Antenna, communication device and communication system

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of communications. Provided are an antenna, a communication device and a communication system, so as to solve the problem of a poor antenna capacity expansion effect. The antenna provided in the present application comprises a radome, and a first antenna assembly and a second antenna assembly located in the radome. The first antenna assembly comprises a first reflecting plate, a first radiation array and a first feed network, wherein the first radiation array is fixed on a reflecting surface of the first reflecting plate, and the first feed network is in feed connection with the first radiation array. The second antenna assembly comprises a second radiation array and a second feed network, wherein the second feed network is in feed connection with the second radiation array. The second antenna assembly is located on the side of the first reflecting plate facing away from the first radiation array, and the second radiation array is rotationally arranged in the radome. By means of the antenna provided in the present application, the capacity and signal coverage of the antenna can be effectively improved, and a significant increase in the overall antenna area caused by the addition of the second antenna assembly can also be avoided, thereby enabling the antenna to have a low wind load.

Description

An antenna, a communication device, and a communication system

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411514247.5, filed on October 28, 2024, entitled "An Antenna, Communication Device and Communication System", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to an antenna, communication equipment, and communication system. Background Technology

[0004] As a crucial component of a base station system, the base station antenna enables the radiation and reception of wireless signals, achieving effective signal coverage. Therefore, optimizing and expanding the base station system network through base station antennas is one of its main development directions. This optimization and expansion can be achieved by increasing the number of radiators in the base station antenna. However, in some current implementations, the unreasonable structural design of the base station antenna leads to high assembly complexity, hindering production and manufacturing. Furthermore, increasing the number of radiators significantly increases the antenna area, thereby increasing the wind load on the base station antenna, which places higher demands on the structural stability and safety of the antenna.

[0005] Therefore, how to expand the capacity of base station antennas without significantly increasing the wind load on the base station antennas has become an urgent technical problem to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application provides an antenna, a communication device, and a communication system.

[0007] In a first aspect, this application provides an antenna. The antenna includes a radome, a first antenna assembly, and a second antenna assembly. Both the first and second antenna assemblies are located within the radome. The first antenna assembly includes a first reflector, a first radiating array, and a first feed network. The first reflector has a reflective surface and a back surface that are opposite to each other. The first radiating array is fixed to the reflective surface, and the first feed network is fixed to the first reflector and electrically connected to the first radiating array. The first feed network is used to transmit radio frequency signals to the first radiating array, thereby causing the radiators in the first radiating array to radiate electromagnetic waves outward. In addition, the reflective surface of the first reflector can also effectively reflect the electromagnetic waves generated by the radiators in the first radiating array, thereby improving the radiation performance of the first antenna assembly, such as directivity and gain.

[0008] The second antenna assembly includes a second radiating array and a second feed network, with the second feed network electrically connected to the second radiating array. The second feed network transmits radio frequency signals to the second radiating array, causing the radiators in the second radiating array to radiate electromagnetic waves outwards. The second antenna assembly is located on the side of the first reflector opposite to the first radiating array. The second radiating array is rotatably mounted within the radome. By adjusting the angle of the second radiating array, its radiation direction can be flexibly adjusted, thereby optimizing the signal coverage of the entire antenna.

[0009] In the antenna provided in this application, the antenna capacity and signal coverage can be effectively improved by configuring a second antenna assembly. Both the second and first antenna assemblies are located within the radome, allowing the radome to effectively protect and secure both assemblies simultaneously. Furthermore, the second antenna assembly is located behind the first reflector of the first antenna assembly; therefore, the overall area of ​​the antenna is smaller than the sum of the areas of the first and second antenna assemblies. This avoids significantly increasing the area of ​​the entire antenna or radome by adding the second antenna assembly, thus resulting in lower wind load on the antenna.

[0010] In one example, the second antenna assembly also includes a second reflector. The second reflector has a reflective surface and a back surface that are opposite to each other. A second radiating array is fixed to the reflective surface of the second reflector, which is rotatably disposed within the radome. The reflective surface of the second reflector can also effectively reflect electromagnetic waves generated by radiators in the second radiating array, thereby improving the directivity, gain, and other radiation performance of the second antenna assembly.

[0011] In one example, the second radiation array includes multiple radiation elements. Each radiation element includes a radiator and a support, with one end of the support fixedly connected to the radiator and the other end fixedly connected to a second reflector. That is, the radiator and the support can be considered as a single radiation element. The radiator is used to generate or receive electromagnetic waves. The support is used to fix the radiator to the reflecting surface of the second reflector.

[0012] Alternatively, in one example, the radiating element includes a radiator, a support, and a reflector. The support is fixedly connected to both the radiator and the reflector, and a second feeding network is electrically connected to each radiator. That is, the reflector acts as a second reflector to effectively reflect the electromagnetic waves generated by the radiator, thereby increasing the gain of the radiating element. In one example, the reflector and the second reflector can also be provided simultaneously.

[0013] In one example, each bracket is fixedly connected to the others, which effectively connects the different radiating units to ensure the integrity of the second antenna assembly.

[0014] In one example, the first feed network in the first antenna assembly may be disposed on the reflective surface of the first reflector, or the first feed network may be disposed on the back side of the first reflector.

