Feed network, antenna module and device

Abstract

Provided in the present application are a feed network, an antenna module and a device. The feed network comprises: M radio-frequency interfaces, N antenna interfaces, at least M first distribution units, N second distribution units and M×(N-1) phase-shifting units, wherein M is less than or equal to N, and M and N are integers greater than 1; each radio-frequency interface is used for receiving a first radio-frequency signal; each first distribution unit is used for processing a first radio-frequency signal to obtain N second radio-frequency signals; an input end of each second distribution unit is connected to at least one of the first distribution units and / or at least one of the phase-shifting units, and an output end of each second distribution unit is connected to an antenna interface; and each phase-shifting unit is connected between a first distribution unit and a second distribution unit, and is used for adjusting the phase of a received second radio-frequency signal. In this way, the feed network has low network complexity, low insertion loss, and good isolation.

Description

A power supply network, antenna module and device

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202510120779.9, filed on January 23, 2025, entitled “A Feeding Network, Antenna Module and Device”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of communications, and more particularly to a power supply network, antenna module, and device. Background Technology

[0003] With the continuous development of communication technology, the demand for high-capacity communication is becoming increasingly urgent. As frequency points continue to rise, the number of antenna elements also increases, and digital beamforming (DBF) can no longer meet current communication needs. To improve network performance and user experience, hybrid beamforming (HBF) technology can be used to achieve large-area dynamic scanning. However, current HBF technologies are mostly based on single-connectivity network architectures, which offer very limited capacity improvements for multi-user networks.

[0004] Currently proposed fully connected network architectures, such as the four-wheel drive four-way fully connected network architecture, employ two layers of bridges with delay lines added between them to achieve different phase differences between each port, thereby obtaining orthogonal beams. Another example is the two-wheel drive four-way fully connected network architecture, which employs a five-layer network, including four layers of bridges and one layer of power divider, with phase shifters connected to the intermediate branches. However, both of these fully connected network architectures have high network complexity and introduce significant insertion losses. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a power supply network, antenna module, and device to reduce network complexity.

[0006] In a first aspect, a feed network is provided. Exemplarily, the feed network includes: M radio frequency interfaces, N antenna interfaces, at least M first distribution units, N second distribution units, and M×(N-1) phase shifting units, where M is less than or equal to N, and M and N are integers greater than 1; each radio frequency interface is used to receive a first radio frequency signal; the first distribution units are used to process the first radio frequency signal into N second radio frequency signals; the input terminal of each second distribution unit is connected to at least one first distribution unit and / or at least one phase shifting unit, and the output terminal of the second distribution unit is connected to the antenna interface; each phase shifting unit is connected between the first distribution unit and the second distribution unit, and each phase shifting unit is used to adjust the phase of the received second radio frequency signal.

[0007] Based on the above technical solution, the feed network processes each received first radio frequency (RF) signal through the first distribution unit to obtain N second RF signals, which may have the same or different amplitudes and phases. These N second RF signals are then processed by (N-1) phase-shifting units to obtain N second RF signals with different amplitudes and phases. Any one of these N second RF signals can be transmitted to the second distribution unit. In this way, an M-driven N feed network can be implemented. This feed network does not require a bridge structure when implementing the function of M digital channels driving N antenna modules, making the feed network structure flexible and simple. This allows for low network complexity and low insertion loss, and the feed network also has good isolation.

[0008] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some possible implementations of the first aspect, the power supply network includes M first distribution units, the input of each first distribution unit is connected to an RF interface, the first output of each first distribution unit is connected to a second distribution unit, and (N-1) second outputs of each first distribution unit are connected to a phase shifting unit.

[0009] The first distribution unit can evenly distribute the input first radio frequency signal to multiple output branches. The phase shifting unit can be used to adjust the phase of the signal in each branch, thereby realizing the phase difference between different ports. Finally, the second distribution unit superimposes the different second radio frequency signals and combines them at the output end to connect to the antenna unit to complete the transmission or reception of the signal.

[0010] Each received first radio frequency signal can be processed using a first allocation unit and (N-1) phase shifting units to obtain N second radio frequency signals with different amplitudes and phases. Each second allocation unit can superimpose the received M second radio frequency signals and transmit the superimposed signal to the antenna unit. Thus, this feeder network structure is flexible and simple, reducing network complexity and exhibiting low insertion loss, making it suitable for communication scenarios with irregular base station receiver interfaces or long communication distances.

[0011] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some possible implementations of the first aspect, the power supply network includes a first distribution unit with a number greater than M, the power supply network includes M first sub-distribution units and at least one second sub-distribution unit, the input terminal of each first sub-distribution unit is connected to the radio frequency interface, at least one second output terminal of the first sub-distribution unit is connected to the second sub-distribution unit, and the first radio frequency signal received by each radio frequency interface is processed by a first distribution unit and at least one second distribution unit to obtain N second radio frequency signals.

[0012] Each received first radio frequency (RF) signal can be processed based on a first sub-distribution unit, at least one second sub-distribution unit, and (N-1) phase-shifting units to obtain N second RF signals with different amplitudes and phases. Each second distribution unit can superimpose the received M second RF signals and transmit the superimposed signal to the antenna unit. Thus, this feeder network structure is flexible and simple, reducing network complexity and exhibiting low insertion loss, making it suitable for communication scenarios with irregular base station receiver interfaces or long communication distances.

[0013] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some possible implementations of the first aspect, each second allocation unit is used to superimpose M second radio frequency signals, each of the M second radio frequency signals being acquired based on each first radio frequency signal.

[0014] Each second distribution unit can superimpose M second radio frequency signals. Each of these M second radio frequency signals is based on a different first radio frequency signal and is obtained after processing by the first distribution unit and the phase shifting unit. In this way, the different radio frequency signals have good isolation.

[0015] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some possible implementations of the first aspect, M equals 2.

[0016] In other words, this power supply network is a 2-drive N-power supply network, which can include 2 output terminals and N output terminals. Thus, the power supply network structure is flexible and simple, reducing network complexity and resulting in low insertion loss.

