Antenna and antenna system

Abstract

Provided is technology for reducing the area occupied by an antenna and improving isolation.　This technology provides an antenna comprising a first antenna element that is disposed on at least one layer of a multilayer substrate, and a second antenna element that sends or receives electromagnetic waves via a slot formed in a ground surface of the first antenna element, wherein the first antenna element and the second antenna element are each powered via a different transmission line. The second antenna element may be disposed on a different layer than the first antenna element.

Description

Antennas and Antenna Systems

[0001] The technology according to the present disclosure (hereinafter also referred to as "the technology") relates to an antenna and an antenna system.

[0002] Conventionally, techniques have been developed to allow antennas with different directivities or different polarizations to coexist, as described in, for example, Patent Documents 1 to 5.

[0003] JP 2020-80464 A JP 2017-225121 A JP 2001-352214 A JP 7-212125 A JP 9-130141 A

[0004] However, when antennas with different directivities or antennas that transmit and receive electromagnetic waves with different polarizations coexist, there are concerns about an increase in the area occupied by the antennas and the occurrence of isolation.

[0005] Therefore, a main object of the present technology is to provide a technology that reduces the area occupied by the antenna and improves isolation.

[0006] The present technology provides an antenna including: a first antenna element disposed on at least one layer of a laminated substrate; and a second antenna element that transmits or receives electromagnetic waves through a slot formed in a ground plane of the first antenna element, wherein the first antenna element and the second antenna element are fed by different transmission lines. The second antenna element may be disposed on a different layer from the first antenna element. A first transmission line feeding the first antenna element, the ground plane, and a second transmission line feeding the second antenna element may be laminated in this order. When the ground plane is defined as a first ground plane, the first transmission line, the first ground plane, the second transmission line, and a second ground plane that is the ground plane of the second antenna element may be laminated in this order. The first antenna elements may be arranged in an array in a first direction to form a first antenna, and the second antenna elements may be arranged in an array in a second direction to form a second antenna, wherein the first direction and the second direction may be different from each other in a plan view. The first direction and the second direction may be orthogonal to each other in a plan view. The second antenna element may be disposed between adjacent first antennas, and the distance from the center of the second antenna element to the center of both first antennas may be the same. The distance between the centers of adjacent first antennas may be the same as the distance between the centers of the second antenna elements constituting the second antenna. Electromagnetic waves transmitted by one of the first antenna element and the second antenna element may be received by the other antenna element disposed on the same laminated substrate as the first antenna element. The first transmission line and the second transmission line may be connected to the same feed point via a switching element that switches the transmission lines. The first transmission line and the second transmission line may be connected to different feed points. A wall may be disposed between adjacent first antenna element and second antenna element. The wall may be formed by the ground plane. The first antenna element may be a patch antenna.The first antenna element and the second antenna element may transmit or receive electromagnetic waves having the same polarization. The first antenna element may transmit or receive electromagnetic waves having a first polarization, and the second antenna element may transmit or receive electromagnetic waves having a second polarization. The first polarization may be one of vertical polarization and horizontal polarization, and the second polarization may be the other polarization. The first antenna elements may be arranged in an array in a first direction to form a first antenna, and the second antenna elements may be arranged in an array in a second direction to form a second antenna, and the distance between the centers of the first antennas or the second antennas may be a wavelength of 0.5 to 1λ. The present technology also provides an antenna system comprising: a transmitting antenna; and a receiving antenna, each of the transmitting antenna and the receiving antenna having a first antenna element disposed on at least one layer of a laminated substrate, and a second antenna element that transmits or receives electromagnetic waves through a slot formed in the ground plane of the first antenna element, and the first antenna element and the second antenna element are each fed by a different transmission line.

[0007] According to the present technology, it is possible to reduce the area occupied by the antenna and improve isolation. Note that the effects described herein are not necessarily limited to those described herein and may be any of the effects described in this disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view and a schematic cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of a receiving antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology; FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view showing a configuration example of a receiving antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology; FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view showing a configuration example of a receiving antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology; FIG. 4 is a schematic plan view showing a configuration example of a transmitting antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology; FIG. 5 is a schematic plan view showing a configuration example of a transmitting antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology; FIG. 6 is a schematic plan view showing a configuration example of a transmitting / receiving antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology; FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of an antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology; FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of a receiving antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology; FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a radar device according to an embodiment of the present technology; FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view showing a configuration example of a receiving antenna according to a comparative example of the present technology;

[0009] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments for implementing the present technology will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiment described below shows an example of a typical embodiment of the present technology, and does not limit the scope of the present technology. In addition, the present technology can be combined with any of the following examples and their modifications.