[0015] In one example, the second feed network in the second antenna assembly can be located on the reflective surface of the first reflector, or the second feed network can be located on the back side of the first reflector.

[0016] Alternatively, the second power supply network can be located on the reflective surface of the second reflector, or it can be located on the back side of the second reflector.

[0017] Alternatively, in one example, the support in the radiating element is also fixedly connected to the second feed network. The reflector is located between the second feed network and the radiator.

[0018] In one example, the antenna further includes a first rotating mechanism located within the radome. The first rotating mechanism is connected to both the first reflector and the radome, and is used to rotate the first reflector relative to the radome. This allows for flexible adjustment of the radiation direction of the first antenna assembly, resulting in better beam scanning capability and signal coverage.

[0019] In one example, the antenna further includes a second rotating mechanism located within the radome. This second rotating mechanism is connected to both the second antenna assembly and the radome, and it is used to rotate the second radiating array within the second antenna assembly relative to the radome. This allows for flexible adjustment of the radiation direction of the second antenna assembly, resulting in better beam scanning capability and signal coverage.

[0020] Secondly, this application also provides a communication device, including the aforementioned antenna. In practical applications, a pole and an antenna adjustment bracket can also be deployed in the site where the communication device is configured. The antenna can be fixedly mounted on the pole using the antenna adjustment bracket. The spatial attitude of the radome can be adjusted using the antenna adjustment bracket.

[0021] In one example, the communication device may further include a baseband processing unit. The baseband processing unit is connected to a feed network in the antenna. The antenna can be either an active or passive antenna. For example, when the antenna is active, it may include a radio frequency (RF) processing unit, through which the baseband processing unit can be connected to the feed network. Alternatively, when the antenna is passive, the baseband processing unit can be directly connected to the feed network.

[0022] The radio frequency (RF) processing unit can be used to perform frequency selection, amplification, and down-conversion processing on the signals received by the radiators in the antenna. Alternatively, the RF processing unit can be used to transmit RF signals to the antenna, thereby realizing the antenna's signal transmission and reception functions. By applying the above-mentioned antenna, the horizontal beamwidth of the radiating array can be changed to effectively optimize the network performance of communication equipment.

[0023] The baseband processing unit is connected to the radio frequency (RF) processing unit. The RF processing unit can be used to perform frequency selection, amplification, and down-conversion processing on the signal received by the antenna, and convert it into an intermediate frequency (IF) signal or a baseband signal to be sent to the baseband processing unit. Alternatively, the RF processing unit can be used to up-convert and amplify the IF signal emitted by the baseband processing unit, convert it into a wireless signal through the antenna, and send it out.

[0024] Thirdly, this application also provides a communication system, including core network equipment and the aforementioned communication equipment. The communication equipment is communicatively connected to the core network equipment to realize wireless communication functionality. In the communication system provided by this application, by equipping it with the aforementioned communication equipment, the signal transmission and reception performance of the communication system can be effectively improved, and its adaptability and flexibility can be enhanced. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an application scenario of an antenna provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figure 2 is a simplified structural diagram of a base station provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 3 is a simplified structural diagram of an antenna provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional structural diagram of an antenna provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of another antenna provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of another antenna provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of another antenna provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of another antenna provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of another antenna provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of another antenna provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of another antenna provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional structural diagram of a second antenna assembly provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional structural diagram of another second antenna assembly provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0040] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0041] To facilitate understanding of the antenna provided in the embodiments of this application, its application scenarios will be introduced first below.

[0042] The antenna provided in this application embodiment can be used in communication equipment such as base stations and radar to realize wireless communication functions.

[0043] As shown in Figure 1, this application scenario can include a base station and a terminal. Wireless communication can be achieved between the base station and the terminal. The base station can be located in a base station subsystem (BBS), a UMTS terrestrial radio access network (UTRAN), or an evolved universal terrestrial radio access network (E-UTRAN), used for cell coverage of wireless signals to enable communication between the terminal device and the wireless network. Specifically, the base station can be a base transceiver station (BTS) in a Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) or Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) system, a Node B (NB) in a Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) system, an evolved Node B (eNB or eNodeB) in a Long Term Evolution (LTE) system, or a radio controller in a cloud radio access network (CRAN) scenario. Alternatively, the base station can be a relay station, access point, vehicle-mounted equipment, wearable device, or a g node (gNodeB or gNB) in a new radio (NR) system, or a base station in a future evolved network, etc., and the embodiments of this application are not limited thereto.