[0017] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some possible implementations of the first aspect, the first distribution unit or the second distribution unit includes a power divider, and / or the phase shifting unit includes a phase shifter.

[0018] The power divider can evenly distribute the input first RF signal to multiple output branches, and can also superimpose different second RF signals. The phase shifter can be used to adjust the phase of the signals in each branch, thereby achieving phase difference between different ports. Thus, this feeder network structure is flexible and simple, reducing network complexity, achieving low insertion loss, and providing good isolation.

[0019] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some possible implementations of the first aspect, the N antenna interfaces are arranged in at least one column.

[0020] It offers greater flexibility for different antennas, allowing for flexible adjustment of the antenna's direction and position according to the needs of different scenarios, and also possesses flexible beamforming capabilities.

[0021] Furthermore, the requirements for the beamform also differ. The fewer the number of rows of N antenna interfaces arranged, the narrower the vertical beam; the more rows arranged, the narrower the horizontal beam. In other words, the beamform offers greater flexibility.

[0022] For example, when the N antenna interfaces are arranged in a row, using a narrower vertical beam can concentrate the signal energy within a smaller angle range in the vertical direction, making the signal coverage in the vertical direction more accurate, enhancing the signal strength, reducing the spread and loss of the signal in the vertical direction, and improving the effectiveness and reliability of signal transmission.

[0023] For example, when the N antenna interfaces are arranged in N columns, using a narrower horizontal beam can concentrate the signal within a specific angle range in the horizontal direction, making the signal coverage in the horizontal direction more targeted, effectively enhancing the signal strength of the target area in the horizontal direction, reducing signal leakage and interference in the horizontal direction, and improving signal quality and transmission efficiency.

[0024] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some possible implementations of the first aspect, the N antenna interfaces are arranged in two columns.

[0025] It offers greater flexibility for different antennas, allowing for flexible adjustment of the antenna's direction and position according to the needs of different scenarios, and also possesses flexible beamforming capabilities.

[0026] An antenna module includes N antenna elements, each antenna element being connected to an antenna interface, and each antenna element including at least one antenna subarray.

[0027] An antenna device comprising at least one feed network as described above and an antenna module as described above.

[0028] For details regarding the power supply network in antenna modules and antenna equipment, please refer to the detailed description in the first aspect and some possible implementations of the first aspect, which will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of the communication system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the number of digital channels and frequency provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0031] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the 4-drive, 4-full-connection network architecture provided by the relevant technology;

[0032] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the interface distribution of a receiver and antenna unit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the power supply network provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the power supply network of the 2-drive 6 provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 7 is another structural schematic diagram of the power supply network of the 2-drive 6 provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the power supply network of the 2-drive 4 provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 9 is a circuit diagram of the power supply network of the 2-drive 6 provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the technical effect of the power supply network based on 2 drives and 6 feeders provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0039] Figure 11 is another circuit diagram of the power supply network of the 2-drive 6 provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of another technical effect of the power supply network based on 2 drives and 6 provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0041] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating another technical effect of the 2-drive 6-feed network provided in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0042] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, the following points will be explained first:

[0043] First, to facilitate a clear description of the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used in the embodiments of this application to distinguish identical or similar items with essentially the same function and effect. For example, "first energy harvesting unit" and "second energy harvesting unit" are only used to distinguish the specific content of the instruction and do not limit their order or the number of energy harvesting units. Those skilled in the art will understand that the terms "first" and "second" do not limit the quantity or execution order, and the terms "first" and "second" are not necessarily different.

[0044] Second, in the embodiments of this application, "at least one" refers to one or more, and "more than one" refers to two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, or B alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can represent: a; b; c; a and b; a and c; b and c; or a and b and c. Here, a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0045] Third, in the embodiments of this application, "when," "if," and "if" all refer to the device making corresponding processing under certain objective circumstances, and are not limited to a time, nor do they require the device to make a judgment action when it is implemented, nor do they mean that there are other limitations.

[0046] Fourth, in this application, the words "example," "exemplarily," "for example," or "such as" are used to indicate that something is an example, illustration, or description. Any embodiment or design described as "example," "exemplarily," "for example," or "such as" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Specifically, the use of the words "example," "exemplarily," "for example," or "such as" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0047] The technical solutions provided in this application can be applied to various communication systems, such as: Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, LTE FDD systems, LTE TDD systems, sidelink (SL) communication systems, Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) communication systems, 5th generation (5G) mobile communication systems or new radio access technology (NR), satellite communication systems, etc. Among them, 5G mobile communication systems can include non-standalone (NSA) and / or standalone (SA) networking.

[0048] The technical solutions provided in this application can also be applied to future communication systems, such as 6th generation (6G) mobile communication systems, or integrated systems of multiple systems. The technical solutions provided in this application can also be applied to device-to-device (D2D) communication, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, machine-to-machine (M2M) communication, machine-type communication (MTC), and Internet of Things (IoT) communication systems or other communication systems.

[0049] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this application. The system architecture includes a radio frequency (RF) interface 110, an amplifier 120, a filter 130, a power supply network 140, and an antenna module 150. The RF interface 110 can be used, for example, to receive RF signals, the amplifier 120 can be used, for example, to enhance the power of the signal, and the filter 130 can selectively pass or suppress signals within a specific frequency range. The power supply network 140 can also be referred to as a power distribution unit. In this embodiment, the power supply network is used to power the connected antenna module 150. For example, the power supply network 140 can feed RF signals to the antenna module 150 with a certain amplitude and phase, or transmit wireless signals received by the antenna module 150 to the communication device with a certain amplitude and phase.

