the sixth antenna positioned along a top side of the first internal ground plane.

[0414] Clause 60. The antenna system of clause 56 or clause 57, wherein the one or more internal ground planes further comprises a second internal ground plane, the second internal ground plane spaced apart from the first internal ground plane, and wherein plurality of antennas comprises eight antennas, four antennas of the eight antennas supported by the first internal ground plane and four antennas of the eight antennas supported by the second internal ground plane.

[0415] Clause 61. The antenna system of clause 56 or clause 57, further comprising: a stacked patch antenna, wherein the one or more internal ground planes further comprises a second internal ground plane, the second internal ground plane spaced apart from the first internal ground plane, the second internal ground plane supporting the stacked patch antenna.

[0416] Clause 62. The antenna system of any of clauses 56 to 61, wherein at least two antennas of the plurality of antennas are arrayed together to form an antenna pair.

[0417] Clause 63. An antenna comprising a multi-band radiating element.

[0418] Clause 64. The antenna of clause 63, further comprising a ground connection configured to be electrically and mechanically coupled to the multi-band radiating element.

[0419] Clause 65. The antenna of clause 63 or clause 64, wherein the multi-band radiating element comprises an upright portion.

[0420] Clause 66. The antenna of clause 65, wherein the ground connection is configured to be coupled to the upright portion along a central vertical axis of the upright portion.

[0421] Clause 67. The antenna of clause 66, wherein the upright portion comprises an opening for receiving a portion of the ground connection.

[0422] Clause 68. The antenna of clause 67, wherein the opening is a horizontal slot or a vertical slot.

[0423] Clause 69. The antenna of clause 67 or clause 68, wherein the opening is located on an upper third of the upright portion.

[0424] Clause 70. The antenna of clause 67 or clause 68, wherein the opening is located on an upper half of the upright portion.

[0425] Clause 71. The antenna of any of clauses 65 to 70, wherein the upright portion has a width to height ratio of greater than 1 : 1.

[0426] Clause 72. The antenna of any of clauses 65 to 70, wherein the upright portion has a width to height ratio of 1.25 : 1 or greater.

[0427] Clause 73. The antenna of any of clauses 65 to 70, wherein the upright portion has a width to height ratio of 1.5 : 1 or greater.

[0428] Clause 74. The antenna of any of clauses 65 to 73, wherein the upright portion has a top edge and a bottom edge, wherein the top edge has a greater width than the bottom edge.

[0429] Clause 75. The antenna of any of clauses 65 to 74, wherein the multi-band radiating element further comprises a head portion extending from a top side or a top edge of the upright portion.

[0430] Clause 76. The antenna of clause 75, wherein the head portion extends substantially perpendicularly to the upright portion.

[0431] Clause 77. The antenna of clause 75, wherein the head portion extends at a nonperpendicular angle relative to the upright portion.

[0432] Clause 78. The antenna of any of clauses 75 to 77, wherein a ratio between a length of the head portion to a height of the upright portion is 1 : 1 or greater.

[0433] Clause 79. The antenna of any of clauses 75 to 77, wherein a ratio between a height of the upright portion to a length of the head portion is 1.5: 1 or greater.

[0434] Clause 80. The antenna of any of clauses 75 to 77, wherein a ratio between a length of the head portion to a height of the upright portion is 1.75 : 1 or greater.

[0435] Clause 81. The antenna of any of clauses 75 to 77, wherein a ratio between a length of the head portion to a height of the upright portion is 2: 1 or greater.

[0436] Clause 82. The antenna of any of clauses 75 to 77, wherein a ratio between a length of the head portion to a height of the upright portion is 2.5: 1 or greater.

[0437] Clause 83. The antenna of any of clauses 75 to 82, wherein the head portion has an average width that is equal or greater than a maximum width of the upright portion.

[0438] Clause 84. The antenna of any of clauses 75 to 83, wherein the head portion has an average width that is greater than a maximum width of the upright portion.

[0439] Clause 85. The antenna of any of clauses 75 to 84, wherein the head portion has a first width at the top side or the top edge of the upright portion and a second width at a maximum distance away from the upright portion.

[0440] Clause 86. The antenna of clause 85, wherein the second width is greater than the first width.

[0441] Clause 87. The antenna of clause 85 or clause 86, wherein a maximum width of the head portion is between the first width and the second width.

[0442] Clause 88. The antenna of any of clauses 65 to 87, 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.

[0443] Clause 89. The antenna of any of clauses 75 to 88, 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.

[0444] Clause 90. The antenna of any of clauses 65 to 89, wherein the multi-band radiating element further comprises one or more arms.

[0445] Clause 91. The antenna of clause 90, wherein a ratio between a length of the head portion to a length of the one or more arms is 1 :1 or greater.

[0446] Clause 92. The antenna of clause 90, wherein a ratio between a length of the head portion to a length of the one or more arms is 1.5:1 or greater.

[0447] Clause 93. The antenna of clause 90, wherein a ratio between a length of the head portion to a length of the one or more arms is 2: 1 or greater.

[0448] Clause 94. The antenna of clause 90, wherein a ratio between a length of the head portion to a length of the one or more arms is 2.5: 1 or greater.

[0449] Clause 95. The antenna of any of clauses clause 90 to 94, 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.

[0450] Clause 96. The antenna of any of clauses 90 to 95, 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.

[0451] Clause 97. The antenna of clause 96, wherein the left arm extends from a first connecting portion extending from the left edge of the upright portion and the right arm extends a second connecting portion extending from the right edge of the upright portion.

[0452] Clause 98. The antenna of clause 97, wherein the left arm and the right arm have a greater width than a width of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion.

[0453] Clause 99. The antenna of any of clauses 96 to 98, 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.

[0454] Clause 100. The antenna of any of clauses 96 to 99, 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.

[0455] Clause 101. The antenna of any of clauses 96 to 99, 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.

[0456] Clause 102. The antenna of any of clauses 96 to 101, wherein the left arm and the right arm extend at an angle less than 90 degrees from the upright portion in a direction towards the head portion.

[0457] Clause 103. The antenna of any of clauses 65 to 102, wherein the multi -band radiating element further comprises a feed portion extending from a lower edge of the upright portion.

[0458] Clause 104. The antenna of any of clauses 64 to 103, wherein the multi-band radiating element comprises metal and the ground connection comprises PCB.