[0044] In this application, the antenna can also be used in access network equipment, sometimes also called access nodes. Access network equipment has wireless transceiver capabilities for communication with terminals. Access network equipment includes, but is not limited to, base stations, evolved NodeBs (eNodeBs), transmission reception points (TRPs) in the aforementioned communication systems, next-generation NodeBs (gNBs) in 5G mobile communication systems, future communication networks, access network equipment or modules of access network equipment in Open RAN (ORAN) systems, base stations in future mobile communication systems, or access nodes in WiFi systems. Access network equipment can also be modules or units capable of implementing some of the functions of a base station. For example, access network equipment can be a central unit (CU), a distributed unit (DU), a CU-control plane (CP), a CU-user plane (UP), or a radio unit (RU), as described below. In the ORAN system, CU can also be called O-CU, DU can also be called open (O)-DU, CU-CP can also be called O-CU-CP, CU-UP can also be called O-CUP-UP, and RU can also be called O-RU. Access network equipment can be macro base stations, micro base stations, or indoor stations, relay nodes, or donor nodes, or wireless controllers in cloud radio access network (CRAN) scenarios. Optionally, access network equipment can also be servers, wearable devices, or vehicle-mounted equipment. For example, in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology, the access network equipment can be a roadside unit (RSU). Multiple access network devices in a communication system can be base stations of the same type or different types. Base stations can communicate with terminals directly or through relay stations. Terminals can communicate with multiple base stations using different access technologies.

[0045] As shown in Figure 2, a base station provided in this embodiment includes a base station antenna feeder system. In practical applications, the base station antenna feeder system mainly includes an antenna 01, a feeder line 02, and a grounding device 03. The antenna 01 is generally fixed on a mast 04, and the downtilt angle of the antenna 01 can be adjusted by an antenna adjustment bracket 05 to adjust the signal coverage range of the antenna 01 to a certain extent.

[0046] Additionally, the base station may include a radio frequency (RF) processing unit 06 and a baseband processing unit 20. For example, the RF processing unit 06 can be used to perform frequency selection, amplification, and down-conversion processing on the signal received by the antenna 01, converting it into an intermediate frequency (IF) signal or a baseband signal and sending it to the baseband processing unit 20. Alternatively, the RF processing unit 06 can be used to up-convert and amplify the IF signal emitted by the baseband processing unit 20, converting it into a wireless signal through the antenna 01 and transmitting it. The baseband processing unit 20 can be connected to the feed network of the antenna 01 via the RF processing unit 06. In some embodiments, the RF processing unit 06 may also be referred to as a remote radio unit (RRU), and the baseband processing unit 20 may also be referred to as a baseband unit (BBU).

[0047] As shown in Figure 2, in one possible embodiment, the radio frequency processing unit 06 can be integrated with the antenna 01, while the baseband processing unit 20 is located at the far end of the antenna 01. The radio frequency processing unit 06 and the baseband processing unit 20 can be connected via a feed line 02. In another embodiment, the radio frequency processing unit 06 and the baseband processing unit 20 can both be located at the far end of the antenna 01.

[0048] Referring to Figures 2 and 3, the antenna 01 used in the base station may further include an antenna radome 011, a reflector 012 located within the antenna radome 011, and a feed network 013. The reflector 012 can also be referred to as a base plate. The main function of the feed network 013 is to feed signals to the radiator 014 with a certain amplitude and phase, or to transmit the wireless signals received by the radiator 014 to the baseband processing unit 20 of the base station with a certain amplitude and phase. It is understood that, in specific implementations, the feed network 013 may include at least one of the following devices: a phase shifter, a combiner, a transmission or calibration network, or a filter. This application does not limit the components, type, or functions that the feed network 013 can achieve.

[0049] Of course, the antenna 01 described above can also be applied to various other types of communication devices. This application does not limit the application scenarios of the antenna 01.

[0050] It should be noted that, in practical applications, equipment such as the pole 04 and antenna adjustment and fixing bracket 05 can be provided by the site provider. Equipment such as the antenna 01, radio frequency processing unit 06, and baseband processing unit 20 in the base station can be provided by the base station manufacturer.

[0051] Regarding the radome 011, in terms of electrical performance, the radome 011 has good electromagnetic wave penetration, thus not affecting the normal transmission and reception of electromagnetic waves between the radiator 014 and the outside world. In terms of mechanical performance, the radome 011 has good stress resistance and oxidation resistance, thus being able to withstand the corrosion of harsh external environments.

[0052] The radiator 014, also known as a vibrator or radiating element, is a basic structural unit of an antenna, capable of effectively transmitting or receiving electromagnetic waves. In practical applications, the radiator 014 can be categorized into single-pole and dual-pole types. The type of radiator 014 can be appropriately selected based on actual requirements during configuration.

[0053] With the development of wireless communication technology, the industry has higher requirements for the signal coverage and communication capacity of antenna 01.

[0054] For example, as shown in Figure 4, in one example provided in this application, the antenna 01 includes a plurality of radiators 014, which are spaced apart on the surface of the reflector 012. The plurality of radiators 014 enable the transmission and reception of wireless signals. In the example provided in Figure 4, three rows of radiators are shown, each row including at least one radiator 014.

[0055] To improve the signal coverage and communication capacity of antenna 01, the number of radiators 014 can be increased.

[0056] For example, as shown in Figure 5, in another example provided in this application, the antenna 01 includes six rows of radiators 014, with multiple radiators 014 spaced apart on the surface of the reflector 012. The transmission and reception of wireless signals can be achieved through the multiple radiators 014.