[0050] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the relationship between frequency, number of antenna elements, and number of digital channels provided in an embodiment of this application. On one hand, as shown in ① of Figure 2, the number of antenna elements increases linearly with increasing frequency. If the driving relationship remains unchanged, the number of digital channels, as shown in ② of Figure 2, will also increase linearly. However, a higher number of digital channels leads to a sharp increase in cost. For example, when the number of antenna elements increases from 192 to 4096, the corresponding number of digital channels increases from 128 digital channels (128 contributor, 128T) with increasing frequency to a maximum value (i.e., the inflection point shown in Figure 2), and then gradually decreases to 8 digital channels (i.e., 8T).

[0051] On the other hand, with the antenna surface unchanged, as the frequency increases, if the number of digital channels remains constant while considering cost, each digital channel will drive more antenna elements according to the driving relationship. However, this reduces the horizontal and vertical scanning range for the beam, leading to a decrease in performance and user experience. Therefore, considering both cost and performance, dynamic scanning over a larger range is only possible through combined digital and analog weights, in which case HBF exhibits good performance.

[0052] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a 4-drive, 4-full-connection network architecture provided by related technologies. This network employs a two-layer bridge architecture, with delay lines and frequency dividers added between the bridges. For example, after a signal passes through the first-layer bridge, it travels through a delay line before entering the second-layer bridge. Due to the presence of the delay line, the signal propagation time changes, resulting in a phase change. Signals on different paths experience different delays, leading to different phase changes. This allows for different phase differences between each port, further resulting in orthogonal beamforming.

[0053] Although this network architecture has only two layers, both of which are fixed networks, the 1:1 drive ratio prevents it from reducing the number of digital channels. Adding a switching network before this architecture to achieve a non-1:1 drive ratio increases the number of layers and causes significant insertion loss. Furthermore, this architecture can only support a few fixed beams, resulting in reduced benefits for users between beams.

[0054] Another type is a two-drive-four-layer fully connected network architecture. This network employs a five-layer architecture, including four bridge layers and one power divider layer, with adjustable phase shifters installed in the middle branches. The four bridge layers can process signals of different frequencies, phases, or amplitudes, performing signal conditioning, conversion, or feature extraction. The power divider can appropriately distribute the power of the signals processed by the four bridge layers. The adjustable phase shifter can change the phase of the signal to achieve the desired phase difference between the signals in each branch.

[0055] In theory, the adjustable phase shifters in this network architecture can flexibly target different beams. However, due to the large number of layers in the network architecture, the network complexity is high, which can lead to significant insertion loss.

[0056] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of an irregular distribution of receiver interfaces provided in an embodiment of this application. It can be seen that the input port indicated by the black-filled circle is the +45° antenna element input port, the input port indicated by the black-and-white patterned circle is the -45° antenna element input port, and the output port indicated by the white-filled circle is the filter output port. When the base station receiver interface is irregular, that is, when the location, shape, electrical characteristics, etc., of the base station interface do not conform to the conventional assumptions on which lumped network design is based, implementing a fully connected network using the above-described fully connected network architecture will incur significant costs.

[0057] In summary, the two network architectures mentioned above result in large insertion losses and high network complexity.

[0058] In view of this, embodiments of this application provide a feed network, antenna unit, and device. After receiving M first radio frequency signals through M radio frequency interfaces, each first radio frequency signal can be adjusted into N second radio frequency signals with different phases based on the processing of at least M first allocation units and (N-1) phase shifting units. The N second radio frequency signals are then transmitted to N second allocation units respectively, thereby realizing an M-driven N feed network. Thus, this M-driven N feed network can achieve the function of driving N antenna modules with M digital channels without the need for a bridge structure, thereby reducing network complexity. Furthermore, the feed network has low insertion loss and good isolation.

[0059] The power supply network provided in the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the above application scenarios are only shown to facilitate understanding of the spirit and principles of this application, and the implementation of this application is not limited in any way. For example, the embodiments of this application are not limited to time division duplex communication, but can also be used for frequency division duplex communication and other communication methods.

[0060] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the power supply network provided in an embodiment of this application. The power supply network may include: M radio frequency interfaces, N antenna interfaces, at least M first distribution units, N second distribution units, and M×(N-1) phase shifting units, where M is less than or equal to N, and M and N are integers greater than 1.

[0061] The power supply network includes M input terminals and N output terminals. In other words, the power supply network is an M-driven N-power supply network. The M-driven N-power supply network shown in Figure 5 is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this application. For example, the at least M first allocation units in the power supply network may include: first allocation unit #1, first allocation unit #2, ... first allocation unit #m, ... first allocation unit #M, etc. The N second allocation units may include: second allocation unit #1, second allocation unit #2, ... second allocation unit #N.

[0062] Each radio frequency interface can be used to receive a first radio frequency signal, and M radio frequency interfaces can receive M first radio frequency signals. These M radio frequency interfaces are also the M input terminals of the power supply network.

[0063] The first distribution unit can be used to process the first radio frequency signal into N second radio frequency signals. The amplitudes of the N second radio frequency signals may be the same or different, etc., and this application does not limit them.

[0064] For example, the first allocation unit distributes the first radio frequency signal with equal amplitude based on the same power allocation ratio, thereby obtaining N second radio frequency signals with the same amplitude. As another example, the first allocation unit distributes the first radio frequency signal with non-equal amplitude based on different power allocation ratios, resulting in at least two second radio frequency signals with different amplitudes among the resulting N second radio frequency signals.

[0065] The input of each second distribution unit is connected to at least one first distribution unit and / or at least one phase shifting unit, and the output of the second distribution unit is connected to an antenna interface.

[0066] Each phase-shifting unit is connected between the first distribution unit and the second distribution unit. That is, the input terminal of the phase-shifting unit is connected to the output terminal of the first distribution unit, and the output terminal of the phase-shifting unit is connected to the input terminal of the second distribution unit. The positions of these (N-1) phase-shifting units are not fixed; each of the (N-1) branches of the first distribution unit can be connected to a phase-shifting unit.