[0459] Clause 105. The antenna of any of clauses 64 to 104, wherein the ground connection comprises one or more conducting surfaces formed or etched onto a PCB support.

[0460] Clause 106. The antenna of clause 105, wherein the one or more conducting surfaces comprise a first conducting surface on a first side of the PCB support and a second conducting surface on a second side of the PCB support.

[0461] Clause 107. The antenna of any of clauses 63 to 106, wherein the antenna comprises a three-dimensional inverted F antenna.

[0462] Clause 108. An antenna system comprising: an internal ground plane comprising a top side and a bottom side; and a first antenna as defined by any of clauses 63 to 107, the first antenna supported by the top side of the internal ground plane.

[0463] Clause 109. The antenna system of clause 108, wherein the top side comprises a non-conductive surface and the bottom side comprises a conductive surface, wherein the first antenna is supported by the top side and electrically connected to the bottom side.

[0464] Clause 110. The antenna system of clause 109, wherein the internal ground plane comprises a PCB structure.

[0465] Clause 111. The antenna system of any of clauses 108 to 110, further comprising: a second antenna as defined by any of clauses 63 to 107; a third antenna as defined by any of clauses 63 to 107; and a fourth antenna as defined by any of clauses 63 to 107, wherein the first antenna, the second antenna, the third antenna, and the fourth antenna are supported by the top side of the internal ground plane.

[0466] Clause 112. The antenna system of clause 111, wherein the first antenna is positioned in a first corner of the internal ground plane, the second antenna is positioned in a second comer of the internal ground plane, the third antenna is positioned in a third corner of theinternal ground plane, and the fourth antenna is positioned in a fourth corner of the internal ground plane.

[0467] Clause 113. The antenna system of clause 112, wherein the first antenna, the second antenna, the third antenna, and the fourth antenna face inwardly towards a center of the internal ground plane.

[0468] Clause 114. The antenna system of any of clauses 111 to 113, wherein the first antenna is at a first rotational position relative to a central axis of the internal ground plane, the second antenna is at a second rotational position relative to the central axis of the internal ground plane, the third antenna is at a third rotational position relative to the central axis of the internal ground plane, and the fourth antenna is at a fourth rotational position relative to the central axis of the internal ground plane.

[0469] Clause 115. The antenna system of clause 114, wherein the first rotational position, the second rotational position, the third rotational position, and the fourth rotational position are different from each other.

[0470] Clause 116. The antenna system of clause 114 or clause 115, where the first rotational position, the second rotational position, the third rotational position, and the fourth rotational position are all at 45-degree angles relative to the central axis of the internal ground plane.

[0471] Clause 117. The antenna system of any of clauses 114 to 116, wherein the antenna system is configured to be vertically oriented such that the internal ground plane is perpendicular to a ground surface, and wherein the central axis is a vertical axis of the internal ground plane.

[0472] Clause 118. The antenna system of any of clauses 114 to 117, wherein the first antenna has a first polarization, the second antenna has a second polarization, the third antenna has a third polarization, and the fourth antenna has a fourth polarization.

[0473] Clause 119. The antenna system of clause 118, wherein the first antenna is cross polarized with the fourth antenna and the second antenna is cross polarized with the third antenna.

[0474] Clause 120. The antenna system of clause 111 or clause 112, wherein the first antenna is arrayed with the second antenna to form a first antenna pair.

[0475] Clause 121. The antenna system of clause 111, clause 112, or clause 120, wherein the third antenna is arrayed with the fourth antenna to form a second antenna pair.

[0476] Clause 122. The antenna system of clause 121, wherein the first antenna and the second antenna are at a first rotational position relative to a central axis of the internal ground plane, and the third antenna and the fourth antenna are at a second rotational position relative to the central axis of the internal ground plane.

[0477] Clause 123. The antenna system of clause 122, wherein the first rotational position and the second rotational position are at 45-degree angles relative to the central axis of the internal ground plane.

[0478] Clause 124. The antenna system of any of clause clauses 111 to 123, wherein the first antenna, the second antenna, the third antenna, and the fourth antenna are configured to produce a radiation pattern perpendicular to the internal ground plane.

[0479] Clause 125. The antenna system of any of clauses 111 to 124, wherein the internal ground plane comprises a plurality of feed lines and a plurality of RF ports, wherein each feed line of the plurality of feed lines electrically connects one of the first antenna, the second antenna, the third antenna, or the fourth antenna to one RF port of the plurality of RF ports.

[0480] Clause 126. The antenna system of clause 125, wherein the plurality of feed lines are microstrip transmission lines.

[0481] Clause 127. The antenna system of any of clauses 108 to 126, further comprising: a second internal ground plane comprising a top side and a bottom side; a fifth antenna as defined by any of clauses 63 to 107; a sixth antenna as defined by any of clauses 63 to 107; a seventh antenna as defined by any of clauses 63 to 107; and an eighth antenna as defined by any of clauses 63 to 107, wherein the fifth antenna, the sixth antenna, the seventh antenna, and the eighth antenna are supported by the top side of the second internal ground plane.

[0482] Clause 128. The antenna system of clause 127, wherein the fifth antenna is positioned in a first corner of the second internal ground plane, the sixth antenna is positioned in a second corner of the second internal ground plane, the seventh antenna is positioned in a third corner of the second internal ground plane, and the eighth antenna is positioned in a fourth comer of the second internal ground plane.

[0483] Clause 129. The antenna system of clause 128, wherein the fifth antenna, the sixth antenna, the seventh antenna, and the eighth antenna face inwardly towards a center of the second internal ground plane.

[0484] Clause 130. The antenna system of any of clauses 127 to 129, wherein the fifth antenna is at a fifth rotational position relative to a central axis of the second internal ground plane, the sixth antenna is at a sixth rotational position relative to the central axis of the second internal ground plane, the seventh antenna is at a seventh rotational position relative to the central axis of the second internal ground plane, and the eighth antenna is at an eighth rotational position relative to the central axis of the second internal ground plane.

[0485] Clause 131. The antenna system of clause 130, wherein the fifth rotational position, the sixth rotational position, the seventh rotational position, and the eighth rotational position are different from each other.

[0486] Clause 132. The antenna system of clause 130 or clause 131, wherein the first rotational position is the same as the fifth rotational position, the second rotational position is the same as the sixth rotational position, the third rotational position is the same as the seventh rotational position, and the fourth rotational position is the same as the eighth rotational position..