[0057] By comparing Figures 4 and 5, it is clear that, with the same number of radiators 014 in each column, the antenna 01 in Figure 5 has significantly more radiators 014 than the antenna 01 in Figure 4. Therefore, the antenna 01 shown in Figure 5 has better signal coverage and communication capacity. However, in Figure 5, multiple radiators 014 are located on the surface of the same reflector 012, resulting in a larger size or area of ​​the antenna 01 in the X-axis direction. In other words, the antenna 01 in Figure 5 has a larger wind-receiving area, thus increasing wind load. Therefore, when designing and manufacturing the antenna 01, it is necessary to strengthen structures such as the radome and antenna adjustment bracket to prevent damage to the antenna 01 due to strong winds.

[0058] Therefore, this application provides an antenna that can achieve a large signal coverage and communication capacity, and the antenna has a compact structure and low wind load.

[0059] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0060] As shown in Figure 6, in one example provided in this application, the antenna 10 includes an radome 11, a first antenna assembly 12, and a second antenna assembly 13, both of which are located within the radome 11. That is, the radome 11 effectively accommodates, protects, and fixes the first antenna assembly 12 and the second antenna assembly 13, resulting in better integrity of the antenna 10.

[0061] The first antenna assembly 12 includes a first reflector 121, a first radiating array 122, and a first feed network 123. The first reflector 121 has a reflective surface 1211 and a back surface 1212 facing away from each other, and the first radiating array 122 is fixed to the reflective surface 1211. The first radiating array 122 includes multiple radiators 1221. In Figure 6, the radiators 1221 in the first radiating array 122 are divided into three columns, each column including at least one radiator 1221. The electromagnetic waves generated by the radiators 1221 can propagate in a direction away from the reflective surface 1211 and radiate outward through the radome 11. Additionally, a portion of the electromagnetic waves generated by the radiators 1221 may also propagate in the direction of the first reflector 121 and, after being reflected by the reflective surface 1211 of the first reflector 121, propagate in a direction away from the reflective surface 1211. The first feed network 123 is fixed to the back surface 1212 of the first reflector 121, and is electrically connected to each radiator 1221 in the first radiation array 122. The first feed network 123 transmits radio frequency signals to each radiator 1221 in the first radiation array 122, thereby causing the radiator 1221 to radiate electromagnetic waves. In the example provided in FIG. 6, the first feed network 123 is fixed to the back surface 1212 of the first reflector 121. In other examples, the first feed network 123 may also be fixed to the reflective surface 1211 of the first reflector 121. Alternatively, a portion of the first feed network 123 may be fixed to the back surface 1212, and another portion may be fixed to the reflective surface 1211. In specific configurations, the position of the first feed network 123 can be flexibly adjusted according to actual needs. It should be noted that in the example provided in Figure 6, the first antenna assembly 12 includes three first feed networks 123, and the reflective surface 1211 of the first reflector 121 is provided with three rows of radiators, and the three first feed networks 123 are connected to the three rows of radiators one by one.

[0062] The second antenna assembly 13 includes a second reflector 131, a second radiating array 132, and a second feed network 133. The second reflector 131 has a reflective surface 1311 and a back surface 1312 facing away from each other, and the second radiating array 132 is fixed to the reflective surface 1311. The second radiating array 132 includes multiple radiators 1321. In Figure 6, the radiators 1321 in the second radiating array 132 are divided into three columns, each column including at least one radiator 1321. The electromagnetic waves generated by the radiators 1321 can propagate in a direction away from the reflective surface 1311 and radiate outward through the radome 11. Additionally, a portion of the electromagnetic waves generated by the radiators 1321 may also propagate in the direction of the second reflector 131, and after being reflected by the reflective surface 1311, propagate in a direction away from the reflective surface 1311. The second feed network 133 is fixed to the back surface 1312 of the second reflector 131, and is electrically connected to each radiator 1321 in the second radiation array 132. The second feed network 133 transmits radio frequency signals to each radiator 1321 in the second radiation array 132, thereby causing the radiator 1321 to radiate electromagnetic waves. In the example provided in Figure 6, the second feed network 133 is fixed to the back surface 1312 of the second reflector 131. In other examples, the second feed network 133 may also be fixed to the reflecting surface 1311 of the second reflector 131. Alternatively, a portion of the second feed network 133 may be fixed to the back surface 1312, and another portion may be fixed to the reflecting surface 1311. Alternatively, in some examples, the second feed network 133 may also be located on the back surface 1312 or the reflecting surface 1311 of the first reflector 121. In specific configurations, the location of the second feed network 133 can be flexibly adjusted according to actual needs. It should be noted that in the example provided in Figure 6, the second antenna assembly 13 includes three second power supply networks 133, and the reflective surface 1311 of the second reflector 131 is provided with three rows of radiators, and the three second power supply networks 133 are connected to the three rows of radiators one by one.

[0063] In summary, in the example provided in this application, the communication capacity and signal coverage of antenna 10 can be effectively improved by adding a second antenna component 13 to antenna 10.

[0064] Furthermore, the second antenna assembly 13 is located on the side of the first reflector 121 opposite to the first radiating array 122. Alternatively, the projection of the second antenna assembly 13 along the thickness direction of the first reflector 121 can be considered to overlap with the first reflector 121. Therefore, it is possible to effectively prevent a significant increase in the area and wind load of the antenna 10 due to the addition of the second antenna assembly 13.