[0067] The phase-shifting unit can be used to adjust the phase of the received second radio frequency signal. For example, after the first radio frequency signal is processed by the first distribution unit to obtain N second radio frequency signals, any (N-1) of these N second radio frequency signals can be transmitted to (N-1) phase-shifting units respectively. After processing by the phase-shifting units, the resulting (N-1) second radio frequency signals will have different phases. For example, the phases of the N second radio frequency signals obtained after the first radio frequency signal is processed by the first distribution unit and the phase shifter are φ1, φ2, ..., φ1, φ2, ..., φ3, φ4, φ5, φ6, φ7, φ8, φ9, φ1, φ1, φ1, φ2, ..., φ1, φ1, φ2, φ1, φ1, φ1, φ2, ..., φ1, φ1, φ1, φ2, φ1 ... N .

[0068] Each first distribution unit can divide a first radio frequency (RF) signal into N second RF signals based on power allocation. Any (N-1) of these N second RF signals can be transmitted to (N-1) phase-shifting units, each of which can adjust the phase of its corresponding second RF signal. In this way, a first RF signal can be converted into N second RF signals with different amplitudes and phases. These N second RF signals can then be transmitted to the N second distribution units.

[0069] Similarly, each of the at least M first distribution units can perform the same operation as described above on the received first radio frequency signal, thereby processing each first radio frequency signal to obtain N second radio frequency signals with different amplitudes and phases.

[0070] Each second distribution unit can receive M second radio frequency signals, which are any one of N second radio frequency signals obtained after processing the M second radio frequency signals. Specifically, each second distribution unit can receive at least one second radio frequency signal output from the first distribution unit, which has not undergone phase adjustment by the phase shifting unit; each second distribution unit can also receive at least one second radio frequency signal output from the intention unit, which has undergone phase adjustment by the phase shifting unit.

[0071] In other words, the second radio frequency signal received by each second distribution unit may be after phase adjustment by the phase shifting unit, or it may be without phase adjustment by the phase shifting unit, etc. The embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0072] The M-drive-N feeding network structure implemented based on the above scheme can achieve the function of driving N antenna modules with M digital channels without using a bridge structure, thus achieving low network complexity, low insertion loss, and good isolation.

[0073] Optionally, the first or second distribution unit includes a power divider, and / or the phase shifting unit includes a phase shifter.

[0074] That is, the M-drive-N power supply network may include: M radio frequency interfaces, N antenna interfaces, at least M first power dividers, N second power dividers and M×(N-1) phase shifters, where M is less than or equal to N, and M and N are integers greater than 1.

[0075] It should be noted that the power supply network for the M-drive-N system, which uses the first distribution unit as a power divider, the second distribution unit as a power divider, and the phase shifting unit as a phase shifter, is only an example. For example, it can also be other devices with the same or similar functions as power dividers or phase shifters, etc. The embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0076] One possible scenario is that the power supply network includes M first distribution units, or in other words, the power supply network includes M first distribution units, referred to as scenario one.

[0077] In this configuration, each first distribution unit includes one input terminal and N output terminals, comprising one first output terminal and (N-1) second output terminals. The input terminal of each first distribution unit is connected to an RF interface, the first output terminal of each first distribution unit is connected to a second distribution unit, and the (N-1) second output terminals of each first distribution unit are connected to a phase-shifting unit.

[0078] In other words, after each first distribution unit processes a first radio frequency (RF) signal into N second RF signals, the amplitudes of these N second RF signals may be the same or different. One of these N second RF signals can be transmitted to a second distribution unit through a first output terminal, and each of the remaining (N-1) second RF signals can be transmitted to a phase-shifting unit through a second output terminal of the first distribution unit. Thus, these (N-1) second RF signals can be transmitted to (N-1) phase-shifting units through (N-1) second output terminals respectively. Each phase-shifting unit can adjust the phase of the second RF signal input to it, thereby obtaining (N-1) second RF signals with different phases.

[0079] Similarly, based on a first radio frequency signal received from a radio frequency interface, N second radio frequency signals with different phases can be obtained by processing a first distribution unit and (N-1) phase shifting units. These N second radio frequency signals can be transmitted to N second distribution units respectively.

[0080] The M first radio frequency signals received by the M radio frequency interfaces in the power supply network are processed by the M first distribution units and the M×(N-1) phase shifting units to obtain M×N second radio frequency signals with different amplitudes and phases. The M×N second radio frequency signals can be transmitted to the N second distribution units respectively.

[0081] Each second distribution unit can receive M second radio frequency signals, each second radio frequency signal being any one of N second radio frequency signals obtained by processing each first radio frequency signal. Furthermore, the second distribution unit can superimpose these M second radio frequency signals and transmit the superimposed signal to the antenna unit.

[0082] Another possible scenario is that the power supply network includes more than M first distribution units, referred to as scenario two. In this case, the at least M first distribution units include M first sub-distribution units and at least one second sub-distribution unit.

[0083] For example, the first or second sub-allocation unit can distribute the first radio frequency signal with equal amplitude based on the same power allocation ratio, thereby obtaining N second radio frequency signals with the same amplitude. Alternatively, the first or second sub-allocation unit can distribute the first radio frequency signal with non-equal amplitude based on different power allocation ratios, resulting in at least two of the N second radio frequency signals having different amplitudes.

[0084] Example 1: The output terminal of each first sub-distribution unit may include at least one first output terminal and at least one second output terminal. One of the at least one first output terminals is connected to a second distribution unit, or each of the at least one first output terminals is connected to a phase shifting unit.

[0085] When one of the at least first output terminals is connected to the second distribution unit, the remaining first output terminals can be connected to different phase shifting units respectively. Each of the at least second output terminals is connected to the input terminal of a second sub-distribution unit, and the output terminal of each second sub-distribution unit is connected to a different phase shifting unit.

[0086] When each of the at least one first output terminal is connected to a phase shifting unit, each of the at least one second output terminal is connected to the input terminal of a second sub-distribution unit, the output terminal of one of the second sub-distribution units is connected to the second distribution unit, and the output terminals of the remaining second sub-distribution units are respectively connected to different phase shifting units.