[0487] Clause 133. The antenna system of any of clause 130 to 132, wherein the fifth rotational position, the sixth rotational position, the seventh rotational position, and the eighth rotational position are all at 45-degree angles relative to the central axis of the second internal ground plane.

[0488] Clause 134. The antenna system of any of clauses 130 to 133, wherein the antenna system is configured to be vertically oriented such that the second internal ground plane is perpendicular to a ground surface, and wherein the central axis is a vertical axis of the second internal ground plane.

[0489] Clause 135. The antenna system of any of clauses 130 to 134, wherein the fifth antenna has a fifth polarization, the sixth antenna has a sixth polarization, the seventh antenna has a seventh polarization, and the eighth antenna has an eighth polarization.

[0490] Clause 136. The antenna system of clause 135, wherein the first polarization is the same as the fifth polarization, the second polarization is the same as the sixth polarization, the third polarization is the same as the seventh polarization, and the fourth polarization is the same as the eighth polarization.

[0491] Clause 137. The antenna system of clause 135 or clause 136, wherein the fifth antenna is cross polarized with the eighth antenna and the sixth antenna is cross polarized with the seventh antenna.

[0492] Clause 138. The antenna system of clause 127 or clause 128, wherein the fifth antenna is arrayed with the sixth antenna to form a third antenna pair.

[0493] Clause 139. The antenna system of clause 127, clause 128, or clause 138, wherein the seventh antenna is arrayed with the eighth antenna to form a fourth antenna pair.

[0494] Clause 140. The antenna system of clause 139, wherein the fifth antenna and the sixth antenna are at a third rotational position relative to a central axis of the second internal ground plane, and the seventh antenna and the eighth antenna are at a fourth rotational position relative to the central axis of the second internal ground plane.

[0495] Clause 141. The antenna system of clause 140, wherein the third rotational position and the fourth rotational position are at 45-degree angles relative to the central axis of the second internal ground plane.

[0496] Clause 142. The antenna system of any of clauses 139 to 141, wherein the first antenna pair is cross polarized with the second antenna pair and / or the third antenna pair is crosspolarized with the fourth antenna pair.

[0497] Clause 143. The antenna system of any of clauses 127 to 142, wherein the first antenna, the second antenna, the third antenna, the fourth antenna, the fifth antenna, the sixth antenna, the seventh antenna, and the eighth antenna form a multi -element multi -band antenna.

[0498] Clause 144. The antenna system of clause 143, wherein the multi-element multi-band antenna is configured to produce a radiation pattern perpendicular to the internal ground plane and the second internal ground plane.

[0499] Clause 145. The antenna system of clause 143 or clause 144, wherein the multielement multi-band antenna is configured 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.

[0500] Clause 146. The antenna system of any of clauses 108 to 126, further comprising: a second internal ground plane comprising a top side and a bottom side; and a stacked patch antenna supported by the top side of the second internal ground plane.

[0501] Clause 147. The antenna system of clause 146, wherein the stacked patch antenna comprises: a bottom patch element positioned above the second internal ground plane with a first gap therebetween; and a top patch element positioned above the bottom patch element with a second gap therebetween.

[0502] Clause 148. The antenna system of clause 147, further comprising one or more support posts positioned between the second internal ground plane and the bottom patch element, the one or more support posts supporting the bottom patch element above the second internal ground plane.

[0503] Clause 149. The antenna system of clause 148, wherein the one or more support posts extend through the bottom patch element to support the top patch element above the bottom patch element.

[0504] Clause 150. The antenna system of clause 148 or clause 149, wherein the one or more support posts comprise a non-conductive material.

[0505] Clause 151. The antenna system of any of clauses 147 to 150, wherein the bottom patch element further comprises a bottom plate and a matching circuit, the matching circuit extending from the bottom plate in a plane defined by the bottom plate.

[0506] Clause 152. The antenna system of clause 151, wherein the matching circuit is T-shaped.

[0507] Clause 153. The antenna system of clause 151 or clause 152, wherein the second internal ground plane comprises a microstrip transmission line extending from an attachment point to a feed post, the feed post comprising a conductive material, the feed post electrically connecting the matching circuit to the microstrip transmission line.

[0508] Clause 154. The antenna system of clause 153, wherein the attachment point is configured to allow a coaxial cable to connect the stacked patch antenna to a radio.

[0509] Clause 155. The antenna system of clauses 151 to 154, further comprising a conductive post, the conductive post extending between the second internal ground plane and the top patch element through the bottom patch element, the conductive post electrically connecting the second internal ground plane to the top patch element and the bottom patch element.

[0510] Clause 156. The antenna system of any of clauses 108 to 155, further comprising: a first cover; and a second cover, the second cover configured to be coupled to the first cover to define an internal volume therebetween, wherein the internal ground plane is supported by the second cover within the internal volume.

[0511] Clause 157. The antenna system of clause 156, wherein the first cover is a front cover and the second cover is a back cover, the back cover configured to be coupled to a vertical support.

[0512] Clause 158. The antenna system of clause 1 6 or clause 157, wherein the second internal ground plane is supported by the second cover, the internal ground plane positioned on a first side of the second cover, the second internal ground plane positioned on a second side of the second cover.

[0513] Clause 159. The antenna system of clause 158, wherein there is a gap between the internal ground plane and the second internal ground plane, wherein coaxial cables are positioned within the gap and electrically connected to the internal ground plane and the second internal ground plane.

[0514] Clause 160. An antenna system comprising: an internal ground plane comprising a top side and a bottom side; a first antenna as defined by any of clauses 63 to 107; a second antenna as defined by any of clauses 63 to 107; a third antenna as defined by any of clauses 63 to 107; and a fourth antenna as defined by any of clauses 63 to 107, wherein the first antenna, the second antenna, the third antenna, and the fourth antenna are supported by the top side of the internal ground plane.

[0515] Clause 161. The antenna system of clause 160, wherein the internal ground plane has a rectangular shape.

[0516] Clause 162. The antenna system of clauses 160 or 161, wherein the first antenna is at a first rotational position relative to a central axis of the internal ground plane, the second antenna is at a second rotational position relative to the central axis of the internal ground plane, the third antenna is at a third rotational position relative to the central axis of the internal ground plane, and the fourth antenna is at a fourth rotational position relative to the central axis of the internal ground plane.

[0517] Clause 163. The antenna system of clause 162, wherein the first rotational position, the second rotational position, the third rotational position, and the fourth rotational position are different from each other.