[0010] In the following description of the embodiments, configurations may be described using terms including "approximately," such as "approximately parallel" and "approximately perpendicular." For example, "approximately parallel" does not only mean completely parallel, but also means substantially parallel, i.e., including a state where the orientation is deviated from the completely parallel state by, for example, a few percent. The same applies to other terms including "approximately." Furthermore, each figure is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily an accurate depiction. The scale of the drawings has been exaggerated to make the features of the technology easier to understand. Therefore, it should be noted that the scale of the drawings and the scale of the actual device are not necessarily the same.

[0011] Unless otherwise specified, in the drawings, "top" means the top or upper side in the drawing, "bottom" means the bottom or lower side in the drawing, "left" means the left or left side in the drawing, and "right" means the right or right side in the drawing. Furthermore, in the drawings, the same or equivalent elements or members are given the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0012] The description will be given in the following order: 1. First embodiment of the present technology (receiving antenna example 1) 2. Second embodiment of the present technology (receiving antenna example 2) 3. Third embodiment of the present technology (receiving antenna example 3) 4. Fourth embodiment of the present technology (receiving antenna example 4) 5. Fifth embodiment of the present technology (transmitting antenna example 1) 6. Sixth embodiment of the present technology (transmitting antenna example 2) 7. Seventh embodiment of the present technology (transmitting and receiving antenna example 1) 8. Eighth embodiment of the present technology (transmitting and receiving antenna example 2) 9. Ninth embodiment of the present technology (other antenna example 1) 10. Tenth embodiment of the present technology (other antenna example 2) 11. Eleventh embodiment of the present technology (antenna system example) 12. Application example of the present technology

[0013] [1. First embodiment of the present technology (receiving antenna example 1)] When antennas with different directivities or antennas that transmit and receive electromagnetic waves with different polarizations are used together, there are concerns about an increase in the antenna occupation area, the occurrence of isolation, etc. This will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a schematic plan view showing an example configuration of a receiving antenna according to a comparative example of the present technology.

[0014] As shown in Figure 12A, the first antenna array RX-X and the second antenna array RX-Y coexist. The first antenna array RX-X receives vertically polarized waves, and the second antenna array RY-Y receives horizontally polarized waves. Since each antenna array is located separately, the antenna footprint is increased.

[0015] 12B, each antenna element forms an antenna array RY-Z and receives either vertically polarized waves or horizontally polarized waves. This configuration reduces the antenna area, but there is a concern about isolation between the antenna elements.

[0016] Therefore, the present technology provides a technology for reducing the antenna area and improving isolation. Specifically, the present technology provides an antenna including a first antenna element disposed on at least one layer of a laminated substrate and a second antenna element that transmits or receives electromagnetic waves through a slot formed in the ground plane of the first antenna element, and the first antenna element and the second antenna element are fed by different transmission lines.

[0017] An example of the configuration of an antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1A is a schematic plan view showing an example of the configuration of a receiving antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology. Fig. 1B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the antenna shown in Fig. 1A.

[0018] As shown in FIG. 1A , the antenna array RX-A includes a first antenna element A1 and a second antenna element A2. The first antenna element A1 and the second antenna element A2 can receive electromagnetic waves with different directivities and different polarizations. The first antenna element A1 is disposed on at least one layer of a laminated substrate and receives electromagnetic waves. The second antenna element A2 receives electromagnetic waves through a slot formed in the ground plane G1 of the first antenna element A1. In other words, the second antenna element A2 can be a slot antenna. The first antenna element A1 and the second antenna element A2 are fed by different transmission lines.

[0019] This configuration makes it possible to reduce the antenna footprint and improve isolation when coexisting antennas with different directivities or antennas that transmit and receive electromagnetic waves with different polarizations, thereby achieving high angular resolution, particularly for millimeter-wave radar.

[0020] The configuration of this antenna array RX-A will be described in more detail. A plurality of first antenna elements A1 are arranged in an array in a first direction (the up-down direction in this configuration example) to form each of the first antennas RX1 to RX4, and are connected by a first transmission line T1. Note that the number of first antenna elements A1 that form each of the first antennas RX1 to RX4 is not particularly limited.

[0021] The first antenna element A1 may be, for example, a planar metal pattern or a patch antenna, each of which is a rectangular or circular metal patch that receives electromagnetic waves by resonating in a specific frequency band.

[0022] Furthermore, patch antennas are classified into standing wave patch antennas and traveling wave patch antennas. Standing wave patch antennas are a type of resonant antenna that efficiently radiates electromagnetic waves by resonating at a specific frequency. In standing wave antennas, electric and magnetic fields form a fixed vibration pattern (standing wave) within the antenna. Traveling wave patch antennas are a type of non-resonant antenna that radiates electromagnetic waves using waves traveling within the antenna (traveling waves). In this configuration example, a standing wave patch antenna is used for the first antenna element A1.