[0087] Similarly, each first radio frequency signal is processed by a first sub-distribution unit, at least one second sub-distribution unit, and (N-1) phase shifting units to obtain N second radio frequency signals. The amplitude and phase of the N second radio frequency signals are different, and the N second radio frequency signals can be transmitted to the N second distribution units respectively.

[0088] Example 2: Each first sub-distribution unit may include at least two second output terminals, each of which is connected to an input terminal of a second sub-distribution unit. One output terminal of the at least two second sub-distribution units is connected to the second distribution unit, and the remaining (N-1) output terminals can be connected to (N-1) phase-shifting units respectively. That is, the at least two second sub-distribution units can process a first radio frequency signal to obtain N second radio frequency signals. One of the N second radio frequency signals can be transmitted to the second distribution unit, and the remaining second radio frequency signals can be transmitted to (N-1) phase-shifting units respectively for phase adjustment, ultimately resulting in N second radio frequency signals with different phases.

[0089] Similarly, after the first radio frequency signal received by each radio frequency interface is processed by a first sub-distribution unit, at least one second sub-distribution unit, and (N-1) phase shifting units, N second radio frequency signals can be obtained. The amplitude and phase of the N second radio frequency signals are different, and the N second radio frequency signals can be transmitted to the N second distribution units respectively.

[0090] The M first radio frequency signals received by the M radio frequency interfaces in the power supply network are processed by the M first sub-distribution units, at least one second sub-distribution unit, and M×(N-1) phase shifting units to obtain M×N second radio frequency signals with different amplitudes and phases. The M×N second radio frequency signals can be transmitted to the N second distribution units respectively.

[0091] That is, each second distribution unit can receive M second radio frequency signals. Each second radio frequency signal is any one of the N second radio frequency signals obtained by processing each first radio frequency signal through a first sub-distribution unit, at least one second sub-distribution unit, and (N-1) phase shifting units. Furthermore, the second distribution unit can superimpose the M second radio frequency signals and then transmit the superimposed signal to the antenna unit.

[0092] Optionally, M equals 2, or M = 2. That is, the power supply network can be a 2-drive-N power supply network.

[0093] The following description uses M=2 and N=6 as an example, that is, a 2-drive-6 power supply network, to illustrate the power supply networks provided in Case 1 and Case 2 of the embodiments of this application.

[0094] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the 2-drive 6-antenna feed network provided in an embodiment of this application. Based on the feed network described in Case 1 above, the feed network includes 2 RF interfaces, 6 antenna interfaces, 2 first distribution units, 6 second distribution units, and 10 phase shifting units. Each first distribution unit can process and adjust the first RF signal received by each RF interface into 6 second RF signals. Any 5 of these 6 second RF signals can be phase-shifted by a phase shifter to obtain 6 second RF signals with different phases. Thus, the 2 first RF signals received by the 2 RF interfaces can be processed to obtain 12 second RF signals.

[0095] Furthermore, any one of the six second radio frequency signals obtained after processing the first radio frequency signal received from one radio frequency interface can be transmitted together with any one of the six second radio frequency signals obtained after processing the first radio frequency signal received from another radio frequency interface to the same second distribution unit. The second distribution unit can then superimpose the two second radio frequency signals and transmit the superimposed signal to the antenna unit.

[0096] For example, the first radio frequency signal received in radio frequency interface #1, after being processed by one first distribution unit and five phase shifters, yields six second radio frequency signals, which are respectively denoted as: second radio frequency signal #1, second radio frequency signal #2, second radio frequency signal #3, second radio frequency signal #4, second radio frequency signal #5, and second radio frequency signal #6. The first radio frequency signal received in radio frequency interface #2, after being processed by the first distribution unit and phase shifters, yields six second radio frequency signals, which are respectively denoted as: second radio frequency signal #7, second radio frequency signal #8, second radio frequency signal #9, second radio frequency signal #10, second radio frequency signal #11, and second radio frequency signal #12.

[0097] For example, the second radio frequency signal #1 can be transmitted together with the second radio frequency signal #7 to the second distribution unit #1 for signal superposition, and then the superimposed signal is transmitted to the antenna unit #1. The second radio frequency signal #2 can be transmitted together with the second radio frequency signal #8 to the second distribution unit #2 for signal superposition, and then the superimposed signal is transmitted to the antenna unit #2, and so on.

[0098] Figure 7 is another structural schematic diagram of the 2-drive 6-antenna feed network provided in an embodiment of this application. Based on the feed network described in Case 2 above, this feed network includes 2 RF interfaces, 6 antenna interfaces, 2 first sub-distribution units, 4 second distribution sub-units, 6 second distribution units, and 10 phase-shifting units. Each first sub-distribution unit processes and adjusts the first RF signal received by each RF interface into 2 third RF signals. Each third RF signal is then processed by the second sub-distribution units to obtain 3 second RF signals. That is, each first RF signal, after being processed by one first sub-distribution unit and two second sub-distribution units, yields 6 second RF signals. Any 5 of these 6 second RF signals can be phase-shifted by phase shifters to obtain 6 second RF signals with different phases. Thus, the 2 first RF signals received by the 2 RF interfaces can be processed to obtain 12 second RF signals.

[0099] Furthermore, any one of the six second radio frequency signals obtained after processing the first radio frequency signal received from one radio frequency interface can be transmitted together with any one of the six second radio frequency signals obtained after processing the first radio frequency signal received from another radio frequency interface to the same second distribution unit. The second distribution unit can then superimpose the two second radio frequency signals and transmit the superimposed signal to the antenna unit.

[0100] For example, the first radio frequency signal received in radio frequency interface #1, after being processed by one first sub-distribution unit, two second sub-distribution units, and five phase shifters, yields six second radio frequency signals, which are respectively denoted as: second radio frequency signal #1, second radio frequency signal #2, second radio frequency signal #3, second radio frequency signal #4, second radio frequency signal #5, and second radio frequency signal #6. The first radio frequency signal received in radio frequency interface #2, after being processed by the first distribution unit and phase shifters, yields six second radio frequency signals, which are respectively denoted as: second radio frequency signal #7, second radio frequency signal #8, second radio frequency signal #9, second radio frequency signal #10, second radio frequency signal #11, and second radio frequency signal #12.