[0518] Clause 164. The antenna system of clause 162 or clause 163, where the first rotational position, the second rotational position, the third rotational position, and the fourth rotational position are all at 45-degree angles relative to the central axis of the internal ground plane.

[0519] Clause 165. The antenna system of any of clauses 160 to 164, wherein the antenna system is configured to be vertically oriented such that the internal ground plane isperpendicular to a ground surface, and wherein the central axis is a vertical axis of the internal ground plane.

[0520] Clause 166. The antenna system of any of clauses 162 to 164, wherein the first antenna has a first polarization, the second antenna has a second polarization, the third antenna has a third polarization, and the fourth antenna has a fourth polarization.

[0521] Clause 167. The antenna system of clause 166, wherein the first antenna is cross polarized with the fourth antenna and the second antenna is cross polarized with the third antenna.

[0522] Clause 168. The antenna system of any of clauses 160 to 167, wherein the first antenna is positioned in a first corner of the internal ground plane and the fourth antenna is positioned in a fourth corner of the internal ground plane, the first corner and the fourth comer partially defined by a first side of the internal ground plane.

[0523] Clause 169. The antenna system of clause 168, wherein the second antenna and the third antenna are positioned between the first side and a second side of the internal ground plane, the second side opposite the first side.

[0524] Clause 170. The antenna system of any of clauses 160 to 169, further comprising: a fifth antenna as defined by any of clauses 63 to 107; and a sixth antenna as defined by any of clauses 63 to 107; the fifth antenna and the sixth antenna supported by the top side of the internal ground plane.

[0525] Clause 171. The antenna system of clause 170, wherein the fifth antenna and the sixth antenna are positioned along the second side.

[0526] Clause 172. The antenna system of clause 170 or clause 171, wherein the fifth antenna and the sixth antenna face in a direction aligned with a central axis of the internal ground plane.

[0527] Clause 173. The antenna system of any of clauses 170 to 172, wherein the fifth antenna is arrayed with the sixth antenna to form an antenna pair.

[0528] Clause 174. The antenna system of any of clauses 160 to 168, wherein the second antenna is positioned in a second corner of the internal ground plane and the third antenna is positioned in a third corner of the internal ground plane, the second corner and the third corner partially defined by a second side of the internal ground plane.

[0529] Clause 175. The antenna system of clause 174, wherein the second side is opposite the first side.

[0530] Clause 176. The antenna system of clause 174 or clause 175, further comprising one or more additional antennas, the one or more additional antennas configured to be supported by the internal ground plane.

[0531] Clause 177. The antenna system of clause 176, wherein the one or more additional antennas comprise a first tri-band Wi-Fi antenna.

[0532] Clause 178. The antenna system of clause 177, wherein the first tri-band Wi-Fi antenna is positioned along a third side of the internal ground plane, the third side extending between the first side and the second side.

[0533] Clause 179. The antenna system of clause 177 or clause 178, wherein the one or more additional antennas comprise a second tri-band Wi-Fi antenna.

[0534] Clause 180. The antenna system of clause 179, wherein the second tri-band WiFi antenna is positioned along a fourth side of the internal ground plane, the fourth side extending between the first side and the second side.

[0535] Clause 181. The antenna system of any of clauses 176 to 180, wherein the one or more additional antennas comprise a first CBRS dipole antenna.

[0536] Clause 182. The antenna system of clause 181, wherein the first CBRS dipole antenna is configured to be is positioned adjacent a third side of the internal ground plane between the fourth antenna and the third antenna, the third side extending between the first side and the second side.

[0537] Clause 183. The antenna system of clause 181 or clause 182, wherein the one or more additional antennas comprise a second CBRS dipole antenna.

[0538] Clause 184. The antenna system of clause 183, wherein the second CBRS dipole antenna is configured to be is positioned adjacent a fourth side of the internal ground plane between the first antenna and the second antenna, the fourth side extending between the first side and the second side.

[0539] Clause 185. The antenna system of any of clauses 160 to 168, wherein the internal ground plane includes a first feed line with a multi-line split, the multi-line split defining a first break in the first feed line with a second feed line and a second break in the first feed line with a third feed line, the first feed line extending to an RF port.

[0540] Clause 186. The antenna system of clause 185, wherein the second feed line extends to a feed point for a fifth antenna and the third feed line extends to a sixth antenna.

[0541] Clause 187. The antenna system of clause 186, wherein the sixth antenna is coupled to, etched into, or disposed on the internal ground plane.

[0542] Clause 188. The antenna system of clause 186 or clause 187, wherein soldering the first break electrically connects the first feed line and the second feed line such that the feed point for the fifth antenna is electrically connected to the RF port, and wherein soldering the second break electrically connects the first feed line and the third feed line such that the sixth antenna is electrically connected to the RF port.

[0543] Clause 189. The antenna system of any of clauses 186 to 188, wherein the fifth antenna comprises a CBRS dipole antenna configured to be coupled to the internal ground plane.

[0544] Clause 190. The antenna system of any of clauses 186 to 189, wherein the sixth antenna comprises a tri-band Wi-Fi antenna.

[0545] Clause 191. The antenna system of any of clauses 185 to 190, wherein the internal ground plane includes a fourth feed line with a second multi-line split, the second multiline split defining a third break in the fourth feed line with a fifth feed line and a fourth break in the fourth feed line with a sixth feed line, the fourth feed line extending to a second RF port.

[0546] Clause 192. The antenna system of clause 191, wherein the fifth feed line extends to a feed point for a seventh antenna and the sixth feed line extends to an eighth antenna.

[0547] Clause 193. The antenna system of clause 192, wherein the eighth antenna is coupled to, etched into, or disposed on the internal ground plane.

[0548] Clause 194. The antenna system of clause 192 or clause 193, wherein soldering the third break electrically connects the fourth feed line and the fifth feed line such that the feed point for the seventh antenna is electrically connected to the second RF port, and wherein soldering the fourth break electrically connects the fourth feed line and the sixth feed line such that the eighth antenna is electrically connected to the second RF port.

[0549] Clause 195. The antenna system of any of clauses 192 to 194, wherein the seventh antenna comprises a second CBRS dipole antenna configured to be coupled to the internal ground plane.

[0550] Clause 196. The antenna system of any of clauses 192 to 195, wherein the eighth antenna comprises a second tri-band Wi-Fi antenna.