[0023] On the other hand, a plurality of second antenna elements A2 are arranged in an array in a second direction (the left-right direction in this configuration example) to form each of the second antennas RX5 to RX8, and are connected by a second transmission line T2. Note that the number of second antenna elements A2 that form each of the second antennas RX5 to RX8 is not particularly limited.

[0024] The second antenna element A2 receives electromagnetic waves using a long, narrow slot formed in the ground plane G1 of the first antenna element A1. The shape and size of the slot can be designed to resonate with a specific frequency.

[0025] The first direction in which the first antenna elements A1 are arranged in an array and the second direction in which the second antenna elements A2 are arranged in an array are different from each other in a plan view. This configuration allows for different transmission and reception paths of electromagnetic waves, reducing mutual interference and maintaining the quality of the signals transmitted and received by each antenna element. Furthermore, by arranging the elements in different directions, the area occupied by the antennas can be used efficiently. This makes effective use of the space on the board, enabling a compact design. This allows for the overall device to be made smaller and lighter, improving portability and ease of installation.

[0026] Although the angle at which the first direction and the second direction intersect is not particularly limited, it is preferable that the first direction and the second direction are orthogonal to each other in a plan view. This configuration further reduces mutual interference and maintains the quality of the signals transmitted and received by each antenna element. In addition, the orthogonal arrangement makes it easier to design the antenna array. Because the orthogonal arrangement is a symmetric arrangement, the design of the antenna array becomes more regular.

[0027] As described above, the first antenna element A1 and the second antenna element A2 transmit and receive electromagnetic waves having different polarizations, with the first antenna element A1 transmitting or receiving electromagnetic waves having the first polarization, and the second antenna element A2 transmitting or receiving electromagnetic waves having the second polarization.

[0028] The first polarization may be one of vertical polarization and horizontal polarization, and the second polarization may be the other polarization. In this configuration example, the first antenna element A1 transmits or receives electromagnetic waves having vertical polarization, and the second antenna element A2 transmits or receives electromagnetic waves having horizontal polarization.

[0029] Vertical and horizontal polarization are types of polarization classified based on the direction of vibration of the electric field of an electromagnetic wave. Vertical polarization is when the electric field vector oscillates perpendicular to the ground. This causes the electric field to oscillate up and down. This polarization is generated by placing the antenna perpendicular to the ground. Horizontal polarization is when the electric field vector oscillates parallel to the ground. This causes the electric field to oscillate left and right. This polarization is generated by placing the antenna horizontally to the ground.

[0030] In this configuration example, the second antenna element A2 is disposed between adjacent first antennas (e.g., first antennas RX1 and RX2). In this case, it is preferable that the distance d3 from the center of the second antenna element A2 to the center of both first antennas be the same. In other words, it is preferable that the second antenna element A2 be disposed exactly midway between the adjacent first antennas. By disposing the second antenna element A2 evenly relative to the first antenna element A1, mutual interference is minimized. Disposing the antenna elements at equal intervals allows them to operate independently without affecting each other, which contributes to improved isolation.

[0031] Furthermore, it is preferable that the distance d1 between the centers of adjacent first antennas and the distance d2 between the centers of the second antenna elements A2 constituting the second antenna are the same. It is preferable to adjust the dielectric constant of the substrate and the length of the transmission line so that d1 and d2 are the same length. This reduces mutual interference between the antenna elements. Furthermore, by arranging the antenna elements at equal intervals, the antenna elements on the substrate are arranged regularly.

[0032] Furthermore, in radar systems, the distance between antennas directly affects the beamforming characteristics. As the distance between antennas increases, the shape of the beam formed by the radar system changes, narrowing the sensing range. For this reason, it is important to set an appropriate distance between antennas.

[0033] Therefore, it is preferable that the distance d1 between the centers of the first antennas or the distance d2 between the centers of the second antennas is 0.5 to 1 λ. By setting the distance between the antennas to a wavelength of 0.5 to 1 λ, the balance between beam width and directivity is optimized. This distance range enables appropriate beam formation to cover a wide area, ensuring an appropriate sensing range for the radar device.

[0034] Furthermore, if the antenna separation exceeds 1λ, grating lobes (unwanted secondary beams) are more likely to occur, which can cause interference. By keeping the separation between antennas within the range of 0.5 to 1λ, the occurrence of grating lobes can be prevented, and clear signal transmission can be maintained.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 1B, a first transmission line T1 feeding the first antenna element A1, a ground plane G1, and a second transmission line T2 feeding the second antenna element A2 are stacked in this order.