[0101] For example, the second radio frequency signal #1 can be transmitted together with the second radio frequency signal #12 to the second distribution unit #1 for signal superposition, and then the superimposed signal is transmitted to the antenna unit #1. The second radio frequency signal #2 can be transmitted together with the second radio frequency signal #11 to the second distribution unit #2 for signal superposition, and then the superimposed signal is transmitted to the antenna unit #2, and so on.

[0102] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the 2-drive 4-feed network provided in an embodiment of this application. In the two 2-drive 4-feed networks shown in Figure 8, the input ports indicated by circles filled with black color are +45° antenna element input ports, the input ports indicated by circles filled with alternating black and white patterns are -45° antenna element input ports, and the input ports indicated by circles filled with white color are RF interfaces. Each feed network includes 2 RF interfaces, 6 first distribution units, 4 antenna interfaces, 6 phase shifting units, and 4 second distribution units. This 2-drive 4-feed network can process the two first RF signals received by the two RF interfaces respectively, based on the method described in Case 1 above, and adjust each first RF signal to obtain 4 second RF signals.

[0103] For example, the first radio frequency signal received in radio frequency interface #1, after being processed by the first distribution unit and the phase shifter, yields four second radio frequency signals, which are denoted as: second radio frequency signal #1, second radio frequency signal #2, second radio frequency signal #3, and second radio frequency signal #4, respectively. The first radio frequency signal received in radio frequency interface #2, after being processed by the first distribution unit and the phase shifter, yields four second radio frequency signals, which are denoted as: second radio frequency signal #5, second radio frequency signal #6, second radio frequency signal #7, and second radio frequency signal #8, respectively.

[0104] Specifically, the second radio frequency signal #1 can be processed by the same second distribution unit as the second radio frequency signal #5 and then transmitted to the antenna interface #1; the second radio frequency signal #2 can be processed by the same second distribution unit as the second radio frequency signal #6 and then transmitted to the antenna interface #2; the second radio frequency signal #3 can be processed by the same second distribution unit as the second radio frequency signal #7 and then transmitted to the antenna interface #3; and the second radio frequency signal #4 can be processed by the same second distribution unit as the second radio frequency signal #8 and then transmitted to the antenna interface #4.

[0105] Optionally, the N antenna interfaces in the feed network can be arranged in at least one column. For example, the N antenna interfaces can be arranged in two columns, etc., and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0106] Figure 9 is a circuit diagram of a 2-drive-6 feeder network provided in an embodiment of this application. For example, this feeder network can be applied to a base station operating at a frequency of 4.9 GHz and equipped with 128 transmit channels (i.e., 128T). The feeder network includes two radio frequency (RF) interfaces, six antenna interfaces, and ten phase-shifting units. It also includes at least two first distribution units. The two RF interfaces are RF interface #1 and RF interface #2, used for receiving RF signals. The six antenna interfaces are antenna interface #1, antenna interface #2, antenna interface #3, antenna interface #4, antenna interface #5, and antenna interface #6, used for connecting antenna elements. Each of the six antenna interfaces is connected to a second distribution unit.

[0107] The black box in Figure 9 represents the area reserved for the phase-shifting unit. The power supply network for this 2-drive 6 system can be based on the structure shown in Figure 6 above; for details, please refer to the relevant information on the power supply network shown in Figure 6, which will not be repeated here.

[0108] It can be seen that the six antenna interfaces in the power supply network of the 2-drive-6 are arranged in a row.

[0109] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating the technical effects of the 2-drive 6-feed network provided in the embodiments of this application. Figures 10(a), 10(b), and 10(c) show the wide beam configuration; Figures 10(d), 10(e), and 10(f) show the narrow beam configuration; and Figures 10(g), 10(h), and 10(i) show both wide and narrow beam configurations.

[0110] Figure 10(a) shows the performance of the digital-mode beam when the horizontal and vertical beam pointing directions are (-6°, 6°); Figure 10(b) shows the performance of the digital-mode beam when the horizontal and vertical beam pointing directions are (0°, 0°); Figure 10(c) shows the performance of the digital-mode beam when the horizontal and vertical beam pointing directions are (6°, 6°).

[0111] It can be seen that wide beams have a wider coverage area, and their signal distribution in space is relatively dispersed. When a network operates with a wide beam target, it means that the network may not be able to support efficient parallel communication for multiple users simultaneously, and will fall back to a single-link state. This may be because although wide beams have a wide coverage area, in multi-user scenarios, it is difficult to achieve precise beamforming and resource allocation for different users. To ensure the stability and reliability of communication, it chooses to fall back to a single-link mode, focusing on stable communication with one user. For example, in a 2-drive-6 feeder network, one RF input can drive 6 outputs, while the other RF input can fall back to a single-link mode, only needing to drive 6 outputs, and so on. This application does not limit this aspect.

[0112] Figure 10(d) shows the performance of the digital-mode beam when the horizontal and vertical beam pointing directions are (-6°, 3°); Figure 10(e) shows the performance of the digital-mode beam when the horizontal and vertical beam pointing directions are (-6°, 9°); Figure 10(f) shows the performance of the digital-mode beam when the horizontal and vertical beam pointing directions are (-6°, 12°).

[0113] As can be seen, narrow beams have a narrower beamwidth, allowing for more precise spatial pointing in a specific direction, thus achieving higher signal gain and stronger directivity. Based on these characteristics, when operating with a narrow beam, the network can precisely control the beam's direction towards different users, enabling multiplexed transmission for multiple users—that is, multi-user (MU) capability. In this way, the network can simultaneously provide services to multiple users on the same time-frequency resources, significantly improving the system's spectral efficiency and capacity.