[0551] Clause 197. The antenna system of any of clauses 192 to 196, wherein the sixth antenna is positioned along a third side of the internal ground plane and the eighth antenna ispositioned along a fourth side of the internal ground plane, the third side opposite the fourth side, the third side and the fourth side extending between the first side and the second side.

[0552] Clause 198. An antenna system comprising: any of the features of any of clauses 1 to 197.Additional Considerations and Terminology

[0553] 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.

[0554] 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 and systems 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.

[0555] Although the present disclosure includes certain implementations, examples and applications, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present disclosure extendsbeyond 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.

[0556] 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 ordinary meaning, 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.

[0557] 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.

[0558] Language of degree used herein, such as the terms “approximately,” “about,” “generally,” and “substantially” as used herein represent a value, amount, or characteristic closeto 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, the upright portion having a width and a height, the width greater than the height; a head portion extending from a top side of the upright portion, the head portion having a length that is greater than the height 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.

2. The antenna of claim 1, wherein a ratio of the width of the upright portion to the height of the upright portion is 1.25:1 or greater.

3. The antenna of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein a ratio of the length of the head portion to the height of the upright portion is 1 .75: 1 or greater.

4. The antenna of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein a ratio of the length of the head portion to a length of the left arm or a length of the right arm is 1.5:1 or greater.

5. The antenna of any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the antenna comprises metal.

6. The antenna of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the ground connection comprises one or more conducting surfaces formed or etched onto a PCB support.

7. The antenna of claim 6, wherein the one or more conducting surfaces comprise a first conducting surface on a first side of the PCB support and a second conducting surface on a second side of the PCB support.

8. An antenna system, comprising: a plurality of antennas, each antenna of the plurality of antennas defined by any of claims 1 to 7; and one or more internal ground planes, the plurality of antennas supported by the one or more internal ground planes.

9. The antenna system of claim 8, wherein the one or more internal ground planes comprises a first internal ground plane, wherein the plurality of antennas comprises four antennas, wherein the four antennas are oriented at 45-degree angles relative to a central axis of the first internal ground plane.

10. The antenna system of claim 9, wherein each antenna of the four antennas is positioned in a corner of the first internal ground plane.

11. The antenna system of claim 9 or claim 10, further comprising a first tri-band Wi-Fi antenna and a second tri-band Wi-Fi antenna, the first tri-band Wi-Fi antenna positioned along a first long side of the first internal ground plane, the second tri-band Wi-Fi antenna positioned along a second long side of the first internal ground plane.

12. The antenna system of claim 9, wherein the plurality of antennas further comprises a fifth antenna and a sixth antenna, the fifth antenna and the sixth antenna positioned along a top side of the first internal ground plane.

13. The antenna system of claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the one or more internal ground planes further comprises a second internal ground plane, the second internal ground plane spaced apart from the first internal ground plane, and wherein plurality of antennas comprises eight antennas, four antennas of the eight antennas supported by the first internal ground plane and four antennas of the eight antennas supported by the second internal ground plane.

14. The antenna system of claim 9 or claim 10, further comprising: a stacked patch antenna, wherein the one or more internal ground planes further comprises a second internal ground plane, the second internal ground plane spaced apart from the first internal ground plane, the second internal ground plane supporting the stacked patch antenna.

15. The antenna system of any of claims 9 to 14, wherein at least two antennas of the plurality of antennas are arrayed together to form an antenna pair.

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

17. The antenna of claim 16, further comprising a ground connection configured to be electrically and mechanically coupled to the multi-band radiating element.

18. The antenna of claim 16 or claim 17, wherein the multi-band radiating element comprises an upright portion.

19. The antenna of claim 18, wherein the ground connection is configured to be coupled to the upright portion along a central vertical axis of the upright portion.

20. The antenna of claim 19, wherein the upright portion comprises an opening for receiving a portion of the ground connection.

21. The antenna of claim 20, wherein the opening is a horizontal slot or a vertical slot.

22. The antenna of claim 20 or claim 21 , wherein the opening is located on an upper third of the upright portion.

23. The antenna of claim 20 or claim 21, wherein the opening is located on an upper half of the upright portion.

24. The antenna of any of claims 18 to 23, wherein the upright portion has a width to height ratio of greater than 1 : 1.

25. The antenna of any of claims 18 to 23, wherein the upright portion has a width to height ratio of 1.25: 1 or greater.

26. The antenna of any of claims 18 to 23, wherein the upright portion has a width to height ratio of 1.5 : 1 or greater.

27. The antenna of any of claims 18 to 26, wherein the upright portion has a top edge and a bottom edge, wherein the top edge has a greater width than the bottom edge.

28. The antenna of any of claims 18 to 27, wherein the multi-band radiating element further comprises a head portion extending from a top side or a top edge of the upright portion.

29. The antenna of claim 28, wherein the head portion extends substantially perpendicularly to the upright portion.

30. The antenna of claim 28, wherein the head portion extends at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the upright portion.

31. The antenna of any of claims 28 to 30, wherein a ratio between a length of the head portion to a height of the upright portion is 1 : 1 or greater.

32. The antenna of any of claims 28 to 30, wherein a ratio between a height of the upright portion to a length of the head portion is 1.5: 1 or greater.

33. The antenna of any of claims 28 to 30, wherein a ratio between a length of the head portion to a height of the upright portion is 1.75: 1 or greater.

34. The antenna of any of claims 28 to 30, wherein a ratio between a length of the head portion to a height of the upright portion is 2: 1 or greater.

35. The antenna of any of claims 28 to 30, wherein a ratio between a length of the head portion to a height of the upright portion is 2.5: 1 or greater.

36. The antenna of any of claims 28 to 35, wherein the head portion has an average width that is equal or greater than a maximum width of the upright portion.

37. The antenna of any of claims 28 to 36, wherein the head portion has an average width that is greater than a maximum width of the upright portion.

38. The antenna of any of claims 28 to 37, wherein the head portion has a first width at the top side or the top edge of the upright portion and a second width at a maximum distance away from the upright portion.

39. The antenna of claim 38, wherein the second width is greater than the first width.

40. The antenna of claim 38 or claim 39, wherein a maximum width of the head portion is between the first width and the second width.

41. The antenna of any of claims 18 to 40, 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.

42. The antenna of any of claims 28 to 41, 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.

43. The antenna of any of claims 18 to 42, wherein the multi -band radiating element further comprises one or more arms.

44. The antenna of claim 43, wherein a ratio between a length of the head portion to a length of the one or more arms is 1 : 1 or greater.