[0065] Specifically, in the example provided in Figure 6, the area of ​​the second reflector 131 in the second antenna assembly 13 is substantially the same as that of the first reflector 121 in the first antenna assembly 12. The first radiating array 122 includes three columns of radiators, and the second radiating array 132 includes three columns of radiators. That is, in the example provided in Figure 6, the antenna 10 includes six columns of radiators. The reflecting surfaces 1211 of the first reflector 121 and 1311 of the second reflector 131 are arranged opposite to each other, and the projection of the second reflector 131 along the Y-axis (or the thickness of the first reflector 121) substantially coincides with the first reflector 121. In other words, the projection of the second antenna assembly 13 along the Y-axis substantially coincides with the first reflector 121. Therefore, the size of the antenna 10 in the X-axis direction is not increased, effectively preventing a significant increase in the area and wind load of the antenna 10 due to the addition of the second antenna assembly 13. Additionally, it should be noted that configuring the second antenna component 13 may increase the size or area of ​​the antenna 10 in the Y-axis direction. However, in practical applications, the size or area of ​​the antenna 10 in the X-axis direction is usually larger than its size or area in the Y-axis direction. Alternatively, the thickness of the antenna 10 may be significantly smaller than its width or length. The maximum area of ​​the antenna 10 in a certain direction or plane has a significant impact on the overall wind load of the antenna 10. Therefore, in the example provided in this application, since the size or area of ​​the antenna 10 in the X-axis direction is not significantly increased, the wind load of the antenna 10 is not significantly increased.

[0066] In addition, in the example provided in this application, the radiation direction of the second radiation array 132 is different from that of the first radiation array 122, thus significantly improving the signal coverage of the antenna 10.

[0067] Please refer to Figures 5 and 6. In the example provided in Figure 5, antenna 01 also includes six columns of radiators. With the same number of radiators in each column, antenna 01 shown in Figure 5 and antenna 10 shown in Figure 6 contain the same number of radiators, making the communication capacity of the two antennas essentially the same.

[0068] Furthermore, in the example provided in Figure 6, the radiation direction of the first radiating array 122 in the first antenna assembly 12 is opposite to that of the second radiating array 132 in the second antenna assembly 13. Therefore, the antenna 10 can achieve signal coverage in two different directions, resulting in a larger signal coverage range. In contrast, in the example provided in Figure 5, the radiation directions of the radiating array (or all radiators 014) in the antenna 01 are basically the same, thus resulting in a smaller signal coverage range.

[0069] In summary, in the example provided in this application, by placing the second antenna component 13 on the side of the first reflector 121 away from the first radiating array 122, the signal coverage of the antenna 10 can be effectively improved.

[0070] Furthermore, in the example provided in Figure 6, the area of ​​the second reflector 131 is substantially the same as the area of ​​the first reflector 121. In some other examples, the area of ​​the second reflector 131 may be larger or smaller than the area of ​​the first reflector 121.

[0071] For example, as shown in Figure 7, in another example provided in this application, the area of ​​the second reflector 131 is smaller than the area of ​​the first reflector 121. The second radiation array 132 includes three columns of radiators 1321. Of course, in some examples, the second radiation array 132 may also include two, four, or more columns of radiators. Furthermore, the number of radiators 1321 in each column can be one, two, four, or more; this application does not impose any limitation on this.

[0072] It should be noted that in the examples provided in Figures 6 and 7, the projection of the second antenna assembly 13 or the second reflector 131 along the Y-axis direction is within the first reflector 121. In other examples, the projection of the second antenna assembly 13 or the second reflector 131 along the Y-axis direction may also be partially located within the first reflector 121. That is, along the Y-axis direction, or along the Z-axis direction which is perpendicular to both the X and Y axes, the first reflector 121 and the second reflector 131 may be staggered.

[0073] In the examples provided in Figures 6 and 7, the radiation directions of the first antenna assembly 12 and the second antenna assembly 13 are opposite to each other. That is, the reflecting surface 1211 of the first reflector 121 is opposite to the reflecting surface 1311 of the second reflector 131. In other examples, the radiation directions of the first antenna assembly 12 and the second antenna assembly 13 may also be at an angle.

[0074] For example, as shown in Figure 8, in another example provided in this application, the reflecting surface 1211 of the first reflector 121 is approximately perpendicular to the reflecting surface 1311 of the second reflector 131. Alternatively, it can be understood that the radiation direction of the first antenna assembly 12 is aligned with the Y-axis, and the radiation direction of the second antenna assembly 13 is aligned with the X-axis. In some examples, the angle between the radiation directions of the first antenna assembly 12 and the second antenna assembly 13 can be any value less than 90° or greater than 90°. In practical applications, the relative attitude of the first antenna assembly 12 and the second antenna assembly 13 can be reasonably adjusted according to the coverage area of ​​the antenna 10.