[0114] Figure 10(g) shows the performance of the digital-mode beam when the horizontal and vertical beam pointing directions are (6°, -6°); Figure 10(h) shows the performance of the digital-mode beam when the horizontal and vertical beam pointing directions are (6°, -3°); Figure 10(i) shows the performance of the digital-mode beam when the horizontal and vertical beam pointing directions are (6°, 0°).

[0115] As can be seen, wide and narrow beam targets coexist with SSB and data beams. The synchronization signal block (SSB) is mainly used for basic functions such as terminal-network synchronization and cell search, while the data beam is used to transmit user data. When the network operates with wide and narrow beam targets, the wide beam can be used to broadcast SSB signals to achieve wider coverage, ensuring that terminals within the cell can quickly search for the network and synchronize; at the same time, the narrow beam can be used for data transmission to different users, providing users with high-speed data services. This achieves the coexistence of SSB and data beams in the same network, fully leveraging the advantages of both wide and narrow beams, and improving the overall network performance and resource utilization efficiency.

[0116] By combining the aforementioned wide-beam, narrow-beam, and combined wide- and narrow-beam operating modes, the network can flexibly switch and adjust beam states according to different scenarios and user needs. It can achieve wide coverage and basic synchronization functions through wide beams, multi-user multiplexing and high-speed data transmission through narrow beams, and even coexistence of wide and narrow beams to optimize network performance. This flexible beam capability based on full connectivity allows the network to better adapt to complex and ever-changing communication environments and user service requirements, improving network adaptability, reliability, and efficiency.

[0117] Figure 11 is another circuit diagram of the 2-drive 6-feed network provided in an embodiment of this application. This feed network can also be applied to a 4.9G 128T base station. The feed network includes two radio frequency (RF) interfaces, six antenna interfaces, and ten phase-shifting units. It also includes at least two first distribution units. The two RF interfaces are RF interface #1 and RF interface #2, used to receive RF signals. The six antenna interfaces are antenna interface #1, antenna interface #2, antenna interface #3, antenna interface #4, antenna interface #5, and antenna interface #6, used to connect antenna elements. Each of the six antenna interfaces is connected to a second distribution unit. This 2-drive 6-feed network can, for example, be based on the structure shown in Figure 7 above. For details, please refer to the relevant information on the feed network shown in Figure 7; further elaboration is not provided here.

[0118] As can be seen, unlike the 2-drive 6-antenna feed network shown in Figure 9, the 6 antenna interfaces in this 2-drive 6-antenna feed network are arranged in two columns.

[0119] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating another technical effect of the 2-drive 6-feed network provided in the embodiments of this application. In Figure 12(a), the reflection coefficient performance is shown, and in Figure 12(b), the isolation performance is shown.

[0120] It should be noted that the 2-drive 6-power supply network includes 10 phase-shifting units, each of which can have two states: on or off. When a phase-shifting unit is on, it indicates that the unit can adjust the phase of the second radio frequency signal; when it is off, it indicates that the unit is not used to adjust the phase of the second radio frequency signal. Therefore, the 10 phase-shifting units can include a total of 2 10 A state.

[0121] For example, a bit can be used to correspond to the state of a phase shifting unit, where a bit value of "1" indicates that the phase shifting unit is in the on state, and a bit value of "0" indicates that the phase shifting unit is in the off state.

[0122] One possible state of the 10 phase-shifting units in the 2-drive 6-power supply network can be represented by a bit diagram as "0100011110", meaning that the 1st, 3rd, 4th, and 10th phase-shifting units are all in the off state, while the 2nd, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th phase-shifting units are all in the on state.

[0123] Figure 12(a) is based on this 2 10 The reflection coefficient performance of the 2-drive 6-powered feeder network was obtained from eight phase-shifting unit states in the 2-drive 6-powered feeder network; Figure 12(b) shows the performance based on these 2-drive 6-powered feeder networks. 10 The isolation performance of the 2-drive 6-power supply network was obtained by considering the five phase-shifting unit states in the five states.

[0124] In Figure 12(a), the horizontal axis represents frequency in gigahertz (GHz), and the vertical axis represents reflection coefficient in decibels (dB). ① to ⑧ in the figure represent the reflection coefficient performance under eight different phase-shifting unit states. Specifically, when the base station frequency is 4.9GHz, the reflection coefficient of the feeder network of the 2-drive 6 is -14.37dB in the first phase-shifting unit state; -14.79dB in the second phase-shifting unit state; -16dB in the third phase-shifting unit state; -16.50dB in the fourth phase-shifting unit state; -16.63dB in the fifth phase-shifting unit state; -19.17dB in the sixth phase-shifting unit state; -20.17dB in the seventh phase-shifting unit state; and -20.68dB in the eighth phase-shifting unit state.

[0125] It can be seen that the reflection coefficients of the 2-drive-6 feeder network are all less than -13dB. This means that the power of the received first radio frequency signal can be effectively transmitted to subsequent loads or antennas, reducing power waste during transmission and improving the power utilization efficiency of the communication system. For example, in a wireless communication base station, more power can be used to transmit signals to the terminal, thereby improving signal coverage and strength.

[0126] In Figure 12(b), ① to ⑤ represent the isolation performance under five phase-shifting unit states. Specifically, when the base station frequency is 4.9 GHz, the isolation of the 2-drive 6-power supply network is -20.68 dB under the first phase-shifting unit state, -20.86 dB under the second phase-shifting unit state, -22.66 dB under the third phase-shifting unit state, -24.12 dB under the fourth phase-shifting unit state, and -26.39 dB under the fifth phase-shifting unit state.

[0127] It can be seen that the absolute values ​​of the isolation of the 2-drive-6-feeder network are all greater than 18.5dB. This means that there is little signal leakage between different branches, exhibiting good isolation, which reduces interference between branches. The communication system can effectively multiplex signals on the same spectrum resources. For example, in multi-user communication scenarios, signals from different terminals can be transmitted simultaneously without interference. This increases the number of terminals or data transmission rate that the communication system can support, thereby improving the communication capacity of the entire distributed network.