[0036] The first antenna element A1 and the first transmission line T1 are disposed on a first layer of the laminate substrate.

[0037] The ground plane G1 of the first antenna element A1 is disposed on the second layer below the first antenna element A1. A slot (the second antenna element A2) is formed in this ground plane G1. In other words, the second antenna element A2 is disposed on a different layer from the first antenna element A1.

[0038] Since the ground plane G1 is disposed between the first antenna element A1 and the second antenna element A2, it is possible to efficiently transmit and receive electromagnetic waves of different polarizations while improving isolation between the antenna elements. Note that the first antenna element A1 and the second antenna element A2 may be disposed on the same layer as long as the configuration suppresses isolation between the first antenna element A1 and the second antenna element A2.

[0039] A second transmission line T2 that feeds the second antenna element A2 is arranged on the third layer. As long as the first antenna element A1 and the second antenna element A2 are fed by different transmission lines, there are no particular restrictions on the connection between each transmission line and the feed point. Specifically, the following connection configurations are possible:

[0040] For example, the first transmission line T1 and the second transmission line T2 may be connected to the same power supply point via a switching element that switches the transmission lines. In this case, the switching element can select which transmission line to supply power to depending on the situation. The switching element can be an electronically controlled semiconductor switch or a mechanical relay, which allows for fast and reliable switching.

[0041] Alternatively, the first transmission line T1 and the second transmission line T2 may be connected to different feed points. In this case, each antenna element is independently powered, allowing it to simultaneously transmit and receive different signals. This allows for more versatile operation and improves system flexibility. Using different feed points also improves overall performance, as each antenna element can be designed to operate under optimal conditions.

[0042] The above description of the antenna according to the first embodiment of the present technology can be applied to other embodiments of the present technology unless there is a particular technical contradiction.

[0043] 2. Second Embodiment of the Present Technology (Example 2 of Receiving Antenna)] A configuration example of an antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a schematic plan view showing the configuration example of a receiving antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0044] 2, a plurality of first antenna elements A1 are arranged in an array in a first direction (the left-right direction in this configuration example) to form first antennas RX1 to RX4, and are connected by a first transmission line T1. In this configuration example, a standing wave patch antenna is used for the first antenna element A1.

[0045] On the other hand, multiple second antenna elements A2 are arranged in an array in a second direction (up and down in this configuration example) to form each of the second antennas RX5 to RX8, and are connected by a second transmission line T2.

[0046] The first and second directions are orthogonal to each other in a plan view. The first antenna element A1 receives electromagnetic waves having horizontal polarization, and the second antenna element A2 receives electromagnetic waves having vertical polarization.

[0047] The above description of the antenna according to the second embodiment of the present technology can be applied to other embodiments of the present technology unless there is a particular technical contradiction.

[0048] 3. Third Embodiment of the Present Technology (Example 3 of Receiving Antenna)] A configuration example of an antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a schematic plan view showing the configuration example of a receiving antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0049] 3, a plurality of first antenna elements A1 are arranged in an array in a first direction (the up-down direction in this configuration example) to form first antennas RX1 to RX4, and are connected by a first transmission line T1. In this configuration example, a traveling-wave patch antenna is used for the first antenna element A1.

[0050] On the other hand, multiple second antenna elements A2 are arranged in an array in the second direction (left and right direction in this configuration example) to form each of the second antennas RX5 to RX8, and are connected by a second transmission line T2.

[0051] The first and second directions are orthogonal to each other in a plan view. The first antenna element A1 receives electromagnetic waves having vertical polarization, and the second antenna element A2 receives electromagnetic waves having horizontal polarization.

[0052] The above description of the antenna according to the third embodiment of the present technology can be applied to other embodiments of the present technology unless there is a particular technical contradiction.

[0053] 4. Fourth embodiment of the present technology (fourth example of receiving antenna)] A configuration example of an antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a schematic plan view showing a configuration example of a receiving antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0054] 4, a plurality of first antenna elements A1 are arranged in an array in a first direction (the up-down direction in this configuration example) to form first antennas RX1 to RX4, and are connected by a first transmission line T1. In this configuration example, a traveling-wave patch antenna is used for the first antenna element A1.

[0055] On the other hand, multiple second antenna elements A2 are arranged in an array in the second direction (left and right direction in this configuration example) to form each of the second antennas RX5 to RX8, and are connected by a second transmission line T2.

[0056] The first and second directions are orthogonal to each other in a plan view. The first antenna element A1 receives electromagnetic waves having horizontal polarization, and the second antenna element A2 receives electromagnetic waves having vertical polarization.