45. The antenna of claim 43, wherein a ratio between a length of the head portion to a length of the one or more arms is 1.5: 1 or greater.

46. The antenna of claim 43, wherein a ratio between a length of the head portion to a length of the one or more arms is 2: 1 or greater.

47. The antenna of claim 43, wherein a ratio between a length of the head portion to a length of the one or more arms is 2.5: 1 or greater.

48. The antenna of any of claims claim 43 to 47, 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.

49. The antenna of any of claims 43 to 48, 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.

50. The antenna of claim 49, wherein the left arm extends from a first connecting portion extending from the left edge of the upright portion and the right arm extends a second connecting portion extending from the right edge of the upright portion.

51. The antenna of claim 50, wherein the left arm and the right arm have a greater width than a width of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion.

52. The antenna of any of claims 49 to 51, 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.

53. The antenna of any of claims 49 to 52, 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.

54. The antenna of any of claims 49 to 52, 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.

55. The antenna of any of claims 49 to 54, wherein the left arm and the right arm extend at an angle less than 90 degrees from the upright portion in a direction towards the head portion.

56. The antenna of any of claims 18 to 55, wherein the multi -band radiating element further comprises a feed portion extending from a lower edge of the upright portion.

57. The antenna of any of claims 17 to 56, wherein the multi-band radiating element comprises metal and the ground connection comprises PCB.

58. The antenna of any of claims 17 to 57, wherein the ground connection comprises one or more conducting surfaces formed or etched onto a PCB support.

59. The antenna of claim 58, wherein the one or more conducting surfaces comprise a first conducting surface on a first side of the PCB support and a second conducting surface on a second side of the PCB support.

60. The antenna of any of claims 16 to 59, wherein the antenna comprises a three- dimensional inverted F antenna.

61. An antenna system comprising: an internal ground plane comprising a top side and a bottom side; and a first antenna as defined by any of claims 16 to 60, the first antenna supported by the top side of the internal ground plane.

62. The antenna system of claim 61, wherein the top side comprises a non-conductive surface and the bottom side comprises a conductive surface, wherein the first antenna is supported by the top side and electrically connected to the bottom side.

63. The antenna system of claim 62, wherein the internal ground plane comprises a PCB structure.

64. The antenna system of any of claims 61 to 63, further comprising: a second antenna as defined by any of claims 16 to 60; a third antenna as defined by any of claims 16 to 60; and a fourth antenna as defined by any of claims 16 to 60, wherein the first antenna, the second antenna, the third antenna, and the fourth antenna are supported by the top side of the internal ground plane.

65. The antenna system of claim 64, wherein the first antenna is positioned in a first corner of the internal ground plane, the second antenna is positioned in a second corner of the internal ground plane, the third antenna is positioned in a third comer of the internal ground plane, and the fourth antenna is positioned in a fourth corner of the internal ground plane.

66. The antenna system of claim 65, wherein the first antenna, the second antenna, the third antenna, and the fourth antenna face inwardly towards a center of the internal ground plane.

67. The antenna system of any of claims 64 to 66, wherein the first antenna is at a first rotational position relative to a central axis of the internal ground plane, the second antenna is at a second rotational position relative to the central axis of the internal ground plane, the third antenna is at a third rotational position relative to the central axis of the internal ground plane, and the fourth antenna is at a fourth rotational position relative to the central axis of the internal ground plane.

68. The antenna system of claim 67, wherein the first rotational position, the second rotational position, the third rotational position, and the fourth rotational position are different from each other.

69. The antenna system of claim 67 or claim 68, where the first rotational position, the second rotational position, the third rotational position, and the fourth rotational position are all at 45-degree angles relative to the central axis of the internal ground plane.

70. The antenna system of any of claims 67 to 69, wherein the antenna system is configured to be vertically oriented such that the internal ground plane is perpendicular to a ground surface, and wherein the central axis is a vertical axis of the internal ground plane.

71. The antenna system of any of claims 67 to 70, wherein the first antenna has a first polarization, the second antenna has a second polarization, the third antenna has a third polarization, and the fourth antenna has a fourth polarization.

72. The antenna system of claim 71, wherein the first antenna is cross polarized with the fourth antenna and the second antenna is cross polarized with the third antenna.

73. The antenna system of claim 64 or claim 65, wherein the first antenna is arrayed with the second antenna to form a first antenna pair.

74. The antenna system of claim 64, claim 65, or claim 73, wherein the third antenna is arrayed with the fourth antenna to form a second antenna pair.

75. The antenna system of claim 74, wherein the first antenna and the second antenna are at a first rotational position relative to a central axis of the internal ground plane, and the third antenna and the fourth antenna are at a second rotational position relative to the central axis of the internal ground plane.

76. The antenna system of claim 75, wherein the first rotational position and the second rotational position are at 45-degree angles relative to the central axis of the internal ground plane.

77. The antenna system of any of claim claims 64 to 76, wherein the first antenna, the second antenna, the third antenna, and the fourth antenna are configured to produce a radiation pattern perpendicular to the internal ground plane.

78. The antenna system of any of claims 64 to 77, wherein the internal ground plane comprises a plurality of feed lines and a plurality of RF ports, wherein each feed line of the plurality of feed lines electrically connects one of the first antenna, the second antenna, the third antenna, or the fourth antenna to one RF port of the plurality of RF ports.

79. The antenna system of claim 78, wherein the plurality of feed lines are microstrip transmission lines.

80. The antenna system of any of claims 61 to 79, further comprising: a second internal ground plane comprising a top side and a bottom side; a fifth antenna as defined by any of claims 16 to 60; a sixth antenna as defined by any of claims 16 to 60;a seventh antenna as defined by any of claims 16 to 60; and an eighth antenna as defined by any of claims 16 to 60, wherein the fifth antenna, the sixth antenna, the seventh antenna, and the eighth antenna are supported by the top side of the second internal ground plane.

81. The antenna system of claim 80, wherein the fifth antenna is positioned in a first corner of the second internal ground plane, the sixth antenna is positioned in a second corner of the second internal ground plane, the seventh antenna is positioned in a third corner of the second internal ground plane, and the eighth antenna is positioned in a fourth comer of the second internal ground plane.

82. The antenna system of claim 81, wherein the fifth antenna, the sixth antenna, the seventh antenna, and the eighth antenna face inwardly towards a center of the second internal ground plane.