[0075] Alternatively, as shown in Figure 9, in another example provided in this application, antenna 10 includes two second antenna components, namely second antenna component 13a and second antenna component 13b. Second antenna component 13a includes a second reflector 131a and a second radiating array 132a. Second antenna component 13b includes a second reflector 131b and a second radiating array 132b. Furthermore, the reflective surfaces of the second reflector 131a and the second reflector 131b are arranged opposite to each other. That is, the radiation directions of second antenna component 13a and the second antenna component 13b are opposite. Additionally, the radiation directions of the first antenna component 12 are perpendicular to those of both second antenna component 13a and the second antenna component 13b. Therefore, the entire antenna 10 has a larger signal coverage range.

[0076] Additionally, in the example provided in Figure 9, the second feed network 133a of the second antenna assembly 13a is disposed on the back side of the second reflector 131a. The second feed network 133b of the second antenna assembly 13b is disposed on the back side of the second reflector 131b.

[0077] In other examples, the second power supply network 133a can also be located on the second reflector 131b. Alternatively, the second power supply network 133b can also be located on the second reflector 131a. Or, in one example, either the second power supply network 133a or the second power supply network 133b can be located on the first reflector 121. In specific applications, the locations of the second power supply network 133a and the second power supply network b can be flexibly set according to actual needs, which will not be elaborated here.

[0078] It is understood that the example provided in Figure 9 is an illustrative illustration using the example of antenna 10 including two second antenna components. In other examples, antenna 10 may also include three or more second antenna components.

[0079] Alternatively, in some examples, antenna 10 may include two or more first antenna components 12. In specific applications, the exact number of first antenna components 12 and second antenna components 13 can be reasonably set according to actual needs.

[0080] In some examples, the first antenna assembly 12 is rotatably disposed within the radome 11 to allow for flexible adjustment of the radiation direction of the first antenna assembly 12.

[0081] For example, as shown in FIG10, in one example provided in this application, the antenna 10 further includes a first rotating mechanism 14, which is located inside the radome 11. The first rotating mechanism 14 is connected to the first reflector 121 and the radome 11, and is used to rotate the first reflector 121 relative to the radome 11, thereby changing the radiation direction of the first antenna assembly 12.

[0082] In one example, the first rotating mechanism 14 may include a motor (not shown in FIG. 10), a rotating shaft 141, and a mounting bracket 142. The mounting bracket 142 is fixedly connected to the first reflector 121, and the motor can be fixed inside the radome 11. One end of the rotating shaft 141 is connected to the output shaft of the motor, and the other end of the rotating shaft 141 is connected to the mounting bracket 142. When the output shaft of the motor rotates, it drives the rotating shaft 141 to rotate synchronously. When the rotating shaft 141 rotates, it drives the mounting bracket 142 to rotate, ultimately causing the first reflector 121 to rotate around the axis of the rotating shaft 141, thereby achieving adjustment of the radiation direction.

[0083] Alternatively, in other examples, the rotating shaft 141 can also be the output shaft of a motor. Or, the motor can be another drive capable of converting electrical energy into mechanical energy, such as a hydraulic pump. Furthermore, the first rotating mechanism 14 may also include transmission components such as a worm gear, worm shaft, gear, or connecting rod. In specific applications, the components included in the first rotating mechanism 14 can be appropriately selected according to actual needs to enable the first rotating mechanism 14 to adjust the pitch angle of the first reflector 121; details will not be elaborated here.

[0084] In some examples, the second antenna assembly 13 is rotatably disposed within the radome 11 to allow for flexible adjustment of the radiation direction of the second antenna assembly 13.

[0085] For example, as shown in FIG11, in one example provided in this application, the antenna 10 further includes a second rotating mechanism 15, which is located inside the radome 11. The second rotating mechanism 15 is connected to the second reflector 131 and the radome 11, and is used to rotate the second reflector 131 relative to the radome 11, thereby changing the radiation direction of the second antenna assembly 13.

[0086] In one example, the second rotating mechanism 15 may include a motor (not shown in FIG. 11), a rotating shaft 151, and a mounting bracket 152. The mounting bracket 152 is fixedly connected to the second reflector 131, and the motor may be fixed inside the radome 11. One end of the rotating shaft 151 is connected to the output shaft of the motor, and the other end of the rotating shaft 151 is connected to the mounting bracket 152. When the output shaft of the motor rotates, it drives the rotating shaft 151 to rotate synchronously. When the rotating shaft 151 rotates, it drives the mounting bracket 152 to rotate, ultimately causing the second reflector 131 to rotate around the axis of the rotating shaft 151, thereby achieving adjustment of the radiation direction.

[0087] Alternatively, in other examples, the rotating shaft 151 can also be the output shaft of a motor. Or, the motor can be another drive capable of converting electrical energy into mechanical energy, such as a hydraulic pump. Furthermore, the second rotating mechanism 15 may also include transmission components such as a worm gear, worm shaft, gear, or connecting rod. In specific applications, the components included in the second rotating mechanism 15 can be appropriately selected according to actual needs to enable the second rotating mechanism 15 to adjust the pitch angle of the second reflector 131; details will not be elaborated here.

[0088] In specific applications, the structure of the radome 11 can be varied.

[0089] For example, as shown in Figure 9, in one example provided in this application, the cross-section of the radome 11 is rectangular in the direction perpendicular to the Y-axis.