[0057] The above description of the antenna according to the fourth embodiment of the present technology can be applied to other embodiments of the present technology unless there is a particular technical contradiction.

[0058] 5. Fifth Embodiment of the Present Technology (Example 1 of Transmitting Antenna)] A configuration example of an antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a schematic plan view showing a configuration example of a transmitting antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0059] 5, a plurality of first antenna elements A1 are arranged in an array in a first direction (the up-down direction in this configuration example) to form first antennas TX1 to TX4, and are connected by a first transmission line T1. In this configuration example, a standing wave patch antenna is used for the first antenna element A1.

[0060] On the other hand, multiple second antenna elements A2 are arranged in an array in the second direction (left and right direction in this configuration example) to form each of the second antennas TX5 to TX8, and are connected by a second transmission line T2.

[0061] The first and second directions are orthogonal to each other in a plan view. The first antenna element A1 transmits electromagnetic waves having vertical polarization, and the second antenna element A2 transmits electromagnetic waves having horizontal polarization.

[0062] The above description of the antenna according to the fifth embodiment of the present technology can be applied to other embodiments of the present technology unless there is a particular technical contradiction.

[0063] 6. Sixth Embodiment of the Present Technology (Example 2 of Transmitting Antenna)] A configuration example of an antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a schematic plan view showing a configuration example of a transmitting antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0064] 6, a plurality of first antenna elements A1 are arranged in an array in a first direction (the left-right direction in this configuration example) to form first antennas TX1 to TX4, and are connected by a first transmission line T1. In this configuration example, a standing wave patch antenna is used for the first antenna element A1.

[0065] On the other hand, multiple second antenna elements A2 are arranged in an array in a second direction (up and down in this configuration example) to form each of the second antennas TX5 to TX8, and are connected by a second transmission line T2.

[0066] The first and second directions are orthogonal to each other in a plan view. The first antenna element A1 transmits an electromagnetic wave having horizontal polarization, and the second antenna element A2 transmits an electromagnetic wave having vertical polarization.

[0067] The above description of the antenna according to the sixth embodiment of the present technology can be applied to other embodiments of the present technology unless there is a particular technical contradiction.

[0068] [7. Seventh embodiment of the present technology (example 1 of transmitting and receiving antenna)] An electromagnetic wave transmitted by one of a first antenna element and a second antenna element may be received by the other antenna element disposed on the same laminated substrate as the first antenna element. This eliminates the need to provide a transmitting antenna and a receiving antenna separately.

[0069] Furthermore, this configuration simplifies the overall antenna system design, reducing costs and streamlining the manufacturing process. Placing the transmit and receive antennas on the same laminate substrate optimizes the distance between the antennas and minimizes signal propagation delays. This integration of transmit and receive functions improves the response speed of the communication system, enabling high-speed, highly reliable communication.

[0070] In addition, the reduction of mutual interference between antenna elements maintains signal quality and improves overall communication quality. Furthermore, it enables device miniaturization, enabling high-performance communication functions to be provided even in portable and mobile devices.

[0071] A configuration example of such an antenna will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a schematic plan view showing a configuration example of a transmitting / receiving antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0072] 7, a plurality of first antenna elements A1 are arranged in an array in the vertical direction to form first antennas TX1 to TX4, and are connected by a first transmission line T1. In this configuration example, a standing wave patch antenna is used for the first antenna element A1.

[0073] On the other hand, a plurality of second antenna elements A2 are arranged in an array in the vertical direction to form second antennas RX1 to RX4, and are connected by a second transmission line T2.

[0074] The first antenna element A1 and the second antenna element A2 are arranged on the same laminated substrate. For example, the electromagnetic waves transmitted by the first antenna element A1 can be received by the second antenna element A2. Alternatively, the electromagnetic waves transmitted by the second antenna element A2 can be received by the first antenna element A1.

[0075] The first antenna element A1 and the second antenna element A2 transmit or receive electromagnetic waves having the same polarization. In this configuration example, the first antenna element A1 transmits electromagnetic waves having vertical polarization, and the second antenna element A2 receives electromagnetic waves having vertical polarization.

[0076] The above description of the antenna according to the seventh embodiment of the present technology can be applied to other embodiments of the present technology unless there is a particular technical contradiction.

[0077] 8. Eighth embodiment of the present technology (example 2 of transmitting and receiving antenna)] Another configuration example in which a first antenna element and a second antenna element are arranged on the same laminated substrate will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a schematic plan view showing the configuration example of a transmitting and receiving antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0078] 8, a plurality of first antenna elements A1 are arranged in an array in the left-right direction to form first antennas TX1 to TX4, and are connected by a first transmission line T1. In this configuration example, a standing wave patch antenna is used for the first antenna element A1.