83. The antenna system of any of claims 80 to 82, wherein the fifth antenna is at a fifth rotational position relative to a central axis of the second internal ground plane, the sixth antenna is at a sixth rotational position relative to the central axis of the second internal ground plane, the seventh antenna is at a seventh rotational position relative to the central axis of the second internal ground plane, and the eighth antenna is at an eighth rotational position relative to the central axis of the second internal ground plane.

84. The antenna system of claim 83, wherein the fifth rotational position, the sixth rotational position, the seventh rotational position, and the eighth rotational position are different from each other.

85. The antenna system of claim 83 or claim 84, wherein the first rotational position is the same as the fifth rotational position, the second rotational position is the same as the sixth rotational position, the third rotational position is the same as the seventh rotational position, and the fourth rotational position is the same as the eighth rotational position..

86. The antenna system of any of claim 83 to 85, wherein the fifth rotational position, the sixth rotational position, the seventh rotational position, and the eighth rotational position are all at 45-degree angles relative to the central axis of the second internal ground plane.

87. The antenna system of any of claims 83 to 86, wherein the antenna system is configured to be vertically oriented such that the second internal ground plane is perpendicular to a ground surface, and wherein the central axis is a vertical axis of the second internal ground plane.

88. The antenna system of any of claims 83 to 87, wherein the fifth antenna has a fifth polarization, the sixth antenna has a sixth polarization, the seventh antenna has a seventh polarization, and the eighth antenna has an eighth polarization.

89. The antenna system of claim 88, wherein the first polarization is the same as the fifth polarization, the second polarization is the same as the sixth polarization, the third polarization is the same as the seventh polarization, and the fourth polarization is the same as the eighth polarization.

90. The antenna system of claim 88 or claim 89, wherein the fifth antenna is cross polarized with the eighth antenna and the sixth antenna is cross polarized with the seventh antenna.

91. The antenna system of claim 80 or claim 81, wherein the fifth antenna is arrayed with the sixth antenna to form a third antenna pair.

92. The antenna system of claim 80, claim 81, or claim 91, wherein the seventh antenna is arrayed with the eighth antenna to form a fourth antenna pair.

93. The antenna system of claim 92, wherein the fifth antenna and the sixth antenna are at a third rotational position relative to a central axis of the second internal ground plane, and the seventh antenna and the eighth antenna are at a fourth rotational position relative to the central axis of the second internal ground plane.

94. The antenna system of claim 93, wherein the third rotational position and the fourth rotational position are at 45-degree angles relative to the central axis of the second internal ground plane.

95. The antenna system of any of claims 92 to 94, wherein the first antenna pair is cross polarized with the second antenna pair and / or the third antenna pair is cross-polarized with the fourth antenna pair.

96. The antenna system of any of claims 80 to 95, wherein the first antenna, the second antenna, the third antenna, the fourth antenna, the fifth antenna, the sixth antenna, the seventh antenna, and the eighth antenna form a multi-element multi-band antenna.

97. The antenna system of claim 96, wherein the multi-element multi-band antenna is configured to produce a radiation pattern perpendicular to the internal ground plane and the second internal ground plane.

98. The antenna system of claim 96 or claim 97, wherein the multi-element multi-band antenna is configured to have an operating frequency range of between about 450 MHz to about 8GHz when used in conjunction with high order electromagnetic modes generated or received by a transceiver and / or a receiver.

99. The antenna system of any of claims 61 to 79, further comprising: a second internal ground plane comprising a top side and a bottom side; and a stacked patch antenna supported by the top side of the second internal ground plane.

100. The antenna system of claim 99, wherein the stacked patch antenna comprises: a bottom patch element positioned above the second internal ground plane with a first gap therebetween; and a top patch element positioned above the bottom patch element with a second gap therebetween.

101. The antenna system of claim 100, further comprising one or more support posts positioned between the second internal ground plane and the bottom patch element, the one or more support posts supporting the bottom patch element above the second internal ground plane.

102. The antenna system of claim 101, wherein the one or more support posts extend through the bottom patch element to support the top patch element above the bottom patch element.

103. The antenna system of claim 101 or claim 102, wherein the one or more support posts comprise a non-conductive material.

104. The antenna system of any of claims 100 to 103, wherein the bottom patch element further comprises a bottom plate and a matching circuit, the matching circuit extending from the bottom plate in a plane defined by the bottom plate.

105. The antenna system of claim 104, wherein the matching circuit is T-shaped.

106. The antenna system of claim 104 or claim 105, wherein the second internal ground plane comprises a microstrip transmission line extending from an attachment point to a feed post, the feed post comprising a conductive material, the feed post electrically connecting the matching circuit to the microstrip transmission line.

107. The antenna system of claim 106, wherein the attachment point is configured to allow a coaxial cable to connect the stacked patch antenna to a radio.

108. The antenna system of claims 104 to 107, further comprising a conductive post, the conductive post extending between the second internal ground plane and the top patch elementthrough the bottom patch element, the conductive post electrically connecting the second internal ground plane to the top patch element and the bottom patch element.

109. The antenna system of any of claims 61 to 108, further comprising: a first cover; and a second cover, the second cover configured to be coupled to the first cover to define an internal volume therebetween, wherein the internal ground plane is supported by the second cover within the internal volume.

110. The antenna system of claim 109, wherein the first cover is a front cover and the second cover is a back cover, the back cover configured to be coupled to a vertical support.

111. The antenna system of claim 109 or claim 110, wherein the second internal ground plane is supported by the second cover, the internal ground plane positioned on a first side of the second cover, the second internal ground plane positioned on a second side of the second cover.

112. The antenna system of claim 111, wherein there is a gap between the internal ground plane and the second internal ground plane, wherein coaxial cables are positioned within the gap and electrically connected to the internal ground plane and the second internal ground plane.

113. An antenna system comprising: an internal ground plane comprising a top side and a bottom side; a first antenna as defined by any of claims 16 to 60; a second antenna as defined by any of claims 16 to 60; a third antenna as defined by any of claims 16 to 60; and a fourth antenna as defined by any of claims 16 to 60, wherein the first antenna, the second antenna, the third antenna, and the fourth antenna are supported by the top side of the internal ground plane.