[0090] Alternatively, as shown in Figure 10, in one example provided in this application, the cross-section of the radome 11 is circular in the direction perpendicular to the Y-axis.

[0091] In other examples, the radome 11 can also be of other shapes and structures. In specific applications, the shape and structure of the radome 11 can be flexibly set according to actual needs, which will not be elaborated here.

[0092] As shown in Figure 10, in a specific configuration, the rotation axis of the first antenna assembly 12 can be substantially coincident with the center of the radome 11, so that the first antenna assembly 12 can prevent mechanical interference with the radome 11 when rotating.

[0093] Alternatively, as shown in Figure 11, the rotation axis of the second antenna assembly 13 can be substantially coincident with the center of the radome 11, so that the second antenna assembly 13 can prevent mechanical interference with the radome 11 when rotating.

[0094] Alternatively, in some examples, the first rotating mechanism 14 and the second rotating mechanism 15 can be provided simultaneously. The rotating shaft 141 of the first rotating mechanism 14 and the rotating shaft 151 of the second rotating mechanism 15 can be coaxial. Alternatively, the rotating shaft 141 of the first rotating mechanism 14 and the rotating shaft 151 of the second rotating mechanism 15 can be the same rotating shaft.

[0095] Furthermore, when the antenna 10 includes multiple second antenna components 13, each of the multiple second antenna components 13 can be independently equipped with a rotating mechanism. Alternatively, a rotating mechanism can be used to drive multiple second antenna components 13 to rotate simultaneously, or a rotating mechanism can be used to drive multiple second antenna components 13 to rotate separately, which will not be elaborated here.

[0096] In one example, the number and arrangement of radiators in the first antenna assembly 12 and the second antenna assembly 13 can be reasonably set according to actual needs. In general, this application does not limit the number and positional arrangement of radiators in the first antenna assembly 12 and the second antenna assembly 13. Furthermore, the operating frequency bands of the radiators in the first antenna assembly 12 and the second antenna assembly 13 can be the same or different. In the first antenna assembly 12, all radiators can operate at substantially the same frequency band. Alternatively, at least two different operating frequency bands of radiators can exist in the first antenna assembly 12. Correspondingly, in the second antenna assembly 13, all radiators can operate at substantially the same frequency band. Alternatively, at least two different operating frequency bands of radiators can exist in the second antenna assembly 13.

[0097] In addition, in one example, the type and arrangement of the radiator can be varied.

[0098] For example, as shown in Figure 12, in one example provided in this application, the radiator 1321 is fixed to the reflective surface 1311 of the second reflector 131 by a bracket 134. The bracket 134 can be made of commonly used insulating materials such as polyethylene or polypropylene. Furthermore, the bracket 134 can be fixedly connected to the second reflector 131 and the radiator 1321 by means of adhesive bonding or other methods. Alternatively, the bracket 134 can be fixedly connected to the second reflector 131 and the radiator 1321 by fasteners such as screws, which will not be elaborated further here.

[0099] Alternatively, the support 134 and the radiator 1321 can be considered as a single radiating unit.

[0100] The above description is an exemplary example using the radiator 1321 in the second antenna assembly 13 as an example. When configuring the first antenna assembly 13, the radiator 1221 in the first antenna assembly 12 can be fixedly connected to the first reflector 121 through a structure such as a bracket, which will not be described in detail here.

[0101] Alternatively, as shown in Figure 13, in another example provided in this application, the radiating element may also include a reflector 135.

[0102] Specifically, the radiating unit includes a radiator 1321, a support 134, and a reflector 135. The support 134 is fixedly connected to both the radiator 1321 and the reflector 135. The reflector 135 effectively reflects electromagnetic waves, thereby increasing the gain of the radiator 1321. Alternatively, it can be understood that a portion of the electromagnetic waves generated by the radiator 1321 propagates away from the reflector 135. Furthermore, a portion of the electromagnetic waves generated by the radiator 1321 may also propagate towards the reflector 135, and after being reflected by the reflector 135, propagate in the direction away from the reflector 135, thus improving the directivity of the radiator 1321.

[0103] Alternatively, the reflector 135 can function as a second reflector 131. Therefore, in some examples, the second reflector 131 can be omitted. Alternatively, the reflector 135 and the second reflector 131 can be provided simultaneously.

[0104] As shown in Figure 13, in one example, the bracket 134 can be fixedly connected to the radiator 1321, the reflector 135, and the second feed network 133, and the reflector 35 is located between the second feed network 133 and the radiator 1321. Alternatively, in one example, the second feed network 133 can also be disposed on the first reflector 121.

[0105] Alternatively, in one example, multiple supports 134 can be fixedly connected. Or, the multiple supports 134 can be a single, integral structure.

[0106] It should be noted that when the second antenna assembly 13 includes multiple radiating units as shown in Figure 13, the second rotating mechanism can be fixedly connected to each reflector 135 or bracket 134, or the second rotating mechanism can also be connected to the second feed network 133. That is to say, the second rotating mechanism can make each radiator 1321 rotate independently, or the second rotating mechanism can make multiple radiators 1321 rotate simultaneously.