[0128] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating another technical effect of the 2-drive 6-feed network provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 13(a) shows the performance of the digital-to-analog beam when the horizontal beam pointing is -30° and the vertical beam pointing is (-6°, 6°); Figure 13(b) shows the performance of the digital-to-analog beam when the horizontal beam pointing is -30° and the vertical beam pointing is (-2°, 10°); Figure 13(c) shows the performance of the digital-to-analog beam when the horizontal beam pointing is 30° and the vertical beam pointing is (-6°, 6°); Figure 13(d) shows the performance of the digital-to-analog beam when the horizontal beam pointing is 30° and the vertical beam pointing is (-2°, 10°); Figure 13(e) shows the performance of the digital-to-analog beam when the horizontal beam pointing is 30° and the vertical beam pointing is (2°, 14°); Figure 13(f) shows the performance of the digital-to-analog beam when the horizontal beam pointing is -30° and the vertical beam pointing is -6°, and when the horizontal beam pointing is 30° and the vertical beam pointing is 6°. This digital-mode beam is also known as the aforementioned HBF.

[0129] As can be seen, by flexibly adjusting the beam configuration, the network can better serve users in different locations and with varying mobility. For users moving at high speeds, the network can quickly detect changes in their location and adjust the beam in real time to maintain alignment. For users at the cell edge, the network can enhance beam strength and improve signal coverage quality, thereby providing more stable and faster communication services for all types of users and improving the overall user experience.

[0130] Based on the above technical solution, after receiving M first radio frequency signals through M radio frequency interfaces, each first radio frequency signal can be adjusted into N second radio frequency signals with different phases through processing by at least M first allocation units and (N-1) phase shifting units. These N second radio frequency signals are then transmitted to N second allocation units, where each second allocation unit can receive M different second radio frequency signals, thereby realizing an M-driven N-type feed network. Thus, this feed network, in implementing the function of M digital channels driving N antenna modules, does not include a bridge structure, thereby reducing network complexity and insertion loss, and the feed network has good isolation.

[0131] Furthermore, the feeder network can also fall back to a single-link state, or provide services to multiple users, and has flexible beamforming capabilities. The feeder network can also be applied to communication scenarios where the base station receiver interface is irregular or the communication distance is long.

[0132] The solution provided in this application does not require connecting a bridge between the transmit and receive channels of any two different RF antenna links in the N RF antenna links, which greatly reduces the number of network layers, thereby reducing network complexity and insertion loss.

[0133] Furthermore, the second distribution unit can superimpose radio frequency signals received from different radio frequency interfaces, achieving better isolation and further improving reception performance.

[0134] This application also provides an antenna module, which may include N antenna elements, each antenna element being connected to an antenna interface of the aforementioned feed network. For example, the antenna element may be an antenna array, and each antenna element may include at least one antenna subarray.

[0135] One possibility is that the antenna interfaces connecting the antenna elements can be arranged in at least one column; another possibility is that the N antenna elements can be arranged in at least one column, and so on. This application does not limit the specific arrangements.

[0136] This application also provides an antenna device, which may include the aforementioned feed network and antenna module. For details regarding the feed network, please refer to the aforementioned detailed description of the feed network; further elaboration will not be repeated here.

[0137] It should also be understood that the above description, in conjunction with several accompanying drawings, illustrates the power supply network provided in the embodiments of this application. However, these schematic diagrams are merely examples and should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this application in any way. These embodiments and drawings are only intended to help those skilled in the art better understand the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and are not intended to limit the technical solutions of this application. Many improvements and other embodiments of the embodiments of this application will be conceived by those skilled in the art based on the guidance and teachings presented in the foregoing description and related drawings. Therefore, the embodiments of this application are not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed.

[0138] The above description is merely a specific implementation of the embodiments of this application, but the protection scope of the embodiments of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of the embodiments of this application should be determined by the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A power supply network, characterized in that, The power supply network includes: M radio frequency interfaces, N antenna interfaces, at least M first distribution units, N second distribution units, and M×(N-1) phase shifting units, where M is less than or equal to N, and M and N are integers greater than 1. Each of the radio frequency interfaces is used to receive a first radio frequency signal; The first allocation unit is used to process the first radio frequency signal into N second radio frequency signals; The input of each of the second allocation units is connected to at least one of the first allocation units and / or at least one of the phase shifting units, and the output of the second allocation unit is connected to the antenna interface. Each phase shifting unit is connected between the first allocation unit and the second allocation unit, and each phase shifting unit is used to adjust the phase of the received second radio frequency signal.

2. The power supply network as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The power supply network includes M first distribution units. The input terminal of each first distribution unit is connected to the radio frequency interface, the first output terminal of each first distribution unit is connected to the second distribution unit, and (N-1) second output terminals of each first distribution unit are connected to the phase shifting unit.

3. The power supply network as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The power supply network includes a first distribution unit with a number greater than M. The first distribution unit includes M first sub-distribution units and at least one second sub-distribution unit. The input terminal of each first sub-distribution unit is connected to the radio frequency interface, and at least one output terminal of the first sub-distribution unit is connected to the second sub-distribution unit. The first radio frequency signal received by each radio frequency interface is processed by one first distribution unit and at least one second distribution unit to obtain N second radio frequency signals.

4. The power supply network as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, Each of the second allocation units is used to superimpose M second radio frequency signals, wherein each of the M second radio frequency signals is obtained based on each of the first radio frequency signals.

5. The power supply network as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, M equals 2.

6. The power supply network as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The distribution unit includes a power divider, and / or the phase shifting unit includes a phase shifter.

7. The power supply network as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The N antenna interfaces are arranged in at least one column.

8. The power supply network as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The N antenna interfaces are arranged in two columns.

9. An antenna module, characterized in that, Applied to the feed network of any one of claims 1 to 8, the antenna module includes N antenna elements, each antenna element being connected to an antenna interface, and the antenna element including at least one antenna subarray.

10. An antenna device, characterized in that, It includes at least one feed network as described in any one of claims 1 to 8 and at least one antenna module as described in claim 9.

Images