114. The antenna system of claim 113, wherein the internal ground plane has a rectangular shape.

115. The antenna system of claims 113 or 114, wherein the first antenna is at a first rotational position relative to a central axis of the internal ground plane, the second antenna is at a second rotational position relative to the central axis of the internal ground plane, the third antenna is at a third rotational position relative to the central axis of the internal ground plane, and thefourth antenna is at a fourth rotational position relative to the central axis of the internal ground plane.

116. The antenna system of claim 115, wherein the first rotational position, the second rotational position, the third rotational position, and the fourth rotational position are different from each other.

117. The antenna system of claim 115 or claim 116, where the first rotational position, the second rotational position, the third rotational position, and the fourth rotational position are all at 45-degree angles relative to the central axis of the internal ground plane.

118. The antenna system of any of claims 113 to 117, wherein the antenna system is configured to be vertically oriented such that the internal ground plane is perpendicular to a ground surface, and wherein the central axis is a vertical axis of the internal ground plane.

119. The antenna system of any of claims 115 to 117, wherein the first antenna has a first polarization, the second antenna has a second polarization, the third antenna has a third polarization, and the fourth antenna has a fourth polarization.

120. The antenna system of claim 119, wherein the first antenna is cross polarized with the fourth antenna and the second antenna is cross polarized with the third antenna.

121. The antenna system of any of claims 113 to 120, wherein the first antenna is positioned in a first corner of the internal ground plane and the fourth antenna is positioned in a fourth comer of the internal ground plane, the first corner and the fourth corner partially defined by a first side of the internal ground plane.

122. The antenna system of claim 121, wherein the second antenna and the third antenna are positioned between the first side and a second side of the internal ground plane, the second side opposite the first side.

123. The antenna system of any of claims 113 to 122, further comprising: a fifth antenna as defined by any of claims 16 to 60; and a sixth antenna as defined by any of claims 16 to 60; the fifth antenna and the sixth antenna supported by the top side of the internal ground plane.

124. The antenna system of claim 123, wherein the fifth antenna and the sixth antenna are positioned along the second side.

125. The antenna system of claim 123 or claim 124, wherein the fifth antenna and the sixth antenna face in a direction aligned with a central axis of the internal ground plane.

126. The antenna system of any of claims 123 to 125, wherein the fifth antenna is arrayed with the sixth antenna to form an antenna pair.

127. The antenna system of any of claims 113 to 121, wherein the second antenna is positioned in a second comer of the internal ground plane and the third antenna is positioned in a third comer of the internal ground plane, the second comer and the third corner partially defined by a second side of the internal ground plane.

128. The antenna system of claim 127, wherein the second side is opposite the first side.

129. The antenna system of claim 127 or claim 128, further comprising one or more additional antennas, the one or more additional antennas configured to be supported by the internal ground plane.

130. The antenna system of claim 129, wherein the one or more additional antennas comprise a first tri-band Wi-Fi antenna.

131. The antenna system of claim 130, wherein the first tri-band Wi-Fi antenna is positioned along a third side of the internal ground plane, the third side extending between the first side and the second side.

132. The antenna system of claim 130 or claim 131, wherein the one or more additional antennas comprise a second tri-band Wi-Fi antenna.

133. The antenna system of claim 132, wherein the second tri-band Wi-Fi antenna is positioned along a fourth side of the internal ground plane, the fourth side extending between the first side and the second side.

134. The antenna system of any of claims 129 to 133, wherein the one or more additional antennas comprise a first CBRS dipole antenna.

135. The antenna system of claim 134, wherein the first CBRS dipole antenna is configured to be is positioned adjacent a third side of the internal ground plane between the fourth antenna and the third antenna, the third side extending between the first side and the second side.

136. The antenna system of claim 134 or claim 135, wherein the one or more additional antennas comprise a second CBRS dipole antenna.

137. The antenna system of claim 136, wherein the second CBRS dipole antenna is configured to be is positioned adjacent a fourth side of the internal ground plane between the first antenna and the second antenna, the fourth side extending between the first side and the second side.

138. The antenna system of any of claims 1 13 to 121 , wherein the internal ground plane includes a first feed line with a multi-line split, the multi-line split defining a first break in the first feed line with a second feed line and a second break in the first feed line with a third feed line, the first feed line extending to an RF port.

139. The antenna system of claim 138, wherein the second feed line extends to a feed point for a fifth antenna and the third feed line extends to a sixth antenna.

140. The antenna system of claim 139, wherein the sixth antenna is coupled to, etched into, or disposed on the internal ground plane.

141. The antenna system of claim 139 or claim 140, wherein soldering the first break electrically connects the first feed line and the second feed line such that the feed point for the fifth antenna is electrically connected to the RF port, and wherein soldering the second break electrically connects the first feed line and the third feed line such that the sixth antenna is electrically connected to the RF port.

142. The antenna system of any of claims 139 to 141, wherein the fifth antenna comprises a CBRS dipole antenna configured to be coupled to the internal ground plane.

143. The antenna system of any of claims 139 to 142, wherein the sixth antenna comprises a tri-band Wi-Fi antenna.

144. The antenna system of any of claims 138 to 143, wherein the internal ground plane includes a fourth feed line with a second multi-line split, the second multi-line split defining a third break in the fourth feed line with a fifth feed line and a fourth break in the fourth feed line with a sixth feed line, the fourth feed line extending to a second RF port.

145. The antenna system of claim 144, wherein the fifth feed line extends to a feed point for a seventh antenna and the sixth feed line extends to an eighth antenna.

146. The antenna system of claim 145, wherein the eighth antenna is coupled to, etched into, or disposed on the internal ground plane.

147. The antenna system of claim 145 or claim 146, wherein soldering the third break electrically connects the fourth feed line and the fifth feed line such that the feed point for the seventh antenna is electrically connected to the second RF port, and wherein soldering the fourth break electrically connects the fourth feed line and the sixth feed line such that the eighth antenna is electrically connected to the second RF port.I l l148. The antenna system of any of claims 145 to 147, wherein the seventh antenna comprises a second CBRS dipole antenna configured to be coupled to the internal ground plane.

149. The antenna system of any of claims 145 to 148, wherein the eighth antenna comprises a second tri-band Wi-Fi antenna.

150. The antenna system of any of claims 145 to 149, wherein the sixth antenna is positioned along a third side of the internal ground plane and the eighth antenna is positioned along a fourth side of the internal ground plane, the third side opposite the fourth side, the third side and the fourth side extending between the first side and the second side.

151. An antenna system comprising: any of the features of any of claims 1 to 150.

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