[0107] It should be noted that, in practical applications, the antenna 10 described above can be used in various types of communication equipment such as base stations.

[0108] For example, as shown in Figure 14, taking a communication device as a base station as an example, the base station may include a mast 04 and an antenna adjustment and mounting bracket 05. The antenna 10 can be fixedly mounted on the mast 04 via the antenna adjustment and mounting bracket 05. Specifically, the antenna adjustment and mounting bracket 05 is connected between the radome 11 and the mast 04, used to effectively fix the radome 11 to the mast 04. In addition, in specific applications, the spatial attitude of the radome 11 can also be adjusted via the antenna adjustment and mounting bracket 05. In specific settings, the antenna adjustment and mounting bracket 05 can be of a commonly used type. Furthermore, the connection method between the antenna adjustment and mounting bracket 05, the mast 04, and the radome 11 can also adopt a commonly used type, and this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0109] It should be noted that, in one example, the horizontal angle of the first antenna assembly 12 can be adjusted via a first rotation mechanism. The horizontal angle of the second antenna assembly 13 can be adjusted via a second rotation mechanism.

[0110] Of course, in practical applications, the base station may also include a feeder 02, a grounding device 03, an RF processing unit 06, and a baseband processing unit 20. Simply put, the RF processing unit 06 can be used to perform frequency selection, amplification, and down-conversion processing on the signal received by the antenna, converting it into an intermediate frequency (IF) signal or a baseband signal and sending it to the baseband processing unit 20. Alternatively, the RF processing unit 06 can be used to up-convert and amplify the IF signal emitted by the baseband processing unit 20, converting it into a wireless signal through the antenna 01 and transmitting it. The baseband processing unit 20 can be connected to the feed network of the antenna 01 via the RF processing unit 06. In some embodiments, the RF processing unit 06 may also be called a remote radio unit (RRU), and the baseband processing unit 20 may also be called a baseband unit (BBU).

[0111] Additionally, as shown in Figure 15, this application embodiment also provides a communication system, including communication equipment and core network equipment. The communication equipment is communicatively connected to a terminal. The core network equipment includes, but is not limited to, mobility management equipment, serving gateways, and wireless gateways.

[0112] In the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terminology and / or descriptions of different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. The technical features of different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationship.

[0113] In this application, "multiple" means two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, or B exists alone, where A and B can be singular or plural.

[0114] It is understood that the various numerical designations used in the embodiments of this application are merely for descriptive convenience and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. The order of the process numbers described above does not imply the order of execution; the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic.

Claims

1. An antenna, characterized in that, Includes an antenna radome and a first antenna assembly and a second antenna assembly located within the antenna radome; The first antenna assembly includes a first reflector, a first radiating array, and a first feed network; The first reflector has a reflective surface and a back surface that are opposite to each other, the first radiation array is fixed on the reflective surface, the first feed network is fixed to the first reflector, and the first feed network is fed to the first radiation array. The second antenna assembly includes a second radiating array and a second feed network, wherein the second feed network is fed to the second radiating array. The second antenna assembly is located on the side of the first reflector that is away from the first radiating array; The second radiating array is rotatably disposed within the radome.

2. The antenna according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second antenna assembly also includes a second reflector; The second reflector has a reflective surface and a back surface that are opposite to each other; The second radiation array is fixed to the reflective surface of the second reflector; The second reflector is rotatably disposed inside the antenna radome.

3. The antenna according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second radiation array includes multiple radiation elements; The radiation unit includes a radiator and a support; One end of the bracket is fixedly connected to the radiator, and the other end of the bracket is fixedly connected to the second reflector. The second power supply network is power-connected to each of the radiators.

4. The antenna according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The second power supply network is fixed to the second reflector.

5. The antenna according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second radiation array includes multiple radiation elements; The radiation unit includes a radiator, a support frame, and a reflector. The bracket is fixedly connected to both the radiator and the reflector, and the second power supply network is power-fed to each of the radiators.

6. The antenna according to claim 5, characterized in that, The bracket is also fixedly connected to the second power supply network; The reflector is located between the second feed network and the radiator.

7. The antenna according to claim 5, characterized in that, The second power supply network is fixed to the first reflector.

8. The antenna according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that, Each of the brackets is fixedly connected to the others.

9. The antenna according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The antenna also includes a first rotating mechanism, which is located inside the antenna cover. The first rotating mechanism is connected to the first reflector and the antenna cover, and the first rotating mechanism is used to rotate the first reflector relative to the antenna cover.

10. The antenna according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The antenna also includes a second rotating mechanism, which is located inside the antenna cover. The second rotating mechanism is connected to the second antenna assembly and the radome, and the second rotating mechanism is used to rotate the second radiating array in the second antenna assembly relative to the radome.

11. A communication device, characterized in that, The antenna includes any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The communication device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The communication device further includes a baseband processing unit, which is connected to the first power supply network and the second power supply network.

13. The communication device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The antenna includes a radio frequency processing unit, and the baseband processing unit is connected to the first feed network and the second feed network through the radio frequency processing unit.

14. A communication system, characterized in that, It includes core network equipment and communication equipment as described in any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the communication equipment is communicatively connected to the core network equipment.

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