[0079] On the other hand, a plurality of second antenna elements A2 are arranged in an array in the left-right direction to form second antennas RX1 to RX4, and are connected by a second transmission line T2.

[0080] The first antenna element A1 and the second antenna element A2 are arranged on the same laminated substrate. For example, the electromagnetic waves transmitted by the first antenna element A1 can be received by the second antenna element A2. Alternatively, the electromagnetic waves transmitted by the second antenna element A2 can be received by the first antenna element A1.

[0081] The first antenna element A1 and the second antenna element A2 transmit or receive electromagnetic waves having the same polarization. In this configuration example, the first antenna element A1 transmits electromagnetic waves having horizontal polarization, and the second antenna element A2 receives electromagnetic waves having horizontal polarization.

[0082] The above description of the antenna according to the eighth embodiment of the present technology can be applied to other embodiments of the present technology unless there is a particular technical contradiction.

[0083] 9. Ninth embodiment of the present technology (another antenna example 1) A configuration example of an antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of an antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology. This antenna can be a receiving antenna, a transmitting antenna, or a transmitting / receiving antenna.

[0084] 9, a first transmission line T1, a first ground plane G1, a second transmission line T2, and a second ground plane G2 are laminated in this order. In this configuration example, the second ground plane G2, which is the ground plane of the second antenna element A2, is arranged below the second transmission line T2 in the laminate substrate shown in FIG. 1B.

[0085] The first ground plane G1 is disposed between the first transmission line T1 and the second transmission line T2. This first ground plane G1 serves to reduce electromagnetic interference between the transmission lines. The second ground plane G2 also functions to protect the performance of the second transmission line T2. Specifically, the second ground plane G2 provides a shielding effect for the second transmission line T2 and reduces external interference. The second ground plane G2 effectively reduces electromagnetic interference around the second transmission line, improving signal quality and stability.

[0086] The above description of the antenna according to the ninth embodiment of the present technology can be applied to other embodiments of the present technology unless there is a particular technical contradiction.

[0087] [10. Tenth embodiment of the present technology (another antenna example 2)] A configuration example of an antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10A is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of a receiving antenna according to an embodiment of the present technology. Fig. 10B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the antenna shown in Fig. 10A.

[0088] As shown in Fig. 10, a wall portion G3 is disposed between the adjacent first antenna element A1 and second antenna element A2. The other configuration is the same as that shown in Fig. 1 and the like, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0089] The wall G3 improves isolation between the antenna elements and minimizes mutual interference, thereby improving signal quality and overall system performance.

[0090] The configuration of the wall portion G3 is not particularly limited, but may be configured, for example, as the ground surface G1. By using the same material for the wall portion G3 as the ground surface G1, manufacturing costs can be reduced.

[0091] Other materials constituting the wall portion G3 are not particularly limited, but examples include copper, aluminum, nickel, silver, gold, conductive polymers, etc. For example, aluminum or conductive polymers can be used for mobile devices that require lightweight construction, and silver or gold can be used for communication equipment that requires high reliability.

[0092] The above description of the antenna according to the tenth embodiment of the present technology can be applied to other embodiments of the present technology unless there is a particular technical contradiction.

[0093] [11. Eleventh Embodiment of the Present Technology (Example of Antenna System)] The present technology provides an antenna system including a transmitting antenna and a receiving antenna, wherein each of the transmitting antenna and the receiving antenna has a first antenna element disposed on at least one layer of a laminated substrate, and a second antenna element that transmits or receives electromagnetic waves through a slot formed in a ground plane of the first antenna element, and the first antenna element and the second antenna element are each fed by a different transmission line.

[0094] An example configuration of an antenna system according to an embodiment of the present technology will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a radar device according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0095] 11, this radar device includes an antenna system 100. The antenna system 100 includes a transmitting antenna TX and receiving antennas RX1 to RX4.

[0096] A chirp signal is generated and transmitted by the transmitting antenna TX, an amplifier, etc. This signal is reflected by an external object and then received by the receiving antennas RX1 to RX4. The signals received by the receiving antennas RX1 to RX4 are quadrature detected using a quadrature detector and downconverted to digital signals by analog-to-digital converters ADC1 to ADCN. The downconverted digital signals are output as data separated into a real part (I component) and an imaginary part (Q component). Signal processing is performed on this separated data.

[0097] Each of the transmitting antenna TX and the receiving antennas RX1 to RX4 may have the configuration according to the other embodiments described above. That is, each of the transmitting antenna TX and the receiving antennas RX1 to RX4 has a first antenna element disposed on at least one layer of a laminated substrate and a second antenna element that transmits or receives electromagnetic waves through a slot formed in the ground plane of the first antenna element, and the first antenna element and the second antenna element can be fed by different transmission lines.

[0098] The above description of the antenna system according to the eleventh embodiment of the present technology can be applied to other embodiments of the present technology unless there is a particular technical contradiction.

[0099] [12. Application Examples of the Present Technology] Antennas according to the present technology are expected to be particularly effective in applications in fields such as mobile devices, automobiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles (drones).

[0100] [(1) Mobile Devices] Mobile devices, especially smartphones and tablets, have very limited internal space, so antenna design requires ingenuity. The reasons why this antenna is suitable for mobile devices are described in detail below.

[0101] Mobile devices require compact yet versatile antennas that can support multiple communication standards and efficiently handle different polarizations (e.g., vertical and horizontal polarizations), enabling high-performance communication while minimizing interference within the device.

[0102] Mobile devices require designs that can support multiple communication standards, such as Wi-Fi, LTE, and 5G. This antenna can support a wide frequency band and smoothly switch between different communication standards.

[0103] This technology reduces interference between antennas and ensures stable communication quality, thereby improving the communication performance of the entire mobile device.

[0104] [(2) Automotive] In the automotive industry, high-performance antennas are required for radar and communication systems that are essential for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving technology. We will explain in detail why this antenna is suitable for automotive applications.

[0105] Automotive radar systems are important for obstacle detection and distance measurement, and must efficiently handle radar signals with different polarizations. This antenna can process both vertically and horizontally polarized waves, improving the accuracy and reliability of radar systems.

[0106] Additionally, high-performance antennas are required to support intercommunication between autonomous vehicles, including vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communications, which require high-speed communication and low latency to enable real-time data exchange.

[0107] [(3) Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (Drones)] Drones require antennas for navigation, communication, and video transmission. We will explain in detail why this antenna system is suitable for drone applications.

[0108] Drones have strict size and weight constraints, so they require compact, high-performance antennas. This antenna provides high communication performance in limited spaces and improves drone operational efficiency.

[0109] Drones require antennas that support multiple functions, such as GPS signals for navigation, radio signals for communication, and signals for video transmission, and these antennas can efficiently transmit each type of communication using different polarizations.

[0110] Furthermore, when operating drones, which require stable communications, this antenna provides low-interference, highly reliable communications.

[0111] It should be noted that the embodiments of the present technology are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the present technology. The specific numerical values, shapes, materials (including compositions), etc. described in each embodiment are merely examples, and the present technology is not limited to these.

[0112] The present technology can also be configured as follows. [1] An antenna including: a first antenna element arranged on at least one layer of a laminated substrate; and a second antenna element that transmits or receives electromagnetic waves through a slot formed in a ground plane of the first antenna element, wherein the first antenna element and the second antenna element are fed by different transmission lines. [2] The antenna described in [1], wherein the second antenna element is arranged on a different layer from the first antenna element. [3] The antenna described in [2], wherein a first transmission line that feeds power to the first antenna element, the ground plane, and a second transmission line that feeds power to the second antenna element are laminated in this order. [4] The antenna described in [3], wherein, when the ground plane is defined as a first ground plane, the first transmission line, the first ground plane, the second transmission line, and a second ground plane that is the ground plane of the second antenna element are laminated in this order. [5] The antenna according to any one of [1] to [4], wherein the first antenna elements are arranged in an array in a first direction to form a first antenna, and the second antenna elements are arranged in an array in a second direction to form a second antenna, and the first direction and the second direction are different from each other in a plan view. [6] The antenna according to [5], wherein the first direction and the second direction are orthogonal to each other in a plan view. [7] The antenna according to [6], wherein the second antenna element is arranged between adjacent first antennas, and the distances from the center of the second antenna element to the centers of both first antennas are the same. [8] The antenna according to [6] or [7], wherein the distance between the centers of adjacent first antennas is the same as the distance between the centers of the second antenna elements constituting the second antenna. [9] The antenna according to any one of [1] to [8], wherein electromagnetic waves transmitted by one of the first antenna element and the second antenna element are received by the other antenna element arranged on the same laminated substrate as the first antenna element.

[10] The antenna according to any one of [3] to [9], wherein the first transmission line and the second transmission line are connected to the same feed point via a switching element that switches the transmission lines.

[11] The antenna according to any one of [3] to [9], wherein the first transmission line and the second transmission line are connected to different feed points.

[12] The antenna according to any one of [1] to

[11] , wherein a wall is disposed between the adjacent first antenna element and the second antenna element.

[13] The antenna according to

[12] , wherein the wall is formed by the ground plane.

[14] The antenna according to any one of [1] to

[13] , wherein the first antenna element is a patch antenna.

[15] The antenna according to any one of [1] to

[14] , wherein the first antenna element and the second antenna element transmit or receive electromagnetic waves having the same polarization.

[16] The antenna according to any one of [1] to

[15] , wherein the first antenna element transmits or receives electromagnetic waves having a first polarization, and the second antenna element transmits or receives electromagnetic waves having a second polarization.

[17] The antenna according to

[16] , wherein the first polarization is one of vertical polarization and horizontal polarization, and the second polarization is the other polarization.

[18] The antenna according to any one of [1] to

[17] , wherein the first antenna elements are arranged in an array in a first direction to form a first antenna, and the second antenna elements are arranged in an array in a second direction to form a second antenna, and the distance between the centers of the first antennas or the centers of the second antennas is a wavelength of 0.5 to 1λ.

[19] An antenna system comprising: a transmitting antenna; and a receiving antenna, wherein each of the transmitting antenna and the receiving antenna has: a first antenna element disposed on at least one layer of a laminated substrate; and a second antenna element that transmits or receives electromagnetic waves through a slot formed in a ground plane of the first antenna element, and wherein the first antenna element and the second antenna element are each fed by a different transmission line.

[0113] A1: First antenna element A2: Second antenna element G1: First ground plane G2: Second ground plane G3: Wall T1: First transmission line T2: Second transmission line 100: Antenna system

Claims

1. An antenna comprising: a first antenna element disposed on at least one layer of a laminated substrate; and a second antenna element that transmits or receives electromagnetic waves through a slot formed in the ground plane of the first antenna element, wherein the first antenna element and the second antenna element are each fed by a different transmission line.

2. The antenna according to claim 1, wherein the second antenna element is disposed on a different layer from the first antenna element.

3. An antenna as described in claim 2, wherein a first transmission line that feeds power to the first antenna element, the ground plane, and a second transmission line that feeds power to the second antenna element are laminated in this order.

4. An antenna as described in claim 3, wherein, when the ground plane is defined as a first ground plane, the first transmission line, the first ground plane, the second transmission line, and a second ground plane which is the ground plane of the second antenna element are laminated in this order.

5. The antenna according to claim 1, wherein the first antenna elements are arranged in an array in a first direction to form a first antenna, the second antenna elements are arranged in an array in a second direction to form a second antenna, and the first direction and the second direction are different from each other in a plan view.

6. The antenna according to claim 5, wherein the first direction and the second direction are orthogonal to each other in a plan view.

7. The antenna according to claim 6, wherein the second antenna element is disposed between adjacent first antennas, and the distance from the center of the second antenna element to the center of both first antennas is the same.

8. The antenna according to claim 6, wherein the distance between the centers of adjacent first antennas is the same as the distance between the centers of the second antenna elements constituting the second antenna.

9. The antenna according to claim 1, wherein electromagnetic waves transmitted by one of the first antenna element and the second antenna element are received by the other antenna element arranged on the same laminated substrate as the first antenna element.

10. The antenna according to claim 3, wherein the first transmission line and the second transmission line are connected to the same feeding point via a switching element that switches the transmission lines.

11. The antenna according to claim 3, wherein the first transmission line and the second transmission line are connected to different feed points.

12. The antenna according to claim 1, wherein a wall portion is disposed between adjacent first and second antenna elements.

13. The antenna of claim 12, wherein the wall portion comprises the ground plane.

14. The antenna of claim 1, wherein the first antenna element is a patch antenna.

15. The antenna according to claim 1, wherein the first antenna element and the second antenna element transmit or receive electromagnetic waves having the same polarization as each other.

16. The antenna of claim 1, wherein the first antenna element transmits or receives electromagnetic waves having a first polarization, and the second antenna element transmits or receives electromagnetic waves having a second polarization.

17. The antenna of claim 16, wherein the first polarization is one of vertical polarization and horizontal polarization, and the second polarization is the other polarization.

18. The antenna according to claim 1, wherein the first antenna elements are arranged in an array in a first direction to form a first antenna, the second antenna elements are arranged in an array in a second direction to form a second antenna, and the distance between the centers of the first antennas or the centers of the second antennas is 0.5 to 1λ wavelength.

19. An antenna system comprising a transmitting antenna and a receiving antenna, wherein each of the transmitting antenna and the receiving antenna has a first antenna element disposed on at least one layer of a laminated substrate, and a second antenna element that transmits or receives electromagnetic waves through a slot formed in the ground plane of the first antenna element, and wherein the first antenna element and the second antenna element are each fed by a different transmission line.

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